The Frank Zappa "Bobby Brown b/w Stick it Out" 7" Single Picture Sleeve is a vinyl record featuring two standout tracks. "Bobby Brown" is a satirical and humorous song that explores the life of the titular character, touching on themes of narcissism and societal expectations.
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls (and those of you who don't know the difference), step right up and feast your ears (and other appendages) on the tale of a 7-inch slab of vinyl that dared to be different, dared to be dangerous, dared to be downright...dirty. That's right, folks, we're talking about the infamous "Bobby Brown b/w Stick it Out" single, a musical Molotov cocktail hurled into the sanitized wasteland of mainstream radio by the one and only Frank Zappa.
Released in 1979, a time when disco was dying and new wave was still finding its sea legs, "Bobby Brown" was a musical middle finger to the prevailing trends. This wasn't your standard love song or party anthem; this was a twisted, satirical odyssey through the life of an all-American boy gone horribly wrong. With its graphic lyrics and tongue-in-cheek humor, the song skewered everything from sexual stereotypes to consumer culture, leaving listeners either shocked, amused, or a bizarre combination of both.
But the single wasn't just a lyrical grenade; it was also a sonic assault, blending elements of rock, funk, and even a touch of disco into a grotesque yet oddly catchy musical stew. Zappa's signature guitar riffs slashed through the mix like a rusty razor blade, while the band's tight rhythm section laid down a funky foundation for the song's outrageous antics.
Of course, such a controversial track was bound to stir up trouble, and "Bobby Brown" did just that. It was banned in several countries, denounced by moral guardians, and generally treated like a musical pariah. But for Zappa, such controversy was simply par for the course. He reveled in pushing boundaries and challenging norms, and "Bobby Brown" was just another weapon in his sonic arsenal.
The flip side of the single, "Stick it Out," offered a slightly more palatable (but still unmistakably Zappa-esque) listening experience. A funky, horn-driven instrumental, the track showcased Zappa's compositional prowess and the band's instrumental virtuosity. It was a reminder that even amidst the chaos and controversy, there was still a method to Zappa's musical madness.
Recorded at Zappa's own Utility Muffin Research Kitchen studio with his trusted ensemble of musical misfits, the "Bobby Brown" single stands as a testament to Zappa's fearless creativity and willingness to offend. It's a song that continues to shock, amuse, and provoke, a musical time capsule from an era when rock and roll still had the power to rattle cages and ruffle feathers. So crank up the volume, let your freak flag fly, and prepare to be scandalized (and maybe even a little enlightened) by the musical genius that was Frank Zappa.
Frank Zappa's "Bobby Brown" is not your typical rock and roll song. It's a satirical rollercoaster ride through the life of an archetypal American male, exposing the dark underbelly of societal expectations and sexual norms. The lyrics, filled with graphic imagery and dark humor, challenge listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about gender roles, consumerism, and the American Dream.
The song opens with Bobby Brown, the "cutest boy in town," living a seemingly perfect life. He's got the looks, the car, the girl—all the trappings of success. But beneath the surface, Bobby is a deeply flawed individual, fueled by ego and societal pressure. His misogynistic attitudes and obsession with appearances are laid bare in lines like "I'm a juvenile success, 'cause I talk like a fag and dress like a mess."
The song takes a dramatic turn when Bobby encounters "Freddie," a self-proclaimed "dyke" who challenges his masculinity and exposes him to a world of sexual liberation. This encounter shatters Bobby's carefully constructed facade, leaving him questioning his identity and desires. The lyrics become increasingly explicit, delving into themes of S&M, power dynamics, and the fluidity of sexual orientation.
Zappa's use of satire is evident throughout the song. He skewers the hypocrisy of conservative values, the shallowness of consumer culture, and the unrealistic expectations placed on young men. The lyrics are often shocking and offensive, but they are meant to provoke thought and challenge conventional thinking.
One of the most controversial aspects of "Bobby Brown" is its portrayal of homosexuality. Some critics accuse Zappa of homophobia, while others argue that he is simply using satire to expose the absurdity of societal prejudices. The song's conclusion, in which Bobby embraces his newfound sexuality, can be interpreted as a commentary on the fluidity of gender and sexual identity.
Ultimately, "Bobby Brown" is a complex and multifaceted song that defies easy interpretation. It's a scathing critique of American society, a celebration of sexual liberation, and a testament to Zappa's fearless creativity. Whether you find it offensive, amusing, or thought-provoking, one thing is certain: "Bobby Brown" is a song that will stay with you long after the needle lifts from the groove.
Music Genre:Rock, Funk, Comedy Rock |
| Packaging: P/S Picture Sleeve |
| Tracks side 1: Bobby Brown |
| Tracks side 2: Stick it Out |
Label Information:CBS S 8216 |
| Format7" Single, PS Picture Sleeve |
Year & Country:1979 Made in Germany |
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
Record Label Details: CBS S 8216 , Made in Germany , Munchkin Music
United Artists Records UAS 29 218 XD , 1971 , Germany
"200 Motels" is the 1971 American-British musical surrealist film cowritten and directed by Frank Zappa and Tony Palmer and starring The Mothers of Invention, Theodore Bikel and Ringo Starr.
