AMEN Nick, especially after what don and mel did to him. They stole his music and kicked them out of the band!!! In the main comments I summarize what happened, there's also an interview in 6 parts I believe with Mark specifically on the breakup of the real and true and ONLY Grand Funk Railroad.
During the GFR era, Mark's compositions were tailored made for the trio. His voice and overall performances were unsurpassed. Cat is awesome !! Thanks for sharing...
Yeah !!!! Be an American and be free and be a person for the world !!!!!!! No matter where ya come from , Love, Peace and Joy ! Hey.......That just might be a song ? Thank You !!!! Mark ! For being you.... So natural and inspiring !
In my opinion, Mark Farner is one of the greatest rock n roll musicians of all time, and from what I've seen over years, in various interviews with him, he seems to be a very nice guy too.
I admire Mark's plain simple intelligence. No arrogance. Excellent communication skills off and on stage. He honestly made this interview a lesson in music... jamming and constant practice the key... that's what it's all about!☮️💕👏👍🔔
@@donsmith7054 Obviously he knows about the impact Grand Funk made in the rock world and their millions of faithful fans and yet is down to earth and not a stupid prick about it. Lead singer syndrome? Mark Farner never heard of it !
Only an idiot wouldn’t like Farner. I’ve been a big fan of his, enjoying his vocals, his guitarwork, his music for 45 years now. He’s not just a one-in-a-million singer with his rings-clear-as-a-bell signature vocals and worldclass guitarwork, but he’s also just a good warm caring person and friend to all as far as I’ve seen. I’ve never met him but I love him like a brother.
Bandana Dee Isaac Regarding Don and Mel’s opinion of Mark. It would appear to be motivated to some extent by jealousy, eh? Jealousy of Mark’s more well-rounded talent and his greater popularity with the fans that eclipses theirs. That’s my observation anyway.
@@rickleblanc8900 So true Rick, Mark was and is a class act, something don and mel will NEVER be. They stole his music, kicked him out of the band, still tour and play HIS music and still call themselves grand funk. It's unbelievable the stones don and mel have to do that. They don't get it, Mark turned to Jesus and there is a thing called karma. The only Grand Funk was when Mark was in it.
I was born (1957) and raised in Flint, picked up the guitar in 1969 and Mark Farner became my idol...got to meet him by chance at a restaurant in Mackinaw City in 1989 and what a nice and respectful guy he is....he did not seem to mind that I was kinda happy to meet him, posed for a couple of pictures with me and talked about guitars and,camping and fishing in northern Michigan...Great guy!
MARK FARNER; GOD IS GREAT!!! HE GAVE US YOU. COULD WELL BE YOUR BIGGEST FAN? YOU CHANGED MY LIFE IN 69 AND YOU ARE AND ALWAYS GOING TO BE#1!!! AND I AM SURE THAT MY COMMENT IS SHARED WITH MILLIONS. THANK YOU.
Never knew , after I gave my live to Jesus, 40 years back, most gospel. The last 15 years listen to 60s and see there are my favour guys love Jesus . Is that not 👍
What a great down to earth guy. Awesome with Grand Funk and with his solo career. No big headed ego here, you can tell he loves to keep doing it for his fans !
I met Mark thru a friend of mine. He was playing a side gig at a local bar. Lives 4 miles from my house. Never knew it. After the show he sat at our table and had dinner with us. Just a friendly guy, easy to talk to and great " on the road" stories!
I met Mark at “The Swamp” in 1985 when my band was playing in Flint. We were going to remix some tracks there and Mark was in the control room playing a keyboard. We didnt expect to see him. He was so humble and such a nice guy. He showed us around the studio and all the old Grand Funk road cases and memoriblia. Don Brewers drums were still set up. The red ones. Watch the American Band Video and you will see the swamp studio. Very cool.
Great interview, human side of a rock icon. Mr. Farner definitely is the GFR voice and the band's hits composer. I'm 58 now, I'm a Grand Funk fan since I was just 13 years when in my home country Venezuela I listened to " I come Tumbling " in the E Pluribus Funk album, which we used to call the coin in Venezuela. My favorite band of all times
so back in 1977, I am in my schools library, ( yes there was a thing called a library) and the school just got some donated albums, 3 boxes full, and I come across this GFR live album set....I didn't know who GFR was at the time, I was 16. So I take this live GFR double album over to the library record player and plug in those big 70's headphones and listen to this album...the intro to the album was some guy telling the crowd to relax and stuff...AND THEN!!...the announcer says, " heres the band you been waiting to see, GRAND FUNK RR"...and BOOOMMM!!!....so I am jamming and I cant hear myself with the headphones on...the librarian comes over, taps me on the shoulder and all the students are staring at me, cuttin up....I ask the librarian if I could buy this double album and she GIVES IT TO ME!!….I still have that 2 album set...I have remixed the songs on CD and on tape for clarity since the albums don't play due to scratches. That was my intro to GFR
ALWAYS loved Mark (yeah, I was a teen-aged girl back in the early 70's in love with Mark Farner...I'll admit it). GFR was a phenominal band...had every single album - played over and over until my parents couldn't stand it anymore and I received those bulky headphones for Christmas one year! LOL Even after all these years, I still LOVE the guy! Not only was he a heart-throb, he is a genuine, nice guy ...and IMO - STILL a heart-throb! Love ya Mark xoxo
Yep! Everyone in high school had to have at least one GFR album. I remember having the two-record live album (I liked buying a lot of live albums back then for some reason and the 20 minute live recording of Inside Looking Out was unquestionably the best version imo), and I also had the classic album Closer to Home. Never got to see them perform though. They rarely performed in the DC area after 72 for some reason.
