Frank Beard, Beardless Drummer for ZZ Top, Dies at 77
The only member of the Texas power trio without a beard, he propelled the band’s blend of boogie, Southern rock and blues for more than a half-century.
Frank Beard, the drummer for the iconic rock band ZZ Top, has passed away at the age of 77. As the only member of the band without a beard, Beard was a distinctive figure in the group's image, but it was his musical contributions that truly drove their success. For over 50 years, he played a key role in shaping ZZ Top's unique sound, which blended elements of boogie, Southern rock, and blues.
Beard's death marks the end of an era for ZZ Top, a band that has been a staple of American rock music for decades. With hits like "La Grange," "Tush," and "Gimme All Your Lovin'," ZZ Top built a loyal following and influenced countless other musicians. Beard's rhythmic foundation was a crucial element of the band's sound, and his ability to adapt to changing musical styles helped keep ZZ Top relevant even as the music landscape evolved.
As the music world pays tribute to Beard's legacy, fans and fellow musicians alike will be watching to see how ZZ Top moves forward. The band has continued to tour and record music over the years, even after the passing of bassist and vocalist Dusty Hill in 2021. With Beard gone, the remaining members will likely face questions about their future plans and whether they will continue to perform and create music together.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.