Finally, someone recognizes the musical genius of Grand Funk. The most underrated Rock band in history. Why aren't they in the Rock and Roll hall of fame?
I went to a large bar back in 1985, because GFR was playing live. A buddy and I arrived early, and I picked a spot right at the stage. As they kicked off Mark kept tripping over his guitar cable, so I started reeling it in, or letting it out as needed. He realized instantly what I was doing, and gave me a thumbs up. I guess the roadies liked it too, because they started sending beer every time I ran out. They wanted me to stick around, so we had a sit down, and chatted for an hour or so after the gig. A bunch of very cool guys. They signed a set of drumsticks for me. It was a good night.
I watched a video recently where Mark was talking about when their manager fired them from being the opening act for zep but why? What was the reason? Could it be they were a better live performance? I saw many concerts in the seventies including the big 3 of the day page, beck and Clapton. All disappointing live. In my humble opinion marks voice is as powerful as plant. Page may be a more proficient guitarist but less give credit where it's due. So happy you did a vid of these talented dudes
Bands like GFR used to tour for months on end, When you play together that much you can't help but get tight. Pop acts (can you call them bands if they don't play their own instruments?) nowadays go on tour and only perform 3 or 4 nights a month. They will make more Festival and TV appearances than full length live shows. .
My chest tightens and actually hurts when I hear really good GFR music. These guys define the essence of rock and why we love it so much. These guys kill musically and understand the power of music at a deep level.
I just someone react to this ,and oh man their good . I saw Mark Farner on Howard Stern. I mean his voice right now was amazing. Closer to Home. I’m your Captain.
I'm a 64 year old black American male, and I too was a GFR fan. Fortunate to see them in '73. Loved all the guys but,.ain't no Grand Funk without Farner. It was a great period for the Temps also!
Grand Funks got their roots from the blues and have a lot of black fans and their early stuff was their best music. I truly feel they made a big mistake going main stream with "We`re An American Band " in 1973. Sure they got a lot of new fans but they lost that hard driving blues rock sound that set them apart from everyone else. The reality is that there were two Grand Funks, one from 1969 to 1972 and one from 1973 to 1976 and I`ll take the first one every time!
@@cabterrot3574 Brewer had Farner sign into a corporation making a two thirds rule ( Brewer & Mel) leaving Mark out in the cold. Chicken shit move and a pity. Marks shows are much better so if you have a chance, go see one of his.
If you watch interviews given by Mark Farner, you'll find that it wasn't anything he did, but rather what Don did to him which was pretty low of that little shit.
Oh how I miss those days!!! I was fortunate enough to be a teenager during the best rock music era ever!! Grand Funk, Black Oak Arkansas, Allman Brothers, and too many more to mention. Always loved those long music breaks in the songs when we were sitting around listening to albums. Wish you could've been there to experience all that great music firsthand. You would've loved it!! 🤘
All my favorite bass players play with a pick, by the way. James Gang's Dale Peters is one of them. James Jamerson from Motown said you can be more melodic with a pick--and you can!
that was a brilliant bass performance. This entire band is so under-rated. and it was all live. You could have done no better in the studio. In fact, not as good.
Mel's playing/sound is so totally unique you could make him out in any mix from any band. Funky sloppy fuzz bass is just throwing down in this song, it's excellent and he's absolutely the only reason I'd go see GFR without Farner.
MARK FARNER IS A GENIUS,and so full of energy he may live to 105,he is an inspired musical genius,his guitar work astound,his vocals and organ piano material writing genius shows every song,hall of fame is vacant
@@pamcrider8074 I couldn't agree more. I'm afraid that entire generation of rock music from 1966-1976 is going to be a tough act to follow for many years to come, and with many of those artists from that era pushing 70-80 years of age, I'm afraid quality R&B based rock music as we knew it will be dead when they are gone. Most young people coming up in the music business aren't even trying to reproduce this kind of music, and the few that are are falling flat on their faces. Really difficult to make lightning strike twice, and definitely in this case, they won't
Without a doubt!!! Top of the pile of great rock gods. Agreed, they were all great talents, however, Don Brewer should be ashamed at what he did to Mark Farner.