Mark is still rockin after all these years, I grew up listening to Grand Funk, Mark is a stand up dude with good moral's, and believe's in our maker and that's alright by me.
Great interview and wisdom spoken as a veteran musician! I have played bass for over 4 decades, which GFR was one of my favorite bands in the early years of playing--which I could play every song in great detail GRR produced, both on drums and on my Fender P-Bass! I recently laid my bass down and never picked it back up I got so burnt-out playing with musicians that no longer were committed, disciplined, or loyal to each band member. Today's musicians don''t want to discipline, rehearse, practice, practice, practice, preparing yourself to the point that you couldn't play the song wrong even if you wanted to. I sold both basses, Fender P-bass and Fender J-bass... I was almost in tears when I helped carry basses to buyers vehicle. Today's music has completely lost the heart, soul, body, mind, sweat, and spirit as it was in our young days coming up playing in the 70's, 80's, and 90's! I miss it playing bass....maybe one day there will be a spark, or opportunity to play once again with "real" "pure' "raw" musicians???
I remember the first time that I heard " I'm your Captain. " I was in third grade, I went to private school 1st and second. first day of school third grade I waited for bus #72, it was in 1971 and I didn't know what to expect. I was 2 years behind the game, nervous as all get out. This bus was old and rickety, I went straight to the back of the bus I didn't look at anyone sat on the back seat. I saw a speaker in the back on top of the door' I also saw speaker wire taped on the ceiling with masking tape going all the way to the front. right then I heard someone say." Hey Bus driver does that radio work?" At first I heard some Crackling noises, Then the song, I'm your captain came on, Been hooked ever since. Rock On Mark Farner
I love Grand Funk Railroad I've been listening to them since '69 to present day Mark Farner is such an awesome person! I enjoy his interviews TY for posting
Farner turned Christian before it was cool. He did a little dope. He's a guy on the underrated list. Power trio's from the 60's, Funk is on the top 5. That ax is sick for 200 bucks!
I was at that very same show. Was one of the last to leave, walking off ,looked down and picked up one of his guitar picks....still have it, somewhere. T'was a great show !!
I got "Grand Funk Railroad Live Album" 2 record set of Atlanta Pop Festival July 4 1969 when I was 14 in '72. What Farner achieved as a hard rock trio frontman has never been duplicated by ANYONE! EVER!
I was and am still a Mark Farner and Grand Funk Railroad fan. Have been since the "On Time" album came out. One of the greatest Rock bands that ever hit the planet..........Why aren't they in the R&RHOF?????????
I loved GFR when I first heard them in 1969, and I still love them until this very day. I don't give a crap what any smart ass know-it-all says. The fact is this.... They were a group of American kids that played rock and roll in a garage band that made THE BIG TIME with the instruments that THEY could afford to buy. They deserve to be in The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame ...... Who in the heck is abba?
Kenny Starr Yes Kenny, am deep down southern Zimbabwe in Gwanda town.This was and is the music----it was well ahead of its time.I listened to it at 17yrs of age and am 56yrs old now, still listening and deeply in love with this golden rock band from the USA--Oh yes guys, this is the group ladies and gentlemen.
Hello Gregory, You put into words exactly how I feel about Grand Funk Railroad! They were a group of American kids that played Rock N Roll! They bought the musical instruments they could afford to buy. They weren't elitist Progressive Rock virtuosos. When Mark, Don and Mel got to together. they had a chemistry that was truly unique! That's why they made the big time. That's what makes a successful band! I describe Grand Funk's music as Rock N Roll Soul! When Mark and Don sang in unison, it would grip my soul!!! Amazingly, Mark Farner still possesses his incredible voice! Mark is a very sincere and honest man and that sincerity comes through in his wonderful singing voice! When Mark sang "People Let's Stop The War" I believed him!!! I was on the cusp of the age of 13 when my late brother and I bought the red covered Grand Funk album in the Summer of '70 in Pacoima, CA. Us Chicanos/Mexican-Americans loved Grand Funk. I was attending Pacoima Junior High School at the time, the same school which the late Ritchie Valens attended, and us kids loved Grand Funk! I fondly remember a breezy afternoon in 1971 going to the "White Front" department store to buy the "Closer To Home" album. That album has a Autumn like feeling and is also very Spiritual. Grand Funk had progressed. I was just taken away by "I'm Your Captain!" Every time I listen to it now, a wistful feeling comes over me and tears well up in my eyes! That song has so much Spirituality! Grand Funk were, to a certain degree, spokesman to us kids coming of age at that time. Mark's lyrics became more political and I believed in him!!! Grand Funk mean so much to us fans who lived through that period! The Vietnam War, race relations and poverty. Though I hope Grand Funk will soon be inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame, it really doesn't matter. What matters is that they positively touched the lives of millions of fans around of the world and for that I'm eternally grateful! Raul.🙂
Saw them at Shea Stadium. Mark Farner is one hot babe ! Was then, is now. His style and talent are not to be denied. I listened to Grand Funk Railroad in the seventies everyday. He still sounds the same...and can still entertain bringing the house down !
