Frank Beard, the longtime drummer for ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77, according to the band. The group said the news on August 18 and confirmed that Beard died the day before while in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas.
ZZ Top said Beard was surrounded by family when he died, and no cause of death has been shared. Band founder Billy Gibbons paid tribute to his bandmate, calling him one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a true son of Texas.
Gibbons also said Beard’s signature backbeat was essential to the band’s sound. He added that ZZ Top plans to continue performing in line with Beard’s wishes, though shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs have been canceled.
The band said it will still play two concerts at The Moody Theater in Austin this weekend, noting that the venue was one of Beard’s favorites and a second home for him. Beard had joined ZZ Top in 1969 and helped form the group’s classic lineup with Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill.
