Master of Sparks

Album: Tres Hombres (1973)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • "Master of Sparks" is based on a true story from ZZ Top guitarist Billy Gibbons' youth in Houston. He and some pals welded together a steel-caged ball that they attached to the back of a truck. One of them would climb inside and then the truck would drive off, reaching a speed of 60 miles per hour (97 km/h). The person in the cage would be dragged down the highway immersed in the light of flickering friction. Those who survived got the title of Master of Sparks - one of them was Billy Gibbons.

Comments: 1

  • Barry From Canada from NewbrunswickNow that would be something to SEE !!! Not to mention partake in !!! Someone put up a YouTube video ... PLEASE !!!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Mike Campbell

Mike CampbellSongwriter Interviews

Mike is lead guitarist with Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, and co-writer of classic songs like "Boys Of Summer," "Refugee" and "The Heart Of The Matter."

Michael Franti

Michael FrantiSongwriter Interviews

Franti tells the story behind his hit "Say Hey (I Love You)" and explains why yoga is an integral part of his lifestyle and his Soulshine tour.

Kerry Livgren of Kansas

Kerry Livgren of KansasSongwriter Interviews

In this talk from the '80s, the Kansas frontman talks turning to God and writing "Dust In The Wind."

Charlie Benante of Anthrax

Charlie Benante of AnthraxSongwriter Interviews

The drummer for Anthrax is also a key songwriter. He explains how the group puts their songs together and tells the stories behind some of their classics.

Jonathan Edwards - "Sunshine"

Jonathan Edwards - "Sunshine"They're Playing My Song

"How much does it cost? I'll buy it?" Another songwriter told Jonathan to change these lyrics. Good thing he ignored this advice.

Ramones

RamonesFact or Fiction

A band so baffling, even their names were contrived. Check your score in the Ramones version of Fact or Fiction.