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Frank Beard, ZZ Top’s long-serving drummer, was captured onstage with his bandmates months before his death, looking steady behind his drum kit as the trio ran through the group’s hits.
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Photographs from the November 2, 2025 show at Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California, show Beard seated at his drums. He performed behind bassist Elwood Francis and founding guitarist Billy F. Gibbons.
- Set highlights included “Legs,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide.” These numbers were part of the band’s core repertoire.
- The night closed with an encore of “La Grange,” which drew a strong reaction from the crowd.
Health interruptions and a welcomed return
Beard had missed two months of shows earlier in the run because of foot and ankle problems. He rejoined the band in time for the Alpine date.
Gibbons publicly noted how glad the group was to have Beard back. The reunion was framed as a celebration after his recovery, and Beard responded simply, “It’s good to be back. See you out there.”
What happened after Alpine: another leave and lineup changes
After the Alpine concert, Beard played only a few more dates before stepping away again for health reasons.
Who stepped in on drums
- Drummer Michael Monahan served as the fill-in during Beard’s absence.
Hospice care and the official notice
The Fort Bend County Medical Examiner in Rosenberg, Texas, reported that Beard died following a stay in hospice in August. The office said the cause of death is currently unclear.
No autopsy will be performed, according to the medical examiner’s statement.
Band reactions and legacy remarks
Gibbons described the loss as the departure of a close friend and a key creative force. He praised Beard’s drumming and called him a true son of Texas.
Bandmates emphasized the role his backbeat played in defining ZZ Top’s sound.
Tour disruption and rescheduled plans
ZZ Top announced late cancellations and changes amid the situation.
- The Hollywood Bowl show scheduled for Aug. 5 was called off hours before start time.
- Upcoming dates in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs were also canceled.
- The group stated it intends to resume The Big One! tour with two shows at Austin City Limits.
Those ACL dates carry extra meaning: Austin was a place Beard loved, and he considered the city a second home.
