The Exchange

Frank Zappa appeared on the Steve Allen show in 1963 to perform an improvised piece for bicycle, "pre-recorded electric noises" and orchestra. Although his spot on the show was clearly intended as comedic relief, it's interesting to wonder if this kind of performance would be perceived differently today.

Everyone loves a little stick trick now and then, but isn't there a limit to how far one should take the art of showmanship? At some point, shouldn't you say to yourself, "Okay, I should reel it in a little bit here"?

This is a really funny clip of Bill Cosby on the Dick Cavitt show in 1973. In it, he describes his drumming career and an attempt to sit in with Sonny Stitt playing Cherokee. I think anyone who has tried unsuccessfully to play a very fast jazz chart can relate to Bill's experience!