Image via Atlanta Motor Speedway
Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top fame has been named as the grand marshal for the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The singer and lead guitarist of the iconic rock band will perform a variety of official duties for the NASCAR race, including announcing, “Drivers, start your engines.”
Rapper Big Boi will be an honorary pace car official at the same race.
Gibbons is a natural pick for any motorsports event since the man is a serious gearhead. Many of his personal cars have been featured on ZZ Top album covers and in music videos. Many of his rides are based on classics, but with heavy customizations that are tasteful and iconic, including a number of hot rod builds.
Many people instantly recognize Gibbons as the “mascot” of ZZ Top with his iconic beard and dark sunglasses. That look alone with get the attention of NASCAR fans. But his vocal and guitar work also played a huge role in the rock band’s ascent to fame and fortune in the 80s.
Among the hit singles are “Tush,” La Grange,” and “Give Me All Your Loving.” Unfortunately, Gibbons and the rest of the band won’t be performing at the race, or that would be an extra treat. But the rocker will be a big part of the entire event.
Oftentimes celebrities are booked to drive the pace car or act as the grand marshal at big NASCAR races to add to the draw and give people who are in attendance a little something extra. This might get some people who love ZZ Top to watch.
The Ambetter Health 400 is the main race during Atlanta Motor Speedway’s spring NASCAR weekend, held February 21-23. Also included in the weekend of racing is the Fr8 Racing 208 and Bennett Transportation and Logistics 250.
Image via Atlanta Motor Speedway
