ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard to Miss Future Tours Due to Health Issues
ZZ Top has confirmed that drummer Frank Beard will not be part of their upcoming tour dates in Australia, following recommendations from healthcare professionals regarding his health.
Tour Implications
Beard’s absence comes in light of a statement released by the band’s promoter, Live Nation, on April 24. The company clarified that Beard will not participate in future performances as he focuses on his health-related procedures.
Current Status and Band Statement
Initially disclosed on March 15, the band indicated that Beard would step away from their current elevation tour to address unspecified health concerns. ZZ Top’s official social media update noted, “The Shelter Music Group has announced that the band’s drummer Frank Beard has temporarily left the current tour to focus on health issues that need urgent attention.”
Supporting Drummer
During Beard’s absence, John Douglas, who has previous experience filling in for him, will be stepping in as the drummer. Douglas has played alongside ZZ Top in past instances, including a concert in Paris after Beard underwent an emergency appendectomy in 2002.
Health Focus
Live Nation’s statement continued to emphasize the significance of Beard’s recovery, stating, “Beard’s ongoing physiotherapy has been highly effective in addressing recent health issues. The band believes prioritizing his full recovery is essential.” The healthcare team has recommended that Beard continue with physical therapy to ensure a lasting recovery.
Band’s History and Future Plans
Beard has been with ZZ Top since its inception in 1969, stepping in for co-founder Dan Mitchell. Alongside lead vocalist and guitarist Billy Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill, Beard helped shape the band’s iconic sound over several decades. Following Hill’s passing in 2021, Elwood Francis took over as the band’s bassist.
ZZ Top is set to embark on their first Australian tour since 2013 starting on April 26, with performances scheduled for ten days before concluding in mid-May. Following this, they will have additional shows planned in New Zealand in June, leading into a series of North American dates through October.