ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard, a founding member of the legendary rock band who had been with the group for 57 years after joining in 1969, has died. He was 77.
“It was announced today that Frank Beard, ZZ Top’s drummer for the past 56 years, has died. He was in hospice care when he passed away at his ranch in Richmond, TX, with family members at his side,” according to a statement given to ABC News on Tuesday, August 18, from the band’s publicist.
No cause of death was given at this time.
Mick Hutson/Redferns
“Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas. His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top,” wrote ZZ Top lead singer and guitarist Billy F. Gibbons in a statement posted to X.
Beard’s death marks the second loss among ZZ Top’s three longtime members, following bassist Dusty Hill, who died on July 28, 2021, at age 72.
“Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas. His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top.” – Billy F Gibbons pic.twitter.com/5kMlKGnI2r
— ZZ Top (@ZZTop) August 18, 2026
Longtime drummer for the legendary Texas blues-rock band ZZ Top, Beard joined the band shortly after its formation in 1969 and played on its 1971 debut album. He was also famously the only member of ZZ Top who didn’t have the band’s signature long beard, despite, ironically, having the last name Beard. For more than five decades, Beard provided the rhythmic backbone for ZZ Top, including on some of the group’s biggest hits, such as “La Grange,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’.”
In March 2025, a message was posted on the band’s official X account explaining that Beard “has temporarily stepped away from the current tour to attend to a health issue requiring his focus in the near term.” Drummer John Douglas filled in for him on the Elevation Tour during that time.
Following Beard’s passing, the band announced that they have canceled its upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs. They will resume The Big One! Tour this weekend with two dates at Austin City Limits, one of Frank’s favorite venues in a city he considered a second home.