Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

ZZ Top Reschedules Tour After Frank Beard’s Death

8/20/2026

37 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Frank Beard Dies

Frank Beard, ZZ Top’s drummer, died on Aug. 17, 2026, at age 77.
Following his death, ZZ Top cancelled its Aug. 5 Hollywood Bowl concert and the Aug. 18 Salt Lake City and Aug. 19 Colorado Springs shows.
The band will resume the Big One! Tour with two Austin City Limits shows on Aug. 22-23, 2026, a venue Beard favored.

Summary

Frank Beard Legacy

Frank Beard recruited bassist Dusty Hill, completing ZZ Top’s iconic lineup.
He played on every ZZ Top studio album from 1971 to 2012, nine of which earned gold or platinum.
His drumming drove the 1983 “Eliminator” album, which sold over 10 million U.S. copies.
In 2004 he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with ZZ Top, praised by Keith Richards.

1 of 2

Frank Beard Dies

Frank Beard, ZZ Top’s drummer, died on Aug. 17, 2026, at age 77.
Following his death, ZZ Top cancelled its Aug. 5 Hollywood Bowl concert and the Aug. 18 Salt Lake City and Aug. 19 Colorado Springs shows.
The band will resume the Big One! Tour with two Austin City Limits shows on Aug. 22-23, 2026, a venue Beard favored.

1 / 2