From the X Stations of Mexico to the Top of the Charts: The Story Behind ZZ Top's 'Heard It On The X
ZZ Top's iconic hit "Heard It On The X" was inspired by the band's experiences listening to radio stations while traveling across Texas in the 1960s. During that time, access to record stores was limited, and radio stations were conservative in their programming, focusing on news, variety shows, and music. The band found that the "X" radio stations in Mexico were more open to content, allowing DJs to play a variety of genres beyond country and religious music. ZZ Top's guitarist, Billy Gibbons, credited an "X" station in Juarez for playing their song, "Heard It On the X." The band's tribute to these stations became a hit and was eventually played on the very stations that inspired it.