10 Most Outspoken Men In Rock And Metal History
7. Frank Zappa
As one of only two people to feature in this article who are no longer with us, Frank Zappa was a pioneering figure in the development of sonic manipulation and experimentation, upheld by a unique, shadowed legacy to this day. However, his contributions to music aren't the only thing he's remembered for...
Zappa was a consistently outspoken figure on subjects such as freedom of speech, religion, communism, censorship and more. Even though Zappa described himself as a 'practical conservative', he expressed a particular disliking for President Ronald Reagan, saying he represented the opportunity for America to become a "fascist theocracy".
Yet, the view on Zappa is split in today's world, with people pointing out his contradictions and poor personal attributes. Zappa talked about independent businesses and tax rates in relation to how they can help musicians make a living, but was sued on numerous occasions by associated musicians who he (allegedly) inadequately paid, stole material from and didn't credit for songs they composed. Plus, the Frank Zappa estate still issues cease-and-desist letters to any musicians who cover Zappa songs, and accuses those who do of "identity theft".
Zappa also dismissed the '60s youth movement and refused to protest against the Vietnam War. Additionally, he wrote songs (that were supposedly 'jokes') about the deaths of Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix. Some describe Zappa as a king of emotion provoking political art, while others say he was a cold-hearted hypocritical narcissist. Either way, he remains a consensus splitting name to this day.