British guitarist reacts to Frank Zappa's subtle techniques

[@NautilusGuitars]

Frank, imo, is one of the greatest musicians to have ever lived. He's so underappreciated, and sadly is viewed by most people as a novelty musician. He was a brilliant composer, and one of the most unique and talented guitarists of the era. Not to mention his brilliant critiques of society.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@davehartgraves4957]

Yes he was a musical genius. I had the preveledge to know him.

[@NautilusGuitars]

Very cool! Any worthwhile stories or insight about him as a person?

[@sealisa1398]

Nicely expressed. He had a beautiful mind.

[@rhlang11]

to me, he was ehh. a sour puss and a square but truly original.

[@SidBonkers51]

Frank was so much more than a guitarist, his whole approach to music set him apart from us mere mortals, great video.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@miketrew9715]

Listened to frank since freak out and still listen to him I am 64 now I never tire of his sound and he still my favourite guitar player greetings fae Scotland

[@wingsofpegasus]

Hi Mike! Cool!

[@sealisa1398]

I’m with you on that. I picked him up at Hot Rats and have been a fool for love since.

[@kilgoretrout3966]

@@sealisa1398 Well, yeah!.....Peaches en Regalia is a masterpiece, and the quality never dips on the LP at all.

[@charcolew]

Hi Mike, I'm another sixty-plus Scots Zappa fan! What an amazing guitarist / composer / social satirist / you name it!

[@christianugolini8493]

hi mike me too 63 old and 50 with FZ !

[@brianmorrow5350]

It is gratifying to know that Frank is still noticed and appreciated. It's hard for me to believe it was 25 years ago that we lost him! The man spoke his mind and pulled no punches, and when he picked up his guitar, he could make magic. Thanks for the upload!!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem Brian!

[@Wayzor_]

I refuse to believe that anyone, even remotely associated with a guitar, does not find their way to Frank at some point... I hope this video inspires both players and non-players to explore Frank's body-of-work.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@tluagel]

Because my big brother had Hot Rats, I was 9 or 10 when I discovered Zappa. His répertoire his so vast and eclectic that through him, I learned to appreciate not only rock but classical and contemporary music, minimalists, free jazz, punk, surf, doo-wop, techno and other alternative music. He expended my musical universe

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah he recorded relentlessly!

[@TrinidadJamesWoods]

I would think that Frank would consider that among the best compliments his audience could give. He obviously valued eclectic musical taste greatly.

[@paulinebutcherbird]

One of the few musicians/composers to have such a vast range.

[@grubbetuchus]

Zappa was one of the greatest guitar players ever. I've listened to over 10,000 hours of his music. Every single guitar solo is like babe Ruth hitting a grand slam. Every single guitar solo. His solos are like compositions in and of themselves. I'm talking about written compositions, musical essays. His guitar speaks. It's solos bring you on a musical journey, every single solo. He was amazing. Anyone who listens to this song and doesn't have tears in their eyes, I don't know.

[@Mr.Batsu12]

It's great to see you do something on Frank who is one of my favorite musicians (not just guitarist). He had a very unique style that was very different from others. Watermelon in Easter Hay is a great piece for people new to Frank as it's not too 'strange'. The alternating 4/4 to 5/4 time signature works really well and many people don't even notice it.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@fredzeppelin3969]

The chicken and the spider. The chicken was his picking hand, always anchored with the ring finger and pinky against the bottom of the neck pickup, the spider was his fretting hand, all over the neck. Timeless

[@MarcusL1995]

9/4

[@shanemccormick6072]

I just love this guitar style there aren't many that have this talent and can play this way I could just listen to this stuff all day very mellow relaxing and easy to listen to

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@Bruce516]

I am so happy to see young guitarists appreciating Frank. Cool video.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks Bruce!

[@gordonm7038]

When the world ends, play Watermelon...

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@gordonm7038]

wingsofpegasus Or the Laurel & Hardy theme which what Lemmy had at his funeral!

[@radioboys8986]

Dog Breath Variations

[@3moons29]

I’ve got a set list for my funeral.... 🤪( yeah I know...) watermelon in Easter hay is the last to be played!

[@d.w.5144]

@@3moons29 yes same do I . Lot of cry but thats my way of live with Franks music

[@tixximmi1]

Was very lucky to see him more times than I can remember. One week back in the 70's I got to see him in LA, Santa Barbara, The City, Sacramento and Reno. No two concerts were the same. Great Review. You nailed it. Just like Frank would do.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Awesome!

[@theemptycross]

I saw I think all of his early to mid-80s concerts in Portland Oregon there was only one bad one when my wife and I barely got to the theater in a bad snowstorm by having to take a bus, and obviously the band had also experienced the same thing getting there however they did, the support playing was a bit lackluster and I can't remember which one of the guitarists was apparently so exhausted (or, you know . . . ) that he had to lean against a stage wall and watch his fingers on the strings!

