ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies at 77

Frank Beard, the drummer for the legendary American blues-rock trio ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77. The band confirmed his passing on Tuesday, announcing that he died at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, while in hospice care and surrounded by his family.

Beard had recently ceased touring with the band due to health problems that have not been disclosed. Billy Gibbons, ZZ Top's guitarist and singer, paid tribute to Beard, calling him "one of the most naturally innovative drummers" and "a great and true son of Texas." Gibbons added that Beard's "signature drum beat played an essential role in keeping ZZ at the top."

Formed in Houston in 1969, ZZ Top became an emblematic American rock band, known for hits like "La Grange," "Gimme All Your Lovin'," and "Sharp Dressed Man." The group's visual identity was famously defined by the long beards of Billy Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill, who passed away in 2021. Hill was succeeded by Elwood Francis.

The death of Frank Beard has resulted in the cancellation of ZZ Top's scheduled concerts in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs. However, the band plans to resume its current tour, "The Big One! Tour," this weekend with two performances in Austin City Limits, a venue described as one of Frank's favorite places and a city that had become a second home to him.

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The world has lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers, as well as a great and true son of Texas. His signature drum beat played an essential role in keeping ZZ at the top.