Grand Funk is one of the most underrated bands I can think of, and Mark Farner one of the most underrated frontmen. NOBODY could own a crowd live quite like them.
And a underrated guitar player, they have always been my favorite band since I first heard them in early 70's. My parents got so tied of hearing i'm your captain. Dam did he get the bad end of stick, but glad someone is starting to recognizing him. Amazing, Amem
It’s difficult to say the first band to sell out a baseball stadium after The Beatles is underrated, but I suppose nowadays they aren’t as respected by the mainstream. Everyone who grew up with them, like me, certainly remembers this amazing band! I still spin their records regularly.
@@wingsofpegasus What Happened is this...Don Brewer is the bands founder..He immediately called Mark and Mel..Don was 1st to meet ( Terry Night) Don did the business affairs of the band. So in sighning with Terry Knight the 3 (4) of them formed " THE PAC" 1968 to early 1969..From a rail road box car they seen wile waiting on a train. They seen GRAND TRUNK on that box car.. Boom GFR Came to Terry's or Don or Marks mind..free from a bad record lable and a contrat with holding...The went a sighned with CAPITOL RECORDS. the rest just blossomed!! UNTILL..The IRS had Audited Terry Knights booking earnings..The bands contract was illeagle and seriously short changed Mark Don &Mel..but leaving the TAX onus on all 3 band members. Terry corrupted the contract and RIPPED THE OFF MILLIONS. Finely after firing TERRY ( and he served jail time ...presumably) Don found a new manager ( HIMSELF) ..Lasted for 3 more years..1973-76. Don called it quits..and shut down the band..FIRED MARK FARNER..Mel went his own way..Don got with Bob Seager.. Mark was starting a family...They all still had the tax burden . 10 to pay off...other factors only every very briefly mentioned, played a rool too.
First concert I ever saw. I was 14 years old. I saw them at Madison Square Garden with Wet Willie and Suzi Quatro opening up for them. They were amazing. Mark Farner is an amazing player and individual.
When I heard about the break up I thought how could the other guys do that to Farner. If they did it for no other reason than greed everybody knows who then deserves the lions share. I have no idea why so I will say no more -- L.A.Forum July 20 1970 GFR the warm up band that completely suprised me. They did steal the show and I still dont believe how good it was.
I'll never understand why Mark's solo career never took off because he obviously had/has mega talent to sing, play, write, dance and be the best all around entertainer. But thank God we have great video footage of them at the height of Grand Funk✌💗💕💗💕💗💕💗💕
What an awesome band..cant even believe they're not in the R & R HoF yet. Shocking! Mark F. is something else..great vocalist/guitar player..& gorgeous!! Thx 4 ur great reviews 🙂🙂
Mark Farner has something that Jimmy Page, Carlos Santana, Joe Perry, and Eddie Van Halen don't have, and that is the ability to sing as well as they make their guitars sing! As always, Phil, you are 100 percent spot on in your perception of how special Mark Farner is as an artist
They were a great band. It's a shame that you rarely hear of them...even on classic rock radio staions. They play the same old crap we've heard a million times before! GFR rocked!👍😎🎸🎶
been a fan since 1971 maple leaf gardens in toronto what a performance no funk without mark great review really enjoyed your overview anthony from canada
So many bands back then were able to play live just like they were in the studio with a lot less of the electronic things they have today it was a great time to grow up in
I am now 67 and GRF was my favorite band when I was 13. The group was just amazing but Marks vocal left such an impression on me as a singer. It’s pure rock, but also as an r&b lover, he strongly hits that note as well. Loved singing to their music. Magical times singing and harmonizing with my sister. I’m singling out the vocals, but you all know the bass and drummer were 🔥
It was incredible to be 20 in 1969. We thought this exceptional music was just normal! 🤔 Nope we was spoiled 😳😎. That Blues/Rock combo was spectacular !
These guy's used to get beat up pretty bad by the rock press back in the day. Always loved them and covered many of their songs in our band. Thanks Fil.
I'm a little surprised you didn't begin with the opening of the song, where Farner lays down a classic bluesy intro that says, "Ok, boys, this is how it is going to be." I'd so love to hear this track cleaned up because we're missing a significant amount of tastiness there. I've always liked seeing drummers do a lot with a simple kit, too. But back to Farner - it didn't take them long before they were playing hockey arenas and football stadiums and Farner was always a terrific showman, getting the crowd to show a sea of hands was a signature move. In the early 70s there were lots of big rock festivals at football stadiums and race tracks and GFR played a lot of them. In 1974 it had crested and was crashing, no, sagging, - rock went into a self-indulgent hammock sag that lost the connection between fans and performers. It took a few years later for the punk explosion to put the paddles to it and revitalize our music. One thing I always liked about this one is it appears the song is ending and it's been terrific up till then and we're pleased with what they wrung out of it for us, but then they kick it into an unexpected gear as if to give the song it own encore that goes beyond what the song seemed to offer. I was into Grand Funk and what seems to be forgotten is all the hate directed their way back then. One either loved or hated the band - there was no middle ground. I can't remember why. I think Lester Bangs took a shot or two at them. I remember having the "We're An American Band" single and liking the B side - "Footstompin' Music" even more.
There is no GFR without Mark Farner. I was a freshman in HS when they came out. I played lead in a band then and I loved farners playing so much I learned every song.
Totally impressed at how tight the drummer‘s back-ups are, and so completely tuned into the lead. Those two are so in synch, and the drummer is such a strong singer that he sometimes „takes over“ the lead, with little screams and/or vocal fills that I at first thought were Mark!
Some cool Vanilla Fudge influences!!! Don's Carmine Appice cymbal rolls at beginning part of song. And the whole band plays "You Keep Me Hanging On" riff at the ending! Excellent!
