A new documentary makes clear Frank Zappa’s life and legacy as an ultra-individualist and musical innovator, who fought for free speech and lifestyle liberation in ways that appealed to dissidents in America and communist countries alike. | Reason Magazine

On this day in 1985, Frank Zappa, John Denver and Dee Snider of Twisted Sister testify at a Senate hearing where the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC) argue for a ratings system on music. The musicians explain that this is censorship, but the PMRC wins a victory and warning labels are ordered on albums containing explicit lyrics. #onthisday #music #rocknroll #album #guitar #pmrc #lyrics #deesnider #twistedsister | MONSTERS OF ROCK

In 1985, FrankZappa read the First Amendment from a pocket constitution, and then defended Prince at Senate hearings about labeling and regulating music with explicit lyrics. Zappa: "No one has forced Mrs. Baker or Mrs. Gore to bring Prince or Sheena Easton into their home. Thanks to the Constitution they are free to buy other forms of music for their children." | National Constitution Center