ZZ Top honored their late drummer, Frank Beard, during their first performance since his passing at age 77. The band took the stage at Austin City Limits Live, a venue significant to Beard, with Billy F. Gibbons and Elwood Francis performing alongside a new drummer, Michael Monahan.

Gibbons introduced Monahan, explaining that Beard himself had recommended the musician to take over drumming duties. "I guess some of you probably know, there's a new man in town," Gibbons told the audience. He recounted receiving a call from Beard, who expressed concern about his diminished stamina. "I've never heard him admit, he said 'You know, my bass drum's foot 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.'"

Beard died last week while in hospice care at his Richmond, Texas, ranch, with family by his side. In a statement shared on the band's Instagram account, Gibbons remembered Beard as "a great friend and collaborator" and "one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas." Gibbons added that Beard's "signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top."

The band plans to continue their current "The Big One! Tour" with two dates at Austin City Limits Live, a venue described as one of Frank's favorite places and a city that served as a second home.

Formed in 1969, ZZ Top has a long history, with Gibbons and the late Dusty Hill famously sporting long beards. Beard was a constant presence, with Gibbons previously stating, "There is no other drummer. There's one guy!"

Beard's departure marks the second significant loss for the band in recent years. Founding member Dusty Hill passed away in 2021 at age 72, and was succeeded by Elwood Francis. Beard himself had publicly discussed his struggles with substance abuse, admitting in the 2019 documentary "That Little Ol' Band from Texas" that drugs had negatively impacted his relationships and led him to sell an original drum kit. He eventually sought treatment, during which the band took a three-year hiatus.

ZZ Top rose to popularity in the 1970s, achieving major success in the 1980s with hits like "Gimme All Your Lovin'," "Sharp Dressed Man," and "Legs" from their album "Eliminator." Their 1973 album "Tres Hombres" reached No. 8 on the Billboard 200. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and has released 15 albums throughout their career.