Frank Beard, the drummer for the Texas rock band ZZ Top known for hits 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 with his family by his side, confirmed by publicist Bob Merlis. Billy Gibbons, the band’s guitarist and co-founder, expressed his loss and praised Beard’s drumming skills as instrumental in ZZ Top’s success over the decades.
ZZ Top achieved significant commercial success, selling over 50 million records and having six singles top Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. They also received three Grammy Award nominations and had seven albums in the Billboard 200’s Top 10. In a documentary released in 2019, Beard shared his dedication to the band, emphasizing his passion for playing music and his commitment to never give up.
The band ZZ Top was formed in 1969 by Beard, Gibbons, and bassist/vocalist Dusty Hill. They drew inspiration from blues singer Z.Z. Hill and bands like Cream and Jimmy Reed. Maintaining their original lineup for more than 50 years, ZZ Top became known for their distinctive appearance with long beards and sunglasses.
Their music, characterized by witty lyrics, gained popularity in Hollywood and featured in various films such as “Happy Feet,” “Evan Almighty,” and “I, Tonya.” ZZ Top’s fusion of rock, blues, and funk was described as a unique blend dubbed a “steaming-hot Houston stew.”
One of their breakthrough hits, “La Grange,” paid homage to a historic brothel in Texas and showcased their signature sound. With subsequent hits like “Tush” and “Cheap Sunglasses,” ZZ Top’s 1983 album “Eliminator” marked a shift in their musical style, incorporating more production elements and electronic sounds.
The band’s iconic bearded look was a result of a serendipitous event during a break in the mid-1970s, which became their trademark image. Their music videos, including the trilogy of “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Legs,” symbolized their rock-chic appeal and humor.
In 2012, producer Rick Rubin collaborated with ZZ Top on their album “La Futura,” rejuvenating their sound and chart success. Beard’s temporary departure from the band in 2025 due to health issues was followed by his unfortunate passing, leaving behind his wife, Debbie Meredith, and three children.
Dusty Hill, ZZ Top’s bassist, passed away in 2021. The band had canceled a concert in August 2025 due to Beard’s health concerns, and his death occurred shortly after this announcement.