The music world is mourning the loss of a true rhythm legend. Frank Beard, the drummer who provided the unmistakable backbeat for ZZ Top for over five decades, has died at the age of 77.
A Sudden Farewell
Beard passed away on August 17 while in hospice care in Rosenberg, Texas. The exact cause of death remains unclear, and local officials have confirmed no autopsy will be performed.
Bandmate Billy F Gibbons shared a touching tribute to his long-time collaborator shortly after the news broke.
“Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas,” Gibbons said. “His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top.”
Tour Dates Cancelled
ZZ Top has officially cancelled upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs as they take time to grieve. This follows a sudden cancellation at the Hollywood Bowl earlier this month due to “unforeseen personnel matters.”
However, the music will not stop completely. The band plans to resume The Big One! tour this weekend with two performances at Austin City Limits. It is a fitting return, as Austin was one of Beard’s favourite venues and a city he considered a second home.
Beard’s passing marks the heartbreaking end of an era. He was the one who originally introduced Gibbons to bassist Dusty Hill back in 1969, cementing a trio that rocked together for more than 50 years until Hill’s passing in 2021.
