METAL SLUDGE / August 18th 2026 — Sad news today as we report on the passing of legendary rock drummer Frank Beard.
Beard was the beardless drummer from the Texas rock trio ZZ Top since joining the band in 1969.
Beard had been temporarily sidelined from performing in 2025.
Rolling Stone magazine wrote today: “Beard had faced several serious health issues over the years. In 2002, he missed some shows after undergoing an emergency appendectomy, while in 2025 he “temporarily” stepped away due to unspecified health issues. Earlier this month, ZZ Top abruptly canceled a performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, citing “insurmountable obstacles”; it was later revealed that Beard’s health was the cause, though again no specifics were given.”
PEOPLE wrote: “A rep for the late drummer confirmed that he died on Monday, Aug. 17 at his ranch in Richmond, Texas while in hospice care. No cause of death has been revealed.”
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, ZZ Top’s lead singer Billy F. Gibbons said, “Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas. His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top.”
Frank Beard and his partners – the late Dusty Hill (bass) and Billy F. Gibbons (guitars) – had a slew of notable hit songs over their 5 decade career including; “Legs”, “Sharp Dressed Man”, “Tush”, “La Grange” and “Gimme All Your Lovin'” to name a few.
Our friends over at the Hair Metal Guru channel have also reported on Beard‘s death and we’ve shared their vlog below.
Frank Beard was 77.
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