Time on the road is relentless, and even the most seasoned musicians must sometimes step back. Frank Beard, the longtime drummer of ZZ Top, is temporarily stepping away from the band’s ongoing tour due to health concerns. For a musician whose grooves have been an unshakable foundation of ZZ Top signature sound for over five decades, this decision is undoubtedly significant.
Beard, the only member of the band without an actual beard, has been a driving force behind ZZ Top’s unmistakable blues-rock swagger since its early days. His tight, punchy drumming has provided the backbone for classics like La Grange, Sharp Dressed Man, and Tush, helping to cement the band’s status as one of rock’s most enduring acts. Through years of relentless touring, Beard has been a constant presence, delivering high-energy performances night after night.
While the full details of his health concerns have not been disclosed, the band has assured fans that Beard is expected to make a return once he has recovered. In his absence, longtime collaborator John Douglas will be stepping in to keep the beat alive. Douglas, a respected drummer in his own right, has previously worked with artists such as Aerosmith and is no stranger to stepping into big shoes when the moment calls for it.
ZZ Top is a band built on resilience. They have weathered decades of changes in the music industry, the tragic loss of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021, and the challenges that come with being one of rock’s longest-running power trios. Despite these obstacles, they have remained a tight-knit unit, adapting to circumstances without losing their signature sound.
For fans, the temporary departure of Frank Beard is a reminder of the toll that decades on the road can take. Touring is often viewed as a glamorous part of a musician’s life, but the reality is far more demanding—long nights, constant travel, and an unrelenting schedule that pushes both body and mind to their limits. Yet, even in his absence, the spirit of his playing will be felt in every beat, every shuffle, and every groove that defines ZZ Top’s legendary live performances.
As the tour continues with Douglas behind the kit, the hope remains that Beard will return soon, refreshed and ready to reclaim his throne. Until then, his legacy within the band remains unquestioned, his rhythms deeply woven into the DNA of ZZ Top’s music. The road may take its toll, but the music never stops.