[@pilgrimnix1]

Frank was so underrated. It's a shame that a lot of people only remember his antics and crazy behavior. Thanks for video!

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@TheProsirius]

know most Lps, was at Broadway the hard Way. Longtime listener: specialy 2 his guitar. & Drums (as a drummer) he stay in my heart, this Man save my soul many times. Moogely

[@sealisa1398]

Underrated by whom?

[@timowalker24]

NIX_34 ... frank’s sense of humor is what you probably mean by “antics” ... the musicians who played him with loved to go on the road with him because he was so much fun, sure they worked their asses off with all the full sound checks before almost every show but they still had a great time... frank is in my life everyday, somehow, or somewhere ...

[@BKJJAMALEN]

Back in 75 my best friend loved zappa especiall y the album with dynamo hum.I reluctantly went to see him at scope arena in Norfolk.we were on front by the speakers.He came out and sat in a lawn chair and blew us away.we went the next night to see him in Richmond (2hrs away on a work night)i have loved him and dweezil ever since

[@ElliotRose]

His tone and control on this are fascinating, he goes right to the edge of distortion, then pulls it back to into clean tone

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah he's in total control all the time!

[@michaelroberts3898]

As amazing as this is, I have a sentimental favorite version of this song. For years, Dweezil said he couldn’t play this song. He said it was the most moving song his father had composed. I have seen Dweezil and his band twice and have never been more amazed by the music and players at any concert by any band. Well, he didn’t play this at either of those shows. However there’s a video out there of Dweezil playing Watermelon in Easter Hay while crying and it is so brave personal and touching to see a son mourn his father through his father’s music.

[@lnugent1000]

His influence stretches far and wide. Brilliant man....great guitar player, composer etc.

[@TheOldgeezah]

No frantic fireworks, just careful thought. Perfect artistry

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@josephsiciliano3681]

If you want to hear fireworks listen to some Drowning Witch solos such as the one at the Ritz 1981. Totally mindblowing! Frank Zappa at the Ritz 1981in the search bar.

[@danaveye3977]

​@josephsiciliano3681 I'm so glad they released the Ritz album. Finding a solid live version of sinister footwear is almost impossible and his solo for SF @ the Ritz is one of his best

[@dylankopff7139]

Fil! Thanks,insightful reaction as per usual

[@hervethervet1117]

Mr Frank Zappa has the most high place in my pantheon ! Genius composer, great guitarist, from the most intricated playing to the melodious eloquenct in simplicity ! Thanx boy ! Keep on rockin' !

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@ronnie5129]

FIL, THANKS FOR THIS VIDEO, AND YOUR GREAT COMMENTS, WHEN I SAW DWEEZIL, DO THE ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA TOUR, HE PLAYED THIS SONG, AND THE GUY STARTED CRYING, WHAT A HEART FELT THING TO WATCH, WHAT A GREAT CONCERT, COUSIN FIGEL

[@victorhawkins3461]

No need to apologize for continuing the video...I could watch/listen to FZ play all night long...thanks.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@dlsmpsn]

I saw Frank in the mid 70's at S.F. Davies Symphony Hall, with a orchestra that played the most amazing music I have ever heard. The acoustics in the venue were perfect for optimizing all the unique sounds that this orchestra produced. I just saw a video that was talking about a new release of that orchestra.. which i am going to look for right now on Amazon.

[@sterlingprice5963]

Frank looks like he is really enjoying himself there. Very mellow and pretty tune.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@findlesplurb]

Excellent analysis. What I also find interesting is the way he incorporates 'mistakes' so deftly into the solo. His quick thinking means there can be no 'wrong' notes. And I have to add, I love how the entire band is so keyed in on what Zappa is doing that they're able to periodically change time signatures to support what he's doing. The drumming in particular is outstanding in this regard.

[@johnsholl698]

Another artist I was blessed to see live. One show was truly amazing, the other not so much but certainly memorable. The Joe’s Garage trilogy is probably my favorite Zappa album. Zoot Allures and Hot Rats too. Yo Mamma off Sheik yer Booty is a go to track whenever I’m trying out new audio equipment. Thank you WOP! You Rock!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Awesome!

[@gerryk3114]

Thank God you covered FZ !!! No Bigger Fan than I !! I saw Frank when he introduced Steve Vai for the first time (Steve was 17)!!! Listen to Frank's playing in the early days of the Mothers, His Jazz Influence is unmistakable !! I went to Every Halloween Show and then some !!! I've been a Fan since 1966, Freak Out !!! Check out His Son !!! Dweezil truly honors his Father's Music with the Shows he puts on !!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@garypowell1540]

You have a very rare talent my friend for beautifully analyzing the very essence of all forms of music. You don't miss a detail, while your use of our wonderful language is both proficient and concise. You get an A1* every time, whether it is Frank Zappa or Dolly Parton, a truly amazing talent that is all but wasted on KZbin.

