Billy Gibbons recently confirmed that ZZ Top will continue “The Big One!” tour in memory of the band’s late drummer, Frank Beard, in a statement shared on Instagram.
The statement expressed grief over the loss of Beard and explained how the band plans to honor his legacy on the road.
“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,” Gibbons said. “His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top.”
The band also shared details regarding their immediate schedule and how they plan to honor Beard’s legacy.
“Following Frank’s passing, ZZ Top has canceled its upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs,” the statement continued. “The band will resume its current The Big One! Tour this weekend with two dates in at Austin City Limits, one of Frank’s favorite venues and in a city that had been something of a second home for him.”
This announcement comes as the band and fans mourn the loss of the legendary drummer.
Beard’s passing marks the end of an era for one of rock’s most enduring trios, prompting a closer look at the drummer’s lasting impact on ZZ Top and the music world.
Beard died at age 77 after being in hospice care, passing away in Texas with his family by his side. Beard was born in Frankston, Texas, on June 11, 1949. He joined ZZ Top in 1969 and helped shape the group’s rhythm, with his Texas shuffle becoming a key part of songs such as “La Grange” and “Tush.”
ZZ Top was formed in 1969 by Billy Gibbons, and Beard quickly became part of the lineup that helped define the band’s early sound. Pitchfork also noted that Beard encouraged Gibbons to bring bassist Dusty Hill into the group, helping solidify the trio that became ZZ Top’s best-known formation.
Beard played a crucial role in ZZ Top’s transformation from a blues boogie trio into an arena rock act during the MTV era. That influence helped make him one of the band’s most recognizable and important members over more than five decades.
The return to Austin City Limits adds a fitting tribute, since the venue was one of Beard’s favorite places to perform and held special meaning for him. The Big One! tour continues as a tribute to a musician whose drumming helped define ZZ Top’s sound and legacy.
