ZZ Top took the stage in Austin on Saturday night, marking the band’s first performance following the death of drummer Frank Beard earlier in the week. The legendary musician, who had been with the Texas-based group for five decades, passed away at age 77. The band had previously cancelled two shows but committed to fulfilling their scheduled performances at Austin’s Moody Theater, a venue that held special significance for Beard.
During the concert, frontman Billy Gibbons briefly acknowledged their loss while introducing the evening’s drummer. Michael Monahan, who has assisted the band in recent years as Beard faced health challenges, occupied the drum seat for Saturday’s show. Gibbons shared a humorous anecdote about Beard himself requesting Monahan’s involvement, noting the drummer’s concern that the substitute might be “doing pretty good.”
Rather than dwelling on the somber circumstances, Gibbons steered the mood toward celebration, encouraging the crowd to embrace the evening’s performances. The band demonstrated resilience consistent with their handling of bassist Dusty Hill’s passing in 2021, when member Elwood Francis seamlessly filled the role. ZZ Top continues their North American tour through October, with additional South American dates scheduled for November.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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