@@rosenb37 You obviously are clueless. And yes, I am a boomer. Which means I know more than you. The true Grand Funk fan knows their music is split into before and after Terry Knight. Your flippant Bon Jovi remark may be true for their second version produced by Todd Rundgren where they produced the "POP" music. However, the first version of the group which produced their first 5 albums, On Time, Grand Funk, Closer To Home, Survival and E Pluribus Funk was a hard core Garage Funk Punk band. I defy someone to listen too "Sin A Good Mans Brother" and hear anything other than hard core rock. ruclips.net/video/vPdKSlQOBYE/видео.html
Cream redefined music. Grand Funk didn't. Still they were one of favorites but no comparison. Clapton, Bruce and Baker were voted the best on their instruments as well. They each redefined their instruments and the impact on the future of music and musicians is immeasurable.
Listen to - Winter & My Soul. I love Schacher and Brewer's work filling in the hole on Bass and Drums. Really full sounding song for a three piece band!
How much live rock performances have changed since those days, so much raw energy and no need for elaborate equipment, pitch correction & backing tracks.
The question is why in the hell is Janet Jackson in the ROCK N ROLL hall of fame ,that makes no sense . I agree though these guys are freaking awesome they snub a lot of great bands it's ridiculous.
I'm a 62 year old Texan, and Grand Funk Railroad was definitely a huge part of my adolescence...these guys could really sing so soulfully and rock out with the best of them! Another great choice Fil.
I saw Grand Funk live in the early 70's, I was 13 years old and this my first true rock concert. I had known of them by listening to my older sisters' LP blaring through the house, and knew their work well, but wasn't prepared for what, to this very day, was the most incredible live performance I have ever seen, and I've seen many many top rock acts since. The chord structure, dynamics, instrumentation, vocals, and stage presence were unmatched. And by a power trio too, they were appropriately super loud, over the top energy, and a mind-blowing visual spectacle. They were and will always be (50+ years now) my favorite band of all time.
Yes. To truly appreciate GFR you had to * be there.* I saw them 5 times "back in the day." It is fair to say that not all of Mark's songs were exactly the greatest. But, that band was so tight and disciplined that it didn't matter. Mark sold those songs with his great voice and soul, along with the bands ability to belt out rock and roll. They were as good as it gets live. No question. I was there when they were an opener for Zep in Detroit when the show was stopped due to, "A contractual agreement with Led Zeppelin," and I'm going tell you that had GFR not stopped no one would have cared. GFR had the place on fire. Don't get me wrong, Zep was AMAZING. But, when GFR was stopped it was truly Funkus Interruptus. You could feel the letdown in the building. GFR was no doubt one of the best live bands EVER.
No auto tuning back then or fake performances. They had to deliver and they did in spades with musicality and desire!! I was in high school when GFR were at their peak. Incredible band. Incredible voices from Mark and Don!!
Couldn’t agree more, I’m born and bred in Ga, and I can personally say that we Southerners down here worship all the Great Michigan Bands, Nugent, Grand funk, The Stooges , and my ultimate favorite The MC5, it’s like fuel to my day. Tryin to get Fil to put them up on one day.
@@brandonhaynes2652 I saw MC5 when they played at and outdoor park in Ann Arbor MI. in 1968. I was 11 years old, rode my bicycle down there. was right up front. Rob Tyner and the boys.
@@brandonhaynes2652 I am from MI. but always loved southern rock. Allman Bros., Skynyrd, Marshall Tucker band. Met Gary Rossington from Skynyrd and told him, even though I am a Bass Player, I bought my first Les Paul because of his playing on "one more from the road" album.
They clearly never listened to their albums. They only judged them by where they came from, and their reputation for being loud in concert. Most of it came from the "hip" police at Rolling Stone Magazine, the same ones who, I believe, hold the keys to the kingdom of Cleveland's RRHOF, even though they are located in the Midwest that those San Franners detest so much. The charges that always pissed me off the most were talentless and one-dimensional. Talentless? Are you kidding me? Mark is a virtual one man rock band, and even helped Brewer play percussions in his live drum solos, in addition to organ, harmonica, vocals, and nearly all the quality songwriting, and you call him "talentless"?
