Frank Zappa Band Alumnus Ike Willis To Guest With Dweezil Zappa At Select Shows

Guitarist Dweezil Zappa will soon kick off a tour with the band formerly known as Zappa Plays Zappa that will hit 38 cities as part of a yearlong celebration of the 50th anniversary of Freak Out! Today, Dweezil has announced the addition of longtime Frank Zappa vocalist Ike Willis for two special dates on the 50 Years of Frank: Dweezil Zappa Plays Whatever the F@%k He Wants – The Cease and Desist Tour.

Ike Willis will perform the music of Frank Zappa with Dweezil & Co. October 12 at the Concord Music Hall in Chicago and October 30 at the Beacon Theater in New York City. Tickets for both shows are currently on sale.

“Having played my father’s music live on tour for the past decade, I’ve had many opportunities to share the stage with exceptionally talented musicians,” said Dweezil in a statement. “It’s been a thrill and at the same time, a great education. Whether guest musicians or former Frank Zappa band alumni, I’ve loved having those moments on stage with them.

“For me, Ike’s voice has a special place in my father’s music – Joe’s Garage, Thing-Fish – It’s part of the fabric of the music and the folklore. I especially look forward to playing ‘Outside Now.’ I anticipate that the dialogue between the guitar and vocal will stir some emotions for me. Hearing the authenticity of Ike’s voice in the mix will be exciting for all of us.”

Dweezil recently made a few changes to the core band lineup of his tribute act. Female vocalist Cian Coey has been added to the mix, while baritone singer and multi-instrumentalist Dave Luther replaced longtime member Ben Thomas. “Dave is also quite adept at playing challenging horn parts within my dad’s music as well as rhythm guitar,” added Dweezil. “I have a feeling this will lead to even more opportunities to dig into some more of my father’s most complex musical works.”

The tour begins with two L.A.-area dates at the Coach House on September 29 and at the Canyon Club on the 30th.