Frank Zappa (December 21, 1940 – December 4, 1993) was a prolific musical genius, performer, and composer. In addition, he possessed an eccentric sense of humour and a fine moustache.
I distinctly remember the first Zappa song that I heard. I was probably 14 or so, and came across a copy of his album ‘Apostrophe’ in my dear mother’s garage. The following lyrics made a deep impression on my young self:
“Watch out where the huskies go, don’t you eat that yellow snow. Watch out where the huskies go, don’t you eat that yellow snow.”
“What a smart fellow,” I thought. I wouldn’t have eaten yellow snow either. It was obvious that Zappa was a man whose opinion could be trusted.
I continued a casual acquaintance with Zappa’s works through my teenage years, but delved more deeply into his works later on. The depth and variety of his work is unbelievable. For example, Zappa came across a composer from the late 17th century named Francesco Zappa (apparently no relation). Frank proceeded to record Francesco’s compositions on a synclavier as ‘Francesco Zappa and the Barking Pumpkin Digital Gratification Consort’ (Francesco Zappa was an Italian, but it is unknown whether or not he had a moustache).
Back to Frank. He recorded everything from 1950’s pop to jazz, classical, conceptual rock, and country. The musicians he worked with were always of the highest caliber, including names such as Captain Beefheart (whose facial growth will be profiled in a later episode), Steve Vai, and Terry Bozio. I could regale my long-suffering audience for hours with descriptions of songs about baby snakes and how to Sheik Yerbouti. However, Zappa’s accomplishments are numerous and I must make the most of my time. His accomplishments outside of the studio and stage are frequently overlooked and deserve recognition. I will outline some interesting points below.
1. Zappa testified before the United States Senate Commerce, Technology, and Transportation committee in 1985. This, in addition to media appearance such as his interview on ‘Crossfire,’ was a major effort in the fight against the pyschotic censors known as the PMRC. It is worth noting that although Al Gore professed to be a Zappa fan, both he and Tipper are raving lunatics. In addition, Al does not have a moustache.
2. In the early ’90s, Zappa was appointed consultant for the Czechoslovakian government on trade, cultural matters and tourism by the Czech president. His role was modified to Cultural Attaché after the US government put pressure on Czechoslovakia. It is this author’s humble opinion that those brainless despots Al and Tipper may have been behind this. However, it might also have had something to do with the sight of Zappa’s moustache striking fear into the hearts of errant politicians.
3. In 1994, lobbying efforts initiated by psychiatrist John Scialli led the International Astronomical Union’s Minor Planet Center to name an asteroid in Zappa’s honor: 3834 Zappafrank. The asteroid was discovered in 1980 by Czechoslovakian astronomer Ladislav Brozek, and the citation for its naming says that “Zappa was an eclectic, self-trained artist and composer … Before 1989 he was regarded as a symbol of democracy and freedom by many people in Czechoslovakia”. (Wikipedia)
4. Many scientists have honored Zappa by naming their discoveries after him. However, one strikes particularly close to home. In 1967, paleontologist Leo P. Plas, Jr. identified an extinct mollusc in Nevada and named it Amaurotoma zappa with the motivation that, “The specific name, zappa, honors Frank Zappa”.
Rock on, Frank.
To my gentle readers: This is a photo of Zappa with his dear parents. You’ll notice that his father is a Moustached Individual of Distinction and Prowess as well. In addition, this episode features Hi-Fi Audio! Hurrah.