Debbie Oliveri Yes Debbie, am deep down Zimbabwe in Gwanda town.This was and is the music----it was well ahead of its town.I listened to it at 17yrs of age and am 56yrs old now, still listening and deeply in love with this golden rock band from the USA--Oh yes guys, this is the group ladies and gentlemen.
The man's not only a musical legend, but he's also a red blooded, meat eating patriot, & that's so refreshing in this new era of pussified, snowflake whiners that have all but destroyed the amazing music that was made from the late 60s thru the mid 80s..Gen x,y&z can't hold a candle to the 1st &2nd generation of actual musicians who could actually play their instruments,,and didn't rely on samples and pitch correction vocoders, like today's, "gags" hip-hop, & what they have the nerve to call pop.
Hey jerk.. I could kickass. I was In The Angry Samoans. Bassist 1980s. City boy. Beverly Hills. I don't mind saying as a Punk rocker. And a deer / Antelope hunter even Today who bought his first 12" LP at 14... American Band. Love GFR Still.
Several years ago I was at a convenience store in Fl. and there was an old, beat up station wagon in the lot with Mark Farner and GFR stickers all over it. I waited for the driver to return and an old man in overalls came out. When I asked him about the stickers he said "Mark is my baby brother and I couldn't be more proud! He went on to tell me how he was a roadie for GFR during the time of their fame (Shea Stadium etc). Pretty cool.
Mark Farner is about the most humble celebrity that you'll ever meet. Incredibly grounded in his faith, and love of music and country. It's apparent in every interview I've even seen. He's always lavish in his praise of others who helped along the way. A great quality to have. The more I see and hear, the more I admire him.
Robert Fonner that would have been a much better souvenir. sorry you didn’t get it but glad it didn’t bop you on the head! so was the rest of the band and how was the show?
@@_dave4460 It was truly fantastic! I've never seen the original GFRR. My brother went with me even though he never cared for them but he knew how much it meant to me.
I recently "rediscovered" Grank Funk, and I have so much more respect for their musicianship than I did when I was a younger, more up-and-coming, drummer. Their music is so energetic yet tasteful, and their enthusiasm is infectious. Great interview of a great guy here!
This guy Wow. He was so heavy; Grand Funk Live double album and here he is so honest and true, very cool. I never realized he was from so close to my home. because I'm from Canada London Ont., not too far from Flint
Mark Farner i remember quite well in the 70's and still enjoy his music to this day,, a humble and obviously nice person ! In my opinion he is what made Grand Funk one of the great bands of it's time and even to this day ! Without Mark Farner "it is not Grand Funk"
Mark saw you in 72 at the Philadelphia Spectrum and me and a friend Danny were dead center front stage at that dance concert and you were dancin right in front of us,and it was such an epic moment! I used to go to alot of concerts but Ill never forget that GF concert as long as I live! Insixe Lookin Out was the shizz!!! I know every guitar riff and drum beat in not only that song but many of them! You guys were so Awesome!
I got to open up for him with Bruce Marshall, a New England artist, on Block Island, RI. His band absolutely killed it even though he wasn't liking his amps. He played his Parker Fly but his rented twins would shut down or something. He still didn't miss a beat. The crew had a work around in a couple of minutes. His drummer had a roadie that stood next to him rebuilding the drum kit every couple of minutes because his amazing drummer tore it to pieces from playing so hard. I was in the same cab on the way back to the same ferry to mainland. I mentioned his drummer and he said that he always has to have a drummer kicking his ass. When he left the cab, he said "If I don't see you in the future, I'll see you in the pasture." :-)
I moved to Michigan in 1976 I was sixteen years old . moved there from Indiana did not know what to expect . I bought a two person fiberglass and wood kayak . and a 307 1968 malibu maroon with black vinyl top very clean . I found out that Michigan's young people were different than where I was from for the better . the lakes are natural with Sandy rock bottoms . I am glad that I moved there and had the chance to know better . ~ ~ hard life (MULDEW) ~ gary b *
Mark farmer is the kind of guy I would have loved to have hung out with back in the day, riding motorcycles through the country, literally through the fields, I always wanted to do stuff like that to, I had a woods behind me I was fond of going to and shooting stuff w whatever , even sling shots, haha, I think if Mark is from Michigan he knows about iron ore pellets, I used to get those in Ohio as well, great sling shot ammo, get bags of em and just walk around looking for quick targets, yep, and play guitars, I liked that early grand funk sound, it was distinctive, some great some songs, flight of the Phoenix ...etc.
From the first time I heard them, I knew I'd be a fan of GFR forever, but I realized I was ACTUALLY a Mark Farner fan. He had (and still has!) the talent, the song writing, and the energy. The clownshoes touring as GFR are just a cover band without Marks voice. Marks better off without those two, and their rotating musicians. His back must be horribly scared from all the daggers those two phukkheads put in it. Everybody prefers Mark and his band over the clownshoe version claiming to be GFR!! Rock on Mark! The world is a far better place with you on it. Back stabbed scars and all!!
The more I hear this guy talk, the better I like him...God bless ya, and thanks for the memories..."closer to home" took me places, made my imagination soar...
