Frank Beard, the long-time drummer for the blues-rock band ZZ Top, has died at age 77 while in hospice care.
Key facts
- •Frank Beard was a member of ZZ Top for six decades.
- •The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.
- •ZZ Top canceled shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs following the news.
- •The band plans to resume their tour this weekend at Austin City Limits.
- •Billy Gibbons confirmed the band will continue performing as Beard had wished.
Frank Beard, the drummer for the blues-rock band ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77. The band announced that Beard passed away on Monday while in hospice care.
Band Tribute and Legacy
ZZ Top lead vocalist Billy Gibbons described Beard as a "great friend and collaborator" and one of the most "naturally innovative drummers." Gibbons noted that Beard’s signature backbeat was essential to the band's success over their six-decade history. Gibbons stated that the band intends to continue performing, honoring Beard's wishes. ZZ Top was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and has maintained an active touring schedule across North America, Europe, and South America.
Tour Schedule Adjustments
Following Beard's death, the band canceled scheduled performances in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. The group plans to resume their current "The Big One! Tour" this weekend with two shows at Austin City Limits. The band described Austin as a "second home" for Beard and one of his favorite venues.
Timeline
- 2004ZZ Top was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
- 2021Bassist Dusty Hill died, and the group continued performing with Elwood Francis.
- MondayFrank Beard died in hospice care.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Entertainment & Arts.
