ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies at 77

Frank Beard, the steady and enduring drummer for the iconic rock band ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77. His passing occurred at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, with family members by his side, according to a representative for the band.

Beard had temporarily withdrawn from touring in March 2025 to address an unspecified health concern. At the time, the band expressed hopes for his swift recovery. Born in Frankston, Texas, on June 11, 1949, Beard joined The Moving Sidewalks in 1969, which also featured future ZZ Top bandmate Billy Gibbons. The group soon became ZZ Top, and with the addition of bassist Dusty Hill, the legendary trio was formed.

ZZ Top released their debut album in 1971, but achieved widespread success with their 1973 album "Tres Hombres," featuring the signature track "La Grange." Beard's powerful and consistent drumming was a cornerstone of the band's sound, shaping their blues-rock identity. He remained with ZZ Top for over five decades, contributing to 15 studio albums. Nine of these albums achieved gold or platinum status in the U.S.

Their biggest commercial success, "Eliminator" (1983), sold over 10 million copies in the U.S. and included hits like "Sharp-Dressed Man," "Gimme All Your Lovin'," and "Legs." Beard was also featured on other well-known songs such as "Tush" and "Cheap Sunglasses." Ironically, despite his surname, Beard was the only member of ZZ Top who did not sport the signature long beard worn by Gibbons and Hill. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with ZZ Top in 2004.