Following the announcement from ZZ Top regarding their drummer Frank Beard sitting out several tour dates due to an unspecified health issue, it has now been officially confirmed that his absence will extend to the band’s upcoming Australian tour. This development comes after more than a month of uncertainty regarding his condition, emphasizing the importance of health over performance for the legendary band.

In a statement issued on Thursday (April 24), the concert promoters Live Nation clarified that Frank Beard will not be accompanying his bandmates during the upcoming tour, following the advice of his medical team. This decision underscores the band’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of its members, ensuring that Beard has adequate time to focus on his recovery.

The Texas rock trio announced on March 15 that Beard would be absent from their current Elevation tour due to the necessity of undergoing a medical procedure related to his health. In a social media post shared by the band, they stated, “Shelter Music Group, ZZ Top’s management, has confirmed that drummer Frank Beard has temporarily stepped back from the tour to address a health issue that requires his immediate attention.”

“Beard, along with fellow ZZ Top members Billy F. Gibbons and Elwood Francis, has been on the Elevation tour since March 5, but they have brought in John Douglas, a talented percussionist and long-time technician for the band, to fill in during Beard’s absence.”

<Douglas has a long-standing relationship with both Beard and the other band members, having previously filled in for the drummer during a performance in Paris back in October 2002 when Beard underwent an emergency appendectomy. This history illustrates the strong camaraderie and support within the band, especially during challenging times.

“Live Nation’s statement further indicated that Beard’s ongoing physical therapy has been proving effective in addressing the underlying issue that led to his departure from the recent US leg of the tour. While the news of his progress is encouraging, both the band and management agree that his complete recovery must take precedence above all else. 

“Beard’s attending physicians have recommended an extended period of physical therapy, which could lead to more effective and lasting results. This will now be Beard’s primary focus as he continues his journey toward full health.”

Frank Beard has been an integral part of ZZ Top since 1969, when he succeeded co-founder Dan Mitchell. The band was originally formed in the same year by vocalist and guitarist Billy Gibbons, along with Mitchell and bassist Lanier Greig. Over the years, Beard has contributed significantly to the band’s unique sound and success in the rock music scene. 

After Greig was replaced by Billy Ethridge, Dusty Hill took over as the bassist in 1970, and their lineup remained stable for an impressive 51 years until Hill’s passing at the age of 72 in 2021. Since then, Elwood Francis has stepped into the role of bassist, continuing the band’s legacy.

The iconic group is set to embark on their first Australian tour since 2013, starting on Saturday, April 26th. This extensive ten-date tour will wrap up in mid-May, followed by a brief tour in New Zealand, and an additional North American tour slated for June. The band’s ambitious 51-date trek is scheduled to extend through October, showcasing their enduring appeal and commitment to their fans.