@@impalaman9707 Well said, sir! Agree with EVERYTHING you said. Many don't remember or realize how HUGE GFR was across the USA. I don't even pay attention the R&RHOF because these guys and Steppenwolf are not in.
These guys gave funk to rock and roll like no other. Mark would constantly work the stage with grooving moves that made you mesmerized !!!! Thanks so much Fil for your kind review.
December 1969, Cleveland Public Hall. The bill was James Gang, Grand Funk Railroad and Led Zepplin. The James Gang was a very popular local band on the edge of breaking out. Grand Funk was touring in support of their first album. And Zepplin was...well...Zepplin. The James Gang had a great opening set and did themselves proud! Grand Funk, in its first, and only, show with Zepplin came out and BLEW THE ROOF OFF the house!!!! Zepplin came out and played like they were in shock but put on a good show. After the show, Peter Grant, Zepplins manager, kicked Grand Funk off the tour because they SMOKED Zepplin! That evening was one I'll never forget!
Cleveland wasn't Zeppelin's first and only show with GFRR, but it was the last. In October 1969, GFRR, along with supporting acts Lee Michaels and the MC5, opened for Zeppelin at the Olympia in Detroit. Being a local band, GFRR got huge applause(MC5, although also a local group, didn't get much applause - but that's another story), and eventually Peter Grant literally pulled the plug on GFRR during their performance. The Olympia was silent for about a half an hour, during which time, GFRR's manager, Terry Knight announced to the crowd that Zeppelin didn't want to follow GFRR. I guess things finally came to a head a couple months later in Cleveland.
@@onethumbpicker MC5 - that's a name I haven't heard in a long time and their influence was massive - think of all the great Detroit bands, Iggy and the Stooges (another groundbreaking band pre-punk), GFR, Bob Seger, Suzi Quatro, Henchmen, Mitch Ryder, Amboy Dukes, Alice Cooper (Earwigs), Funkadelic and that's not counting all Motown groups.
Glen Kelly, being a native Clevelander, I couldn't agree with you more about the Detroit influence! Let's not forget Vanilla Fudge, Mike Quatro and his jam band, Cactus, Terry Knight and the pack..... I'm swimming against the local tide here, but I've always felt that Detroit has a much larger claim to the "Rock Hall" than Cleveland. Onethumbpicker, I could be wrong in my memories, but it could've been earlier. And considering the geographic locations of Detroit and Cleveland, it would make sense that it might've even been the next show. Either way great rock history!!!
When these three got together it was like three minds molded into one. They were incredibly popular in the early days of FM radio and became superstars because of FM radio playing the Grand Funk Railroad live album. Their talent was amazing. They could even do covers!
@@frederickwhite6416 In 1974 Barbara Strysan won song of the year with,"The Way We Were." She isn't even Rock N Roll. That's when the American Music Awards got started in 75. Let the listeners decide. May have spelled her name wrong. It shocked me.
Nowhere to hide in a power trio. Things I love....vocals on the gritty edge that don't go over it, and drummers who aren't afraid to hit their drums. Things that you would all love...... would be a dollar for all the times I played "Grand Funk Live" in the early '70s, especially this track. I never thought that Grand Funk got the respect that they deserved back then. I just don't think many people got the sense of the power in their combination. As usual, you have made every observation that I could have, and a good few more. A very enjoyable watch, both the video and the analysis.............Rock on!
One of the best American rock bands!! Pure raw passion!! So tight and great chemistry, they all compliment each other! Mark’s vocals almost get to that gospel level, very intense🤘🏻
The Hall of Fame is a sorry ass joke period. GFR is iconic, they don't have to be in their bull crap so called Hall of Fame. I Don't recognize the Hall of Fame.
amw78 the reason is b/c Mark has found Jesus now and thats how these evil bastrds operate! has nothing to do with music- everything to do with message.
And yes they are a joke one time i talked to one guy ask me are they any good and i said ARE THEY ANY GOOD? of course he was only 30 something i ask him so what do you listen too guess what shoop dog really are you kidding me i feel really sorry for this guy but why i should loser lol...........
