ZZ Top rocker Frank Beard dies at age 77

ZZ Top rocker Frank Beard has died at age 77. 

The sad news was shared in a statement by the band on Instagram by founding member Billy F Gibbons, who also revealed they have also cancelled their upcoming shows at this time. 

“‘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.’ – Billy F Gibbons,” the post started. 

ZZ Top was set to perform in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs on August 18 and 19, but both shows have been cancelled. 

“Following Frank’s passing, ZZ Top has cancelled its upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs,” read the statement shared online. 

“The band will resume its current The Big One! Tour this weekend with two dates in at Austin City Limits, one of Frank’s favourite venues and in a city that had been something of a second home for him.” 

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The post has been flooded with messages of love for the band, and for Beard, with many fans mourning the loss of the drummer. 

Last month the band were set to perform at the Hollywood Bowl but cancelled the show due to “unforeseen personal matters.” 

It was later reported by Rolling Stone that the rockers actually cancelled due to Beard’s health. 

At the time drummer Michael Monahan filled in as they continued the tour. 

Beard has faced health issues in the past. Last year, ZZ Top announced that the musician would be “temporarily” stepping away from the band’s tour to recover.

According to the band’s management, Beard underwent a procedure that required “his focus in the near term.” 

Beard joined the iconic band in 1969 shortly after they formed, but he stepped away in 1976 to seek help for substance abuse. 

The drummer went to rehab, and became sober, during which time the band went on a three-year hiatus. 

“In the late ’70s, I entered rehab. Somebody asked Dusty what he was gonna do. ‘Hey what are y’all gonna do, you know? Frank’s in rehab.’ And Dusty said, ‘Well, I’m goin’ fishing!’”  Beard recalled during an interview with CBS News. 

Gibbons said he never considered replacing Beard with another drummer.

“There is no other drummer. There’s one guy!” he said.