[@robertutecht3125]

Thank you so much for playing this, it is one of my favorite tunes. Frank was and thru his music still is. Joe's Garage is 41 years old .

[@natdmc85]

6:45 he truly got it and I laughed as he smiled,. great to see Frank's magic still reaching people today,very nice to see our cousins across the "pond" get it too,he was truly one of our most underrated national treasures.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@donkarnage6032]

In my opinion Frank Zappa was the best guitarist to come out of the scene from the late 60s to early 70s when we saw so many new fabulous guitar players. Solo's like Inca Roads stand with anything that was put out during that period. He had a unique style that nobody has been able to copy.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thats true!

[@MrTortureneverstops1]

Don Karnage very very true !

[@dpatruck7020]

Don Karnage Inca roads my fave guitar solo

[@cryptotharg7400]

Don - "Andy" and "Sofa" are totally epic, too! Did a vehicle come from somewhere, out there?

[@josephsiciliano3681]

In fact if you study his career you will find his "style" changed many times,,unlike most guitar players. I have been listening to FZ close to 50yrs. And am still discovering new and amazing playing. We are very fortunate that he recorded almost everything he did and much of his work can be found on his many official releases as well as the many bootlegs available on KZbin and Zappateers for your listening pleasure. Fortunately he wasn't only in it for the money.

[@mmmegameat]

Absolutely enjoy your vids. Thanks for bringing a musician's perspective to reaction videos. More Frank, please!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks for watching!

[@MDee-db7by]

That entire two hour performance is absolutely brilliant.

[@cryptotharg7400]

Frank was one of the greatest musicians (and humourists!) of the 20th century (and beyond.) I got into FZ and the Mothers of Invention as a teenager in the early 1970s, and have loved his huge body of work, ever since. Great video! (BTW, his son, Dweezil, is very competently filling his Dad's old shoes. A great player, too.)

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks for the reference!

[@Reno_Slim]

Phil Silvers I Saw Dweezil in April and his dad would be proud. You can see some of his dad in his playing but you can also see/hear Steve Vai's influence come shining through too. He can really shread it up.

[@christophersleight1943]

1974, I had the opportunity to go to my 1st Zappathon. Group of guys would start at the beginning, or end and play Every single Zappa album in order front to back. Few things in my life have ever effected me the way Frank's Music did. Tears streaming down my face. I am perplexed by how emotional I could, can become by his music. It saddens me that Frank was so angry. I would really enjoy being able to talk with Dweezil about his Dad. Isa 26:12

[@bropous4265]

So happy to watch this reaction video. Frank Zappa is simply one of the greatest of all time. And, I am embarrassed to say, I never listened to Watermelon in Easter Hay. It is now one of my favorites, right up there with Black Napkins.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@lantzkeefer8674]

There was a period in my life when i was working on acquiring his entire catalog of music. I got to about 30 and gave up.He had so much material. He was extremely prolific. Yeah, i really enjoyed his playing,wish he was still with us.

[@ursafan40]

+Lantz Keefer SO tell me, if you could only have 1 Frank album, which would it be? :)

[@lantzkeefer8674]

ursafan40 Lol,probably Joe's Garage

[@ursafan40]

+Lantz Keefer Good one. I'd go with Apostrophe....or Shut up n play yer guitar ... or Hot Rats .. or How did you manage to choose just one :)

[@cryptotharg7400]

Lantz - Totally agree. Although, "One Size Fits All" comes very close, for me!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen.

[@holdencaustic]

Frank’s work on this song ALWAYS gives me goosebumps- Most people do not get how complex his guitar playing was. On many of his improvised solos, he’s polymodal, and polyrhythmic for days... and that was just how his heart beat- its all visceral, not through composed ( save for main motifs he would refer to )....it’s almost impossible to get one of his improved solos down pat- Thank you for giving attention to his style- more folk need to listen to him. SUBBED!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah many people, even players, don't see the detail. Playing the notes is one thing, getting them to communicate the same thing is the difficult part!a

[@andyzephyr1582]

Greatest electric guitarist that ever lived. Thanks for showcasing the master.

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@stephenowens8763]

Saw FZ several times. Had a recording of him from friend who recorded it. Great lineup and show. Tommy Tedesco stated he was hired by FZ early on along with some classical musicians who said the music was unplayable. He asked them to try. Then said “If I play your part on guitar, will you try?” He did and Tommy and others session players who were dissing FZ, looked at his sheet music and immediately gained great respect for Frank as he played the unplayable.

