Iconic ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard died Monday in Richmond, Texas, at the age of 77-years-old, his publicist Bob Merlis confirmed Tuesday.

The rock drummer, who joined the band in 1969, was “in hospice care when he passed away at his ranch" and was surrounded by family members. 

His death comes as the band, known for songs like "Sharp Dressed Man," was expected to perform shows on Tuesday and Wednesday, which have since been canceled. But the band will resume its tour with shows on Aug. 22 and 23.

“Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas,” ZZ Top founder and guitarist Billy Gibbons said. “His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top. The band of which he was part for six decades is going to keep on keeping on as he had wished.” 

ZZ Top has sold more than 50 million records and the band has earned three Grammy Award nominations, according to the Associated Press.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.