Regarding Don Brewer... Mark's old Messenger was being displayed in the R&RHF, and a guy wanted to re-manufacture Messengers. He contacted Mark (or someone who knew Mark) and wanted to know if he could take a look at the guitar and take measurements, and of course Mark said sure. When the guy went to take measurements the guitar was no longer there. Guess who had it? Yeah.... When hop along Don went to pick up his stuff he took Mark's guitar along with it. Why the R&RHF allowed that, behooves the mind. Idiots... But here was Mark thinking all this time his guitar was still one display when this wa-wa had it in his possession. Mark had to get an attorney in order to get his own guitar back from this donut. He had it back the next day... This is the true Don Brewer ladies and gents, and yeah he can play drums, and that's it.
As a devout Christian, Quaker farm boy, of the tender age of 61, maybe I shouldn't like rock, but it is so integral to my youth, it is difficult to just ignore it, and with some 1700 CDs, much of it from the 60s and 70s, I find that, though infrequent these days, I still venture back to this music, because so much of it is soulful and beautiful to me. I have always loved GFR. In the Highlands of Chiapas, in the 1970s, there was this little cafe called Cafe Central, and they had a couple GFR songs on their jukebox...and I loved listening to them, growing up in another world, and remembering home....I like many of your videos, but you lose me at the end, when you flash the sign of the devil. I wish you'd just leave that part out, man.
It doesn't have any association with the devil for me, it's just rock'n roll! I think it's just dependent on what you do, or don't believe. People can assign their own meanings to all kinds of things but it doesn't make that everyone else has that same association ☺
@@wingsofpegasus Thank you, brother for sharing your perspective! I was thinking, that perhaps, you'd write me, to tell me: "Hey, I am Texas Longhorns fan, is all...." Ha-ha! Yes? Maybe? Okay, no... I'll just have to settle for door #1, bro, and that is okay, too. Thanks for the great videos, and analysis! Rock on, brother!
Back then they had to actually play their instruments. Quality counted for a lot. These days so much "music" is way too dependent upon computers and such. Another great react you've done here, man.
Great reaction fil one of the great rock'n roll band out of the Detroit Rock scene. Here is a little rock trivia for you. Grand Funk Railroad once open for Led Zeppelin and can anybody guess what happened? Great review again fil take care. PS react to cactus between 69 and 72. Truly A influential band in rock'n roll in America. To musicians.
Always great,Phil....That Mark Farmer could sing great, play lead guitar great,and play harmonica and keyboards,too. Don Brewer beat that little drum kit with triple kicks like they owed him money,and he was a great singer,too.A lot of their best stuff was not played on the radio because they were too long...radio stations liked 3-4 minute songs.
Oh hell yeah!! These guys, Styx, and Boston were my intro to rock and blues. Good call. Hey Fil you ever do one on Aldo Nova? If so I haven't found it yet.
I said it before and now I'm repeating myself,, Mark Farner is the locomotive, Don and Mel were the coal car and caboose,, what that means is without Mark, The railroad doesn't run!!!!! Learn it!!!!!
Damn, they were tight. It's a hell of a shame they were destroyed by money and ego bullshit. Mark Farner is still the man. He's got the singing and playing chops in full form still to this day.
A classmates older brother got me listening to Rush and Grand Funk in 1975. Never got to see GFR though. Stories I heard that they opened for Zeppelin in 1969. They out rocked LZ the 1st two shows and got kicked off the tour. I'm sure Peter Grant had his chubby hands all over that decision.
Total package band!! Killer song! Their Live Album is awesome! Mark also plays keys and has great stage presence... you know A young EVH was taking notes..
A young Bruce Springsteen and some members of The E Street Gang had to fill in at Grand Funk Railroad show when one of the other band's did a no show. I bet Bruce took notes during the show. He was not a fool, he had to.
Saw Mark in Dayton Ohio about 1980 not with GFR but he played all the good stuff, The critics were savage to them but they were huge. Mark from the musicraft messenger with a magnesium neck up to the parker fly in more recent years could always find the ugly guitars (imo) but is a good player and i am a fan. There were so many great rock guitarist from this period Gary Richrath from REO Speedwagon was a favorite as well as Buck Dharma from Blue Oyster Cult (the thinking mans rock and roll band) give then came the last days of may a spin anyway thanks for posting Fil
Back in the early '70' when GFR was selling great mountains of records and selling out arenas all over the place, I could never figure out why they didn't get the respect usually accorded a band this good. But the truth is, a lot of people, especially critics, back then had very little nice to say about them. It was strange.
Met and played with Mark Farner ar Rock Camp. One of the most sincere, genuine people I have ever met. Spectacular, talented musician. When I asked how how he got so good, he responded, “God-given and practice...slept with guitar in my hands.” When prodded about GFR, he would not say bad thing about other members. He is too classy. Many do not know Mark’s son was paralyzed in a tragic accident. His spirit and faith carries him. God Bless Mark Farner. He made such an impression upon me. Thanks for reminded us how important he is in rock history.
There really are no words for how exceptional this band was. Mark Farner is a once in a lifetime talent. So underrated is this band! Everyone should know these guys.
Mark said Heartbreaker was the first song he ever wrote when he was about 14 years old. I was at the Shea Stadium concert in 1971 when Humble Pie opened for them. Mark said he flew overhead in a helicopter while Humble Pie was on and said the entire stadium was bouncing. Two first rate bands at one fantastic concert; it is all the proof you need to see why it was a great time to be a teenager in the early 1970s.
I saw them on that tour in 71 at the Forum in LA, a band I hadn't heard of call Black Sabbath opened for them. Needless to sat it was an epic night & one I will never forget.
Dave Wray I was there! Wyndorf and I already had the first two Queen albums memorized. Queen kicked ass but Mott were pure magic. Uris theatre - the entire week!!
Mark Farner is a friend and brother for over 30 years. Excellent guitarist, singer, songwriter and human being. God Bless my friend and brother, Mark Farner!
