ZZ Top performs again following drummer Frank Beard’s death

ZZ Top have taken to the stage again just days after the passing of their longtime drummer Frank Beard.

The Gimme All Your Lovin' rock and roll veterans were left devastated by news of Beard’s death on August 17, leading them to call off their scheduled performances in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs in the days that followed.

As planned, the band returned to The Big One! Tour over the weekend, performing two consecutive shows at Austin City Limits.

Their first concert since Beard’s passing took place on Saturday (22.08.26).

Founding member Billy Gibbons performed alongside Elwood Francis, who stepped into the bassist role after the death of longtime member Dusty Hill in 2021.

Drummer Michael Monahan also joined the group, having previously taken over behind the kit during Beard’s health difficulties, alongside drum technician John Douglas.

While introducing the musicians after opening the concert with Got Me Under Pressure, Billy told the crowd: "I guess some of you probably know there’s a new man in town.

“In fact, it all started a little while back. [Bassist Elwood Francis] and I got an unexpected call from our dear Frank Beard, our dear drummer for 50 years.

"I've never heard him admit, he said, ‘My bass drum foot’s a little weak. Can you get my man [Monahan] to take over?’

"I said, ‘Oh yeah, yeah, he’s been doing pretty good.’ Frank said, ‘Yeah, that’s what worries me.’ "

Billy explained to those in attendance that the band had come together "for a celebration".

He continued: "You know what’s going on. So we’re gonna have a good time."

The group wrapped up its main performance with Sharp Dressed Man and Legs, then returned for an encore featuring Brown Sugar, Tube Snake Boogie, Thunderbird and La Grange.

Last week, the band's representative Bob Merlis confirmed that Beard had died aged 77 at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, with his family by his side while receiving hospice care.

No official cause of death has been announced.

Beard first joined forces with singer and guitarist Billy Gibbons after ZZ Top released their debut single Salt Lick, which originally featured Dan Mitchell behind the drums. He was also instrumental in bringing bassist Dusty Hill into the group.

In 2019, the drummer looked back on his first jam session with Billy.

Speaking in the documentary ZZ Top: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas, he joked: “I was jacked up on speed, so I made him jam for about eight hours ’til his tongue just fell out.”

Billy remembered the encounter differently, saying: “It didn’t take 30 minutes, it didn’t take 30 seconds — I knew that Frank Beard had the kind of chops that I was looking for. He played fiercely. He played with determination.”