ZZ Top returned to the stage for their first live performance since the death of longtime drummer Frank Beard. Frontman Billy Gibbons introduced the band’s new drummer during the show.
The band played at ACL Live on Saturday, marking an emotional milestone following Beard’s passing after 50 years behind the kit. Gibbons used the moment to introduce Michael Monahan as Beard’s replacement, sharing the story of how the transition came about.
“I guess some of you probably know there’s a new man in town. In fact, it all started a little while back,” Gibbons said. “Elwood [Francis, bassist] and I got an unexpected call from our dear Frank Beard, our dear drummer for 50 years.”
Gibbons went on to recount a conversation with Beard about finding his successor.
“I’ve never heard him admit, he said, ‘My bass drum foot’s a little weak. Can you get my man to take over?’ I said, ‘Oh yeah, yeah, he’s been doing pretty good.’ Frank said, ‘Yeah, that’s what worries me,'” Gibbons continued.
Despite the somber occasion, Gibbons emphasized the celebratory spirit of the night.
“But we’re all here for a celebration. So y’all have a good time!” Gibbons said.
ZZ Top’s performance served as both a tribute to Beard’s legacy and the start of a new chapter for the band with Monahan on drums.
The choice of venue and drummer were far from arbitrary. Both carried deep personal significance to Beard. The band built Saturday’s return around honoring that connection.
Monahan was no stranger to ZZ Top’s stage before Saturday’s show. He had already been filling in for Beard on the band’s Big One Tour in the months leading up to the drummer’s death. This gave him time to build rapport with Gibbons and Francis ahead of this permanent transition. The band confirmed Monahan would continue as the group’s drummer for the remainder of the tour.
ZZ Top was deliberate in choosing where to resume performing. The band selected ACL Live at The Moody Theater in Austin for its return, calling it one of Frank’s favorite venues. Austin had been something of a second home for him over the decades. The location was a fitting backdrop for the group’s first show without him.
Beard died on August 17 at age 77. He passed away in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by family. He had spent 56 years as ZZ Top’s drummer, anchoring the band’s sound through decades of hits including “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’.”
The Saturday show at ACL Live carried the weight of both grief and celebration. The band leaned on Beard’s own favorite venue and his hand-picked successor to move forward while honoring his 56-year legacy behind the kit.
