ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Passes Away at 77

Frank Beard, drummer for the renowned Texas boogie-rock band ZZ Top, passed away at 77. Known for hits such as “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin,’” Beard died on Tuesday at his ranch in Richmond, Texas. Family members were by his side, as confirmed by publicist Bob Merlis.

Band co-founder and guitarist Billy Gibbons, who is currently touring with bassist Elwood Francis, shared his thoughts in a statement. Gibbons described Beard as a great friend and collaborator, praising his unique drumming style. “His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top,” Gibbons said. “The band of which he was part for six decades is going to keep on keeping on as he had wished.”

ZZ Top achieved considerable success, selling over 50 million records. They had six singles reach No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. Seven of their albums entered the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, and they received three Grammy Award nominations.

In the 2019 documentary, “ZZ Top: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas,” Beard spoke of his lasting connection with the band. “I’ve found the people I was meant to play with,” he said. “I never wanted to quit, and never wanted to get fired.”