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Steve Vai Explains Why He Left Zappa's Band, Recalls How Frank Reacted to Eddie Van Halen

During a conversation with UG's Justin Beckner, Steve Vai looked back on his 1980-1983 tenure in Frank Zappa's band, which he joined after working as Zappa's transcriptionist for about two years.

Steve is gearing up to host a special live stream on Facebook for his upcoming 60th birthday on June 6. When asked why he left the group to make his first solo album, 1984's "Flex-Able," Steve replied:

"Well, I was making 'Flex-Able' while I was working with Frank. And while I was working with Frank, I knew it wasn't going to be a lifelong career because Frank doesn't do that and I couldn't see myself being a sideman for the rest of my life, with Frank. I loved it when I was there with him. It was quite an unbelievable experience."

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I'm trying to wrap my mind around the concept of Steve Via and Eddie casually jamming on guitar around 1982 at Frank Zappa's house. It's totally blowing my mind.

...and Eddie seeing the Eat 'Em and Smile lineup and saying "Hey! I jammed with him! That f%$@er!"

And then going on a vodka bender after he saw Billy had signed on.