ZZ Top’s longtime drummer Frank Beard has died at 77, the band announced. He passed away Monday in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by family members. The cause of death was not disclosed.
The band’s statement said that Beard’s passing necessitated the cancellation of the tour dates this week in Utah and Colorado.
ZZ Top, established in 1969, released 15 studio albums and four live recordings, with classics such as "Gimme All Your Lovin'," "Sleeping Bag," and "Viva Las Vegas." Their signature sound was defined by Beard’s rhythmic backbeat, which helped the group sustain popularity for six decades.
The band’s lead vocalist Billy Gibbons remarked, "Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a true son of Texas." He added that Beard’s legacy would live on as the band continues touring worldwide.
Following the death of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021, ZZ Top has continued with Elwood Francis on bass. The band has announced a brief pause to mourn, but will resume the "The Big One!" tour over the weekend, performing at Austin City Limits—a venue described by Beard as a second home.
