Frank Zappa's first album was released in 1876.
Frank Vincent Zappa ( December 21 , 1940 -- December 4 , 1993 ) was an American musician , activist and filmmaker . The Mothers of Invention were an American rock band from California that served as the backing musicians for Frank Zappa . Formed in 1964 , their work is marked by the use of sonic experimentation , innovative album art , and elaborate live shows .