Frank Beard, the drummer of the Texas band ZZ Top known for 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 under hospice care surrounded by his family. The band’s guitarist Billy Gibbons, currently on tour with bassist Elwood Francis, expressed his sorrow at Beard’s passing, describing him as an innovative drummer and a true Texas native.
ZZ Top, which sold over 50 million records and had multiple chart-topping singles, including seven albums in the Billboard 200’s Top 10, mourns the loss of Beard. The band, together for six decades, will continue as Beard had wished. In a documentary from 2019 titled “ZZ Top: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas,” Beard mentioned his passion for playing with the group and his dedication to the music.
Beard, originally from Frankston, Texas, joined forces with Billy Gibbons in a band called The Moving Sidewalks before introducing bassist and vocalist Dusty Hill to form ZZ Top in 1969. Influenced by blues singer Z.Z. Hill and bands like Cream and Jimmy Reed, ZZ Top maintained its original lineup for over 50 years, known for their iconic appearance with long beards and sunglasses.
The band’s songs, characterized by clever and humorous lyrics, found success in Hollywood, featuring in various films such as “Happy Feet,” “Evan Almighty,” and “Dazed and Confused.” Their music, described as a blend of rock, blues, and funk, earned them the title of interpreters of a great American music genre.
One of ZZ Top’s breakthrough hits was “La Grange” from the album “Tres Hombres,” paying tribute to a famous brothel in Texas and showcasing their raw blues sound. The band evolved over the years, introducing more production elements and synthesizers in their album “Eliminator,” which produced hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Legs,” and “Sharp-Dressed Man.”
The band’s distinctive look and style, including the long beards, became a trademark that resonated with fans. Initially an accidental development during a hiatus, the beards became synonymous with ZZ Top’s rock-chic persona, featured prominently in their music videos and performances.
Despite lineup changes and health challenges, ZZ Top continued to captivate audiences with their music and stage presence. The band’s legacy endures through their timeless hits and iconic image, cementing their status as rock legends. Frank Beard is survived by his wife, Debbie Meredith, and three children.