FIL, THANKS FOR THE VIDEO OF A GREAT BAND, AND YOUR GREAT COMMENTS, WHEN I WAS 17 YEARS OLD, A FRIEND OF MINE HAD A SMALL FARM AROUND ANN ARBOR MICHIGAN, WE WENT OUT IN HIS FIELD ONE DAY AND I HEARD LOUD MUSIC, I SAID YOUR NEIGHBORS HAVING A PARTY? HE SAID NO, THAT IS GRAND FUNK RAILROAD PRACTICING IN THAT BARN OVER THERE, SO WE WALKED OVER THERE AND WALKED IN THE BARN , HE KNEW THEM, WE SAT THERE FOR AN HOUR AND LISTENED TO THEM, WHAT A PRIVATE BARN CONCERT, THEN THE NEXT WEEK I SAW THEM PLAY A CONCERT IN THE DETROIT AREA, MEMORIES MAN, ROCK ON FIL, COUSIN FIGEL
What amazes me about Farner is he is just as fresh and in Shape, today as he was then..... He is a great example of what can be obtained and preserved, through the years.... Still a great show in 2019!... Amazing performer.......
I saw GFR with Zep and I just remember being completely blown away with the energy of GFR. They were so tight, and powerful.... They absolutely owned the stage that night... Still one of the best concert memories I have...
Loving this band since i was 12yrs old, im now 65 and still in awe of them!!! They are so underrated, phenomenal band 3 piece band making all that sound...beautiful!!!
Okay, I'm just two years younger, was in just as much awe, but they were only just, "An American Band!"..lol God were they good! You just float along the reverb on Mark's voice on the simple lyrics. Then BAM! He hits you. They each hit you. They take turns hitting you, then they gang up on hitting you. I love this performance. These guys are great musicians, and oh ya, a totally underrated, phenomenal 3 piece band.
The band Mountain was another excellent three-piece that was iconic in that era. In high school in the states we all had that album. On the next album, “I’m Getting Closer to My Home” was like the national anthem.
lisa richards my mother thought there was something wrong with me I use to come home from school put grand funk on and listen to them and some others for hours and hours. But my sister said Iv always been like that since I was a little kid . One of my favorite pictures is sitting at the table with my 45s with a big grin on my face enjoying the music. At 3 years old
Recently I overheard a conversation were one man told another, "think of the greatest, most influential bands of all time, name the first 5 that come to mind, and you will see that none of them are American". and then they proceeded to name all the British bands we all know, but GFR never crossed their minds. When I got up to leave, as I walked past them I said "Grand Funk Railroad", and walked away.
@@spaceghost8995 The whole world is laughing at your stupid conclusion! It was with them that Hard Rock and Heavy Metal began, and not with LZ or DP! All these incompetent Englishmen became cool, heavy, technical, only thanks to GFR and their first two albums of 1969! Everyone started to copy their style, playing style, titles and song structure stupidly! Because in 1 year they put the whole world on the ears! In 1970 alone, GFR sold more CDs than any other band or artist! This year they have already had 4 gold albums, including the greatest and revolutionary live album "Live Album"! And this is also an innovation of GFR, after which all rock bands began to try to release live albums! But of course, no one came close to them, in terms of professionalism, technique, speed, charisma and level of professionalism! GFR was also the best live rock band ever!
I am a non musician. I just like what I like. What I like about the Pegasus guy is that he breaks stuff down into mathematics and timing. I have no clue what he is talking about. But, it all comes down to a gorgeous piece of music so thank you Pegasus.
I'm 58 years old and I learned to play the drums playing to GFR back then Don Brewer was a monster on the drums, he still is I have a lot respect for him as a drummer, but for what he did to Mark Farner I will never respect him as a person .
He's a backstabbing bastard, great drummer or not. He sucks as a human being. Just a two faced drummer. Do Not ever go see present day Grand Funk. It's a farce! Let them know we know they suck without Mark.
Growing up in the 70's, my step mom had a lot of classic rock records, and this is one of them. I "discovered" this song when I was about 13. I got my first electric guitar shortly after. I still have all of my step mom's records from the 60's and 70's.
This band was so creative and versatile in their sound. Nothing cookie cutter ever came from this band. One of the many reasons I loved them. Unbelivable talent!
