ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies at 77 After Years of Health Struggles

ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard has passed away at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy as one of rock music's most iconic drummers. The news was confirmed

Beard's health had been a concern for the past few weeks, with the band canceling its concert at the Hollywood Bowl due to his health issues. His absence from the group during the 2025 Elevation tour was also notable, as he stepped away due to another health problem affecting his foot and ankle.

'He was more than just a drummer to us,' said Billy Gibbons, ZZ Top's guitarist. 'His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top.' Beard joined the band in 1969 and remained its drummer for over five decades, playing a crucial role in shaping their sound. His passing leaves a significant void in the group's live performances, with only two members remaining: Gibbons and bassist Elwood Francis.

The news of Beard's death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians alike. 'Frank was more than just a drummer to us,' said Gibbons. 'He was a true original, and his loss will be deeply felt.' The band had planned to continue its tour this weekend in Austin, where Beard had strong ties, as a tribute to their late drummer.

Beard's impact on rock music cannot be overstated. Before joining ZZ Top, he jammed with Billy Gibbons and played a key role in luring Dusty Hill into the band. The trio became one of rock music's best-known acts, with Beard's drumming forming a key part of the band's sound. Their biggest songs included 'Sharp Dressed Man,' 'Gimme All Your Lovin',' 'Legs' and 'La Grange.'

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The Fort Bend County Medical Examiner confirmed that Beard's death was reported Monday, while his band's publicist said he was in hospice care at his Texas ranch when he died. The exact cause of death has not been made public. As the news of Beard's passing continues to sink in, fans and fellow musicians are taking time to reflect on his legacy and the impact he had on rock music.

'Frank was a true legend,' said Elwood Francis, ZZ Top's bassist. 'His loss will be deeply felt ' The band has canceled its scheduled concerts in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs, but plans to continue its tour this weekend at Austin City Limits as a tribute to their late drummer.

Beard was born in Frankston, Texas, on June 11, 1949, and was raised in Irving. Before joining ZZ Top, he jammed with Billy Gibbons and played a key role in luring Dusty Hill into the band. The trio became one of rock music's best-known acts, with Beard's drumming forming a key part of the band's sound.

'Frank's death is a tremendous loss for us,' said Gibbons. 'But we will continue to celebrate his legacy and the music he helped create.' As fans and fellow musicians take time to mourn the loss of Frank Beard, they are also remembering his impact on rock music and the countless memories he created with ZZ Top.