"I think that the old Mothers started that trend of rehearsing long hours. We went as long as the later bands did except we didn't get paid for it like they did"

The quote by Jimmy Carl Black, an essential member of Frank Zappa's band, The Mothers of Invention, uses an insightful peek into the work principles and dynamics of musicianship within the band and its development in time. When Black refers to the "old Mothers", he is speaking about the initial lineup of the band, which was understood for its ingenious and speculative approach to music in the 1960s. This was a developmental time when the band was setting brand-new standards and pressing boundaries, both artistically and technically.

The notion of rehearsing for long hours symbolizes the commitment and dedication needed to master complex musical pieces and plans that Zappa was renowned for. The "old Mothers" possibly pioneered a strenuous rehearsal schedule, which became customary for the band and its subsequent models. This practice was likely essential to accomplish the high level of accuracy and imagination Zappa required, and it was a testimony to their passion and seriousness about their craft.

Black's mention that "we didn't make money for it like they did" highlights a variation in between the initial group and later variations or other bands that followed. This could reflect the financial truth of lots of pioneering artists who lay the groundwork for future success but typically do not enjoy the very same financial rewards. At the time, the music industry was different, and the financial structures might not have actually been as beneficial to artists, particularly those who were creating new paths in progressive music.

Furthermore, this statement underscores a sense of pride and sacrifice. Black acknowledges the difficult work that went uncompensated compared to later artists, suggesting an intrinsic inspiration fueled by the love of the art itself instead of business gain. This dedication laid the foundation for those who came after, who not only continued the custom of long practice sessions but also took advantage of enhanced acknowledgment and compensation within the music market. Eventually, Black's words catch the values of the initial Mothers: a blend of groundbreaking imagination, tough work, and a legacy that supplied opportunities for successor bands.