ZZ Top Honors Frank Beard With Triumphant Return to the Stage in Austin

ZZ Top returned to the stage Saturday night at ACL Live at the Moody Theater in Austin, Texas, for the band's first concert since longtime drummer Frank Beard died Monday.

The band did not directly address Beard's death during the show. Singer and guitarist Billy Gibbons, the only remaining member from ZZ Top's classic lineup, introduced new drummer Michael Monahan after the opening song, "Got Me Under Pressure."

"I guess some of you probably know there's a new man in town," Gibbons told the audience. "Elwood (Francis, bassist) and I got an unexpected call from our dear Frank Beard, our dear drummer for 50 years. 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 told the crowd, "We're all here for a celebration," and encouraged fans to enjoy the night. Earlier in the week, he paid tribute to Beard in a statement, calling him a "great friend and collaborator."

Throughout the night, ZZ Top played a mix of blues-rock staples and hits, including "Waitin' for the Bus," "Jesus Just Left Chicago," "Gimme All Your Lovin'," "Cheap Sunglasses," "Sharp Dressed Man" and "Legs."

Francis, who replaced bassist Dusty Hill after his death in 2021, brought energy and humor to the performance. He played a bright yellow, 17-string bass and matched Gibbons with a series of eye-catching instruments, including fur-covered guitars. Gibbons introduced Francis by saying, "This is a special night. He just got out of prison," before launching into "I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide."

Gibbons also played his solo song "Brown Paper Bag" and briefly mentioned a new album, but quickly returned to ZZ Top classics.

The band ended the show with "La Grange." Gibbons, Francis and Monahan took a bow and left the stage. ZZ Top is scheduled to play again at the Moody Theater on Sunday. Their current tour runs through late November.

Gibbons and his bandmates have continued touring after the losses of both Hill and Beard, suggesting they plan to perform as long as they are able.