ZZ Top were never considered sex symbols or fashion icons, but they were convincing in this song about how rich, well-dressed men are irresistible to women. This being the '80s, a silk suit was considered fashionable, although ZZ Top were much more comfortable in denim. Bass player Dusty Hill explained:
"Sharp-dressed depends on who you are. If you're on a motorcycle, really sharp leather is great. If you're a punk rocker, you can get sharp that way. You can be sharp or not sharp in any mode. It's all in your head. If you feel sharp, you be sharp."
According to Billy Gibbons, he got the idea for this song when he saw a movie and a character was listed in the credits as "Sharp-Eyed Man" (possibly the 1981 film The Amateur).
Lyrics
Clean shirt, new shoes And I don't know where I am goin' to Silk suit, black tie I don't need a reason why They come runnin' just as fast as they can 'Cause every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man Gold watch, diamond ring I ain't missin' not a single thing And cuff links, stick pin When I step out I'm gonna do you in They come runnin' just as fast as they can 'Cause every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man Top coat, top hat I don't worry 'cause my wallet's fat Black shades, white gloves Lookin' sharp and lookin' for love They come runnin' just as fast as they can 'Cause every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man
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