Frank Beard, the drummer of the Texas boogie-rock band ZZ Top known for his rhythmic contributions to hit songs like “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” has passed away at the age of 77. He died at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, while under hospice care, surrounded by family members, as confirmed by publicist Bob Merlis. Band co-founder and guitarist Billy Gibbons, currently on tour with bassist Elwood Francis, paid tribute to Beard’s legacy in a statement.
ZZ Top, with more than 50 million records sold, achieved six No. 1 singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart and received three Grammy Award nominations. The band’s lasting success was credited in part to Beard’s iconic drumming style, which Gibbons emphasized was crucial in maintaining ZZ Top’s musical excellence for over six decades.
Forming the band in 1969, Beard, originally from Frankston, Texas, joined forces with Gibbons from their previous band, The Moving Sidewalks, and later introduced bassist and vocalist Dusty Hill. The trio drew inspiration from blues singer Z.Z. Hill and British power trio Cream and Jimmy Reed. ZZ Top’s unique identity, characterized by long beards and dark sunglasses, remained unchanged throughout their more than 50-year career.
ZZ Top’s songs, known for their clever and humorous lyrics, appeared in various Hollywood movies, including “Gimme All Your Lovin'” in “Happy Feet,” “Sharp Dressed Man” in “Evan Almighty,” and “Legs” in “Air,” among others. Gibbons described ZZ Top as interpreters of a quintessential American art form, blending rock, blues, and funk into what they referred to as a “Little Ol’ Band From Texas.”
Their breakout hit, “La Grange,” from the album “Tres Hombres,” propelled them into commercial success, while their 1983 album “Eliminator” introduced a more polished sound with hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Legs,” and “Sharp-Dressed Man.” The band’s stage presence, complete with a Texas-shaped stage, live rattlesnakes, and a longhorn steer, captivated audiences worldwide.
The evolution of ZZ Top’s signature bearded look was a result of a serendipitous decision during a hiatus in 1976 when the band members unintentionally let their beards grow out. This iconic image stuck with them and became a trademark feature embraced by fans and the music industry.
In 2012, producer Rick Rubin collaborated with ZZ Top on their album “La Futura,” which marked a successful return for the band, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard chart. Beard’s temporary departure from the band in 2025 due to health issues was followed by his passing, leaving behind his wife, Debbie Meredith, and three children.
Dusty Hill, another member of ZZ Top, passed away in 2021, further marking the end of an era for the beloved band.