He's still got it after all these years. I bought my first Grand Funk album in 1972, Survival but became a fan listening to songs like Inside Looking Out and Heartbreaker. I saw them at the Cow Palace in S.F. in 1974. One of my favorite bands bar none with one of the best front men ever, Mark Farner. Rock on my brother. 👍
Mark is a sweet, down to earth kinda guy..& a good man..one can tell from this interview. He's humble..considering how well-known he is from his time in GFR..& the amazing voice he has..& still a good-looking guy. What a treasure..& do hope GFR gets inducted into the R & R HoF..which is long overdue..to say the least. Thx 4 posting this on UTube. Very insightful & enjoyable. God Bless! 🙂🙂💗💗
We were teens when this band came out and rocked our world and rocked it did! So many great tunes like Sins A Good Mans Brother...great tune...I could go on and on about how great they are but I'd rather listen to them haha. Thanks for everything you have given us for so long....class A RocknRoll!
Mr. Farner has always been one of my favorites. I'm 64 years old and still fires me up every time I listen to Grand Funk!!!!!! A Class Act!
Hell yes 🤣🤣
Hear ya 68
He is great and Don Brewer is one my drums heroes :)))))
Grand Funk Railroad never would have been without Mark Farner.
AMEN Nick, especially after what don and mel did to him. They stole his music and kicked them out of the band!!! In the main comments I summarize what happened, there's also an interview in 6 parts I believe with Mark specifically on the breakup of the real and true and ONLY Grand Funk Railroad.
Correct
@@djs3484 satana
During the GFR era, Mark's compositions were tailored made for the trio. His voice and overall performances were unsurpassed. Cat is awesome !! Thanks for sharing...
Farner is just about as real as it gets. Great guitar player and a real rocker.
TREMENDOUS Songwriter and Vocalist also.
@@douglasward718 and a Patriot
Mark was MAGA AF before MAGA was MAGA 🇺🇲💪🇺🇲
Mis respetos y admiración por su gran talento
Y su persona...10**********
A true artist, no ego just pure love of music and he seems truely devoted to giving fans the best performance every time.
Yeah !!!! Be an American and be free and be a person for the world !!!!!!! No matter where ya come from , Love, Peace and Joy ! Hey.......That just might be a song ? Thank You !!!! Mark ! For being you.... So natural and inspiring !
The vocals of Mark Farner are a gift . He has so much natural talent
In my opinion, Mark Farner is one of the greatest rock n roll musicians of all time, and from what I've seen over years, in various interviews with him, he seems to be a very nice guy too.
Massive sound for 3 guys.
I admire Mark's plain simple intelligence. No arrogance. Excellent communication skills off and on stage. He honestly made this interview a lesson in music... jamming and constant practice the key... that's what it's all about!☮️💕👏👍🔔
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What a set of pipes he has. Mark Farner is one of the strongest Rock voices you'll ever hear.
What an amazing musician entertainer Mark Farmer is..he was Grand Funk 🙏 “Closer To Home” is a Masterpiece.
Back when, I could listen to Grand Funk Railroad for hours, and now wish I could talk with Mark Farner for hours. Rock on!
How can you not like this guy................................
@@donsmith7054 Obviously he knows about the impact Grand Funk made in the rock world and their millions of faithful fans and yet is down to earth and not a stupid prick about it. Lead singer syndrome? Mark Farner never heard of it !
Mark ROCKS!!!!! the boys did him bad but no matter, they can go to hell!!! Mark IS the FUNK!!!
Only an idiot wouldn’t like Farner.
I’ve been a big fan of his, enjoying his vocals, his guitarwork, his music for 45 years now. He’s not just a one-in-a-million singer with his rings-clear-as-a-bell signature vocals and worldclass guitarwork, but he’s also just a good warm caring person and friend to all as far as I’ve seen. I’ve never met him but I love him like a brother.
Bandana Dee Isaac
Regarding Don and Mel’s opinion of Mark. It would appear to be motivated to some extent by jealousy, eh? Jealousy of Mark’s more well-rounded talent and his greater popularity with the fans that eclipses theirs. That’s my observation anyway.
@@rickleblanc8900 So true Rick, Mark was and is a class act, something don and mel will NEVER be. They stole his music, kicked him out of the band, still tour and play HIS music and still call themselves grand funk. It's unbelievable the stones don and mel have to do that. They don't get it, Mark turned to Jesus and there is a thing called karma. The only Grand Funk was when Mark was in it.
His voice is still incredible. Physical, Mental & Spiritual Strength is a winner!!!
Mark is a natural talent, he can sing, play guitar, harmonica, keyboards... he does it all! ❤️
Wow! What an absolute down-to-Earth guy. No celebrity pretenses here, just a great guy sharing his thoughts and experiences. Excellent.
Mark's kept himself in great shape! Hopefully for us fans he has a lot of years of rockin' left in him!
The man was born to sing, that's for sure. Unbelievable singer with so much soul.
I was born (1957) and raised in Flint, picked up the guitar in 1969 and Mark Farner became my idol...got to meet him by chance at a restaurant in Mackinaw City in 1989 and what a nice and respectful guy he is....he did not seem to mind that I was kinda happy to meet him, posed for a couple of pictures with me and talked about guitars and,camping and fishing in northern Michigan...Great guy!
Wow two good things, Mark Farner and 1957 brother
I was born in 57 also I'm from Grand Blanc. He grew up next to my grandma and grandpa on stock bridge. Kearsley school. Has a sister Sue.
