You may be too young to remember, but it was very common in wealthy communities to see little sculptures of African American servants in the front yards/driveways of wealthy houses. They were pure and simple, racist symbols, and they were not oddities, they were all over these communities. I am 58, and can remember them even in the northeast, driving in the back seat as a teen in the 70s through wealthy areas of Connecticut. Zappa wrote this along with the great keyboardist (George Duke). The song speaks to how progress with race relations in the US were moving "too slow". It is done in comical delivery but the meaning is very serious. Zappa was a serious guy who tried not to take himself too seriously.
Uncle Remus was a Disney film, based on a book I think. If I remember right it was said to be full of racial stereotypes. Frank Zappa was good at making fun of racism.
@michael boultinghouse Judging only by the albums and songs, because I haven't seen any documentaries or read any books about him, to me it appeared his African American band mates collaberated with him in his satirical songs having to do with that part of society. Zappa made fun of ignorance in other words. < This isn't an argument, just my perspective but I never saw anything that made him appear as a "typical" Italian.
Frank Zappa is one of the most underrated lead guitarists of his era. He never seems to get mentioned alongside the likes of Hendrix, Clapton, Page, Beck, Blackmore, etc.
@michael boultinghouse That same statement can be made about a lot of 'legends' of guitar. Like Clapton, Page, Blackmore and Eddie Van Halen. Clapton did his best work in the few years he was in Cream. Page had about 5 good years in Zeppelin up until the Physical Graffiti album then the subsequent albums weren't anywhere near as good and hasn't done much since then. Ritchie Blackmore broke out with the In Rock album in 1970 and did great work up until Dio left Rainbow in 1977/78 and they went more commercial and Blackmore faded away. Eddie Van Halen according to many only had a few good years when Roth was in the band then he shifted his writing style to include keyboards.
the difference with the other nominated guitarists of the time, is that they were great virtuosos and fast, but Zappa instead the guitar made her talk / sing and gave him soul. It is a big difference. For me Zappa was "musically" the greatest even as a guitarist, even if others were faster ...
George Duke actually wrote the music and when Zappa heard it he wanted to write lyrics for it. When he came back to George with the title Uncle Remus George was taken aback but the lyrics are really tongue in cheek as with most Zappa lyrics. Tongue in cheek with a message.
One of his finest. From the Apostrophe Album. Which was the first album my big brother turned me on too. I’m now 60, and still have and play that album. RIP Frank your music lives on 🙏
This song is largely considered to be a commentary by Zappa on the civil rights movement and the lack of action against racism. The line "I'll go to Beverly Hills just before dawn, and knock those little jockeys off the rich peoples lawn" is a reference to lawn jockeys, which were blackface garden gnome statues which were popular at the time. also other stuff like; "Ben Watson called the song "a gentle reprimand, noting how protest was being abandoned for fashion", citing Zappa's mention of growing a "'fro", along with water from fire hoses having the potential to harm "sharp" clothes."
I wasn't 100% sure about the message of this song. Only that it is way up there in my favorite Zappa songs list and this version is very good. I am such a fan that I am often moved to tears listening to him. Anyone else?
haha Yes! I've been suggesting Uncle Remus since the first Zappa reaction on youtube LOL There are so many different sides to Zappa, its like peeling off the layers of an onion the size of Mars
'Uncle Remus' is one of my favorite Zappa tunes. George Duke's gospel piano intro is epic, and I love his lil' piano solo in this version. Zappa eventually uses a different vocal track on the album version, but I must say his guitar work and tone on this mix was much better than the album version. Zappa's sense of humor is on full display on this track, as anyone who's driven from Hollywood west down Sunset blvd has passed by the Jockey's on the rich people's lawn. I was just thinking how much I miss Frank Zappa's razor-sharp wit during trying times like this, and wonder what he would make of today's "Political Climate" and social problems. Frank would be given plenty of material to exercise the full extent of his genius social/political commentary and satire on in his music. He'd probably wind up making a friggin' double-album out of Trump alone. Boy oh boy could we use your insight now Frank. RIP to a musical genius well ahead of his time.
Such powerful lyrics, yet they are totally taken over by the brilliant orchestration. People tend to think of Zappa as a comedian, but when he wanted to get real, he did. If you want to go back to the font, try "Mother People."
