Drummer Frank Beard, known for his role in the Texas boogie-rock band ZZ Top and his contribution to hit songs like “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” has passed away at the age of 77. Beard, who was in hospice care, died at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by his family. ZZ Top’s co-founder and guitarist, Billy Gibbons, along with bassist Elwood Francis, expressed their deep sorrow over Beard’s passing, highlighting his remarkable drumming skills and his significant role in the band’s success.
ZZ Top, with over 50 million records sold and six No. 1 singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart, has been a prominent figure in the music industry. The band received three Grammy Award nominations and had seven albums in the Billboard 200’s Top 10. Beard, in a 2019 documentary, emphasized his dedication to the band, stating that he never wanted to stop playing or be replaced.
Forming in 1969, ZZ Top was founded by Beard, Billy Gibbons, and Dusty Hill. Inspired by blues and British trios like Cream, the band maintained its original lineup for over five decades. Their iconic appearance, characterized by long beards and sunglasses, became synonymous with their music.
ZZ Top’s songs, known for their witty lyrics, have been featured in various movies, showcasing their widespread popularity. The band’s fusion of rock, blues, and funk created a unique sound described as a “steaming-hot Houston stew.” Hits like “La Grange,” “Tush,” and “Cheap Sunglasses” propelled their success, with the album “Eliminator” introducing a more polished sound and producing hits such as “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Legs,” and “Sharp-Dressed Man.”
The band’s signature bearded look was adopted unintentionally during a break in 1976, becoming a permanent part of their image. ZZ Top’s music videos, often featuring models and custom cars, resonated well with fans and contributed to their MTV success. The band’s collaboration with director Tim Newman on videos like “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Legs” showcased their humor and style, setting them apart from other bands.
In 2012, producer Rick Rubin helped rejuvenate ZZ Top’s sound with the album “La Futura,” which achieved significant success on the charts. Following the passing of Dusty Hill in 2021, Frank Beard temporarily stepped away from the band in 2025 due to health issues, ultimately passing away shortly after. He is survived by his wife, Debbie Meredith, and three children.