**ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies Aged 77**
Frank Beard, the longtime drummer of the iconic blues-rock band ZZ Top, has passed away at the age of 77. The band announced his death in a statement on their official website, revealing that Beard died on Monday while in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by family. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Beard's passing has led to the cancellation of ZZ Top's scheduled tour dates this week, which included performances in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. The band expressed their sorrow over the loss, stating that Beard's contribution to the group was invaluable.
ZZ Top, formed in 1969, quickly rose to prominence in the music industry, known for their unique blend of blues and rock. The band released a total of 15 studio albums and four live albums, featuring hit singles such as "Gimme All Your Lovin'," "Sleeping Bag," and "Viva Las Vegas." The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, solidifying their legacy in the music world.
In a heartfelt tribute, ZZ Top's lead vocalist Billy Gibbons remarked on the loss of his friend and collaborator. "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," Gibbons said. He emphasized Beard's essential role in the band's success, noting that his "signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top." Gibbons also assured fans that the band would continue to perform as Beard would have wanted.
ZZ Top's lineup has seen changes over the years, particularly with the passing of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021. Following Hill's death, the band continued to perform with Elwood Francis stepping in as the new bassist. Beard had been a key member of the band since its early days, joining shortly after they released their first single, "Salt Lick." His drumming anchored many of the band's most popular tracks, including "La Grange," "Tush," and "Cheap Sunglasses."
Beard was affectionately known as "The Man With No Beard," a nickname that humorously highlighted the fact that he was the only member of ZZ Top who did not sport the lengthy facial hair that became synonymous with the band. This unique characteristic set him apart, yet he remained a beloved figure within the group.
The band's 1984 album "Eliminator" marked a significant milestone in ZZ Top's career, featuring hits like "Gimme All Your Lovin'," "Sharp Dressed Man," and "Legs." The album achieved diamond certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 1996, selling over 10 million copies. It also earned a Grammy Award nomination, further establishing the band's reputation in the music industry.
In 1987, ZZ Top received another Grammy nomination for their album "Afterburner." More recently, in 2021, the group was nominated for Best Music Film for the documentary "That Little Ol' Band From Texas," directed by Sam Dunn.
Following Beard's death, ZZ Top plans to resume their current tour, "The Big One! Tour," over the weekend with two performances at Austin City Limits, a venue that Beard cherished. The band has expressed their commitment to honoring Beard's legacy through their music and performances.
As fans and fellow musicians mourn the loss of Frank Beard, his contributions to ZZ Top and the music world will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.