[@sisojaile9214]

This is in Barcelona, May 1988. I was there!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Awesome!

[@viliknap4371]

I was in Udine , two days later

[@atacama.]

Yo también estuve allí este dia .....llàmame suertudo si quieres 😊

[@Frankincensedjb123]

Siso Jaile Yes, I remember

[@periurban]

Zappa himself said that this was his favourite guitar solo to play. He didn't really often reproduce a guitar solo in this way, one of the other exceptions being Black Napkins from Zoot Allures. the original solo was composed live on the 1978 Halloween shows in New York (I think). What's interesting in this version is the brass accompaniment, which is new, supporting the lines. I saw him play this in London on that tour, and I had goosebumps. Frank was not an emotional person, but for sure this solo gets me every time. It always reminds me that we lost a great man too early.

[@omikl]

Summer 1996. Part of my weekend routine was to go and buy another FZ album on a Saturday afternoon and then walk around Hong Kong listening to it on my CD Walkman. "The Best Band You Never Heard In Your Life"

[@wingsofpegasus]

Awesome!

[@fenderjazz6213]

I bought my first Zappa album in 1968 ( freak out ) and I was hooked. I have 119 album's including some boot legs. I saw him over 40 times, from San Diego to NY my favorite being the residency he did at the Garrick theatre for quite a few months in NY. The Garrick was owned by David Lee Roths father and Uncle. Of course the Halloween shows he did for many years in NY were great also....never saw a bad show ever....the first time I heard watermelon in Easter hay when JG came out....I made the decision that it would be played at my memorial...it's in my last will and testament......peace......

[@wingsofpegasus]

Awesome!

[@jackvai2681]

Black Napkins, might be an interesting study

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@prsplayer210]

Jack Vai Yes, love that song got a very waltz like feel to it

[@rhmayer1]

Yes! I was going to make that comment - that perhaps a better example of his playing would be Black Napkins, from Zoot Allures. Frank's playing was unique. I think his signature sound were his little bursts of flurries of notes. It somehow matched his razor-sharp quick tongue and mind.

[@johannesdegen9225]

Very much in agreement! One of Frank's best performances over such simple chords.

[@kilgoretrout3966]

...or The Black Page perhaps.

[@marvymarier8988]

One of my favorite Zappa songs . Such a beautiful soulful rendition .

[@markkasick]

Oh, Good Lord, I am getting old. Everything you post I have seen live. I am a huge Zappa fan (my cat's name was Zappa) and saw this tour at the beautiful Auditorium Theater in Chicago. The first night I had "nosebleed" seats way up in the back. Sting came out and they did a version of "Murder by Numbers", which made it on the subsequent live album. I was so blown away with the show, I convinced another friend to go to the second night and just buy tickets out front (which can get expensive). We showed up 5 minutes before the show was going to start and some dude sold us tickets for a buck or two less than face value. This was in the 80's when up front tickets were like 30 bucks. These seats were really close up front, easily in the first 15 rows and were right in front of Frank. Franks guitar playing was off the charts great when he would play like this. He was playing that Strat too .

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool! It's great to have people here who have experienced these players in the flesh!

[@exentr]

+wingsofpegasus I am no guitar player. I just listen to music I like. In my miind Frank was an expert to find the genuin sound for Fender and Gibson. Am I far out on this topic? So many times I listen to Frank playing guitar, I think to myself, this is the sound. This is how the strat, tele, SG and les Paul should sound like. Because the sound of his guitars are - so beautiful.

[@EmptyGlass99]

"Mr Sting"

[@markkasick]

As I remember it, and I was not wasted. Frank took Sting's top coat off- butler style then balled it up and tossed it.

[@exentr]

A Norwegian impressario was asked what entertainment star that impressed him most. His answare were Frank Zappa. The impressario thought that he was going to pick up a punk at the airport but the impressario said Frank was a true gentleman. No primadona. Simple, autentic, humble, no raiders but if Frank could have a sightseeing in Oslo, he'd appreciate. Of course the impressario could arrange that.

[@extremereclusefallows5779]

You want to see Frank on fire? Steve Vai talking about Frank Zappa. At the end of the video, Steve states "Frank played the guitar unlike any guitar I have ever seen." This solo will blow you away. Done at a sound check/rehearsal. Last part of the video. Posted by Rabratory

[@xYohmx]

Man... you didn't choose the easiest song to explain Frank's Playing... There's so much to say here.. the abilities he had to play on with polyrythm, the arrangement, his unique picking style (Dweezil, his son, and the best Zappa coinoisseur, called it Chicken against Spider cause his right hands picks note just in single stroke like a chicken while his left hands runs through the neck like a spider trying to not be eaten by the chicken.) He spent years and years to build his sounds and to modify his equipment to have a unique sound. And for the record this songs (with Black Napkins and another one whom i forgot the name) is one of the few songs he was totally proud of. If somebody read me please check the Joe's Garage album where this song came from. "You'll love it, it's a way of life"

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@jsciort]

I read some where he was very fond of Peaches en Regalia. Rightly so.

