ZZ Top’s Frank Beard Takes Leave of Absence: Health Concerns Prompt Band Member’s Break

ZZ Top’s drummer, Frank Beard, will miss the upcoming concerts on their Elevation tour due to a health issue. The band announced this on social media, emphasizing that Beard needs to focus on his recovery.

In his absence, percussionist John Douglas, who has a long history with the band, will step in. Douglas has played with ZZ Top before, even filling in for Beard during an emergency in 2002. The band is hopeful for Beard’s speedy recovery as they continue their tour.

ZZ Top kicked off this tour in March 2025, featuring performances across the U.S. until April. They plan to head to Australia and New Zealand afterward, with more North American dates scheduled later. However, it’s unclear when Beard will return to his drumming duties.

Beard has been with ZZ Top since 1969, making him a vital part of their long-standing success. The band, known for their iconic sound and style, has had a stable lineup for over five decades. Although they haven’t released a new studio album since 2012’s La Futura, Billy Gibbons mentioned that new music is in the works, including contributions from their late bassist, Dusty Hill.

This situation shows the challenges that come with being part of a long-standing band. The importance of health cannot be overlooked, especially in a demanding industry like music. Fans are expressing their support for Beard online, highlighting how much he means to the group and their performances.

As ZZ Top continues their tour, their resilience showcases not just their dedication to fans, but also their commitment to each other as a band—a reminder of the bonds that exist beyond the music. For more information on ZZ Top and future updates about Frank Beard, you can check their official updates on Instagram.

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