Frank Zappa

With more than 80 albums to his credit, composer/bandleader Frank Zappa demonstrated a mastery of pop idioms ranging from jazz to rock of every conceivable variety, penned electronic and orchestral works, parlayed controversial satire, and testified in Congress against censorship. Zappa was impatient with any division between popular and high art; he combined scatological humor with political wit, required of his players an intimidating skill, and displayed consistent innovation in instrumental and studio technology.

Photo by Livzey/Redferns