[@toddmorrissey1578]

Zoot Allures was another.

[@ssy12335]

I am so impressed, as young as you are, that you are giving these guys their due. You're a real aficionado, and have a deep appreciation for the musicianship of those who have gone before. Kudos!

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@erikwade3668]

Anyone who appreciates Frank Zappa's stylings and missed the opportunity to see him live should attend a Dweezil Zappa Concert as soon as they are able. Dweezil performs this song regularly, usually toward the end of the show.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@LogiForce86]

Already did many moons ago. Also went to Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. They were some great nights out!

[@robinreiley1828]

Dweezil takes great care to learn his Father's music faithfully. He took 2 years to learn the "Black Page" with help from Steve Vai.

[@S7EVE_P]

A natural and pure talent, beautiful to listen to. My introduction to Frank Zappa was hearing Florentine Pogen some 25 years ago, I'd never heard anything like it before and became hooked on his stuff. Good to see people still discovering him and appreciating his skills :)

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@carlbrutananadilewski3345]

He left a big impression with Steve Vai while working with him at 18. Don't eat the yellow snow BTW.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@JohnTurner61]

Dweezil has been performing this the last few years, and when introducing it he often says it's his favorite song of his dad - and he often gets choked up while playing it - you can see him wipe away tears - I've gotten choked up just watching him perform kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6rWqKyIpMuWo7M note that Dweezil's version is somewhat slower than his dad's

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks for the link!

[@drfavstvs]

Isn't it amazing how many musical ideas Frank presents in a short song that is essentially two chords, A and E, I believe . . . and in 5/4! And this is a much "swifter" abbreviated version than the Joe's Garage original. His tone on the original studio cut, is the sweetest thing I've ever heard. You sure know how to pick pick 'em, Fil!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks Terry!

[@chuckdye707]

It's in 9, 4/4 then 5/4 repeated.

[@funkempfang]

Check ``Occams Razor´´!!!! Orignal solo Inca Roads and used for ``On the bus´´ on Joe´s Garage,

[@Dude_Slick]

Phil. Just found your channel, with your coverage of Alex Lifeson. I'm very stoked to hear you pay this attention to Zappa. We lost a real treasure when Frank left us. I'm subbing right now. Thanks.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks dude!

[@brucepieroni9102]

66 Years old and can't get enough. MIss his ass big time!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@catherinehermansen4376]

Bruce Pieroni you and me both.

[@michaelledford4751]

I just turned 74 and miss the living shit out of him even though I'm sure he & my wife had a fling while I was finishing up my 3rd and final combat tour Vietnam in March of 69 .

[@shemanic1]

That tune is "Watermelon In Easter Hay", the album version is probably the purest guitar solo ever, & remains a joy to listen to.

[@ursafan40]

Frank understood it's not just the notes you play, it's the spaces in between that count for so much. One of my favorite players. This isn't even one of his better tracks.

[@rebecam.8397]

ursafan40 could you give the name of a couple of his better guitar works?

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah he knew exactly where to let it breath.

[@ursafan40]

+Rebeca Cervantes I hope I didn't give the impression Frank has any "bad" work. It's all great. Here are a few of my faves. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qILWgIyYra6gb9k kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKelZpeHfduFicU And the entire album of kzbin.info/www/bejne/nHzan5uvjLeBd6s

[@peterziggyw]

ursafan40 "Shut up n play yer guitar" is beyond this world. I'm sold.

[@ursafan40]

+Peter Wilson Glad you like it. Beyond the silly lyrics, the obscene attitude, the politics ...... Frank was one of the best guitarists out there.

[@scottsharbonno6469]

I was a teenager when the Mothers of Invention were first on the scene and saw them in concert. It is a wonder I did not know what a great musician he was until much later. Another great video. Thank you. Have you done a video on Gilmore's guitar solo on Comfortably Numb?

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yes David is here somewhere!

[@atomaalatonal]

One thing which is almost never reckognized, and its lifting zappa above any guitarist, Is that he was able to produce a genuine tone. Almost evry solo or live setup he has a certain tone of distortion and effects, which gave his solos its character. Theres hardly any rock guitarist who is using different setups at all, maybe sometimes switching to acoustics to showoff SENSIBILTY...or a bit more reverb here less delay there. Zappa was always in full control of his hardware.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@michaelledford4751]

Dig Frank's insane picking style ,he almost always picks upwards and he spends an insane amount of time on the high E in most solos .

