A disheartening piece of news has surfaced—a well-known, longtime drummer for the rock band ZZ Top has passed away. The drummer was 77 years old at the time of his demise.
As per reports by KHOU, the Fort Bend County Medical Examiner’s office in Texas shared that the drummer from the popular band died on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. Further, the reports by Rolling Stone and USA Today state that Frank was in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by his family members.
Despite the drummer being hospitalized, the exact cause of death has not been revealed yet.
However, lead singer Billy Gibbons, in his social media statement, praised the drummer’s contribution to the band, crediting him with making it famous. He 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.”
For the unversed, Frank Beard was a key part of ZZ Top’s unmistakable sound, helping drive decades of blues-rock hits including Tush, Sharp Dressed Men, Legs, Gimme All Your Lovin, and La Grange. Beard was famously known as “The Man With No Beard”—the only member of ZZ Top who did not sport the iconic, chest-length beard.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and friends.