You've done some of my favorites, that's certain. "Montana", that live version of "The Muffin Man" and now the incomparable George Duke on keys and vocals for "Uncle Remus"! Those backup vocals are insane. Keep going! This is fun! You might check out Dweezil's rendition of this. George makes an appearance. Dweezil can play.
Check out Capital theater 1978 live performance for some of his best guitar work ever (you tube). 1:42, 1:50 (both). Tina Turner and ikettes in the background on uncle Remus, BTW
The message of this song is deep.. If you like Frank's playing then by all means check out Johnny Guitar Watson's early recordings like Three Hours Past Midnight.. It will all make more sense as to why Frank approached the guitar the way he did. Of course there's more reasons.
Music by George Duke, lyrics later added by Frank Zappa. Though he wasn't really known for having the best singing voice, I think Frank did a pretty damn good job with this one. The title "Uncle Remus" is a reference to the old storybook / Disney character by the same name. George Duke was truly a virtuoso. My favorite keyboard/piano player of all time and probably my favorite member of the Zappa alumni. Here's a great little video of Duke talking about his experience with Zappa: ruclips.net/video/ERFUbX648S4/видео.html Frank on writing the lyrics: "It's not exactly from the point of view of a black person. I don't think that a black person would actually write that song. It's not exactly . . . . there are subtle differences in point of view in there. I think that it's something that should have been said. If you've ever seen these little jockeys on the lawn. . . They've had it coming for a long time."...
It's obviously not an outtake, the whole original can be heard clearly (even guitar solo etc). The middle part is new, but only repeats the lyrics and was simply cut away by Zappa on the original album. The original song is perfect, that's true. 🙂
Several things, first of all, George Duke wrote the intro and played if for Frank. Frank said I have some lyrics for that. Initially George was shocked by the lyrics as it wasn't what he was expecting :-0 The lyrics are George Duke centric and are a bit of an homage to George from Frank as they had a bond and created some incredible music together. There is a funny story of George first showing up to play with Zappa and he didn't want to play the doowop music that they were working on. Along the lines of "I can't play this", to which Frank replied "Is there perhaps something wrong with your hand?" Then after hearing that after years of conservatory Geroge didn't want to play doowop Frank did one of those OHHH, doesn't want to play doowop... Geroge got over it. Second of all regarding Frank's guitar. George Duke himself stated that Frank was underrated. Some of Frank's playing was not the most technical ever, but, Frank played viscerally, and was an original. Later on Frank had guitarists that were better technically than him, yet I still prefer the original Zappa solos, like this one. The stunt guitarists may be able to play his music more accurately, but they didn't/couldn't write like Frank did. He had the creative mind to create all of this. I think one thing that people overlook about Frank's guitar was his tone. He had a very distinct and well developed tone that encompassed a lot of range. I personally believe that Frank had one of the most distinct and well developed guitar tones ever. It certainly is one of my favorites. I don't hear people mention this and I think that this is often overlooked. His wa-wa guitar was out of this world. His solos were often 10 minutes with no repetition improvised on the spot. There is a huge body of guitar solos. That said, Frank considered himself a composer first that also played guitar. I didn't use to see this but as time goes on this seems more and more accurate to me. Third of all, I haven't heard this version of this song before, and I have heard a lot of Frank's music over the years. The incredibly beautiful George Duke keyboard intro is similar to the LP version (from Apostrophe, not Hot Rats BTW), but in this version the female vocals really stand out! Tina Turner is listed as backup vocals on the Wikipedia page, but isn't credited on the album (due to Ike, there is a story behind this). It this Tina Turner and the Ikettes? Sure sounds like it and it sure sounds nice! The Duke solo near the end of the song is different. Frank would constantly change and rearrange his songs. The permutations were endless. A lot of his songs were composite from different venues, live performances, and studio takes; Frank called this Xenochrony. Almost endless variety and variations for us Zappa fans!
And I think I'm going to have to pay you to listen to the Mothers' Burnt Weenie Sandwich. It's a little different but you hear incredible musicianship and the influence of some big time people
I think Frank wrote the music with George on this one. Then Frank put lyrics to it and then showed George. George was surprised and happy he did. Now I could be wrong, but something in the back folder of my filing cabinet drawer brain tells me this. Again I could be wrong.