@Barry White oh fer crisse sakes!😑😑😑😐😐
@Barry White no, no it's not..
Go away with that Brightbart shit😂
MARK FARNER; GOD IS GREAT!!! HE GAVE US YOU. COULD WELL BE YOUR BIGGEST FAN? YOU CHANGED MY LIFE IN 69 AND YOU ARE AND ALWAYS GOING TO BE#1!!! AND I AM SURE THAT MY COMMENT IS SHARED WITH MILLIONS. THANK YOU.
Mark Farner is a pretty special musician. 🎸Thanks for the great tunes and fun concerts!🎸
WHat a great guy. In great shape and clear thinking. Young people can learn somehting from him!
Yes I thought at the time he was a doper but he wasn't
Lol. He wasn't always that way.
But yeah. He is a good guy. They all are.
@@kevinbrislawn5918
The f*** he wasn't. They all cleaned up
Another truly great singing voice from the 70’s! Hasn’t missed a step after all these years. Keep on rockin’ Mark!
He's such a great guy.. glad he's a brother in Jesus.
Never knew , after I gave my live to Jesus, 40 years back, most gospel. The last 15 years listen to 60s and see there are my favour guys love Jesus . Is that not 👍
True!!
What a great down to earth guy. Awesome with Grand Funk and with his solo career. No big headed ego here, you can tell he loves to keep doing it for his fans !
I met Mark thru a friend of mine. He was playing a side gig at a local bar. Lives 4 miles from my house. Never knew it. After the show he sat at our table and had dinner with us. Just a friendly guy, easy to talk to and great " on the road" stories!
I met Mark at “The Swamp” in 1985 when my band was playing in Flint. We were going to remix some tracks there and Mark was in the control room playing a keyboard. We didnt expect to see him. He was so humble and such a nice guy. He showed us around the studio and all the old Grand Funk road cases and memoriblia. Don Brewers drums were still set up. The red ones. Watch the American Band Video and you will see the swamp studio. Very cool.
What a Great American Man, and fantastic Artist
One of the best interviews that I’ve ever watched. Thanks Mark, you’re one of the best! God bless!
I know this is 9 years old now, but DAMN he sounds good!!
seattwa doesn’t he tho!! ❤️
One of the coolest greats that ever lived imo , rock on brother!
Great interview, human side of a rock icon. Mr. Farner definitely is the GFR voice and the band's hits composer. I'm 58 now, I'm a Grand Funk fan since I was just 13 years when in my home country Venezuela I listened to " I come Tumbling " in the E Pluribus Funk album, which we used to call the coin in Venezuela. My favorite band of all times
"Lets have a beer". For a rock legend, that's as down to earth and regular as it gets!
I love this guy! So talented and full of energy! And, he still looks fantastic! Thanks for the music! Rock n Roll!!!!!
Frank would make a pot of coffee nervous . Very cool Mark Great interview.
Mark Farner, my first guitar hero, God Bless!
so back in 1977, I am in my schools library, ( yes there was a thing called a library) and the school just got some donated albums, 3 boxes full, and I come across this GFR live album set....I didn't know who GFR was at the time, I was 16. So I take this live GFR double album over to the library record player and plug in those big 70's headphones and listen to this album...the intro to the album was some guy telling the crowd to relax and stuff...AND THEN!!...the announcer says, " heres the band you been waiting to see, GRAND FUNK RR"...and BOOOMMM!!!....so I am jamming and I cant hear myself with the headphones on...the librarian comes over, taps me on the shoulder and all the students are staring at me, cuttin up....I ask the librarian if I could buy this double album and she GIVES IT TO ME!!….I still have that 2 album set...I have remixed the songs on CD and on tape for clarity since the albums don't play due to scratches. That was my intro to GFR
you're a great man Mark. you helped make my high school years survivable.
Always liked Mr. Farner... Met him years ago in the peoples republic of Ann Arbor MI. Great guitar rockin', huntin' fishin' Michigan boy.😎
ALWAYS loved Mark (yeah, I was a teen-aged girl back in the early 70's in love with Mark Farner...I'll admit it). GFR was a phenominal band...had every single album - played over and over until my parents couldn't stand it anymore and I received those bulky headphones for Christmas one year! LOL
Even after all these years, I still LOVE the guy! Not only was he a heart-throb, he is a genuine, nice guy ...and IMO - STILL a heart-throb!
Love ya Mark xoxo
Kisses kid....I was with you...somewhere...... sweet child(s) in time.
It was fun. Hugz. I love you.
Yep! Everyone in high school had to have at least one GFR album. I remember having the two-record live album (I liked buying a lot of live albums back then for some reason and the 20 minute live recording of Inside Looking Out was unquestionably the best version imo), and I also had the classic album Closer to Home. Never got to see them perform though. They rarely performed in the DC area after 72 for some reason.
I believe those were industrial headphones for protection so your family wouldn't have to hear Grand Funk.but I was also a fan in those early 70s.
I don't blame you, he was very sexy when he was younger.
Couldn't agree more! Great stuff. I thought I was one of the very few GFR fans around. Cool.
Mark is still rockin after all these years, I grew up listening to Grand Funk, Mark is a stand up dude with good moral's, and believe's in our maker and that's alright by me.
One of the greatest RocknRollers ever! Thank you Grand Funk Railroad!!!