[@absolutelypositively]

‘Brian I could use a little more monitor!’

[@Blacksheepishot]

Loved his music but never knew who he was until he appeared on SNL (with those not readly for primetime players) in this funny killer x-mas tree skit. My all-time favorite will always be that dental floss tycoon tune.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@markkasick]

Every guitar enthusiast should dig into the Zappa catalog. If you just like instrumental stuff with no Buffoonery get "Shut Up n' Play Yer Guitar" and the sequel "Guitar". Steve Vai got the Zappa gig by transcribing the former. Mike Keneally, who is in this video got the gig by transcription corrections to that. Mike is an incredible musician and is in Joe Satriani's band.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah they learned a lot from him!

[@TheSamgopal]

If you want to get into Zappa just to hear the dirty guitar stuff you're stupid. Appreciating this 20th century icon is easier if you enter with a truly open mind and a curiosity for the musical and political culture of the 50s - 80s. That was the setting in which FZ let his own creative genius loose. Zappa was a composer and is easier to understand if you know that. Everything he wrote or performed, even if improvised, should be viewed as a composition, often part of the "conceptual continuity". One of the benefits of exploring Zappa's work is the exposure to badass riffs and scorching guitar playing. But really that's just a part of it. I like how he said he did his art just to entertain himself.

[@markkasick]

@gmosier59 you are probably correct.

[@markkasick]

​@@TheSamgopal Realize I'm finally reading this a year later, while it's true I may be stupid, I was obsessed with Zappa for a long period of time. After listening to all that stuff I get it. I just don't lke it. I like his instrumental stuff or mostly instrumental work.

[@halfling_barista]

Probably my favorite analysis of yours. Very illustrative regarding melodic narrative playing. Nice job.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks Ryan!

[@MrTortureneverstops1]

Hi from France ! I saw Frank 3 times on stage and it's unforgettable ! Listen to his solo on Rat Tomago. It's so powerful ! Very different of Watermelon.

[@SpaceCattttt]

Yeah, Rat Tomago is actually a live solo from a performance of The Torture Never Stops. Who else but Frank would take a guitar solo from one song, and give that solo a new title and make it into a new song on a different album?! And who else could get away with it? XD

[@SpaceCattttt]

By the way, I started wondering about what "Tomago" actually is. And apparently, it's some kind of sushi. So how about some Rat Sushi? Mmmm!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Awesome!

[@19672701]

When I watch him playing, he seems totally in tune with his guitar and impervious to even knowing there's a crowd out there. I don't know if it's true but, I've heard stories where those guys would literally locked themselves in his home studio 4 weeks playing. Wish I had a chance to see them.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@bobsmart2110]

I always listerned to his music some people say he's freeky ?.but Frank started out as a jazz musician but developed his own rifts and licks there is certain notes even today that cannot be produced ! Only by Frank .

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@kjelleriksson5122]

And he started out as a drummer. When the bass player couldn't play a very different part Frank went up to him and showed him where to put his fingers on the bass. Recommended: the folder that comes with Roxy by Proxy, the notes written by Ruth Underwood (whom FZ calls "a nymphomaniac"). She talks about sleepless nights worrying about "difficult sevens". Even for us who don't have a university education in music there are interesting stuff she tells. I am 64 and have been to many FZ concerts from 1972 and on. Swedish audiences were silent, so sometimes Frank could play 15 minutes long solos without repeating himself. Btw, he never played the same solo twice, not even my favorite Black Napkins. People often forget that he did everything himself; mixing, producing, composing, playing fantastic guitar. Dweezil says that that his dad always was searching for the tone he wanted. Dweezil had to learn a 20 seconds FZ solo, it took him a full week. Frank had one of the fastest right hands in the business. Another story: an orchestra was practicing a FZ classical work. The conductor went to Frank and said - You have to rewrite this part, my musicians can't play that fast. Reply: Ha! My rock band can do that!

[@zindy29]

Zappa is pure genius, his body of work is massive, it's amazing one man could create so much. I love he recreated his music over and over, tkanks

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@cjpmugsr999]

This was the point where Frank found out he was really sick and this was the end of his touring career thanks to a couple of the guys in the band who didn't like each other. Frank got fed up with professional musicians acting like children... like musicians tend to do a lot. The original recording on Joe's Garage is the place to go for the best version of this track.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks for the reference!

[@theemptycross]

it's on the double album sequel to Joe's Garage not the first joe's garage but maybe these days it's all one CD I don't have all the CD's anymore having ahem "transferred" everything I really like to digital (on the extended Joe's Garage I still can't listen to that Stick It Out song about prison rape . . . but anyway) . . . sometimes wish I had kept all that vinyl but I never could figure out how to keep them from getting scratched.

