ZZ Top back on stage after drummer Frank Beard's death

ZZ Top has returned to the stage just days after the death of Frank Beard.

The Gimme All Your Lovin' rock and roll legends were rocked by the news their longtime drummer has died on August 17, and they cancelled shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs over the next couple of days.

As previously announced, they resumed The Big One! Tour over the weekend with back-to-back gigs at Austin City Limits.

Founding member Billy Gibbons took to the stage with Elwood Francis, who replaced late bassist Dusty Hill following his death in 2021.

They were joined by drummer Michael Monahan who - along with drum tech John Douglas - has filled in for Beard over the years amid his health struggles.

During the gig, while introducing the line-up, Billy said: "I guess some of you probably know there's a new man in town.

"In fact, it all started a little while back. (Bassist Elwood Francis) 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 (Monahan) 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 audience that everyone was gathered there "for a celebration".

Last week, the band announced Beard had died at age 77, surrounded by his family at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, while in hospice care.

Beard first connected with singer-and-guitarist Billy Gibbons after ZZ Top released their debut single Salt Lick, which featured Dan Mitchell on the drums, and was responsible for bringing in bassist Dusty Hill.