Hi Fil, you know how to get a girl's attention. Mark is my favorite ever performer as I've said before. The infatuation level is pretty high. Thank you for sharing this kick ass performance by The phenomenal, multi-talented, totally gorgeous, 20 year old Mark Farner. Awesome remake of Inside Looking Out. Not too happy with the way Don and Mel mistreated Mark but life isn't always fair is it. Mark is such a natural born showman. His videos have just as much impact today as they did back in the day, maybe more so. Thanks again and much love to you Fil😃💗
I'm lovin' it! Sometimes I think you were supposed to be a baby boomer too Fil. You appreciate classic rock, even though you weren't even born yet. Then you turn around and teach me! When GFR was playing, they were so in tune with each other that just a look communicated between them. Rock on!
They were truly a great band and extremely popular on the concert scene. Too bad they were heavily panned by the tone deaf critics of the day. Every album they put out that the critics panned went at the very least gold and many went double platinum.
This is easily the best, most raw, intense live performance I've ever seen. And I am certain that it will be ... til the day I die. Love watching this, seeing how great they were live when they were SO very young. Notice all the eye contact between them (mostly between Mark and Mel)? They are making sure they are on the same page all the way through this performance. Mark Farner is just unbelievable. Honestly, I don't have words to describe how talented these 3 guys were as a "power trio". And I loved watching your face as you watched them .... lots of smiles.
Right song, wrong version. The first live album is the one to play if you want to appreciate this song in all of it's power and sonic glory! And ya don't need video.
Oh hell yeah !. Mark, Don and Mel Rule !. I'm totally getting getting down with the Grand Funk. My friends son is autistic. However, when i put on the Grand Funk. This kid is a Rocking. This kid knows good music. When he hears it. Rock on !.
Can you believe that the bass player (Mel) was 19, and the other two are only 20 years old (Mark and Don)?!! It was their first year as Grand Funk Railroad. This is my favorite music video.
Going back and listening to the early Grand Funk made me a fan of theirs. They definitely had a Detroit sound, similar in bass and drum to other Detroit bands of the time, but they are definitely unique as well. Nobody sounded like Grand Funk, until Grand Funk.
Part of their unique sound was the off brand guitar Mark was using at the time and the custom plugging of sound holes and taping over ! Observe all the tape ! I’m a 72 yr male and GFR rocked me and my blood flow ! Thanks Fil for awesome coverage for us fans of GFR !
@@ALASKAPOCKEHOLER Exactly! A duct taped six string, a (relatively) small drum kit, and a bassist that had to strive not to shake down the walls of any venue they played. And you can see in each of their individual expressions that each of them were having an absolute blast. That passion is the same when they dominated thousands of fans in arenas as when they played for a dozen or so people, like in this video on local access television in 1969. The passion & funk are either there, or are completely absent. If it isn't there on day-one, it'll never come --but when it has always been a part of the band, it will always be there, like an extra bandmate.
That era of rock had no rules, labels sure made mega bucks. FM stations were underground sources to hear this group, they were a word of mouth band. It was greatest time musical freedom.
@Michael Bentello absolutely, back when FM radio was underground. By the time they had "top 40 " hits there was a whole following that had been around for years. Same way with Lee Michaels
Saw them in 71. What a concert. This was the last song, Mark was standing up high on some speaker towers doing that wicked solo. King of the mountain. Fantastic concert. Maybe the loudest too. That guitar had a tone like no other. He should still be playing it. Big thumbs up Fil!
Thank you for introducing this particular Grand funk Railroad song! Wow! Sheer talent and pure energy from all 3 talented men who are all on FIRE... as Phil said could easily be mistaken for 4 or 5 band members. I'm blown away!!!
I still remember my first car. One of the few non-homemade tapes that I had was a best of GFR/BTO each with one side. I played that tape til it couldn't be fixed anymore. Also as a bass player, he was laying down some funk.
First record I ever bought was GFR "OnTime" ( followed closely by The Who Live at Leeds, Black Sabbath's Paranoid, & Deep Purple Made in Japan). I also had a cassette of whichever Grand Funk record it was that had an *excellent" cover of Dave Mason's "Feelin Alright" , and I think it had the Stones' Gimme Shelter on there as well. The critics always hated Grand Funk Railroad, but they were real crowd-pleaser.