200 Motels (1971, Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
TMOQ TradeMark Of Quality , 1971 , USA
Bootleg recording capturing a live performance from the iconic rock band. Released on green vinyl, this collector's gem is alternatively known as "Contempo '70" among enthusiasts, distinguishing it from the official 200 Motels album
200 Motels TMOQ Green Vinyl (1971, USA) 12" Vinyl LP
DISCREET DIS 59201 , 1974 , Germany
Frank Zappa's 1974 cult classic "Apostrophe" on 12" vinyl. Features Zappa staples like "Don't Eat the Yellow Snow" & a stellar band with Jean-Luc Ponty & Napoleon Murphy Brock.
Apostrophe (1974, Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
FOO-EEE RI-70537
"As an Am" features recordings from three separate shows. Track 1 is from May 19, 1981 at Rockline, KLOS-FM, Los Angeles, California; tracks 2 and 3 are from May 21, 1982 at Sporthalle, Cologne, Germany and tracks 4-6 are from October 31, 1981 at The Palladium, New York City.
As An Am 12" Vinyl LP
CBS S 8216 , 1979 , Germany
"Bobby Brown" is a satirical and humorous song that explores the life of the titular character, touching on themes of narcissism and societal expectations.
Bobby Brown b/w Stick it Out 7" Vinyl Single
LaDISCREET DS 2234 / 31,936 bel , 1975 , USA
This is the album released by Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart in 1975. The live portions were recorded on 20 & 21 May 1975 at the Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin, Texas. Studio tracks were recorded in January 1975
Bongo Fury (1975, USA) 12" Vinyl LP
Zappa's first effort of the 1970s marks the first appearance of former Turtles members Flo & Eddie on a Zappa record, and signals the dawn of a controversial epoch in Zappa's history
Chunga's Revenge (1970, Canada) Chunga's Revenge 1st German Release Chunga's Revenge (1970, Germany)
FOO-EEE RI 70539
"Freaks and Motherfu*#@%! 12" Vinyl LP Album" captures a memorable live performance at Fillmore East, New York City, on 13 November 1 1970. The album features a blend of Zappa's unique musicality and humor, with tracks like "Call Any Vegetable" and "Wino Man" showcasing his avant-garde style. This LP offers a glimpse into Zappa's experimental genius during that era
Freaks And Motherfu*#@%! 12" LP
REPRISE 44209 , 1972 , Germany
This is the 1972 jazz fusion album by Frank Zappa. Composed and recorded during Zappa's period of convalescence following his assault in London, the album, along with its "twin brother" Waka/Jawaka (July 1972), represent Zappa's foray into big band fusion, the logical progression from Hot Rats (1969), which used a much smaller lineup.
Grand Wazoo (1972, Germany) 12" LP
Barking Pumpkin Records D1-74212 , 1988 , USA
Guitar is the 1988 album by Frank Zappa. It is the follow-up to 1981's Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar; like that album it features Zappa's guitar solos excerpted from live performances, recorded between 1979 and 1984. It garnered Zappa his 6th Grammy nomination for "Best Rock Instrumental Performance".
Guitar (1988, USA) 12" 2LP
This was released in October 1969. Five of the six songs are instrumental ("Willie the Pimp" features a short vocal by Captain Beefheart). It was Zappa's first recording project after the dissolution of the original Mothers of Invention.
Hot Rats - Germany Manufactured by TELDEC Hot Rats - German Reprise Records
WORLDWHITE Hi-Fi Concert Serie WWA 13 , 1971 , Holland
Recorded in 1971 at Ahoy Hallen in Rotterdam. This collector's gem showcases the eclectic genius of Frank Zappa and his band. Side One features tracks like "Peaches En Regalia" and "Tears Began To Fall,"
In Europe / Inspiration WorldWhite (1971, Holland)
CBS 86101 , 1979 , Holland
This album "Joe's Garage Act I" is the 1979 rock opera by Frank Zappa. Zappa self-deprecatingly describes the album as a stupid little story about how the government is going to do away with music
Joe's Garage Act I (1979, Holland) 12" LP
VERVE 2317 046 , 1968 , UK (United Kingdom)
"Lumpy Gravy "is the debut solo album by Frank Zappa, recorded with a group of session players he dubbed the Abnuceals Emuukha Electric Symphony Orchestra.
Lumpy Gravy (1968, GB) 12" LP
CBS 25251 , 1983 , Holland
The album is named after a 1950s song, written by Donald and Doris Woods, which Zappa covers as part of "The Man from Utopia Meets Mary Lou".
The Man From Utopia (1983, Holland) 12" LP
Barking Pumpkin Records ST-74203 , 1985 , USA
The album's title is a reference to the lobby group, the PMRC, who were campaigning to require record companies to put warning stickers on albums they considered offensive, and to Zappa's former band, The Mothers of Invention.
