Here’s to the only guy in ZZ Top without a beard… named Beard. Today, he turns 76!
Happy birthday to Frank Beard, who’s the backbone of that little ol’ band from Texas. While the world might’ve focused on the fuzzy guitars, hot rods, and hips that didn’t lie, Frank was in the back, keeping time like a damn machine. No flash, no fuss—just pure, unfiltered Texas groove.
Born on June 11, 1949, Frank’s been laying down beats longer than most of us have been walking. And while Billy and Dusty had the look, Frank had the drive. You don’t hold a band together for over 50 years without a hell of a drummer behind you, and ZZ Top knew exactly what they had.
Frank wasn’t just keeping time—he was setting it. Listen to “La Grange,” “Cheap Sunglasses,” or “Tush.” That shuffle ain’t easy. It’s dirty, it’s tight, and it moves you. That’s Frank. The man could swing a groove and punch a riff in the gut without breaking a sweat.
Also, don’t forget…Frank was the one who brought Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill together. No Frank, no ZZ Top. Let that sink in next time you crank Tres Hombres.
These days, Frank’s still behind the kit, holding it down like always. No frills, just fills. It’s rare to find a rock legend who doesn’t chase the spotlight, but Frank never needed it. The music did the talking, and his sticks did the rest.
So here’s to you, Frank. Thanks for the decades of groove, grit, and that Texas shuffle that still makes us wanna grab a beer, crank the stereo, and tip our cowboy hat.
Raise a glass and play it loud—today, we celebrate the real Beard behind ZZ Top.
Rock on,
Sam