@@goodun6081 That was "Survival", also *my* first GFR album! I picked up the album at a flea market for $1.00 about 30 years ago, still had the caveman photos of each band member. Still my favorite GFR record.
The one comment always made after a GF performance was that they couldn't believe they were only three members. Their sound was much bigger due to the fact that you mentioned regarding their ability to do several things at once. Great band! I'm 66 and they were my favorite in 69.
I was never really into GFR. What is wrong with me? These guys are GREAT! Now not only are these analysis videos introducing me to new artists but they are also helping me to reevaluate old artists. I also watched Fil's anaysis of Mark Farner. Wow! I have a lot of GFR catching up to do. Thanks, Fil!
FIL, I have never seen you smile so much!! This was the effect that GFR had on people. I was in high school, grade 7 when GFR were peaking. My brother and I played their earlier recordings every day. Homework? What homework. GFR were musical, raw and passionate. We were so fortunate to have all this great music around us. Amazing band, fantastic period!!! 😀. Thanks FIL!! Unforgettable video and analysis for one of my all time favorite bands!!!
FIL, THIS BAND WAS HUGE IN MICHIGAN WHEN I WAS A TEENAGER. WHILE EVERYBODY WAS PLAYING A LES PAUL, OR A STRAT BACK THEN, MARK FARNER ALWAYS PLAYED THE DIFFERENT GUITARS THAT YOU NEVER SAW BEFORE, THEY HAD A DIFFERENT SOUND TO THEM, THEY SOUNDED GREAT, THANKS FOR THE VIDEO, KEEP ON ROCKIN, COUSIN FIGEL
Three top players and two of them capable of carrying the lead vocal. And the groove of the R & B sound and the Rock and Roll vibe PLUS the ability to go Psychedelic Rock, these guys were going to be a great force for a while. And then management came between the guys and completely screwed everything up. Man! I love their groove and have missed it over the years since they were split up.
I saw them in 1970, along with the Kinks and Mott the Hoople (triple bill for about $5). GF was the loudest band I'd ever heard, at least until I saw the Ramones in a small club 8 years later.
One of the many reasons why no one really respects Rollingstone the rag. GFR toured with Led Zepplin . RS fed the whole scene to make it big and one of their best morsels they could feed off of was Led Zepplin. Rp Jp and the boys did NOT like tha fact that Grand Funk Railroad was getting a lot more attention from the fans while on tour with them. So they booted GFR from the tour. THAT alone should get them into the HoF. Let alone their jaw dropping grooves and funktatsic licks and vocals.
They destroyed Zepplin as they didn't perform with the energy GFR, awesome. Mark was shafted, he wrote most of the music and since he had to leave I'm done. A damn effing shame.
*_Grand Funk Railroad on paper is the most successful band of all times being the first to put out TEN GOLD ALBUMS even the manager of Led Zepplin pulled the plug on them in New York for being scared for them out performing Led Zepplin before they went on stage &)) That says it all and can't be undone 🇺🇸 !! Grand Funks tenth and last album's cover art was of them laying in open coffins !! Even in death they went out on top !! Top of the World !!_* .. 🌎.. ruclips.net/video/87ApAbRCaxA/видео.html
Isn't Mark so talented?? Every time I give this a listen (and it's frequent) I'm blown away! Mel on his bass, extraordinary! And Don, wow. Does this talent even exist today?🤔
This is one of the first albums I ever bought with my own money. The red album paranoid! They were a great band filling stadiums and then everything went down hill years later with Terry Knight. Mark Don and Mel lost everything to that bastard!! What a great band. There’s like a five piece videos documenting there whole story here on RUclips. I saw them three times live in stadiums and two more times in a local bar with about 200 people in New Hampshire years later! Thank you for doing this. Now, I’ll watch this video....had to VENT a bit first. 👍👍✌🏼Don Brewer is the reason I became a professional drummer for over 30 years.
@@avlisk All great music from the early years of GFR! Things went down hill after Terry Knight threw them under the bus. Yeah, Heartbreaker, I'm your Captain/Closer to Home, Paranoid from the Red Album. Well, the whole Red Album was the first time I heard them and they became my band! Into The Sun! The list goes on. Nice to meet other GFR fans! Take care!