Woo, are we movin' too slow? Have you seen us Uncle Remus We look pretty sharp in these clothes (yes, we do) Unless we get sprayed with a hose It ain't bad in the day If they squirt it your way 'Cept in the winter, when it's froze An' it's hard if it hits On yer nose (On yer nose) Just keep yer nose (Keep yer nose) To the grindstone, they say Will that redeem us (Will redeem us) Uncle Remus (Uncle Remus) I can't wait till my Fro is full-grown I'll just throw 'way my Doo-Rag at home (What was that?) I'll go to Beverly Hills Just before dawn An' knock those little jockeys Off the rich people's lawn An' before they get up I'll be gone, I'll be gone Just keep yer nose To the grindstone, they say Will that redeem us Uncle Remus I can't wait till my Fro is full-grown I'll just throw 'way my Doo Rag at home I'll take a drive to Beverly Hills Just before dawn An' knock the little jockeys Off the rich people's lawn An' before they get up I'll be gone, I'll be gone Before they get up I'll be gone, I'll be gone Before they get up I'll be knocking the jockeys off the lawn Down in the dew
Despite countless fanboy comments below, this piece is ALL about drummer Aynsley Dunbar. Listen again. Then listen again until you get it--every single one of you. JESUS!
Personally I think Frank Zappa's work with the Mothers of Invention was the best. My first album was Hot Rats, then Bongo Fury but One Size Fits All, and Over Night Sensation are excellent. Zoot Allures is another favorite.
This is weird because the vocals and other things are different from original. Still kick ass, just threw me off a little. Thanks for reacting to Zappa!
Has anyone suggested any Mahavishnu Orchestra? One of the best bands ever, less known because mainly instrumental, but still super tough bad ass musicianship that is rock-like, but is also just something else beyond. Here is one, I wonder what you would think of this and have been really enjoying how much you seem to seriously dig all that you are hearing... Vital Transformation - ruclips.net/video/boOu0L45M44/видео.html
he pulled the jockeys off the lawn line from those jockeys the rich folks had on their lawns holdin a lamp to light tthe way...hes going to knock em down because they were a sign of underhanded suppression!
Frank’s other great anti-racist song is “trouble comin’ every day” from his 1st album: freak out. In this version, Frank’s reaction to the Watts riot, he says “you know something people, I’m not black, but there’s a whole lot of times I wish I could say I’m not white”.
He always wanted his guitar to sound stinky and dirty. I think it was the actor billy bob thornton who said his guitar often sounded like razor blades. My only frustration was, from around 1986 he switched from his Gibson SG to a Fender Strat. Not that I don't like a Strat, but the typical dirty Zappa guitar sound was gone.
Now you have to understand im a brit so im not sure if this is true but i read that the Jockey thing is that the rich folks would have a wooden painted figure of a little black jockey on the front of the lawn so Franks songs could be about something in particular or could be a series of comments but he hated hypocrisy i saw him comment in an interview that he found the jockeys offensive this song apart from the lyrics is pretty strait forward by his norm but dose show that he had a great voice as well as being an outstanding and highly original inventive guitar player
If 27 others haven’t mentioned it yet, the back up singers were Tina Turner and the Ikettes. Ike thought this was shit and insisted he didn’t credit them anywhere
Well since my name is Joe, it would only be fitting that I request, Joe's Garage. But on another note , PLEASE check out TEDESCHI, TRUCKS BAND, (MIDNIGHT IN HARLEM ) Thanks Teez, my man. PEACE HIPPIE JOE
Hey. Uncle Remus is a jab at the subtle racism he saw in the Southern California communities he lived near and in. Interestingly the backup singers are Tina Turner and the backup singers from Ike and Tina's band who were recording in the same studio complex as Zappa. Zappa was working on this solo album and also the Overnite Sensation album with the Mothers of Invention at the same time. Evidently, Tina brought Ike in to hear what was being recorded and being the Coke addled jerk of legend Ike was very insulting about what he heard, much to Frank and the other musicians dismay since they had nothing but the greatest respect for Ike Turner.
If Zappa Guitar's grow with you, listen two fantastic blues of Zappa: "Sexual harassment in the workplace" and "The Illinois enema bandit". Stellar guitar blues...
This isn't going to make me very popular, but I frequently find Zappa frustrating. No doubt he's a brilliant musician though. I respect him even when I don't connect with him. This one though is one of his that I always loved.
Not silly! The Jockeys were statues of black horse handlers, slaves presumably. This used to be a thing in rich or upper middle class white neighborhoods. This song is an attack on American racism. The original came out in 1974. George Duke, the great jazz and funk pianist plays on this thing.
