Frank Beard, the renowned drummer of ZZ Top, the iconic Texas boogie-rock band known for hits like “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” has passed away at the age of 77. Beard, who played a vital role in maintaining the band’s rhythm, breathed his last on Tuesday at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, while surrounded by his loved ones during his time in hospice care, as confirmed by publicist Bob Merlis. Bandmate and co-founder Billy Gibbons, currently on tour with bassist Elwood Francis, paid tribute to Beard in a heartfelt statement.
Gibbons expressed his sorrow, stating, “Today, Elwood and I mourn the loss of a dear friend and creative partner, and the world bids farewell to an exceptionally innovative drummer and a proud Texan. Frank’s distinctive backbeat was instrumental in keeping ZZ Top at the pinnacle of success. The band, which he was an integral part of for over six decades, will continue to carry on as he had wished.”
With over 50 million records sold, ZZ Top boasts six chart-topping singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. Additionally, the band has seen seven of their albums secure positions in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200, and they have garnered three Grammy Award nominations.
In the 2019 documentary “ZZ Top: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas,” Beard reflected on his musical journey, stating, “I’ve found the people I was meant to play with. I never wanted to quit and never wanted to get fired.”
Frank Beard’s drumming legacy, playing alongside Dusty Hill and Billy Gibbons, spanned six decades, with notable performances including the 2016 Glastonbury Festival in England.