What a band! Way overlooked (IMO)..I saw them live during this part of their career...I actually recommended this video some time ago...just great...thanks Fil...your comments couldn't be more spot on...they needed a champion like you back then...the critics didn't love them...but as usual the test of time is giving them passing marks with flying colors..this is how it's done....Paul
It was refreshing, if that's the right word, to hear the bass so much. It seems like a lot of bands use it as just a backup instrument, so when it's pulled to the front of the song so much, it really shines. By the way, I had that album on 8-track, that's right, I had an 8-track player in my 54 Chevy.
I wore out my mom's 8 track player till cassettes came out , I was born in 77 so I didn't really discover these guys till the late 80s but It blew my mind.
I am a 68 year old black American female and I was a GFR fanatic while the rest of ny froends were listening to the Temptations. Mel's bass!
You would be cool to hang out with 😘
Awwww - thanks.
Yup... that was some funky bass he could play,
If you love the blues there aren't many better than Grand Funk with their mix if Rock and blues.
@@BobSmith-eq9vs And to you, Robert. Peace.
Finally, someone recognizes the musical genius of Grand Funk. The most underrated Rock band in history. Why aren't they in the Rock and Roll hall of fame?
Don't get me started!
Homer Simpson recognized them first. lol
I signed an online petition years ago. Still not in. Loved them!
Because the critics didn't like them. A power trio playing 10 minute jams.. thats why..
@@bigsky3072 And the main critique always seems to be that they were loud, never anything of substance, just that they were loud.
I went to a large bar back in 1985, because GFR was playing live. A buddy and I arrived early, and I picked a spot right at the stage. As they kicked off Mark kept tripping over his guitar cable, so I started reeling it in, or letting it out as needed. He realized instantly what I was doing, and gave me a thumbs up. I guess the roadies liked it too, because they started sending beer every time I ran out. They wanted me to stick around, so we had a sit down, and chatted for an hour or so after the gig. A bunch of very cool guys. They signed a set of drumsticks for me. It was a good night.
Very cool story, & quick thinking w/the cable.. A Roadie For A Night W/ GFR ✌😎
Thanks for sharing that! Very cool!
Cable Tech.....Love It.
FAR OUT MAN! How cool was that. I remember that a lot of bands were cool that way😉😆
So amazing! I can't imagine my brother and our friends loving anything more than that! We were huge GFR fans.
Over 50 years. Still bring tears to my eyes, they are so good!!
Never get tired of hearing this.
One of the best and always overlooked front men ever, Mark Farner.
I watched a video recently where Mark was talking about when their manager fired them from being the opening act for zep but why? What was the reason? Could it be they were a better live performance? I saw many concerts in the seventies including the big 3 of the day page, beck and Clapton. All disappointing live. In my humble opinion marks voice is as powerful as plant. Page may be a more proficient guitarist but less give credit where it's due. So happy you did a vid of these talented dudes
Grand Funk was one of the most rocking, high energy bands ever!
Bands like GFR used to tour for months on end, When you play together that much you can't help but get tight. Pop acts (can you call them bands if they don't play their own instruments?) nowadays go on tour and only perform 3 or 4 nights a month. They will make more Festival and TV appearances than full length live shows. .
My chest tightens and actually hurts when I hear really good GFR music. These guys define the essence of rock and why we love it so much. These guys kill musically and understand the power of music at a deep level.
Best live performance I have ever seen from a band on RUclips. It may be 1969, but in 2019 it still works and blows most other bands I seen away . . .
On youtube?!?! ON EARTH!
51 frickin’ years ago! Fresh as ever.
Better Believe it!
I just someone react to this ,and oh man their good . I saw Mark Farner on Howard Stern. I mean his voice right now was amazing. Closer to Home. I’m your Captain.
I saw them live in Tucson Arizona 1971 and they’re STILL my fave live rock band
I'm a 64 year old black American male, and I too was a GFR fan. Fortunate to see them in '73.
Loved all the guys but,.ain't no Grand Funk without Farner. It was a great period for the Temps
also!
Grand Funks got their roots from the blues and have a lot of black fans and their early stuff was their best music. I truly feel they made a big mistake going main stream with "We`re An American Band " in 1973. Sure they got a lot of new fans but they lost that hard driving blues rock sound that set them apart from everyone else. The reality is that there were two Grand Funks, one from 1969 to 1972 and one from 1973 to 1976 and I`ll take the first one every time!