I hope you know this but maybe you don't those lawn jockeys they were a code for the underground railroad of what services smugglers could expect at those properties. While looking like they didn't promote it the freedom of slaves. Pretty interesting you history but you'd like to see it
A well played organ, you say? You should check out Deep Purple, with John Lord, king of the rock Hammond. The rest of the band ain't half bad, either. Child in Time, live from 1970.
Did you catch the civil rights nature of the lyrics? Frank has an unusual way of expressing things, that sometimes hides in the sound, and somewhat ambiguous way he writes lyrics. There are many references, like getting sprayed with a hose, and the origin of the character Uncle Remus, from what would now be considered racially inappropriate literature of days gone by. Knocking those little (usually) black jocky yard ornaments/horse hitches, off the rich people's lawn, and many more. I do like your reaction channel, btw.
Glad to see you getting turned on to America's greatest composer/artist/performer from this last century. He's the only one to be inducted in both the Jazz and Rock Hall of Fame. Teez, I hope you pick up on this, because I urge you to redo this song, and reflect on just who Uncle Remus is, and how bitter and covertly angry he is. Zappa had a read on our culture and could put out an alternative message hidden in the magic of his music. He really didn't like racism, because it's just stupid. Frank's moral scale was not so much on the good'/bad spectrum as much as it ran up and down the stupid/not stupid measure. Racism is basically stupid on every measure, as well as being onerous and sin-defining. i think Uncle Remus was one of the lawn jockeys, what do you think?
I'm sorry man. I can't deal with you playing around with that microphone. Giving me vertigo or some shit. Can you get a stand? Or prop it up somewhere you can still be heard?
You may be too young to remember, but it was very common in wealthy communities to see little sculptures of African American servants in the front yards/driveways of wealthy houses. They were pure and simple, racist symbols, and they were not oddities, they were all over these communities. I am 58, and can remember them even in the northeast, driving in the back seat as a teen in the 70s through wealthy areas of Connecticut. Zappa wrote this along with the great keyboardist (George Duke). The song speaks to how progress with race relations in the US were moving "too slow". It is done in comical delivery but the meaning is very serious. Zappa was a serious guy who tried not to take himself too seriously.
Those little jockeys were all over America. Most I saw were painted over white to be' less offensive?'. But it was a reality as late as the 1970's.
Thanks for the info. Now I understand the song a lot better.
@michael boultinghouse Oh, look, a fascist is upset someone is not as indoctrinated as it is
Uncle Remus was a Disney film, based on a book I think. If I remember right it was said to be full of racial stereotypes. Frank Zappa was good at making fun of racism.
@michael boultinghouse Judging only by the albums and songs, because I haven't seen any documentaries or read any books about him, to me it appeared his African American band mates collaberated with him in his satirical songs having to do with that part of society. Zappa made fun of ignorance in other words. < This isn't an argument, just my perspective but I never saw anything that made him appear as a "typical" Italian.
One of the sickest songs I’ve ever heard.
Frank Zappa is one of the most underrated lead guitarists of his era. He never seems to get mentioned alongside the likes of Hendrix, Clapton, Page, Beck, Blackmore, etc.
He's not alongside, he stands above.
@michael boultinghouse That same statement can be made about a lot of 'legends' of guitar. Like Clapton, Page, Blackmore and Eddie Van Halen. Clapton did his best work in the few years he was in Cream. Page had about 5 good years in Zeppelin up until the Physical Graffiti album then the subsequent albums weren't anywhere near as good and hasn't done much since then. Ritchie Blackmore broke out with the In Rock album in 1970 and did great work up until Dio left Rainbow in 1977/78 and they went more commercial and Blackmore faded away. Eddie Van Halen according to many only had a few good years when Roth was in the band then he shifted his writing style to include keyboards.
the difference with the other nominated guitarists of the time, is that they were great virtuosos and fast, but Zappa instead the guitar made her talk / sing and gave him soul. It is a big difference. For me Zappa was "musically" the greatest even as a guitarist, even if others were faster ...
At least there’s a good group of people who fully recognize Zappa’s greatness
@michael boultinghouse yes you might be right, but I was referring to us, the fanatics of Zappa, and those the truly find value in his creative genius
George Duke actually wrote the music and when Zappa heard it he wanted to write lyrics for it. When he came back to George with the title Uncle Remus George was taken aback but the lyrics are really tongue in cheek as with most Zappa lyrics. Tongue in cheek with a message.
