Frank Beard, drummer of boogie-rock trio ZZ Top, dies at 77
NEW YORK (AP) — Frank Beard, the drummer for the Texas boogie-rock trio ZZ Top who kept the tempo for the band’s biggest hits like “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Gimme All Your Lovin'” and “Legs,” has died. He was 77.
Frank Beard, the legendary drummer for the iconic Texas boogie-rock band ZZ Top, passed away at the age of 77 on Tuesday, surrounded by his family at his ranch in Richmond, Texas. The band's co-founder and guitarist, Billy Gibbons, paid tribute to Beard, calling him a "great friend and collaborator" and noting that the world had lost "one of the most naturally innovative drummers."
ZZ Top, with their signature sound of rock, blues, and funk, sold over 50 million records and had six No. 1 singles on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. The band's longevity, with a lineup unchanged for over five decades, was a testament to Beard's talent and dedication. Beard met Gibbons in the band The Moving Sidewalks and later introduced bassist Dusty Hill, with whom they formed ZZ Top in 1969.
Their unique look, characterized by long beards and sunglasses, became a defining feature of their image, which evolved over time. Despite ZZ Top's passing of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021, the band announced that Beard would take a temporary leave of absence to address foot and ankle problems. His legacy as one of the most influential drummers in rock music will undoubtedly endure.
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- Frank Beard, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame drummer of boogie-rock trio ZZ Top, dies at 77 winnipegfreepress.com
