ZZ Top returned to the stage on Saturday night at the Moody Theater in Austin, marking the band’s first live performance following the death of their longtime drummer, Frank Beard, who passed away on Monday at the age of 77. The band had previously canceled a pair of scheduled performances earlier in the week to observe the loss but confirmed they would honor the Austin dates, citing the city’s significance as a second home to the late musician.
Frontman Billy Gibbons addressed the change in the lineup during the introduction following the opening number. Gibbons shared an anecdote about Beard’s final request, noting that the drummer had previously recommended Michael Monahan to cover for him during recent health struggles. “I guess some of you probably know there’s a new man in town,” Gibbons told the audience. “Frank said, ‘My bass drum foot’s a little weak. Can you get my man [Monahan] to take over?’ I said, ‘Oh yeah, he’s been doing pretty good.’ Frank said, ‘Yeah, that’s what worries me.’”
The band maintained a tone of celebration rather than mourning, with Gibbons emphasizing their commitment to the performance. Monahan, who had previously worked with the band’s drum tech John Douglas, steps into the role permanently for the remainder of the tour. This transition follows a similar operational shift for the group in 2021, when bassist Elwood Francis joined the band full-time following the death of longtime member Dusty Hill.
ZZ Top is currently in the midst of their ‘The Big One!’ tour. Following the weekend performances in Austin, the band is scheduled to remain on the road through October, with additional dates in South America planned for November.