Great interview and wisdom spoken as a veteran musician! I have played bass for over 4 decades, which GFR was one of my favorite bands in the early years of playing--which I could play every song in great detail GRR produced, both on drums and on my Fender P-Bass! I recently laid my bass down and never picked it back up I got so burnt-out playing with musicians that no longer were committed, disciplined, or loyal to each band member. Today's musicians don''t want to discipline, rehearse, practice, practice, practice, preparing yourself to the point that you couldn't play the song wrong even if you wanted to. I sold both basses, Fender P-bass and Fender J-bass... I was almost in tears when I helped carry basses to buyers vehicle. Today's music has completely lost the heart, soul, body, mind, sweat, and spirit as it was in our young days coming up playing in the 70's, 80's, and 90's! I miss it playing bass....maybe one day there will be a spark, or opportunity to play once again with "real" "pure' "raw" musicians???
One of the best dialogues I have heard, this guy is REAL, and the bands back then played actual music and instruments...lol get it???!!
I remember the first time that I heard " I'm your Captain. " I was in third grade, I went to private school 1st and second. first day of school third grade I waited for bus #72, it was in 1971 and I didn't know what to expect. I was 2 years behind the game, nervous as all get out. This bus was old and rickety, I went straight to the back of the bus I didn't look at anyone sat on the back seat. I saw a speaker in the back on top of the door' I also saw speaker wire taped on the ceiling with masking tape going all the way to the front. right then I heard someone say." Hey Bus driver does that radio work?" At first I heard some Crackling noises, Then the song, I'm your captain came on, Been hooked ever since. Rock On Mark Farner
I love Grand Funk Railroad I've been listening to them since '69 to present day Mark Farner is such an awesome person! I enjoy his interviews TY for posting
Mark, I played all of your stuff back in the 70;s. Loved it then, and still do today.
Farner turned Christian before it was cool. He did a little dope. He's a guy on the underrated list. Power trio's from the 60's, Funk is on the top 5. That ax is sick for 200 bucks!
see you don't need fancy gear ,just heart soul and talent.
Right on, Mark! Tell me why GFR is not in the HOF? I live in Ohio, and I won't go to the HOF till GFR is part of it!
GFR Forever!
peace...
Farner is great. The interviewer should have asked him, at what age did you finally start wearing shirts.
Hilarious.....
ha ha ha ha
funny! something else that's funny, he's still in great shape and can get away with it... lol
Now that had my soda water go through my nose! Was reading mid-sip... too funny.
Gold
Great interview , great band , great musician! Thanks Mark your voice and playing always !! God bless!
WOW! This guy is so impressive. He still has it after all this time. I saw this bank live in 1972 in Portland, Oregon. Absolutely stunning band.
I was at that very same show. Was one of the last to leave, walking off ,looked down and picked up one of his guitar picks....still have it, somewhere. T'was a great show !!
He's the real deal singer and guitar player Mark is
Singer composer and guitarist,, Mark Farner,, Grand Funk Railroad " I love him,,
MARK FARNER!! GRAND FUNK RAILROAD" THE BEST,,
Gracias señor Mark Farner x dejarnos buena música rock en los años 60's y 70's.
What a great guy.....Mark Farner is the best...
Mark you are a true talented American love your stuff always have always will thanks for the Years brother
I got "Grand Funk Railroad Live Album" 2 record set of Atlanta Pop Festival July 4 1969 when I was 14 in '72. What Farner achieved as a hard rock trio frontman has never been duplicated by ANYONE! EVER!
Terry Bartak he was an unknown at the first Atlanta festival in 69. if I'm not mistaken
What a great album it is. My first rock album actually!
Terry Bartak Yeah I got that about the same time that bass was awesome
I was and am still a Mark Farner and Grand Funk Railroad fan. Have been since the "On Time" album came out. One of the greatest Rock bands that ever hit the planet..........Why aren't they in the R&RHOF?????????
I loved GFR when I first heard them in 1969, and I still love them until this very day. I don't give a crap what any smart ass know-it-all says. The fact is this.... They were a group of American kids that played rock and roll in a garage band that made THE BIG TIME with the instruments that THEY could afford to buy. They deserve to be in The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame ...... Who in the heck is abba?
Kenny Starr Yes Kenny, am deep down southern Zimbabwe in Gwanda town.This was and is the music----it was well ahead of its time.I listened to it at 17yrs of age and am 56yrs old now, still listening and deeply in love with this golden rock band from the USA--Oh yes guys, this is the group ladies and gentlemen.
Gregory Edwards ....GFR was my very first concert ever in 1973 during Shinin' On Tour.
Wet Willie band opened.
Such an AWESOME show.
