Watch Does Humor Belong in Music?

Does Humor Belong in Music? is a concert film recorded in 1984 by iconic musician, composer, producer, and bandleader Frank Zappa. The film showcases Zappa and his band performing live and features songs that were popular during that time. Zappa's band members, Ray White, Ike Willis, and Bobby Martin are also prominently featured. The film opens with a quote from Edgar Allan Poe's story "Hop-Frog": "I have no faith in human perfectibility. I think that human exertion will have no appreciable effect upon humanity. Man is now only more active - not more happy - nor more wise, than he was six thousand years ago." This quote sets the tone for the rest of the film, hinting at Zappa's critical and ironic approach to life.

Zappa's musical style is eclectic, incorporating elements of rock, jazz, avant-garde, and classical music. His lyrics range from humorous and absurd to deeply critical of society and politics. In Does Humor Belong in Music?, he gives a special emphasis to the humorous aspect of his music, proofed by the title.

Throughout the concert, Zappa delivers biting social commentary through his music with a sardonic wit that aims to provoke his audience. There is a sense of playful mischief about the performance, as if Zappa is daring the audience to take his lyrics and message seriously.

The film includes a variety of songs performed live, such as "Tinsel Town Rebellion," "Trouble Every Day," "Penguin in Bondage," and "Hot-Plate Heaven at the Green Hotel." Zappa's band members, Ray White, Ike Willis, and Bobby Martin, all share lead vocals throughout the concert. Their harmonies and interplay with Zappa on guitar demonstrate the musical sophistication of Zappa's compositions.

Interlaced between the songs, Zappa inserts candid footage of the band rehearsing or playing around, which brings a light and humorous touch to the entire show. It's also not uncommon for Zappa to break out in public service announcements that highlight societal issues like the power of the FCC over free speech.

Filmed during the mid-80s, the movie displays Zappa's distaste for modern music and pop culture. Zappa wasn't afraid to call out what he saw as a lack of creativity and artistic depth in mainstream music. One segment features Zappa critiquing the rise of music videos, which he saw as shallow and uninspired.

The film's concert was recorded at the pier in New York City, and the venue's industrial feel provides a fitting backdrop for the performance. The dark and smoky stage looks like an underground club, where Zappa and his musicians perform as a cohesive unit. Zappa himself appears quite comfortable on stage, never showing any hint of nervousness or hesitancy.

Does Humor Belong in Music? is a snapshot of Zappa's musical career and his unique approach to live performance. The movie provides both entertainment and a philosophical lens through which to examine society, art, and politics. At its core, the film is a tribute to Zappa's musical genius and his ability to push boundaries and challenge his audiences' expectations.

In conclusion, Does Humor Belong in Music? is a remarkable concert film that captures Frank Zappa at his irreverent best. An essential piece of musical history for any Zappa fan, the movie showcases his complex musical style, humorous lyrics, and sharp social critique. It's an energetic and thought-provoking performance that stands the test of time.

Does Humor Belong in Music? is a 1985 music movie with a runtime of 57 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.3.