ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard is taking a temporary leave of absence from the band due to health issues, as confirmed by the legendary rock group on March 15, 2025. The band's management announced this decision stating Beard requires focus on his health and will undergo an unspecified procedure.
According to the statement from Shelter Music Group, ZZ Top's management, "Mr. Frank Beard has temporarily stepped away from the current tour to attend to a health issue requiring his focus in the near term." The band, formed in Texas and known for its distinctive blues and rock sound, includes members Billy F Gibbons and Elwood Francis, who have been on the Elevation Tour since it began on March 5, 2025.
To fill the gap left by Beard during his recovery, ZZ Top has tapped longtime technician and percussionist John Douglas. Douglas has maintained close ties with Beard and the band throughout his career, having stepped in before when Beard faced medical issues. Notably, he filled in for Beard during the drummer’s emergency appendectomy in Paris back in 2002.
Fans have reacted to the news with mixed emotions; some expressed disappointment at Beard's absence from the tour, but most have shown overwhelming support for the drummer. Many took to social media to wish him well, with comments like "Get well soon, legend!" and "We love ZZ Top no matter what!" echoing the sentiments of the fanbase.
The Elevation Tour, which is currently underway, will continue without Beard, extending through to late August, with performances planned across the U.S. and Canada. The absence of Beard marks a significant shift for the band, as he has been their drummer since their formation back in 1969. Beard's steady beat and drum patterns have been integral to the band's sound, contributing to classic hits like "La Grange," "Gimme All Your Lovin'," and "Tush."
ZZ Top launched their Elevation Tour after initially touring the U.S. last year. They have plans to visit locations including Australia and New Zealand as part of their summer tour agenda. While the specifics of Beard's medical procedure remain undisclosed, the band remains optimistic about his ability to recover and return to his place on stage.
The love and respect for Beard are evident, especially considering the band's history. With the passing of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021, Beard, alongside Gibbons and Francis, has carried the band’s legacy forward. Fans recall the influencer dynamics within the band, with Beard being instrumental in introducing Gibbons to Hill when the group was just starting out.
Reflecting on the significance of the trio, one fan noted, "Being part of this band for so long makes Beard irreplaceable; he’s the heart of ZZ Top." Douglas, now stepping up as Beard's stand-in, has over 30 years of experience as a drummer and technician, having worked with other notable bands and artists throughout his career.
The roots of ZZ Top's enduring success lie not only within the individual talents of its members but also their cohesive chemistry, which has kept fans coming back to witness their live performances for decades. The band took the music world by storm over the years and continues to thrive, symbolizing the rock ethos embodied by their unique sound.
With the current lineup of ZZ Top, expectations run high for the Elevation Tour, especially as they prepare to bring their signature blues sound to international audiences. Support acts for the tour include other rock legends, confirming the band's status as icons within the music community.
Looking forward, ZZ Top is committed to continuing their powerful performances, even during this challenging phase. By embracing John Douglas as interim drummer, they assure fans of maintaining the quality of sound and performance they expect. "He is looking forward to a speedy recovery," the band concluded their statement on Beard’s health, expressing hope for the future.
Fans and fellow musicians alike will undoubtedly be watching closely as ZZ Top navigates this transition and anticipates the day when Beard will return to the drums, helping to keep the vibrant legacy of ZZ Top alive and well.