[@theemptycross]

then again what am I saying, besides showing my age, you can go to youtube and find anything ever recorded including the studio version of Watermelon which as others have mentioned is better than the live version here

[@zombywoof9188]

@@theemptycross Not better, different or more preferred. Not better.

[@ncpmellifluousanonymous1984]

i do like the live version from "Guitar". I find it very moving.

[@loveit7484]

Great video. Great points. You're so right, his playing is so intetesting, its like a conversation. You're waiting to listen, not hear, listen to what hes going to say next. Those subtle changes, so good. Makes me think of a line from TV show Angel. Lorren tells Angel " I can hold a note forever but after awhile its just noise. Its what comes next that makes it interesting..." That is guitar solos in a nutshell. Love your videos!

[@LilSirAxolotl]

First time I saw/heard Zappa was a screening of Does Humor Belong in Music? at my local youth center... They started playing Zoot Allures and as soon as he broke out into his solo I was like WTF is this?!? It seemed to be all over the place but sounded so beautiful to my ears... I was familiar with most blues, rock and metal guitarists back then but I had never heard anything like that... Little did I know he influenced a bunch of them in their youth I think what separated him from most of them is that he wanted to play an instrument and chose the guitar because of it's possibilities instead of wanting to play guitar because it was cool while not knowing much about music... It's a completely different mindset

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah he wasn't your usual kind of player!

[@EmptyGlass99]

"From the very beginning when I used to hear those solos on those old records I used to say: now here is an instrument that is capable of spewing forth true obscenity, you know? If ever there's an obscene noise to be made on an instrument, it's going to come out of a guitar. On a saxophone you can play sleaze. On a bass you can play balls. But on a guitar you can be truly obscene ... Let's be realistic about this, the guitar can be the single most blasphemous device on the face of the earth. That's why I like it .... The disgusting stink of a too-loud electric guitar: now that's my idea of a good time." Frank Zappa

[@LilSirAxolotl]

EmptyGlass99 thank God he chose the guitar over the sax 😏 he also liked the low and breathy noise of the hobo I think it was... That brown sound that makes the hairs stand up in your neck

[@lilith9653]

Zoot Allures is my favorite, and Black Napkins is amazing. Not a hard core Zappa fan but if I ever play his videos I can't ever stop watching. truly a genius

[@ElrondHubbard_1]

I'm a casual Frank fan (mercy on me!)... my 2nd favorite album is One Size Fits All... but one of my favorite things in the entire world is the three album collection Shut Up And Play Your Guitar. If you haven't heard it, I hope Fil and anyone else will please check it out. So beautiful. Zappa, Vai, Bozzio and even Ponty, et al. Live collected from various shows, something like that, lol. I'm glad comments don't say "Edited 8 Times", etc 😄

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@sideshowtink]

The genius, the MASTER, Frank Zappa. Amazing guitarist. Brilliant composer. Gone too soon.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen.

[@johnmcallister8372]

Shouldn't have stopped it there ,as the note starts to break up he brings it back using the whammy bat, just beautiful.

[@TheKitchenerLeslie]

Everything about him was extremely idiosyncratic... even the way he held a pick. He was good and had a one of a kind style and tone. It's no secret Steve Vai worshiped him.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah that says a lot!

[@fridun007]

I think Jimi Hendrix said this;, learn all the theory, be proficient in technique, forget all of it and play with your heart.

[@RyanAcidhedzMurphy]

I always love to see guitar players that remember you're allowed to play on the whole neck, and not just the bottom third. Okay... that may be a bit of an exaggeration, but I've seen plenty of them who never seem to leave that... let's call it the shredding solo high note area.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah there's a neck full of dynamics on there!

[@jez443]

One of the GOAT’s no two ways about it. He combine’s soul and technicality, Steve Vai and Satriani are all chops and no soul.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@sivad2]

Glad to see people looking at Franks technique. He was an amazing composer and a fantastic guitar player. many times his playing gets lost a bit I think. Mainly due to the fact that Frank was all about the musical piece. It wasn't about the solo and showing of. It was all about the music. And it makes a great deal of sense that people like Steve Via would be in the same mindset, guitar playing wise, as Frank. Frank did give Via his start.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah Vai being a fan says a lot!

[@elborko6821]

The real question -is Frank Zappa the Easter Bunny or he just a lonely young man having a dream about his guitar

[@Frankincensedjb123]

Frank, in his attempt to "play the perfect note," never played a solo the same. It was all about improv for him. Fortunately, enough realize what a great guitarist he was, and you'll often find him in the pools as a high ranking guitarist. But that was the least of his skills. As a master composer, he ruled the musical world and still does. Miss his sanity.

[@patlucio8612]

Uncle Frank. Thank-you.