One of his finest. From the Apostrophe Album. Which was the first album my big brother turned me on too. I’m now 60, and still have and play that album.
RIP Frank your music lives on 🙏
This song is largely considered to be a commentary by Zappa on the civil rights movement and the lack of action against racism. The line "I'll go to Beverly Hills just before dawn, and knock those little jockeys off the rich peoples lawn" is a reference to lawn jockeys, which were blackface garden gnome statues which were popular at the time. also other stuff like;
"Ben Watson called the song "a gentle reprimand, noting how protest was being abandoned for fashion", citing Zappa's mention of growing a "'fro", along with water from fire hoses having the potential to harm "sharp" clothes."
I wasn't 100% sure about the message of this song. Only that it is way up there in my favorite Zappa songs list and this version is very good. I am such a fan that I am often moved to tears listening to him. Anyone else?
@@wwestern99 watermelon in eastern hay or black napkins always be hitting different
haha Yes! I've been suggesting Uncle Remus since the first Zappa reaction on youtube LOL
There are so many different sides to Zappa, its like peeling off the layers of an onion the size of Mars
man you did not lie lol it's many sides to him indeed
Great to see others enjoying Zappa's music...you get it!
Zappa was one of a kind....Mold breaker
my all time favorite song.
I'm the guy under the Dweezil Zappa video at 0:06 lol
This Rabbit-Hole has 100 tunnels going in EVERY different direction...
All the greats mentioned studied Zappa
'Uncle Remus' is one of my favorite Zappa tunes. George Duke's gospel piano intro is epic, and I love his lil' piano solo in this version. Zappa eventually uses a different vocal track on the album version, but I must say his guitar work and tone on this mix was much better than the album version. Zappa's sense of humor is on full display on this track, as anyone who's driven from Hollywood west down Sunset blvd has passed by the Jockey's on the rich people's lawn. I was just thinking how much I miss Frank Zappa's razor-sharp wit during trying times like this, and wonder what he would make of today's "Political Climate" and social problems. Frank would be given plenty of material to exercise the full extent of his genius social/political commentary and satire on in his music. He'd probably wind up making a friggin' double-album out of Trump alone. Boy oh boy could we use your insight now Frank. RIP to a musical genius well ahead of his time.
Such powerful lyrics, yet they are totally taken over by the brilliant orchestration. People tend to think of Zappa as a comedian, but when he wanted to get real, he did. If you want to go back to the font, try "Mother People."
The female singers are tina turner and the ikettes
I'm pretty sure he recorded this in Ike turners studio and paid tina and the Iketts to sing the Background
Zappa was a genius. Keep going with him.
When he said oh yes after the “ woah”, i felt that, exaclty the way i reacted when i first heard this song
So soulful ... and that guitar solo. Peace
It Doesn't matter where you start with Frank Zappa. Where ever you start, you are in for a ride!
And the background voices were Tina Turner and the Ikette's. Music by George Duke, Lyrics by Frank.
There were lawn jockeys all over the place in Massachusetts at least into the 70s. Those and also these weird shiny balls on pedestals.
You've done some of my favorites, that's certain. "Montana", that live version of "The Muffin Man" and
now the incomparable George Duke on keys and vocals for "Uncle Remus"! Those backup vocals are
insane. Keep going! This is fun!
You might check out Dweezil's rendition of this. George makes an appearance. Dweezil can play.
In 1965 he did TROUBLE COMING EVERY DAY . A decade later , this song of futility summed up an exhausted nation .
The Ikettes do great backing vocals!
Nice😎 been waiting for this one
His wife said English musicians often came over to their house when ever they were in town. Eric Clapton talks on Are You Hung Up!
Thanks for doing Zappa reaction
:)
Anytime 🙌
His daughter Moon Zappa sang the song Valley Girls, Frank wrote the muzak'.
"Apostrophe" my favorite album!
Such a pleasure to see you dig Zappa
Check out Capital theater 1978 live performance for some of his best guitar work ever (you tube). 1:42, 1:50 (both). Tina Turner and ikettes in the background on uncle Remus, BTW
The message of this song is deep.. If you like Frank's playing then by all means check out Johnny Guitar Watson's early recordings like Three Hours Past Midnight.. It will all make more sense as to why Frank approached the guitar the way he did. Of course there's more reasons.
