ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard was still in performing shape, photographed with his legendary bandmates months before his death.

Beard, seated behind his trusty drum kit, took the stage behind bassist  Elwood Francis and ZZ Top founder Billy F. Gibbons as the trio performed at Viejas Casino & Resort on November 02, 2025 in Alpine, California. 

Beard looked poised at the packed show, where the band belted out some of its biggest hits, including “Legs,” “Sharp Dressed Man” and “I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide,” all of which were co-written by Beard.

The drummer had just returned to the band after a two month absence, while suffering foot and ankle issues. Gibbons welcomed Beard back in a poignant statement shared on social media. 

“We missed him and are looking forward to turning it up and rocking out with him as has been the case for the last few hundred or so decades. His complete recovery is cause for celebration and that’s just what we intend to do on an open-ended basis. Welcome back, pardner!”

“It’s good to be back. See you out there,” Beard replied. 

The band encored the show with their rock anthem “La Grange,” bringing the house down.

Beard only remained with the band for a handful more shows after the gig in Alpine, taking another extended health leave before his eventual death. Drummer Michael Monahan filled in while he was gone.

The drummer died after a stay in hospice August, the Fort Bend County Medical Examiner’s Office in Rosenberg, Texas, told The Post.

His cause of death is unclear, and an autopsy will not be performed, the medical examiner said.

“Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas. His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top,” Gibbons said. 

ZZ Top was scheduled to play the Hollywood Bowl on Aug. 5, but canceled only hours before the show was supposed to start. 

ZZ Top has canceled upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs, the band said. However, the band plans to resume its The Big One! tour this weekend with two performances at Austin City Limits, one of Beard’s favorite venues in a city he considered a second home, a statement said.