ZZ Top’s iconic drummer, Frank Beard, will be missing from the band’s upcoming tour engagements, citing a significant health concern as the reason for his recently announced absence. This unexpected decision has raised questions among fans and the music community about the future of the tour and Beard’s well-being.

The renowned Texas trio of rock legends announced this news on Saturday, March 15, detailing that Beard will not participate in the current Elevation tour due to the necessity of undergoing an unspecified but serious health procedure. This announcement has created a wave of concern among fans, who are eager for updates regarding both the tour and Beard’s health status as they continue to support the iconic band.

According to a social media announcement from the band’s management, Shelter Music Group, it was confirmed that the esteemed drummer, Mr. Frank Beard, has temporarily stepped away from the ongoing tour to focus on addressing a health issue that requires his immediate attention. This news has been met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow musicians alike, all wishing him a swift and full recovery.

The social media post further elaborated that Beard, alongside fellow ZZ Top members Billy F. Gibbons and Elwood Francis, has been actively engaged in the Elevation tour since its commencement on March 5. To ensure continuity during Beard’s absence, they have enlisted the help of fellow Texan and long-time technician, percussionist, and drummer, John Douglas, who will fill in temporarily. This collaboration reflects the strong camaraderie within the band and their commitment to delivering exceptional performances.

The announcement emphasized that John Douglas shares a close bond with Beard and the band, having previously substituted for Beard during a Paris performance in October 2002, when Beard faced an emergency appendectomy. This history not only highlights Douglas’s capability but also reassures fans that the band remains in good hands while Beard focuses on his recovery.

The post concluded with a hopeful note, expressing that Beard is looking forward to a swift recovery. This sentiment resonates deeply with fans, who are rallying around the drummer and eagerly awaiting updates on his health and potential return to the stage.

ZZ Top launched their highly anticipated Elevation tour in October 2024, performing across the U.S. until November. The tour resumed on March 5 and is set to continue with performances throughout the country until April, followed by visits to Australia and New Zealand. While additional North American dates are planned for their return, the timeline for Beard’s return to the stage remains uncertain, leaving fans hopeful yet concerned for their beloved drummer.

Frank Beard has been the heartbeat of ZZ Top since 1969, stepping in to fill the role of drummer after co-founder Dan Mitchell. Alongside legendary vocalist and guitarist Billy Gibbons, Mitchell, and bassist Lanier Greig established the band that same year, paving the way for a rock legacy that has spanned decades.

Following the departure of Greig, Billy Ethridge took over on bass, and in 1970, Dusty Hill joined the group, solidifying a lineup that remained unchanged for an impressive 51 years until Hill’s passing at age 72 in 2021. Since then, Elwood Francis has stepped in as the new bassist, continuing the band’s storied legacy while navigating the challenges of change.

Despite not releasing a studio album since 2012’s La Futura, Gibbons has indicated that a new record, featuring contributions from the late Hill, is in the works. This news has sparked excitement among fans, who are eager for new music that captures the essence of ZZ Top’s unique sound and rich history.