ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard dies at age 77

ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard has passed away at the age of 77. According to a press release from band publicist Bob Merlis, Beard died on August 17 while in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by family.

Following his death, the band cancelled tour dates in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs. However, the group returned to the stage on August 22 at Austin’s Moody Theatre, one of Beard’s favorite venues. Michael Monahan performed on drums for the show, a role he and John Douglas had previously filled during Beard’s recent health struggles.

Frontman Billy Gibbons addressed the loss during the performance, noting that Beard had previously suggested Monahan take over due to concerns regarding his bass drum foot. With the passing of Beard and former bassist Dusty Hill, Gibbons remains the sole surviving member of the legendary Texas blues-rock trio.