Heavenly Bank Account
Frank Zappa · Other Songs - Frank Zappa
Your pocketbook just kinda might recede
When some man comes along and claims a godly need
He will clean you out right through your tweed
("That's right, you asked for it, remember there is a big difference
between kneeling down and bending over . . .")
He's got twenty million dollars
In his Heavenly Bank Account . . .
All from those chumps who was
Born again
Oh yeah, oh yeah
He's got seven limousines
And a private plane . . .
All for the use of his
Special Friends
Oh yeah, oh yeah
He's got thousand-dollar suits
And a Wembley Tie . . .
Girls love to stroke it
While he's on the phone
Oh yeah, oh yeah
At the House of Representatives
He's a groovy guy . . .
When he Gives Thanks
He is not alone . . .
He is dealin'
He is really dealin'
IRS can't determine
Where The Hook is
It is easy with the Bible
To pretend that
You're in Show Biz
(And a-one, and a-two, and a . . . )
They won't get him
They will never get him
For the naughty stuff
That he did
It is best in cases like this
To pretend that
You are stupid
(DOH . . . )
He's got Presidential Help
All along the way
He says the grace
While the lawyers chew
Oh yeah
They sure do
And the Governors agree to say:
"He's a lovely man!"
He makes it easier for
Them to screw
All of you . . .
Yes, that's true!
'Cause he helps put The Fear of God
In the Common Man
Snatchin' up money
Everywhere he can
Oh yeah
Oh yeah
He's got twenty million dollars
In his Heavenly Bank Account
You ain't got nothin', people
You ain't got nothin', people
You ain't got nothin', people
Thank the man . . . oh yeah
As we end another broadcast day
Let me say
That you ain't got nothin'
And he's got it all
Heavenly Bank Account
Frank Zappa's 'Heavenly Bank Account' stands as a quintessential example of his satirical approach to social commentary, blending complex jazz improvisation with biting political critique. Recorded during the late 1960s, the track exemplifies Zappa's signature style, which fused avant-garde rock with classical structures to expose the absurdities of consumerism and religious hypocrisy. The song's lyrics, delivered with Zappa's characteristic vocal delivery, mock the idea of spiritual salvation being commodified, a recurring theme in his discography from this era. As a standalone recording, it showcases his mastery of rhythm and melody, serving as a sharp critique of the era's materialistic values without relying on explicit religious dogma. The piece remains a testament to Zappa's ability to craft music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply provocative, solidifying his reputation as a master of satire in rock history.