Frank Beard, longtime ZZ Top drummer, passes away at 77

Frank Beard, the steady heartbeat of the blues‑rock trio ZZ Top, died on Monday, aged 77, the band announced.

He passed away in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by family. The cause of death was not disclosed.

The band said the loss demands the cancellation of their current tour stops in Utah and Colorado.

Founded in 1969, ZZ Top has released 15 studio albums and four live recordings, and carved their place with hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin',” “Sleeping Bag” and “Viva Las Vegas.” They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

Highway icon Billy Gibbons praised Beard as “one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas.” The last show scheduled for Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs was called off.

The band plans to resume the “Big One! Tour” this weekend, with a nod to Beard’s favourite venue, Austin City Limits, where he felt at home.