Overview
- Frank Beard, ZZ Top’s drummer since 1969, died on Monday at age 77 and the band canceled a small number of shows earlier in the week as it adjusted plans.
- ZZ Top resumed live performance on Aug. 22 at Austin’s Moody Theater with Michael Monahan behind the kit and Billy Gibbons briefly acknowledging Beard as their “dear drummer.”
- The Moody Theater show mixed classic hits and newer material, closed with “La Grange,” and was presented as a celebration rather than an extended eulogy.
- Elwood Francis continued on bass after taking over full time following Dusty Hill’s 2021 death, and longtime drum tech John Douglas and Monahan have both filled in during Beard’s recent health absences.
- The band intends to press on with The Big One! Tour across North America into the fall and has South America dates planned for November, a decision that will shape short-term lineup and routing choices.