John Easler John this was one of my favorite bands of all times period,,,living in Ohio and being a drummer playing their music was a treat,,at 64 now at karaoke I sing Mean Mistreater it's probably one of my best! I feel young when I hear them, music was over the top then,,🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🍻👍👍
***I still work for Mark Farner to this day, Whenever he tours the east coast of the USA, i'm there keeping him safe!*** .... MARK was GRAND FUNK, Wrote 90% of the music and no longer allowed to use the name GRAND FUNK RAILROAD in his concerts...Screwed over by the other two! ....I have a TON of photos from the mid 80s till today....He sings as good as ever, guitar licks still on the money!
It's so cool to hear your love and respect for Mark, I agree with you 100% that Mark was GFR, you knowing the man rather than just the musician is awesome. Continue working for and keeping Mark safe, after all the hurt he's endured, his love of life and patriotism he's a role model that 99% of the selfish children in the music world should model themselves after. Rock on Mark!!
Mr. Roach Mark & GFR are one of my top 3 favorite artists period of all time 💙🎸🎤♥️ Such a multitalented individual 🎸🎸 I have nearly all of their music on my playlist and listen daily. They are my jam ♥️♥️
You can tell him that the Troops, of which I was one in the mid 70's, absolutely loved GFR. The band was on every barracks party tape created, ALL their work. Even today as we have reunions those of us from the mid 70s still pull the music out. Thanks to all of them, especially Mark, for keeping us entertained when we were young and a long way from home. 😘💕
@@zeppelinfan9360 I think currently the most glaring omissions to the R&R HOF are Jethro Tull and Rory Gallagher. The HOF has become somewhat of a joke at this point. They inducted Alice Cooper and Deep Purple only in the past few years...they should have been in many years ago. Also, they're electing rappers now. Ridiculous. After being inducted two or three years ago, Steve Miller slammed the HOF for making the inductees pay for their own expenses. When the Sex Pistols were elected, they didn't show up, and called the HOF "piss in wine". Screw Jann Wenner and the directors of the HOF.
@@pbracey1 I know... No Steppenwolf either, who should be in just for their song "Born to be Wild".(First song I believe to use the term "Heavy Metal") But, Joan Jett gets in for that earache song I love Rock N Roll. Unbelievable
@@zeppelinfan9360 I thought GNR was finally inducted. Really insane if they weren't, the HOF is in the north USA, same as this band. And like I said before, there was no greater power trio outside Cream.
Thanks for showcasing GFR and especially the incredibly talented Mark Farner. As you so rightly pointed out, Farner's vocals are superb. He is easily one of the greatest frontmen ever. Great Guitarist - Great Singer - Great Song Writer - Great Physique - Great Hair. Grand Funk were one of the few American bands from that early to mid 70's era that could compete with the massive onslaught of British bands that dominated the scene. The live recording of 'The Rail Road' is one of my all time favourite epic power rock ballads. That Grand Funk is not in the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame is a mind numbing travesty.
@@TatersUnited Exactly but Jan Wenner didn't like them so Rolling Stone bad mouthed them and he was "The Guy" on the R&RHOF until this January when he steps down,hopefully they will get in.
Grand Funk with Mark Farner was one of the best most versatile bands there has ever been. Thank you for giving them the credit they deserve! The Railroad...... oh yeah
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith said it: the rest of the band is usually insanely jealous of the frontman because he gets all the media attention and the best groupies! This has been shown to be very true, whether it's GFR or Chicago when they dumped Peter Cetera or Fleetwood Mac when they dumped Lindsey Buckingham. Jealousy is a horrible sin and wrecks many millions of insecure dopes. Sadly, the fans suffer when people can't be mature.
I wish you hadna said that , kinda makes me feel depressed . Mark and Grand Funk are a real big part of Rock n Roll history ! guess it goes to show ya how fulla shit all that "r&r establishment " is , as bad as the establishment that rock n roll blew up in the first place , all about money .
Because he got saved and started doing Christian rock, and they hate Christianity. Same with Johnny Rivers, he did some songs like, Jesus is a soul man. He’s kept out too.
If I recall correctly Mark Farner said in an interview he only had a couple of guitar lessons so he is one of those self taught guitar players. I think those who are self taught are the one's who develope a "style." GFR also got caught in that transitional period in early 70s where the 15 minute songs weren't happening anymore and music was becoming more commercially oriented and thus they started churning out the 3 minute songs like Locomotion and We're An American Band. GFR the opening band for Led Zeplin and was kicked off the tour for getting a bigger applause. Another good video Phil. Gunnison Undercover
New Jersey Exposed , what impressed me is he was self-taught on the guitar, he could play the piano, harmonica, he worked his amplifiers to create the sounds he wanted. Singer/songwriter epic performer and showmanship! He is a Rockstar! Highly underrated, indeed! He’s turned 70, and he’s still rocking!
Scott Greer it was in the very beginning. When they were still with Terry Knight. They were originally Terry Knight and the Pack. He was their manager/lead singer. But, he didn’t have the group’s best interests at heart. They pulled out of that situation and pushed Mark out front to sing. Renamed themselves, and there they were! I personally think that’s when they were their best. Then, creative differences, egos and jealousy emerged. GFR began to self-destruct. It’s a crying shame. They were their best together. 😢💔
Hi Fil. I got to see GFR back in their heyday in 1970 in Staten Island, New York. At the time they were just a trio unlike here. They were great. Mark couldn't get any credit for being a good player back in the day. I'm glad he's getting it now at least. That goes for all of GFR. Really good players. You should check out their video from The "Red" album (1970), a song called "Inside Looking Out". Live trio GFR. Another great video Fil! Thanks....Paul
Flint Michigan Boys!!! Funny coincidence. I was listening to this yesterday and wondering if you would review this song!!! Your not only great at analysis! Your Psychic to boot!!!
Me too! I wore my GFRR 8-tracks OUT back in high school. Mark Farner was my man in Rock! Long live Mark Farner! A WORLD-CLASS composer, guitarist, performer, vocalist, musician and a genuine brother to all!
Yep, that’s 4 guys, no 50 dancers, no pyrotechnics, no backing tracks, no lip syncing. 13 gold, 10 platinum records, & sold out 55,000 seat Shea Stadium in 72 hours.
