ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies at 77

Frank Beard, ZZ Top's drummer for 56 years, died on August 17 at age 77 at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, according to publicist Bob Merlis. Beard had been in hospice care. ZZ Top cancelled a Hollywood Bowl concert earlier in August 2026 citing his health issues. The medical examiner said the cause of death was unclear and no autopsy will be performed.