Frank Beard, the drummer of the Texas boogie-rock trio ZZ Top, passed away at the age of 77. He died at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by family, while in hospice care. Publicist Bob Merlis announced his passing.
His bandmates, including co-founder and guitarist Billy Gibbons, paid tribute to him. Gibbons, who is currently touring with bassist Elwood Francis, expressed his loss. ‘Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a true son of Texas,’ said Gibbons. He noted Beard’s unique backbeat as crucial for the band’s success. Gibbons emphasized that the band would continue performing as Beard had wished.
ZZ Top made history by selling over 50 million records. They achieved six number-one singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. Additionally, seven of their albums climbed into Billboard 200’s Top 10. The band also received three Grammy Award nominations.
In the 2019 documentary “ZZ Top: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas,” Beard reflected on his connection with the band. ‘I’ve found the people I was meant to play with,’ he stated. ‘I never wanted to quit, and never wanted to get fired.’
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