ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard 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 crucial component of ZZ Top's distinctive sound, which blended boogie, Southern rock, and blues. With a career spanning over 50 years, Beard's contributions to the band's music have been immeasurable.
Beard's death marks the end of an era for ZZ Top, a band that has been a staple of the rock music scene for decades. Alongside guitarist Billy Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill, Beard helped shape the band's unique sound, which has influenced countless other artists. As one of the most recognizable and beloved bands in rock history, ZZ Top's legacy will undoubtedly continue to endure.
As fans and fellow musicians pay tribute to Beard's life and career, the future of ZZ Top remains uncertain. With Beard's passing, the band's remaining members will need to decide whether to continue making music together. Given the band's enduring popularity, it's likely that they will choose to carry on Beard's legacy, but for now, fans will be watching to see what's next for this rock institution.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. BahaNews adds analysis for general news readers.