In 1970, I was thirteen, and I could not care less for Clapton etc...it was Frank all the way...
Frank was an absolute intellectual as well as musical God. Love the videos brother
Tena Turner and the Ikets back vocals
Music by George Duke, lyrics later added by Frank Zappa. Though he wasn't really known for having the best singing voice, I think Frank did a pretty damn good job with this one. The title "Uncle Remus" is a reference to the old storybook / Disney character by the same name. George Duke was truly a virtuoso. My favorite keyboard/piano player of all time and probably my favorite member of the Zappa alumni. Here's a great little video of Duke talking about his experience with Zappa: ruclips.net/video/ERFUbX648S4/видео.html
Frank on writing the lyrics: "It's not exactly from the point of view of a black person. I don't think that a black person would actually write that song. It's not exactly . . . . there are subtle differences in point of view in there. I think that it's something that should have been said. If you've ever seen these little jockeys on the lawn. . . They've had it coming for a long time."...
You were about to fly away during the outro. Love it, dude !
lmaoooooooo facts
One of those ladies in the background is TINA TURNER....she's on several pieces form that time period.
This is a nice outtake, but the original song is just perfect. It's a perfect song.
It's obviously not an outtake, the whole original can be heard clearly (even guitar solo etc). The middle part is new, but only repeats the lyrics and was simply cut away by Zappa on the original album.
The original song is perfect, that's true. 🙂
You can call him Zapp, or FZ, when musicians came to LA on tour back in the 60's and 70's they would say, "take me to see Zapp!"
Good review and selection Man!
Several things, first of all, George Duke wrote the intro and played if for Frank. Frank said I have some lyrics for that. Initially George was shocked by the lyrics as it wasn't what he was expecting :-0 The lyrics are George Duke centric and are a bit of an homage to George from Frank as they had a bond and created some incredible music together. There is a funny story of George first showing up to play with Zappa and he didn't want to play the doowop music that they were working on. Along the lines of "I can't play this", to which Frank replied "Is there perhaps something wrong with your hand?" Then after hearing that after years of conservatory Geroge didn't want to play doowop Frank did one of those OHHH, doesn't want to play doowop... Geroge got over it.
Second of all regarding Frank's guitar. George Duke himself stated that Frank was underrated. Some of Frank's playing was not the most technical ever, but, Frank played viscerally, and was an original. Later on Frank had guitarists that were better technically than him, yet I still prefer the original Zappa solos, like this one. The stunt guitarists may be able to play his music more accurately, but they didn't/couldn't write like Frank did. He had the creative mind to create all of this.
I think one thing that people overlook about Frank's guitar was his tone. He had a very distinct and well developed tone that encompassed a lot of range. I personally believe that Frank had one of the most distinct and well developed guitar tones ever. It certainly is one of my favorites. I don't hear people mention this and I think that this is often overlooked. His wa-wa guitar was out of this world. His solos were often 10 minutes with no repetition improvised on the spot. There is a huge body of guitar solos. That said, Frank considered himself a composer first that also played guitar. I didn't use to see this but as time goes on this seems more and more accurate to me.
Third of all, I haven't heard this version of this song before, and I have heard a lot of Frank's music over the years. The incredibly beautiful George Duke keyboard intro is similar to the LP version (from Apostrophe, not Hot Rats BTW), but in this version the female vocals really stand out! Tina Turner is listed as backup vocals on the Wikipedia page, but isn't credited on the album (due to Ike, there is a story behind this). It this Tina Turner and the Ikettes? Sure sounds like it and it sure sounds nice!
The Duke solo near the end of the song is different. Frank would constantly change and rearrange his songs. The permutations were endless. A lot of his songs were composite from different venues, live performances, and studio takes; Frank called this Xenochrony. Almost endless variety and variations for us Zappa fans!
And I think I'm going to have to pay you to listen to the Mothers' Burnt Weenie Sandwich. It's a little different but you hear incredible musicianship and the influence of some big time people
Frank was a genius with a huge sense of humor. I don't just mean a musical genius, his iq was like 174 or something
My great uncle knew Frank's dad and found the whole lot of the zappa family to be very intelligent
That’s Tina Turner and the Ikettes doing back up
You need to hear Dinah mo Humm.
great reaction, man!)
