ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Passes Away at 77

Aug 19, 2026

77 min

Aug 19, 2026 04:32

Frank Beard, ZZ Top drummer, dies at 77 after hospice care; band cancels shows

## Frank Beard's Passing

Frank Beard, the drummer for the iconic rock band ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77. He passed away on August 17 at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, while under hospice care, surrounded by family. The Fort Bend County Medical Examiner confirmed his death, but the cause has not been disclosed.

## Health Struggles

Beard had been experiencing health issues in recent months, which led to the cancellation of a ZZ Top concert at the Hollywood Bowl earlier this month. He had also missed parts of the band's 2025 tour due to problems with his foot and ankle, during which a substitute drummer filled in.

## Impact on ZZ Top

Following Beard's death, ZZ Top canceled upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs. However, they plan to resume their tour with a performance at Austin City Limits, a venue that held special significance for Beard.

## Tributes from Bandmates

Guitarist Billy Gibbons, who co-founded ZZ Top with Beard, expressed his sorrow in a statement with bassist Elwood Francis. Gibbons praised Beard as a unique drummer and a close friend, highlighting his contributions to the band's distinctive sound.

## Legacy

Born in Frankston, Texas, on June 11, 1949, Beard was a founding member of ZZ Top, which formed in 1969. He played a key role in recruiting bassist Dusty Hill, and together they created hits like "Sharp Dressed Man" and "La Grange." With Hill's passing in 2021 and now Beard's, Gibbons remains the only original member of the band.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram