national

ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies at Age 77

Published

Just the facts

Beard served as the drummer for ZZ Top for more than five decades after joining the Texas-based rock trio in 1969 alongside bandmates Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill. He performed on all of the group's major commercial releases, contributing to multi-platinum albums including Eliminator and Afterburner. His rhythm work was central to the band's signature blues-rock sound and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. Tributes from fellow musicians and industry representatives recognized his long career and contributions to American popular music.

Why this is news

Frank Beard, the long-tenured drummer for the American rock group ZZ Top, passed away at the age of 77. Band members and representatives announced his passing to news outlets on Wednesday.

Sources

This summary is compiled strictly from the original reporting below.

← All stories · Live timeline