Man I love the 70's rock! Great band! Bands actually had to know how to play and they did! You're on fire lately Fil!!!! Great analysis as always! ROCK!!!!!!!
@Wei Chan Vladislov Foghat were great! RIP 'Lonesome 'Dave Peverett and Rod 'the bottle' Price. Dave was touring with the band right up until a few months prior to his death from cancer, and his performances on guitar and vocals remained excellent. It was sad, as he looked emaciated, but was still giving it 'his all'.
In '70/'71, they were one of the 'biggest' bands on the planet. They broke the Beatles Shea Stadium attendance record, and the concert sold out faster than the Beatles did. "I'm Your Captain (Closer to Home)" from that concert is incredible. Apparently the band is still touring with Don, Mel, and Bruce Kulick (ex-Kiss) on lead guitar. Without Farner, it's just not Grand Funk Railroad. Kind of like Kiss was without Ace and Peter.
Peter - They were worried that Shea stadium would collapse with those concrete slabs visibly bouncing up and down from the weight of the fans jumping up and down...
Finally. About time. GFR and Mark. You need to check footage out of them around 69-71. Especially the B&W footage of the Shea stadium gig and playing "on the inside looking out". Good colour footage of this song too. 11 minutes of magic. IMO by 74 they were slowly going downhill unfortunately. But 70-72 they were one of THE greatest bands on the planet.
@@wingsofpegasus The song is "inside looking out", no 'on the' in the title. Listen and prepare to be blown away. ruclips.net/video/X7utPvZ-bsU/видео.html
Grand Funk is one of the most underrated bands I can think of, and Mark Farner one of the most underrated frontmen. NOBODY could own a crowd live quite like them.
And a underrated guitar player, they have always been my favorite band since I first heard them in early 70's. My parents got so tied of hearing i'm your captain. Dam did he get the bad end of stick, but glad someone is starting to recognizing him. Amazing, Amem
👍
It’s difficult to say the first band to sell out a baseball stadium after The Beatles is underrated, but I suppose nowadays they aren’t as respected by the mainstream. Everyone who grew up with them, like me, certainly remembers this amazing band! I still spin their records regularly.
@@crusheverything4449 all the time, Rock On
@@wingsofpegasus What Happened is this...Don Brewer is the bands founder..He immediately called Mark and Mel..Don was 1st to meet ( Terry Night) Don did the business affairs of the band. So in sighning with Terry Knight the 3 (4) of them formed " THE PAC" 1968 to early 1969..From a rail road box car they seen wile waiting on a train. They seen GRAND TRUNK on that box car.. Boom GFR Came to Terry's or Don or Marks mind..free from a bad record lable and a contrat with holding...The went a sighned with CAPITOL RECORDS. the rest just blossomed!! UNTILL..The IRS had Audited Terry Knights booking earnings..The bands contract was illeagle and seriously short changed Mark Don &Mel..but leaving the TAX onus on all 3 band members. Terry corrupted the contract and RIPPED THE OFF MILLIONS. Finely after firing TERRY ( and he served jail time ...presumably) Don found a new manager ( HIMSELF) ..Lasted for 3 more years..1973-76. Don called it quits..and shut down the band..FIRED MARK FARNER..Mel went his own way..Don got with Bob Seager.. Mark was starting a family...They all still had the tax burden . 10 to pay off...other factors only every very briefly mentioned, played a rool too.
First concert I ever saw. I was 14 years old. I saw them at Madison Square Garden with Wet Willie and Suzi Quatro opening up for them. They were amazing. Mark Farner is an amazing player and individual.
Glad you picked up on one of the greatest bands ever
This video needs to be sent to Brewer and Schacher to remind them without Farner, there is no Grand Funk Railroad!
AGREED
When I heard about the break up I thought how could the other guys do that to Farner. If they did it for no other reason than greed everybody knows who then deserves the lions share. I have no idea why so I will say no more -- L.A.Forum July 20 1970 GFR the warm up band that completely suprised me. They did steal the show and I still dont believe how good it was.
Ditto!
True STORY!!!!
Brewer is the reason they are no more
I'll never understand why Mark's solo career never took off because he obviously had/has mega talent to sing, play, write, dance and be the best all around entertainer. But thank God we have great video footage of them at the height of Grand Funk✌💗💕💗💕💗💕💗💕
I was into GFRR waaaaay back n the day. You n others are bringing them back to new gens a 1/2 century later.
What an awesome band..cant even believe they're not in the R & R HoF yet. Shocking! Mark F. is something else..great vocalist/guitar player..& gorgeous!! Thx 4 ur great reviews 🙂🙂
Love the respect for Mark and Grand Funk
Mark Farner has something that Jimmy Page, Carlos Santana, Joe Perry, and Eddie Van Halen don't have, and that is the ability to sing as well as they make their guitars sing! As always, Phil, you are 100 percent spot on in your perception of how special Mark Farner is as an artist
They were a great band. It's a shame that you rarely hear of them...even on classic rock radio staions. They play the same old crap we've heard a million times before! GFR rocked!👍😎🎸🎶
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And when they play GFR, they play the Locomotion and other later pop stuff. Their early stuff rivals any band of the time.
Wonderful analysis . . . Increases my respect for such an underrated band. Immensely talented artists who certainly deserve highlighting.
Seen these guys couple times back in the day in Detroit. These guys could jam! Good times and great memories! They truly rocked it!
great song from them, they were a great live band ,they should not be forgotten. Tight rhythm section.
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been a fan since 1971 maple leaf gardens in toronto what a performance no funk without mark great review really enjoyed your overview anthony from canada
Thanks!
So many bands back then were able to play live just like they were in the studio with a lot less of the electronic things they have today it was a great time to grow up in
I am now 67 and GRF was my favorite band when I was 13. The group was just amazing but Marks vocal left such an impression on me as a singer. It’s pure rock, but also as an r&b lover, he strongly hits that note as well. Loved singing to their music. Magical times singing and harmonizing with my sister. I’m singling out the vocals, but you all know the bass and drummer were 🔥
GFR! Lol
I was so in love with Mark Farner when I was a teenager!!!! And his beautiful hair! Thank you for showing them, GFR was awesome!!!!!
