Frank Beard, the drummer of the iconic Texas boogie-rock band ZZ Top, known for his rhythmic contributions to hits like “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” has passed away at the age of 77. Beard, who was under hospice care, breathed his last on Tuesday at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by his loved ones, as confirmed by publicist Bob Merlis. Band co-founder and guitarist Billy Gibbons, currently on tour with bassist Elwood Francis, paid tribute to Beard’s legacy, emphasizing his innovative drumming style and deep Texan roots.
ZZ Top, a band that has sold over 50 million records and achieved numerous chart-topping singles and Grammy nominations, has been profoundly impacted by Beard’s unique backbeat over the past six decades. Reflecting on his musical journey, Beard expressed his unwavering dedication to his craft, stating, “I’ve found the people I was meant to play with.”
Beard, originally from Frankston, Texas, initially crossed paths with Gibbons in a band called The Moving Sidewalks. Later, he introduced bassist and vocalist Dusty Hill, forming the legendary trio ZZ Top in 1969. Inspired by blues legends and British rock influences, the band maintained its original lineup for more than fifty years, sporting their trademark look of long beards and dark sunglasses.
ZZ Top’s music, characterized by witty and playful lyrics, has left an indelible mark on popular culture, with their songs featuring in various Hollywood films. Their eclectic sound, described as a fusion of rock, blues, and funk, earned them the moniker of a “Little Ol’ Band From Texas.” Notably, tracks like “La Grange,” “Tush,” and “Cheap Sunglasses” propelled the band to commercial success, while the album “Eliminator” marked a shift towards a more polished sound, incorporating new elements and yielding hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Legs,” and “Sharp-Dressed Man.”
The band’s unmistakable image, characterized by their long beards, was a serendipitous development during a hiatus in 1976 when each member let their facial hair grow unchecked. Embracing this newfound look, ZZ Top’s rock-chic aesthetic resonated with audiences, especially in the burgeoning MTV era. Their music videos, featuring sleek cars and models, became iconic representations of their style and humor.
Following a successful collaboration with producer Rick Rubin on the album “La Futura” in 2012, ZZ Top reaffirmed their enduring musical relevance. Despite the loss of Dusty Hill in 2021, the band continued to captivate audiences until drummer Frank Beard’s recent health challenges forced him to step away from their tour. Tragically, Beard passed away shortly after the band canceled a scheduled concert due to his declining health.
Frank Beard is survived by his wife, Debbie Meredith, and three children, leaving behind a legacy of musical innovation and timeless contributions to the world of rock music.