ZZ Top's Frank Beard Passes Away at 77

Frank Beard, the longtime drummer for the legendary

Frank Beard, the longtime drummer for the legendary Texas blues-rock trio ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77. The band confirmed his passing on their official website, noting that he died on Monday while in hospice care.

Beard was a founding member of ZZ Top, which he formed in 1969 alongside guitarist Billy Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill. Known for his steady backbeat and understated stage presence, Beard was the only member without the group's signature long beard, a fact that became a running joke among fans and a distinctive element of the band's image.

Throughout his career, Beard contributed to the band's most iconic albums, including "Tres Hombres" and "Eliminator," which helped define the sound of southern rock and blues in the 1970s and 80s. His drumming was a cornerstone of hits like "La Grange" and "Legs," blending boogie rhythms with a rock edge that became instantly recognizable.

The news of Beard's death brings a somber

The news of Beard's death brings a somber close to an era, as he was the last surviving member of the original lineup following Dusty Hill's passing in 2021. Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow musicians, celebrating his contributions to rock music and his enduring influence on generations of drummers.

A private funeral is planned, with the family requesting privacy during this difficult time. The band's statement expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and honored Beard's legacy, noting that his music will live on for years to come.