It was incredible to be 20 in 1969. We thought this exceptional music was just normal! 🤔 Nope we was spoiled 😳😎. That Blues/Rock combo was spectacular !
Great review W O P, you did a great job breaking down this iconic song. Good Job.
oh my goodness ,mercy YES!
These guy's used to get beat up pretty bad by the rock press back in the day. Always loved them and covered many of their songs in our band. Thanks Fil.
No problem!
I'm a little surprised you didn't begin with the opening of the song, where Farner lays down a classic bluesy intro that says, "Ok, boys, this is how it is going to be."
I'd so love to hear this track cleaned up because we're missing a significant amount of tastiness there.
I've always liked seeing drummers do a lot with a simple kit, too.
But back to Farner - it didn't take them long before they were playing hockey arenas and football stadiums and Farner was always a terrific showman, getting the crowd to show a sea of hands was a signature move.
In the early 70s there were lots of big rock festivals at football stadiums and race tracks and GFR played a lot of them.
In 1974 it had crested and was crashing, no, sagging, - rock went into a self-indulgent hammock sag that lost the connection between fans and performers.
It took a few years later for the punk explosion to put the paddles to it and revitalize our music.
One thing I always liked about this one is it appears the song is ending and it's been terrific up till then and we're pleased with what they wrung out of it for us, but then they kick it into an unexpected gear as if to give the song it own encore that goes beyond what the song seemed to offer.
I was into Grand Funk and what seems to be forgotten is all the hate directed their way back then.
One either loved or hated the band - there was no middle ground.
I can't remember why.
I think Lester Bangs took a shot or two at them.
I remember having the "We're An American Band" single and liking the B side - "Footstompin' Music" even more.
This Gen or last could never imagine the talent and power of this iconic band and bands like this. They don’t make them like this anymore.
They were moving back and forth between 3/4 and 6/8 until they went in to the 4/4 at the end. Amazing.
There is no GFR without Mark Farner. I was a freshman in HS when they came out. I played lead in a band then and I loved farners playing so much I learned every song.
Brings back great music Rock rock and roll days
Totally impressed at how tight the drummer‘s back-ups are, and so completely tuned into the lead. Those two are so in synch, and the drummer is such a strong singer that he sometimes „takes over“ the lead, with little screams and/or vocal fills that I at first thought were Mark!
Some cool Vanilla Fudge influences!!! Don's Carmine Appice cymbal rolls at beginning part of song. And the whole band plays "You Keep Me Hanging On" riff at the ending! Excellent!
Regarding Don Brewer... Mark's old Messenger was being displayed in the R&RHF, and a guy wanted to re-manufacture Messengers. He contacted Mark (or someone who knew Mark) and wanted to know if he could take a look at the guitar and take measurements, and of course Mark said sure. When the guy went to take measurements the guitar was no longer there. Guess who had it? Yeah.... When hop along Don went to pick up his stuff he took Mark's guitar along with it. Why the R&RHF allowed that, behooves the mind. Idiots... But here was Mark thinking all this time his guitar was still one display when this wa-wa had it in his possession. Mark had to get an attorney in order to get his own guitar back from this donut. He had it back the next day... This is the true Don Brewer ladies and gents, and yeah he can play drums, and that's it.
Also Vanilla Fudge and Iron Butterfly,great videos you have,your spot on with your info on these bands.
As a devout Christian, Quaker farm boy, of the tender age of 61, maybe I shouldn't like rock, but it is so integral to my youth, it is difficult to just ignore it, and with some 1700 CDs, much of it from the 60s and 70s, I find that, though infrequent these days, I still venture back to this music, because so much of it is soulful and beautiful to me. I have always loved GFR. In the Highlands of Chiapas, in the 1970s, there was this little cafe called Cafe Central, and they had a couple GFR songs on their jukebox...and I loved listening to them, growing up in another world, and remembering home....I like many of your videos, but you lose me at the end, when you flash the sign of the devil. I wish you'd just leave that part out, man.
It doesn't have any association with the devil for me, it's just rock'n roll! I think it's just dependent on what you do, or don't believe. People can assign their own meanings to all kinds of things but it doesn't make that everyone else has that same association ☺
@@wingsofpegasus Thank you, brother for sharing your perspective! I was thinking, that perhaps, you'd write me, to tell me: "Hey, I am Texas Longhorns fan, is all...." Ha-ha! Yes? Maybe? Okay, no... I'll just have to settle for door #1, bro, and that is okay, too. Thanks for the great videos, and analysis! Rock on, brother!
Fil you should do a video on Humble Pie and Steve Marriott
hell yeah. HP should have been as big as Zep
I DON'T NEED NO DOCTOR, 30 DAYS IN THE HOLE
Steve is here somewhere!
yes, another band that should be in RRHOF! Two great guitarists there, and they owned a live show just like GFR.
Their cover of For your love is so fucking good
Excellent analysis, and you picked a great band to review. Superb!
God bless Mark Farner.
Vocalist and guitarist extraordinare.
I love that "I'm Your Captain" song they do. What a classic band.
Fantastic vocals, guitar, GFR rocked the house!
The bands all-in-all talent, and then there's Mark's voice, whoa! Rock!
Brilliant video. Grand Funk Railroad !!!! The band was so tight. Thanks ....... !!!!
No problem!
THANK UUUUUUU
SOOOOOOOO
VERY VERY VERY
MUCH
MR PHILL
THAT'S 1 ONE
OF MR KIPS
FAVORITE BAND'S
&&& SONGS
I wonder if they did "Footstompin' music" at this show too? Wow!
One of the greatest bands ever. Some of them need to stuck up their pride and give us some great music again.
I was in a 3 piece band in the 70's called Truth And Janey. Grand Funk was one of the best. Thanks.