Hello Gregory, You put into words exactly how I feel about Grand Funk Railroad! They were a group of American kids that played Rock N Roll! They bought the musical instruments they could afford to buy. They weren't elitist Progressive Rock virtuosos. When Mark, Don and Mel got to together. they had a chemistry that was truly unique! That's why they made the big time. That's what makes a successful band! I describe Grand Funk's music as Rock N Roll Soul! When Mark and Don sang in unison, it would grip my soul!!! Amazingly, Mark Farner still possesses his incredible voice! Mark is a very sincere and honest man and that sincerity comes through in his wonderful singing voice! When Mark sang "People Let's Stop The War" I believed him!!! I was on the cusp of the age of 13 when my late brother and I bought the red covered Grand Funk album in the Summer of '70 in Pacoima, CA. Us Chicanos/Mexican-Americans loved Grand Funk. I was attending Pacoima Junior High School at the time, the same school which the late Ritchie Valens attended, and us kids loved Grand Funk! I fondly remember a breezy afternoon in 1971 going to the "White Front" department store to buy the "Closer To Home" album. That album has a Autumn like feeling and is also very Spiritual. Grand Funk had progressed. I was just taken away by "I'm Your Captain!" Every time I listen to it now, a wistful feeling comes over me and tears well up in my eyes! That song has so much Spirituality! Grand Funk were, to a certain degree, spokesman to us kids coming of age at that time. Mark's lyrics became more political and I believed in him!!! Grand Funk mean so much to us fans who lived through that period! The Vietnam War, race relations and poverty. Though I hope Grand Funk will soon be inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame, it really doesn't matter. What matters is that they positively touched the lives of millions of fans around of the world and for that I'm eternally grateful! Raul.🙂
What a guy! A genuine legend and so down to earth.
Tremendous rock and roll voice. He and Steve Marriott are my classic rock favorites.
Thats so true. You know it instantly when you here the music playing!
Steve Marriott had a incredible voice. So powerful and soulful
Grand Funk and Bloodrock was my first concert. Love them still. Now I know he was always a patriot. Awesome
Same for me. Saw them in Charlotte. Live was the first album I bought and I still have it.
Great interview!
Saw them at Shea Stadium. Mark Farner is one hot babe ! Was then, is now. His style and talent are not to be denied. I listened to Grand Funk Railroad in the seventies everyday. He still sounds the same...and can still entertain bringing the house down !
Debbie Oliveri Yes Debbie, am deep down Zimbabwe in Gwanda town.This was and is the music----it was well ahead of its town.I listened to it at 17yrs of age and am 56yrs old now, still listening and deeply in love with this golden rock band from the USA--Oh yes guys, this is the group ladies and gentlemen.
Debbie Oliveri he's just amazing to watch his old videos of him gyrating on stage..unabashed friendly man
Grew up with GFR. Two of my favorite all time bands, GFR and Deep Purple!! Mark has one fantastic voice and an awesome guitarist!!!
He really hasn’t lost anything vocally, amazing. I’d really love to see him live he has a really great band.
DUDE! GFR and Deep Purple are my two favourite all time bands too! Unreal. I never thought they were similar, but there must be something eh?
The man's not only a musical legend, but he's also a red blooded, meat eating patriot, & that's so refreshing in this new era of pussified, snowflake whiners that have all but destroyed the amazing music that was made from the late 60s thru the mid 80s..Gen x,y&z can't hold a candle to the 1st &2nd generation of actual musicians who could actually play their instruments,,and didn't rely on samples and pitch correction vocoders, like today's, "gags" hip-hop, & what they have the nerve to call pop.
Great American
The Jimi Hendrix buzz tone was built right into the Marshall plexi.
Hey jerk.. I could kickass. I was In The Angry Samoans. Bassist 1980s. City boy. Beverly Hills. I don't mind saying as a Punk rocker. And a deer / Antelope hunter even Today who bought his first 12" LP at 14... American Band. Love GFR Still.
"Meat eating patriot"?🤔 lol...I agree with you totally, just thought that part of your statement was pretty funny..😎
Amen !
Thank you Mark Farner! 🎶💖🙌
When I was 12 in 1970, " Captain" was the most powerful song I ever heard. And it holds up. Thanks...until 2022, I never knew how Mark wrote it.
Several years ago I was at a convenience store in Fl. and there was an old, beat up station wagon in the lot with Mark Farner and GFR stickers all over it. I waited for the driver to return and an old man in overalls came out. When I asked him about the stickers he said "Mark is my baby brother and I couldn't be more proud! He went on to tell me how he was a roadie for GFR during the time of their fame (Shea Stadium etc). Pretty cool.
Mark Farner is about the most humble celebrity that you'll ever meet. Incredibly grounded in his faith, and love of music and country. It's apparent in every interview I've even seen. He's always lavish in his praise of others who helped along the way. A great quality to have. The more I see and hear, the more I admire him.
Mark you made my life with Rock n' Roll ,
Best ever ,,,
mark, you threw a pick to me in 1971 - dorton arena. still have it!
....you mean the big potato chip in Raleigh?...
yep. an actual marvel of engineering. and bloodrock opened the show... (they were better too)
He threw a harmonica in my direction that went over my head back when he played a fishing tournament in Kissimmee, Florida back in the mid 00's.
Robert Fonner that would have been a much better souvenir. sorry you didn’t get it but glad it didn’t bop you on the head! so was the rest of the band and how was the show?
@@_dave4460 It was truly fantastic! I've never seen the original GFRR. My brother went with me even though he never cared for them but he knew how much it meant to me.
I saw him about 8 years ago in PA
His vocals were spot on
I play guitar and also use the Keeley Fuzz Head
It has no tone control because it is perfect
I just Love Grand Funk... Closer to Home my favorite
Zappa with Farner.... never knew....that is frickin' cool....!
Zappa produced their last album.
And an excellent LP it is, too.
Zappa and Grand Funk!
Both in the top 5 of rock n roll ever!
Fuck the cock n blow hall of lame!
🖕😎🖕
Mark Farner is Grand Funk. He had that soulful sound that only he can replacate.
