Frank Beard, the drummer of the Texas boogie rock trio ZZ Top, died at the age of 77. Known for setting the rhythm for the band’s biggest hits like “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” Beard passed away under palliative care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas. His family was by his side at the time of his death, as confirmed by publicist Bob Merlis.
Billy Gibbons, co-founder and guitarist of the band, who is currently on tour with bassist Elwood Francis, paid tribute to Beard. In a statement, Gibbons expressed his admiration: “Today, Elwood and I lost a dear friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a true son of Texas. His distinctive backbeat was crucial in keeping ZZ at the forefront. The band will carry on as he wished.”
ZZ Top sold over 50 million albums and had six singles reach number 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. Seven of their albums made it to the Top 10 of the Billboard 200, and they received three Grammy nominations.
In the 2019 documentary “ZZ Top: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas,” Beard reflected on his time with the band. He stated, “I found the people I was meant to play with. I never wanted to quit and never wanted to be fired.”