Frank Beard, the drummer of the Texan 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. Beard, who was receiving hospice care, died at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by his family, as confirmed by publicist Bob Merlis. Band co-founder and guitarist Billy Gibbons, currently touring with bassist Elwood Francis, expressed his condolences in a statement, highlighting Beard’s exceptional drumming talent and his integral role in ZZ Top’s success.
ZZ Top, renowned for selling over 50 million records and achieving six No. 1 singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart, has enjoyed significant commercial success throughout their career. The band has also secured spots in the Billboard 200’s Top 10 and received three Grammy Award nominations.
Forming in 1969, ZZ Top was founded by Beard, originally from Frankston, Texas, who had previously collaborated with Gibbons in The Moving Sidewalks. The addition of bassist and vocalist Dusty Hill completed the trio. Drawing inspiration from blues artists like Z.Z. Hill and influenced by British groups such as Cream and Jimmy Reed, ZZ Top maintained its original lineup for more than fifty years.
The band’s distinctive appearance, characterized by long beards for Gibbons and Hill along with dark sunglasses, became iconic and remained consistent throughout their career. Their music, featuring witty and humorous lyrics, was well-received in Hollywood and featured in numerous films. ZZ Top’s sound, described as a fusion of rock, blues, and funk, earned them the title of a “Little Ol’ Band From Texas.”
One of their breakthrough hits, “La Grange,” released in 1973, paid tribute to a historic brothel in Texas and showcased the band’s unique style. Subsequent successes like “Tush” and “Cheap Sunglasses” solidified their status as rock legends. The album “Eliminator,” released in 1983, marked a shift in their sound, incorporating more production elements and electronic instruments while delivering hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Legs,” and “Sharp-Dressed Man.”
ZZ Top’s music videos, featuring sleek cars and models, resonated with audiences and contributed to their popularity. Over the years, the band embraced their signature look and humor, as seen in videos directed by Tim Newman. Collaborating with producer Rick Rubin in 2012, ZZ Top released “La Futura,” which revitalized their sound and charted impressively.
Sadly, Hill passed away in 2021. Beard, who temporarily stepped away from the band’s tour in 2025 due to health issues, succumbed to his ailments just weeks after ZZ Top canceled a concert. Survived by his wife and three children, Beard leaves behind a legacy of timeless music and unforgettable performances.