I recently "rediscovered" Grank Funk, and I have so much more respect for their musicianship than I did when I was a younger, more up-and-coming, drummer. Their music is so energetic yet tasteful, and their enthusiasm is infectious. Great interview of a great guy here!
His voice has held up great.
Plays his songs like they sound on the album - always thinking of the fans. Great guy.
This is a beautiful man:) NO GFR WITHOUT HIM!!!
shit hes aged well...looks great and still rocks great...amazing
The Man himself, Hail to the King !!!!
This guy Wow. He was so heavy; Grand Funk Live double album and here he is so honest and true, very cool. I never realized he was from so close to my home. because I'm from Canada London Ont., not too far from Flint
That was the first album I bought with my lawn mowing earnings ,still a great album,stands the test of time !
He still is.
Love ya Mark!!! Your an inspiration to a bunch of folks! Grand Funk Railroad is iconic!
Mark doesn't know it but he was my vocal coach. Thanks Mark, you taught me a lot!!
Mark Farner i remember quite well in the 70's and still enjoy his music to this day,, a humble and obviously nice person ! In my opinion he is what made Grand Funk one of the great bands of it's time and even to this day ! Without Mark Farner "it is not Grand Funk"
Mark saw you in 72 at the Philadelphia Spectrum and me and a friend Danny were dead center front stage at that dance concert and you were dancin right in front of us,and it was such an epic moment! I used to go to alot of concerts but Ill never forget that GF concert as long as I live! Insixe Lookin Out was the shizz!!! I know every guitar riff and drum beat in not only that song but many of them! You guys were so Awesome!
I got to open up for him with Bruce Marshall, a New England artist, on Block Island, RI. His band absolutely killed it even though he wasn't liking his amps. He played his Parker Fly but his rented twins would shut down or something. He still didn't miss a beat. The crew had a work around in a couple of minutes.
His drummer had a roadie that stood next to him rebuilding the drum kit every couple of minutes because his amazing drummer tore it to pieces from playing so hard.
I was in the same cab on the way back to the same ferry to mainland. I mentioned his drummer and he said that he always has to have a drummer kicking his ass. When he left the cab, he said "If I don't see you in the future, I'll see you in the pasture." :-)
I moved to Michigan in 1976 I was sixteen years old . moved there from Indiana did not know what to expect . I bought a two person fiberglass and wood kayak . and a 307 1968 malibu maroon with black vinyl top very clean . I found out that Michigan's young people were different than where I was from for the better . the lakes are natural with Sandy rock bottoms . I am glad that I moved there and had the chance to know better . ~ ~ hard life (MULDEW) ~ gary b *
Mark Farner is a national treasure!
Mark farmer is the kind of guy I would have loved to have hung out with back in the day, riding motorcycles through the country, literally through the fields, I always wanted to do stuff like that to, I had a woods behind me I was fond of going to and shooting stuff w whatever , even sling shots, haha, I think if Mark is from Michigan he knows about iron ore pellets, I used to get those in Ohio as well, great sling shot ammo, get bags of em and just walk around looking for quick targets, yep, and play guitars, I liked that early grand funk sound, it was distinctive, some great some songs, flight of the Phoenix ...etc.
From the first time I heard them, I knew I'd be a fan of GFR forever, but I realized I was ACTUALLY a Mark Farner fan. He had (and still has!) the talent, the song writing, and the energy. The clownshoes touring as GFR are just a cover band without Marks voice. Marks better off without those two, and their rotating musicians. His back must be horribly scared from all the daggers those two phukkheads put in it. Everybody prefers Mark and his band over the clownshoe version claiming to be GFR!! Rock on Mark! The world is a far better place with you on it. Back stabbed scars and all!!
The more I hear this guy talk, the better I like him...God bless ya, and thanks for the memories..."closer to home" took me places, made my imagination soar...
He's still got it after all these years. I bought my first Grand Funk album in 1972, Survival but became a fan listening to songs like Inside Looking Out and Heartbreaker. I saw them at the Cow Palace in S.F. in 1974. One of my favorite bands bar none with one of the best front men ever, Mark Farner. Rock on my brother. 👍
Mark is a sweet, down to earth kinda guy..& a good man..one can tell from this interview. He's humble..considering how well-known he is from his time in GFR..& the amazing voice he has..& still a good-looking guy. What a treasure..& do hope GFR gets inducted into the R & R HoF..which is long overdue..to say the least. Thx 4 posting this on UTube. Very insightful & enjoyable. God Bless! 🙂🙂💗💗
Mark had the best hair ever!! I remember seeing him in the 70's, no shirt with that hair and I was in LOVE!
We were teens when this band came out and rocked our world and rocked it did! So many great tunes like Sins A Good Mans Brother...great tune...I could go on and on about how great they are but I'd rather listen to them haha. Thanks for everything you have given us for so long....class A RocknRoll!
Great entertainer…..amazing energy………and a very nice guy.
Mark Farner, His God Rock music has blessed my socks off . Praise God! Lu G.
He seems like he'd be a cool guy to just hang out and talk with about music. Seems pretty down to earth and laid back.
Awesome Mark!!! Loved you from the 60's on through today!!!
You ROCK bro!!!!
Mark Farner... an American treasure.
That Inside Looking Out video is what I show anyone who asks me to describe rock and roll.