So yeah the backing vocals were Tina Turner & the Ikettes
The song was co-written by Frank Zappa and George Duke (keyboards). It's a parody about racism
It's a pretty scathing assessment of race relations in America at the time
I think Frank wrote the music with George on this one.
Then Frank put lyrics to it and then showed George.
George was surprised and happy he did.
Now I could be wrong, but something in the back folder of my filing cabinet drawer brain tells me this. Again I could be wrong.
Some of his musicians referred to him as "The Zap", so you're in good company, Teez.
I can't wait til my 'fro is full-grown...
Woo, are we movin' too slow?
Have you seen us
Uncle Remus
We look pretty sharp in these clothes (yes, we do)
Unless we get sprayed with a hose
It ain't bad in the day
If they squirt it your way
'Cept in the winter, when it's froze
An' it's hard if it hits
On yer nose
(On yer nose)
Just keep yer nose
(Keep yer nose)
To the grindstone, they say
Will that redeem us
(Will redeem us)
Uncle Remus
(Uncle Remus)
I can't wait till my Fro is full-grown
I'll just throw 'way my Doo-Rag at home
(What was that?)
I'll go to Beverly Hills
Just before dawn
An' knock those little jockeys
Off the rich people's lawn
An' before they get up
I'll be gone, I'll be gone
Just keep yer nose
To the grindstone, they say
Will that redeem us
Uncle Remus
I can't wait till my Fro is full-grown
I'll just throw 'way my Doo Rag at home
I'll take a drive to Beverly Hills
Just before dawn
An' knock the little jockeys
Off the rich people's lawn
An' before they get up
I'll be gone, I'll be gone
Before they get up
I'll be gone, I'll be gone
Before they get up
I'll be knocking the jockeys off the lawn
Down in the dew
Despite countless fanboy comments below, this piece is ALL about drummer Aynsley Dunbar. Listen again. Then listen again until you get it--every single one of you. JESUS!
Tina Turner on the back vocals
Play Frank's album version of " Watermelon in Easter Hay" from joes garage.
Personally I think Frank Zappa's work with the Mothers of Invention was the best. My first album was Hot Rats, then Bongo Fury but One Size Fits All, and Over Night Sensation are excellent. Zoot Allures is another favorite.
Back vocals Tina Turner and the Ikettes
This is weird because the vocals and other things are different from original. Still kick ass, just threw me off a little. Thanks for reacting to Zappa!
Has anyone suggested any Mahavishnu Orchestra? One of the best bands ever, less known because mainly instrumental, but still super tough bad ass musicianship that is rock-like, but is also just something else beyond. Here is one, I wonder what you would think of this and have been really enjoying how much you seem to seriously dig all that you are hearing... Vital Transformation - ruclips.net/video/boOu0L45M44/видео.html
Ike Turner sure was pissed about this album. 😆
Listen to San berdino by frank
he pulled the jockeys off the lawn line from those jockeys the rich folks had on their lawns holdin a lamp to light tthe way...hes going to knock em down because they were a sign of underhanded suppression!
or actually oppression
Frank’s other great anti-racist song is “trouble comin’ every day” from his 1st album: freak out. In this version, Frank’s reaction to the Watts riot, he says “you know something people, I’m not black, but there’s a whole lot of times I wish I could say I’m not white”.
This is a great civil rights song.
Can't sayin everyy feeling on every geers
Time for solo guitar stuff... Shut Up N Play Yer Guitar was a 3 album set of only guitar solos... however, Black Napkins is the place to start...
He always wanted his guitar to sound stinky and dirty. I think it was the actor billy bob thornton who said his guitar often sounded like razor blades. My only frustration was, from around 1986 he switched from his Gibson SG to a Fender Strat. Not that I don't like a Strat, but the typical dirty Zappa guitar sound was gone.
What about "keep it greasy"?
George Duke wrote the music to this song, but Frank wrote the lyrics. It was a contribution to the Civil Rights protests of the time, Zappa style.
Song is by George Duke. Maybe check out his version too. Peace
Now you have to understand im a brit so im not sure if this is true but i read that the Jockey thing is that the rich folks would have a wooden painted figure of a little black jockey on the front of the lawn so Franks songs could be about something in particular or could be a series of comments but he hated hypocrisy i saw him comment in an interview that he found the jockeys offensive this song apart from the lyrics is pretty strait forward by his norm but dose show that he had a great voice as well as being an outstanding and highly original inventive guitar player
Is that Tina Turner doing background vocals?