No rest for the wicked. The story of my life ;-)
Well done Fil, that was my era and GFR were steady rotation on turntable. thanks
Back then they had to actually play their instruments. Quality counted for a lot. These days so much "music" is way too dependent upon computers and such. Another great react you've done here, man.
Thanks George!
Great reaction fil one of the great rock'n roll band out of the Detroit Rock scene. Here is a little rock trivia for you. Grand Funk Railroad once open for Led Zeppelin and can anybody guess what happened? Great review again fil take care. PS react to cactus between 69 and 72. Truly A influential band in rock'n roll in America. To musicians.
Thanks!
Always great,Phil....That Mark Farmer could sing great, play lead guitar great,and play harmonica and keyboards,too. Don Brewer beat that little drum kit with triple kicks like they owed him money,and he was a great singer,too.A lot of their best stuff was not played on the radio because they were too long...radio stations liked 3-4 minute songs.
When I was in junior high and high school GFRR was THE band.. 🤘
seen them live, all great musicians they could really kick it on stage. Sad what they did to Mark
Oh hell yeah!! These guys, Styx, and Boston were my intro to rock and blues. Good call. Hey Fil you ever do one on Aldo Nova? If so I haven't found it yet.
Not yet!
Mark is the GFR,i saw them. In Concert in Hawaii & in Shea Stadium .these Band is Amazing,they don’t Wanna Quit Playing,,
I absolutely love GFR! It's a dirty shame in my opinion how don and Mel done mark.
I said it before and now I'm repeating myself,, Mark Farner is the locomotive, Don and Mel were the coal car and caboose,, what that means is without Mark, The railroad doesn't run!!!!! Learn it!!!!!
Please react to Mean Mistreater from this Japan concert in 1974! It’s awesome!
Damn, they were tight. It's a hell of a shame they were destroyed by money and ego bullshit. Mark Farner is still the man. He's got the singing and playing chops in full form still to this day.
Forum 74 L.A. My first rock concert ever exact same night i was there woo hoo I remember it like it was yesterday.
saw these boys, with my roommate, George, back in the early '70's.... MDA and see you later !!!! ;))
A classmates older brother got me listening to Rush and Grand Funk in 1975. Never got to see GFR though. Stories I heard that they opened for Zeppelin in 1969. They out rocked LZ the 1st two shows and got kicked off the tour. I'm sure Peter Grant had his chubby hands all over that decision.
What a band
Total package band!! Killer song! Their Live Album is awesome! Mark also plays keys and has great stage presence... you know A young EVH was taking notes..
👍
A young Bruce Springsteen and some members of The E Street Gang had to fill in at Grand Funk Railroad show when one of the other band's did a no show. I bet Bruce took notes during the show. He was not a fool, he had to.
Talk about tight...insane!!! 🧡
Mark Farner is part Cherokkee. He currently sings for PaPa God. He got the song “I’m your captain” in a dream after a quick prayer!
That's Mark's first songwriting experience in his teens
GFR was trashed quite often for being low-quality musicians. They were actually pretty good. Thanks. Fil.
Had their round silver album.
I am not familiar with Grand Funk Railroads but I am going to check them out . Thank you
👍🙂
You sure got what you paid for with this band. Awesome.
Saw Mark in Dayton Ohio about 1980 not with GFR but he played all the good stuff, The critics were savage to them but they were huge. Mark from the musicraft messenger with a magnesium neck up to the parker fly in more recent years could always find the ugly guitars (imo) but is a good player and i am a fan. There were so many great rock guitarist from this period Gary Richrath from REO Speedwagon was a favorite as well as Buck Dharma from Blue Oyster Cult (the thinking mans rock and roll band) give then came the last days of may a spin anyway thanks for posting Fil
Great drums
Back in the early '70' when GFR was selling great mountains of records and selling out arenas all over the place, I could never figure out why they didn't get the respect usually accorded a band this good. But the truth is, a lot of people, especially critics, back then had very little nice to say about them. It was strange.
Met and played with Mark Farner ar Rock Camp. One of the most sincere, genuine people I have ever met. Spectacular, talented musician. When I asked how how he got so good, he responded, “God-given and practice...slept with guitar in my hands.” When prodded about GFR, he would not say bad thing about other members. He is too classy.
Many do not know Mark’s son was paralyzed in a tragic accident. His spirit and faith carries him. God Bless Mark Farner. He made such an impression upon me. Thanks for reminded us how important he is in rock history.
How Grand Funk, The Guess Who, and Three Dog Night are not in the RRHOF is criminal.
Agreed!!!
It's also criminal that Jethro Tull and Joe Cocker are not in.
You r so Right George .All the bands you mentioned belong . Also Steppinwolf@!!
It took Rush forever and Blue Oyster Cult isn’t in yet either.
Neither will Foreigner ever be there. It's political. Lou Gramm was told they'd never be included. Jann Wenner decides most of the bands. It sucks.
There really are no words for how exceptional this band was. Mark Farner is a once in a lifetime talent.
So underrated is this band! Everyone should know these guys.
Mark said Heartbreaker was the first song he ever wrote when he was about 14 years old. I was at the Shea Stadium concert in 1971 when Humble Pie opened for them. Mark said he flew overhead in a helicopter while Humble Pie was on and said the entire stadium was bouncing. Two first rate bands at one fantastic concert; it is all the proof you need to see why it was a great time to be a teenager in the early 1970s.
Amen brother !
I saw them on that tour in 71 at the Forum in LA, a band I hadn't heard of call Black Sabbath opened for them. Needless to sat it was an epic night & one I will never forget.
Hey, me too! Upperdeck first base line.
I will definitely agree with that statement!!!! The best era as far as I'm concerned!!
Dave Wray I was there! Wyndorf and I already had the first two Queen albums memorized. Queen kicked ass but Mott were pure magic. Uris theatre - the entire week!!
Mark Farner is a friend and brother for over 30 years. Excellent guitarist, singer, songwriter and human being. God Bless my friend and brother, Mark Farner!