[@andrewcutts7416]

I've been listening to Frank since Freak Out came out, and have just about everything that has been released. I love this, well done that man. I'm sure that somebody (probably Gail) said something like once you're on the bus, there's no getting off. How true.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@digidaemon]

As a guitar 'freak', I reckon that any guitarist who doesn't pay attention to Zappa's work is missing a huge chunk of insight. Have followed him since the 60's and have (almost) everything that he's produced, influenced or collaborated on. Satriani, Vai and Dweezil are testaments to his innovation and ability. Great video - thanks.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@kjelleriksson5122]

And he was a friend of van Halen (Dweezil's idol). van Halen was the first one to call when Frank had died. When van Halen showed up at Frank's place, young Dweezil almost shit himself.

[@kurtisle]

Thanks. Frank spoke with his guitar. He was always in control of his sound. I miss Frank Zappa. It was always a real treat to see he and his band live.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@jonathanvince8173]

It is interesting how he holds the Plectrum almost straight down thumb and finger but I noticed something strange. When he uses the down sweep of the plectrum his 3rd finger pulls in the string and then I think every not and then when sweeping with plectrum he also seams as unsure too fast flicks the string out with his 3rd finger and gets a strange tone on that string. Only one other guitarist does that or used to do that was Jeff Beck.

[@fredzeppelin3969]

Jonathan Vince Dweezil talks about how Frank's hands often looked like "the chicken and the spider" (there's a video on YT about this). His fretting hand all over the place using unusual fingerings, and his picking hand plucking notes in the same unusual fashion. He was self taught, so doing things "the wrong way" is probably what makes certain folks unique.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah sometimes there just isn't a 'right' way for a particular player.

[@Tmanaz480]

Is that what gives him such variety in the initial attacks? From soft legato to sawtooth skritchy.

[@sturekarlsson3467]

Resly nice to see and hear. Zappa is a long time favorit

[@ronaldviens7862]

That little idiosyncrasy has evolved as a result of playing fretless guitars, when your fingers are just a little bit off. It's kinda like a staccato glissando of one note to correct a mistaken sharp or flat as you go, but with style.

[@rcheath4258]

Always kind of likened Frank to Ry Cooder in that they are so technically proficient and just addressed the guitar in a different manner than a lot of us. Two very different styles but both were so creative as seemed to use the guitar to accent the composition instead of being a one trick pony.

[@GekoPish]

Steve Vai was a student and member of Frank's Band and Steve knows it too.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@KWE.ECLECTIC]

Steve was much more than a member of Franks band. Those two became great friends till the end.

[@MarcusL1995]

I heard he got a spanking

[@MrChuck19941]

Thanks for video Fil , Zappa could do it all, a rare musical genius , great analysis of his playing !

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@mdub7194]

I think Frank Zappa was a musical genius . Serious talent .

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@kenhughes009]

Creative genius on display, a unique style: "scales? we don't need no stinkin scales"

[@wingsofpegasus]

😂👍

[@georgekrats2573]

Frank Zappa the KING of the guitar solo

[@wingsofpegasus]

🤘

[@michaelscottcutler3627]

Thanks for doing Frank. Many don't realize he was a guitar virtuoso. Absolutely brilliant.

[@magn8195]

It's good to see people appreciating and analyzing his music. We definitely do not see that at all nowadays.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah I don't know why.

[@jackstraw8145]

More people should appreciate Zappa. Only 61k views? This is the goodness. I've got your back Wings of Pegasus!

[@davedynamite77]

Frank was an amazing player...

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@slimbocker73]

He was Vai's favorite guitarist, And was extremely proud to have been in his band(as would anyone who made the cut). I think that says it all, personally.

[@rkkotilley358]

there are and have been many , many fine guitar players extraordinaire...but in my book , ya start with frank and go backwards

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@jumplittledoggiejumpjump9112]

I have seen a lot of great concerts but seeing Frank was really something. On the songs with a lot of changes Frank becomes a conductor at the time all eyes are on Frank and with a movement of his hand the magic happens.So much Zappa to see-hear dig in you won't get bored.

[@58gennaro]

heart breaking loss.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen.

[@ncpmellifluousanonymous1984]

I cried at work when I heard the news on the radio.

[@fruitloopette69]

So full of soul, with some harshness here and there, and what sound!. Thanx, man!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@jeffdubuque5622]

no one play`s solo`s like frank zappa.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Amen!

[@josephsiciliano3681]

And he never played the same one twice .

[@surfdigby]

Frank had custom electronics installed in the majority of guitar so that he could fine tune the point where it would feed back, depending on the layout and acoustics of the venue. His knowledge of instrument technology was incredible (he modified pretty much everything he laid his hands on, or would send things back to the manufacturer with a list of improvements they should make) and is often overlooked.