ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard dies at 77

RICHMOND, TX — Frank Beard, the longtime drummer for the rock band ZZ Top, has died. He was 77. 

The Fort Bend County Medical Examiner’s Office said Beard died Monday. Several media outlets, including Rolling Stone and USA Today, reported that he was in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, surrounded by family. A cause of death has not been released.

“Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas. His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top,” lead singer Billy Gibbons said in a statement on social media. 

Beard was a key part of ZZ Top’s unmistakable sound, helping drive decades of blues-rock hits including “La Grange,” “Tush,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’.”

While bandmates Billy Gibbons and the late Dusty Hill became known for their signature long beards, Beard was famously the member whose name did not match his look. Still, his steady drumming was central to the Texas trio’s music and live shows.ZZ Top formed in Houston in 1969. 

Beard joined Gibbons and Hill in the group’s classic lineup, which remained intact for more than five decades before Hill died in 2021. The band continued performing after Hill’s death, with longtime guitar technician Elwood Francis stepping in on bass. Beard had temporarily stepped away from touring earlier this year because of a health issue. 

Family members are working to arrange a private funeral for Beard. The band is canceling its upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs. 

According to the band’s statement, ZZ Top will resume its current “The Big One! Tour” this weekend with two dates at Austin City Limits. The band said it was one of Frank’s favorite venues and a city that had been something of a second home to him.