Meets the Mothers of Prevention (1985, USA) 12" LP
DiscReet Records DIS 59207 (Z) , 1975 , Germany
" One Size Fits All FOC" is the 1975 rock album by Frank Zappa The album features the final version of The Mothers of Invention, with George Duke, Chester Thompson, Ruth Underwood, Tom Fowler and Napoleon Murphy Brock.
One Size Fits All (1975, Germany) 12" LP
Discreet Records DSK 2294 , 1979 , USA
"Orchestral Favorites 12" is the original release capturing live recordings of the "Abnuceals Emuukha Electric Symphony Orchestra" at Royce Hall, UCLA in 1975
Orchestral Favorites 12" LP
FOO-EEE RI 60544
Piquantique a recording capturing Zappa's performance at Solliden, Skansen, Stockholm, on 21 August 1973, with one track from the Roxy in December 1973.
Piquantique Stockholm 1973 12" LP
AMAZING KORNYFONE (aka KORNYPHONE) , 1971
"Poot Face Booogie" is a captivating 12" LP vinyl that combines live recordings from Frank Zappa's 1971 performance at Ahoy Rotterdam with studio recordings from 1968. Notably, Zappa sings "Geef Mij Wat Vloer Bedekking Onder Deze Vette Zwevende Sofa"
Poot Face Booogie 12" LP
DISCREET 2DS 2202 31,792 , 1974 , USA
Most of the songs were recorded at The Roxy Theatre in Hollywood, California on December 8, 9 and 10, 1973. The material taken from the Roxy concerts was later amended with some overdubs in the studio
Roxy & Elsewhere (1974, USA) 12" 2LP
FOO-EEE RI-70543
This is an unofficial 2LP vinyl album that captures Frank Zappa's live performance at Ludwigparkstadion, Saarbrücken, Germany, on 3 September 1978.
Saarbrücken 1978 12" 2LP
Known for its satirical lyrics and complex compositions, "Sheik Yerbouti" offers a unique blend of rock, jazz, and humor that has made it a classic in Zappa's discography.
Sheik Yerbouti - England Release Sheik Yerbouti - Holland Release
CBS 85804 , 1982 , Holland
This album features five tracks composed by Zappa, and one song, "Valley Girl", co-written with Moon Unit Zappa, his daughter, who provided the spoken monologue mocking some of the Valley girls at her school
Ship Arriving Too Late to Save a Drowning Witch (1982, Holland) 12" Vinyl LP
CBS 66368 , 1981 , Holland
"Shut Up 'N Play Yer Guitar" highlighting Zappa's virtuosity on the electric guitar. This album is a collection of instrumental compositions and improvised solos, emphasizing Zappa's exceptional guitar skills
Shut Up 'N Play Yer Guitar Box-set (1981, Holland) 12" Vinyl 3LP
The album opens with "The Closer You Are", a soulful cover that showcases Zappa's versatility. His rendition of this classic by The Channels brings a new dimension to the song, setting the tone for the auditory adventure that follows.
Them Or Use - European Edition Them Or Us - French Edition
CBS 88516 , 1981 , Holland
"Tinsel Town Rebellion" was conceived by Zappa after he scrapped the planned albums "Warts and All" and "Crush All Boxes", and it contains tracks that were intended for those albums.
Tinsel Town Rebellion DLP FOC (1981, Holland) 12" Vinyl LP
FOO-EEE RI 70542 , 1967 , Stockholm
The hilarious album front cover of Frank Zappa's unofficial album "'Tis the season to be jelly" is an illustration of Frank Zappa wearing an Oxygen tank and showing off his green smelly sock.
Tis The Season To Be Jelly , Live in Sweden 1967 (Unofficial / Bootleg) 12" Vinyl LP
FOO-EEE RI-70540
Unmitigated Audacity 12" Vinyl LP Album captures the energy of Frank Zappa's live performance at the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana, on 12 May 1974. This album features an eclectic mix of Zappa's iconic tracks,
Unmitigated Audacity (Unofficial / Bootleg) 12" Vinyl LP
REPRISE 44209 , 1972 , Germany
"Waka Jawaka" is the jazz-influenced precursor to The Grand Wazoo (November 1972), and as the front cover indicates, sequel of sorts to 1969's Hot Rats. According to Zappa, the title "is something that showed up on a Ouija board at one time."
Waka / Jawaka - Hot Rats (1972, USA) 12" Vinyl LP
CBS 88560 , 1981 , Holland
"You Are What You Is" is a captivating double LP gatefold vinyl album that showcases Zappa's musical and artistic prowess. Inside the gatefold cover, you'll find stunning artwork and photos.
You Are What You Is (1981, Holland) 12" Vinyl LP
"Zoot Allures" was Zappa's only release on the Warner Bros. Records label. Due to a lawsuit with his former manager Herb Cohen Frank Zappa's recording contract was temporarily re-assigned from DiscReet Records to Warner Bros.
Zoot Allures - German Release Zoot Allures - Netherlands Release