☺👍
He's had some heart problems.
John Easler John this was one of my favorite bands of all times period,,,living in Ohio and being a drummer playing their music was a treat,,at 64 now at karaoke I sing Mean Mistreater it's probably one of my best! I feel young when I hear them, music was over the top then,,🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🍻👍👍
I'll second your sentiment....
God Bless Mark Farner.
Did Mark really see a UFO?
***I still work for Mark Farner to this day, Whenever he tours the east coast of the USA, i'm there keeping him safe!*** .... MARK was GRAND FUNK, Wrote 90% of the music and no longer allowed to use the name GRAND FUNK RAILROAD in his concerts...Screwed over by the other two! ....I have a TON of photos from the mid 80s till today....He sings as good as ever, guitar licks still on the money!
Awesome!
It's so cool to hear your love and respect for Mark, I agree with you 100% that Mark was GFR, you knowing the man rather than just the musician is awesome. Continue working for and keeping Mark safe, after all the hurt he's endured, his love of life and patriotism he's a role model that 99% of the selfish children in the music world should model themselves after. Rock on Mark!!
Mr. Roach Mark & GFR are one of my top 3 favorite artists period of all time 💙🎸🎤♥️ Such a multitalented individual 🎸🎸 I have nearly all of their music on my playlist and listen daily. They are my jam ♥️♥️
You can tell him that the Troops, of which I was one in the mid 70's, absolutely loved GFR. The band was on every barracks party tape created, ALL their work. Even today as we have reunions those of us from the mid 70s still pull the music out. Thanks to all of them, especially Mark, for keeping us entertained when we were young and a long way from home. 😘💕
@@rhiahlMT absolutely, I know I grew up in Okinawa during Vietnam, and Grand funk was the bomb!!?
YES!
FINALLY somebody showing some love to Mark Farner and GFR!!!
We really need to hear and share those kind of comments
And these guys are not in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. One of my favorite bands since High School.
The Doobie Brothers are also not in the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame.
It's an absolute Joke.
Yeah it's crazy!
@@zeppelinfan9360 I think currently the most glaring omissions to the R&R HOF are Jethro Tull and Rory Gallagher. The HOF has become somewhat of a joke at this point. They inducted Alice Cooper and Deep Purple only in the past few years...they should have been in many years ago. Also, they're electing rappers now. Ridiculous. After being inducted two or three years ago, Steve Miller slammed the HOF for making the inductees pay for their own expenses. When the Sex Pistols were elected, they didn't show up, and called the HOF "piss in wine". Screw Jann Wenner and the directors of the HOF.
@@pbracey1 I know... No Steppenwolf either, who should be in just for their song "Born to be Wild".(First song I believe to use the term "Heavy Metal") But, Joan Jett gets in for that earache song I love Rock N Roll. Unbelievable
@@zeppelinfan9360 I thought GNR was finally inducted. Really insane if they weren't, the HOF is in the north USA, same as this band. And like I said before, there was no greater power trio outside Cream.
Thanks for showcasing GFR and especially the incredibly talented Mark Farner. As you so rightly pointed out, Farner's vocals are superb. He is easily one of the greatest frontmen ever. Great Guitarist - Great Singer - Great Song Writer - Great Physique - Great Hair. Grand Funk were one of the few American bands from that early to mid 70's era that could compete with the massive onslaught of British bands that dominated the scene. The live recording of 'The Rail Road' is one of my all time favourite epic power rock ballads. That Grand Funk is not in the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame is a mind numbing travesty.
Yeah I agree!
I think Mark Farner was one of rocks best front men. One of the FEW that could dominate the stage like a Robert Plant. God, he EXUDED rock and roll!!!
Please sign the petition ! chng.it/kKjhd8RNzj
It's strange to me that GFR doesn't seem to get the credit they deserve. They were as big as Zeppelin or the Stones in their prime.
@@TatersUnited Exactly but Jan Wenner didn't like them so Rolling Stone bad mouthed them and he was "The Guy" on the R&RHOF until this January when he steps down,hopefully they will get in.
Mark could also rip on keyboards and harmonica! Don Brewer also sang lead vocals. One of the best power trios ever!
Grand Funk with Mark Farner was one of the best most versatile bands there has ever been. Thank you for giving them the credit they deserve! The Railroad...... oh yeah
There will never be another Grand Funk Railroad. Ever ! 🇺🇲🤘
👍
good!! I hope you are right. they suck !!
EVER.........
agree
@@nonrepublicrat you suck.
Saw Mark Farner band in Milwaukee last year on his 70th birthday. Still the man! So sad how Don Brewer and Mel screwed him over. smh...
Very sad. Jealousy is a terrible thing.
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith said it: the rest of the band is usually insanely jealous of the frontman because he gets all the media attention and the best groupies! This has been shown to be very true, whether it's GFR or Chicago when they dumped Peter Cetera or Fleetwood Mac when they dumped Lindsey Buckingham. Jealousy is a horrible sin and wrecks many millions of insecure dopes. Sadly, the fans suffer when people can't be mature.
IT SUCKS THAT THEY'RE NOT IN THE ROCK N ROLL HALL OF FAME BUT KISS, MADONNA AND OTHERS THAT DON'T DESERVE IT- UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!!!!
I wish you hadna said that , kinda makes me feel depressed . Mark and Grand Funk are a real big part of Rock n Roll history ! guess it goes to show ya how fulla shit all that "r&r establishment " is , as bad as the establishment that rock n roll blew up in the first place , all about money .
Because he got saved and started doing Christian rock, and they hate Christianity. Same with Johnny Rivers, he did some songs like, Jesus is a soul man. He’s kept out too.
@@chadkincham wow ! what a revelation . it all makes sense now , Johnny too ....unbelievable !
