ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies at 77

Frank Beard, the drummer for the Texas band ZZ Top known for hits like “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” has passed away at the age of 77. He died while in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, with his family by his side, according to publicist Bob Merlis.

Guitarist Billy Gibbons, a co-founder of the band, expressed his admiration and sorrow in a statement while on tour with bassist Elwood Francis. He described Beard as a cherished friend and an innovative drummer. Gibbons remarked, “His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ Top on top, and the band he was part of for six decades will keep going as he wished.”

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

Reflecting on his career in the 2019 documentary “ZZ Top: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas,” Beard stated, “I’ve found the people I was meant to play with. I never wanted to quit, and never wanted to get fired.”