American musician, composer, and bandleader (1940-1993). Born in Baltimore. Among the most prolific and stylistically diverse American musicians of the 20th century. His output spans rock, jazz fusion, orchestral composition, doo-wop parody, and electronic music. Highly outspoken on political and free-speech issues throughout his career.
Released over 60 studio albums during his lifetime starting with the Mothers of Invention's Freak Out! (1966). The Zappa Family Trust has continued posthumous releases, bringing the total to over 100. Critical peak: Hot Rats (1969), Apostrophe (') (1974), One Size Fits All (1975), Joe's Garage Acts I-III (1979), and the orchestral London Symphony Orchestra Vol. 1 (1983). Died of prostate cancer in December 1993. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.
