LONDON -- ZZ Top [ tickets ] has cancelled its European tour after bassist Dusty Hill was diagnosed with the Hepatitis C virus. The classic bluesy-rock band, known for such hits as "Sharp Dressed Man" and "Legs," was scheduled to play 31 dates in 17 different countries.

Before Hill's diagnosis, ZZ Top completed approximately 100 dates of its 30th anniversary world tour in North America, Australia and New Zealand. The band confirmed that all cancelled dates would be rescheduled after Hill recovered.

Hill said in a statement, "I want to extend my deepest apologies to the ZZ Top fans we may have disappointed. The prognosis is very good ... and I hope to see you sooner rather than later."

ZZ Top's latest album "XXX," released in the U.S. last September, has sold more than 100,000 copies.