Check out More trouble coming every day. I think it’s one of the earliest raps. What say you
If you want a great tune to spark up to then listen to "Ya Hazna" by zappa
If 27 others haven’t mentioned it yet, the back up singers were Tina Turner and the Ikettes. Ike thought this was shit and insisted he didn’t credit them anywhere
Never afraid to take a peek at America's grubby race relations was "Uncle Frank".
Frank loves to skewer people with humor. They should put Zap's picture next to the word: "sardonic"!
Well since my name is Joe, it would only be fitting that I request, Joe's Garage. But on another note , PLEASE check out TEDESCHI, TRUCKS BAND,
(MIDNIGHT IN HARLEM ) Thanks Teez, my man. PEACE HIPPIE JOE
Giuseppi Verdi
Hey. Uncle Remus is a jab at the subtle racism he saw in the Southern California communities he lived near and in. Interestingly the backup singers are Tina Turner and the backup singers from Ike and Tina's band who were recording in the same studio complex as Zappa. Zappa was working on this solo album and also the Overnite Sensation album with the Mothers of Invention at the same time. Evidently, Tina brought Ike in to hear what was being recorded and being the Coke addled jerk of legend Ike was very insulting about what he heard, much to Frank and the other musicians dismay since they had nothing but the greatest respect for Ike Turner.
unless we get sprayed with a hose
If Zappa Guitar's grow with you, listen two fantastic blues of Zappa: "Sexual harassment in the workplace" and "The Illinois enema bandit". Stellar guitar blues...
Only 599 albums to go
This isn't going to make me very popular, but I frequently find Zappa frustrating. No doubt he's a brilliant musician though. I respect him even when I don't connect with him. This one though is one of his that I always loved.
Try Blessed Relief or Twenty Small Cigars if you like chill jazz. Very accessible stuff.
If you do the baby SNAKES video you'll get so many views
Not silly! The Jockeys were statues of black horse handlers, slaves presumably. This used to be a thing in rich or upper middle class white neighborhoods. This song is an attack on American racism. The original came out in 1974. George Duke, the great jazz and funk pianist plays on this thing.
Frank was a musical genius on drugs with no filter
I hope you know this but maybe you don't those lawn jockeys they were a code for the underground railroad of what services smugglers could expect at those properties. While looking like they didn't promote it the freedom of slaves. Pretty interesting you history but you'd like to see it
A well played organ, you say? You should check out Deep Purple, with John Lord, king of the rock Hammond. The rest of the band ain't half bad, either. Child in Time, live from 1970.
Brother if you think that was hot listen to city of tiny lights joe's garage frank Zappa.
Did you catch the civil rights nature of the lyrics? Frank has an unusual way of expressing things, that sometimes hides in the sound, and somewhat ambiguous way he writes lyrics. There are many references, like getting sprayed with a hose, and the origin of the character Uncle Remus, from what would now be considered racially inappropriate literature of days gone by. Knocking those little (usually) black jocky yard ornaments/horse hitches, off the rich people's lawn, and many more. I do like your reaction channel, btw.
Glad to see you getting turned on to America's greatest composer/artist/performer from this last century. He's the only one to be inducted in both the Jazz and Rock Hall of Fame. Teez, I hope you pick up on this, because I urge you to redo this song, and reflect on just who Uncle Remus is, and how bitter and covertly angry he is. Zappa had a read on our culture and could put out an alternative message hidden in the magic of his music. He really didn't like racism, because it's just stupid. Frank's moral scale was not so much on the good'/bad spectrum as much as it ran up and down the stupid/not stupid measure. Racism is basically stupid on every measure, as well as being onerous and sin-defining. i think Uncle Remus was one of the lawn jockeys, what do you think?
If you're going to do drugs, listen to Frank Zappa
Just don’t tell Frank.
Way to air-ball the lyrics, boy! Jeez!
Just don't call him Franz.
His early stuff sucked to me
I'm sorry man. I can't deal with you playing around with that microphone. Giving me vertigo or some shit. Can you get a stand? Or prop it up somewhere you can still be heard?
lol yea on some days I don't use my stand, whenever I'm on the go I can't use it but I'll try more, I got you
@@TeezMcGee Nooo, keep that mike in your hand, it's quite unique (in the reaction world), more dynamic, looks good from this side.