Photo: Courtesy of Getty Images
Very sad news today, Classic Rock fans here in Peoria and all of Central Illinois. Iconic ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard has died at the age of 77. Beard was a core member of Texas bred band, and was behind the kit for over 56 years. His signature beats and timing was a major part of the band’s unique sound. Beard has been in and out of the band the last year due to various health issues. Just a few days ago, Beard dropped out of the ZZ Top tour due to health related issues. The Family released a statement today that Beard passed away on August 17th while in hospice care, “with family members at his side.”
A very sad day indeed. ZZ Top has always been a fan favorite here in the River City Peoria. They just played here at the Civic Center this past Spring (without Beard on the kit). ZZ Top played our beautiful Prairie Home Alliance Theater prior to that in April 2023. We hosted that show on site, and celebrated that amazing blues inspired Texas Rock N’ Roll. Just think of all of those amazing songs you know by heart, “Tush”, “La Grange”, “I’m Bad, I’m Nation Wide”, “Sharp Dressed Man”, Legs”, the list is endless. Today on 95-5, G-L-O, listen for blocks of ZZ Top at the top of each hour beginning at 4pm. Rest in peace, Frank Beard, you will be missed.
