Frank Beard, the drummer of ZZ Top from Texas known for playing on 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 in hospice care, surrounded by his family, according to publicist Bob Merlis. Band co-founder Billy Gibbons, along with bassist Elwood Francis, paid tribute to Beard, emphasizing his innovative drumming style and contribution to ZZ Top’s success over the decades.
ZZ Top, a renowned boogie-rock trio, sold over 50 million records and had six singles topping the Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. With seven albums in the Billboard 200’s Top 10 and three Grammy Award nominations, the band left a significant mark on the music industry.
Beard, originally from Frankston, Texas, met Gibbons in a band called The Moving Sidewalks, where he later introduced Dusty Hill, the bassist and vocalist. Together, they formed ZZ Top in 1969, drawing inspiration from blues icons and British rock trios. Maintaining their original lineup for more than five decades, ZZ Top’s distinctive appearance, characterized by long beards and sunglasses, became synonymous with their music.
The band’s songs, known for their witty and humorous lyrics, were featured in various Hollywood films, adding to their popularity. With a unique blend of rock, blues, and funk, ZZ Top carved out a niche for themselves, earning a reputation as interpreters of American music.
Notably, ZZ Top’s breakthrough came with “La Grange” from the album “Tres Hombres,” paying homage to a historic brothel in Texas. The band’s evolution in sound, exemplified by the album “Eliminator,” showcased a fusion of production elements and hit singles like “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Legs,” and “Sharp-Dressed Man.”
The band’s iconic bearded look was a serendipitous outcome of a hiatus in 1976, which led to their signature appearance. With a rock-chic persona that resonated with MTV audiences, ZZ Top’s music videos, featuring Gibbons’ custom cars and quirky narratives, became a visual spectacle.
In 2012, producer Rick Rubin collaborated with the band on their comeback album, “La Futura,” marking a successful return to the music scene. Despite facing health challenges, Beard remained dedicated to his craft, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans worldwide.
Frank Beard is survived by his wife, Debbie Meredith, and three children. His contributions to ZZ Top’s enduring legacy will be remembered by music enthusiasts for years to come.