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Frank Beard, the longtime drummer and rhythmic backbone of ZZ Top, has died at 77.
Beard died August 17 at his Texas ranch while receiving hospice care, with his family by his side, according to the Fort Bend County Medical Examiner. His exact cause of death has not been disclosed.
The heartbreaking news comes after months of health struggles that had recently forced Beard to step away from touring. ZZ Top canceled its August 5 performance at the Hollywood Bowl because of his health, and drummer Michael Monahan had filled in for him during some of the band’s recent shows.
Beard had been part of ZZ Top since the band formed in 1969, joining guitarist Billy Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill to create one of rock’s most recognizable lineups.
