In brief
Frank Beard, the steady pulse behind ZZ Top’s blues‑rock sound, passed away on Monday at 77 in hospice care on his Texas ranch. The band announced the death and cited the loss as the reason to cancel their scheduled shows in Utah and Colorado. ZZ Top, founded in 1969, has produced 15 studio albums and earned a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. According to Billy Gibbons, Beard was a naturally innovative drummer and true Texan. The group plans to resume its “Big One! Tour” this weekend, paying tribute to Beard’s favorite venue, Austin City Limits.
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.