Bob Saturday - here’s a mark Farner Christian rock song: ruclips.net/video/TeGBerga8SU/видео.html
It's all political BS
If I recall correctly Mark Farner said in an interview he only had a couple of guitar lessons so he is one of those self taught guitar players. I think those who are self taught are the one's who develope a "style." GFR also got caught in that transitional period in early 70s where the 15 minute songs weren't happening anymore and music was becoming more commercially oriented and thus they started churning out the 3 minute songs like Locomotion and We're An American Band. GFR the opening band for Led Zeplin and was kicked off the tour for getting a bigger applause. Another good video Phil. Gunnison Undercover
I think the band made a mistake going top 40ish to attract a larger fan base. They lost that heavy base Blues Rock sound that made them stand out.
👍
New Jersey Exposed , what impressed me is he was self-taught on the guitar, he could play the piano, harmonica, he worked his amplifiers to create the sounds he wanted. Singer/songwriter epic performer and showmanship! He is a Rockstar! Highly underrated, indeed! He’s turned 70, and he’s still rocking!
That must've been very early 70,s when Zep got really big in 72 ,73 they didn't have an opening act.
Scott Greer it was in the very beginning. When they were still with Terry Knight. They were originally Terry Knight and the Pack. He was their manager/lead singer. But, he didn’t have the group’s best interests at heart. They pulled out of that situation and pushed Mark out front to sing. Renamed themselves, and there they were! I personally think that’s when they were their best. Then, creative differences, egos and jealousy emerged. GFR began to self-destruct. It’s a crying shame. They were their best together. 😢💔
Hi Fil. I got to see GFR back in their heyday in 1970 in Staten Island, New York. At the time they were just a trio unlike here. They were great. Mark couldn't get any credit for being a good player back in the day. I'm glad he's getting it now at least. That goes for all of GFR. Really good players. You should check out their video from The "Red" album (1970), a song called "Inside Looking Out". Live trio GFR. Another great video Fil! Thanks....Paul
Cool!
Flint Michigan Boys!!! Funny coincidence. I was listening to this yesterday and wondering if you would review this song!!! Your not only great at analysis! Your Psychic to boot!!!
😂
Hey Kirk, are you any relation to Mark and Danny Scobey ?
Kirk Scobey Congratulations to.Flintoid as George Carlin said to a band that started quite humbly in a garage in the Kearsely area!
When I was a kid grand funk was the band.
Me too! I wore my GFRR 8-tracks OUT back in high school. Mark Farner was my man in Rock! Long live Mark Farner! A WORLD-CLASS composer, guitarist, performer, vocalist, musician and a genuine brother to all!
G.F.R was a Great Band dont understand why there not in Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Me either!
RRHF isn't legit.
Great, great pick Fil. One of my favorite bands from my high school days. Was lucky to have caught them in concert in late 60's. You rock MR FIL!!!
Cool!
Mark Farner the very best voice in rock music!!!!
👍
Yes he was and still is on point. Not to forget Steve Walsh though.
Don't forget Brad Delp!
Rik Emmet is up there as well...and a virtuoso guitarist like Mark.
Farner oozes talent. I never heard him make a mistake performing.
Yep, that’s 4 guys, no 50 dancers, no pyrotechnics, no backing tracks, no lip syncing. 13 gold, 10 platinum records, & sold out 55,000 seat Shea Stadium in 72 hours.
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Are you saying this is simply bad ass music we grew up listening to?
@@stevenvassalli2408 Yep.
Has been a long time since I have heard this one. Thanks.
Man I love the 70's rock! Great band! Bands actually had to know how to play and they did! You're on fire lately Fil!!!! Great analysis as always! ROCK!!!!!!!
Thanks!
I saw them in '75. I believe Foghat was the warmup act. My ears are still bleeding from that show.
Foghat! Taking me back. ✌🏼
@Wei Chan Vladislov Foghat were great! RIP 'Lonesome 'Dave Peverett and Rod 'the bottle' Price. Dave was touring with the band right up until a few months prior to his death from cancer, and his performances on guitar and vocals remained excellent. It was sad, as he looked emaciated, but was still giving it 'his all'.
Nice!
Absolutely... saw Foghat & Molly Hatchet in ‘76 and I couldn’t hear for 3 days. Truly started my efforts to wear hearing protection.
In '70/'71, they were one of the 'biggest' bands on the planet. They broke the Beatles Shea Stadium attendance record, and the concert sold out faster than the Beatles did. "I'm Your Captain (Closer to Home)" from that concert is incredible. Apparently the band is still touring with Don, Mel, and Bruce Kulick (ex-Kiss) on lead guitar. Without Farner, it's just not Grand Funk Railroad. Kind of like Kiss was without Ace and Peter.
Except Grand Funk without Mark is like Kiss without Gene and Paul.
Peter is my hero from bringing up "I'm Your Captain". That song is fucking epic.
Peter - They were worried that Shea stadium would collapse with those concrete slabs visibly bouncing up and down from the weight of the fans jumping up and down...
Yeah!
@@ipsurvivor I saw the Rolling Stones there and the place literally shook!!
Really like the bass on Closer To Home. I like me some Grand Funk!
like - Loveeeee
I can remember playing Closer to Home over and over.... I loved that song. oh yeah its "Im Your Captain"
@@anisacollins3573 It's both -- it's two songs you're remembering, which are combined into a medley.
The voice, the guitar, the whole damn band! GFR one of my favs!! Hardly mentioned these days, too bad cause their so good.
👍
Finally.
About time.
GFR and Mark.
You need to check footage out of them around 69-71. Especially the B&W footage of the Shea stadium gig and playing "on the inside looking out". Good colour footage of this song too. 11 minutes of magic. IMO by 74 they were slowly going downhill unfortunately. But 70-72 they were one of THE greatest bands on the planet.
Thanks!
@@wingsofpegasus The song is "inside looking out", no 'on the' in the title. Listen and prepare to be blown away.
ruclips.net/video/X7utPvZ-bsU/видео.html
@@kwmusic4560 blew me into next week!!!
should have done inside looking out he rocks it and sad they aren't in the rock n roll hall of fame
Yeah it's a shame.