About the song
When exploring the eclectic and inventive world of Frank Zappa, “Montana” stands out as a quintessential example of his unique musical vision and inventive songwriting. Released in 1973 on the album Over-Nite Sensation, this track is a delightful blend of rock, satire, and Zappa’s trademark wit.
“Montana” is an intricate and humorous journey through Zappa’s imaginative storytelling. The song opens with a quirky, upbeat melody that immediately sets the stage for Zappa’s distinctive approach to music. With its playful lyrics and complex musical arrangements, “Montana” showcases Zappa’s ability to merge absurdity with musicianship in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
Lyrically, the song tells a whimsical and somewhat surreal story about a man’s quest to relocate to Montana in order to grow dental floss. The narrative, while seemingly nonsensical, reflects Zappa’s satirical style and his knack for turning mundane subjects into comedic gold. His storytelling is delivered with a blend of deadpan seriousness and tongue-in-cheek humor, capturing the listener’s attention and inviting them into his imaginative world.
Musically, “Montana” features Zappa’s characteristic complexity, with intricate guitar solos, shifting time signatures, and a rich arrangement that includes a prominent xylophone solo. The track is a testament to Zappa’s prowess as a composer and performer, blending various musical styles to create a piece that is as musically sophisticated as it is entertaining.
“Montana” remains a beloved track among Zappa’s fans and a standout in his extensive catalog. Its playful lyricism, combined with its intricate musical composition, exemplifies the creative genius that defines Frank Zappa’s work. For those who appreciate music that challenges conventions and delights in its own eccentricity, “Montana” is a perfect showcase of Zappa’s unparalleled talent and his ability to turn even the most unexpected subjects into unforgettable musical experiences.
Video
Lyrics
I might be movin’ to Montana soon
Just to raise me up a crop of
Dental Floss
Raisin’ it up
Waxen it down
In a little white box
I can sell uptown
By myself I wouldn’t
Have no boss,
But I’d be raisin’ my lonely
Dental Floss
Raisin’ my lonely
Dental Floss
Well I just might grow me some bees
But I’d leave the sweet stuff
To somebody else . . . but then, on the other hand I would
Keep the wax
N’ melt it down
Pluck some Floss
N’ swish it aroun’
I’d have me a crop
An’ it’d be on top (that’s why I’m movin’ to Montana)
Movin’ to Montana soon
Gonna be a Dental Floss tycoon (yes I am)
Movin’ to Montana soon
Gonna be a mennil-toss flykune
I’m gonna find me a horse
Just about this big
An’ ride him all along the border line
With a
Pair of heavy-duty
Zircon-encrusted tweezers in my hand
Every other wrangler would say
I was mighty grand
By myself I wouldn’t
Have no boss
But I’d be raisin’ my lonely
Dental Floss
Raisin’ my lonely
Dental Floss
Raisin’ my lonely
Dental Floss
Well I might
Ride along the border
With my tweezers gleamin’
In the moon-lighty night
And then I’d
Get a cuppa cawfee
N’ give my foot a push . . .
Just me ‘n the pygmy pony
Over the Dennil Floss Bush
N’ then I might just
Jump back on
An’ ride
Like a cowboy
Into the dawn to Montana
Movin’ to Montana soon
(Yippy-Ty-O-Ty-Ay)
Movin’ to Montana soon
(Yippy-Ty-O-Ty-Ay)
Movin’ to Montana soon
(Yippy-Ty-O-Ty-Ay)
Movin’ to Montana soon