Pitchfork

Original Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention drummer Jimmy Carl Black, who called himself "the Indian of the group", died on Saturday, November 1. According to Rolling Stone's Rock and Roll Daily blog, the 70-year-old Black suffered from lung cancer. A message on Black's website reads, "Jimmy says hi to everybody and he doesn't want anybody to be sad."

Black's time in the Mothers of Invention began with their inception and debut, 1966's Freak Out!, and ended with 1970's Weasels Ripped My Flesh. His work with Zappa extended beyond the Mothers of Invention; he also played on Zappa solo albums such as Lumpy Gravy, 200 Motels, and You Are What You Is. He also appeared in the 200 Motels film, singing "Lonesome Cowboy Burt".

Additionally, Black recorded albums under his own name, with his own band Geronimo Black, and with Zappa tribute bands the Grandmothers and the Muffin Men. Rock and Roll Daily also reports that he played with Captain Beefheart.

A benefit for Black will be held at London's Bridgehouse II on November 9, reports Rock and Roll Daily.

"Lonesome Cowboy Burt" [from the film 200 Motels]



"Mother People" [from the We're Only in It for the Money LP]



"Wowie Zowie" [from the Freak Out! LP]