Too bad Brewer and Farner let their personal differences affect the band.
@@cabterrot3574 Brewer had Farner sign into a corporation making a two thirds rule ( Brewer & Mel) leaving Mark out in the cold. Chicken shit move and a pity. Marks shows are much better so if you have a chance, go see one of his.
Saw them in 1974 at the Capitol Centre, Upper Marlboro/Largo, MD.
If you watch interviews given by Mark Farner, you'll find that it wasn't anything he did, but rather what Don did to him which was pretty low of that little shit.
Oh how I miss those days!!! I was fortunate enough to be a teenager during the best rock music era ever!! Grand Funk, Black Oak Arkansas, Allman Brothers, and too many more to mention. Always loved those long music breaks in the songs when we were sitting around listening to albums. Wish you could've been there to experience all that great music firsthand. You would've loved it!! 🤘
He sings with such soul
I worked for Farner, more than anyone else in my career.... He's the best of people and STILL dead nuts on key, powerful and energetic in 2019!
Cool!
Im related to mr. Farner through marriage. My uncle married his first cousin. He was at the wedding. Very nice man, very talented man too
Did you notice all the tape he had on his Guitar to get the sound he wanted? Farner talked about that Messenger guitar.
He has an amazing voice live.Never heard this before.
You lucky guy!
Thank you for singling out Mel Schacher's bass playing. A criminally underrated player in my opinion.
And plays with a pick
All my favorite bass players play with a pick, by the way. James Gang's Dale Peters is one of them. James Jamerson from Motown said you can be more melodic with a pick--and you can!
that was a brilliant bass performance. This entire band is so under-rated. and it was all live. You could have done no better in the studio. In fact, not as good.
@Berlin Mark Think of Mel's bass as being like a conversation with the other two--he's just talking to them, answering their questions on bass
Mel's playing/sound is so totally unique you could make him out in any mix from any band. Funky sloppy fuzz bass is just throwing down in this song, it's excellent and he's absolutely the only reason I'd go see GFR without Farner.
The most underrated band ot all time. Critic's didn't Love them but the people did.
i know i do ; }
" FuckRight " WE Did/Do !
MARK FARNER IS A GENIUS,and so full of energy he may live to 105,he is an inspired musical genius,his guitar work astound,his vocals and organ piano material writing genius shows every song,hall of fame is vacant
Like I always said, the dude is a "one man rock band"
@@impalaman9707 There will never be another band like them!
@@pamcrider8074 I couldn't agree more. I'm afraid that entire generation of rock music from 1966-1976 is going to be a tough act to follow for many years to come, and with many of those artists from that era pushing 70-80 years of age, I'm afraid quality R&B based rock music as we knew it will be dead when they are gone. Most young people coming up in the music business aren't even trying to reproduce this kind of music, and the few that are are falling flat on their faces. Really difficult to make lightning strike twice, and definitely in this case, they won't
Without a doubt!!! Top of the pile of great rock gods. Agreed, they were all great talents, however, Don Brewer should be ashamed at what he did to Mark Farner.
Didn't Craig Frost play keyboards for GFR ?
They're are like THE American Band!
There like comin' to your town
And help you party it down
- Spirit of '76
Mark Farner & Grand Funk do not get the respect they deserve.
Of course they do, because the Boomers who grew up with them love them.
But they were the Bon Jovi of their day. They're for the masses.
They should be in the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame
THEY DO IN SAN ANTONIO,TEXAS
Yes they do.
@@rosenb37 You obviously are clueless. And yes, I am a boomer. Which means I know more than you. The true Grand Funk fan knows their music is split into before and after Terry Knight. Your flippant Bon Jovi remark may be true for their second version produced by Todd Rundgren where they produced the "POP" music. However, the first version of the group which produced their first 5 albums, On Time, Grand Funk, Closer To Home, Survival and E Pluribus Funk was a hard core Garage Funk Punk band. I defy someone to listen too "Sin A Good Mans Brother" and hear anything other than hard core rock.
ruclips.net/video/vPdKSlQOBYE/видео.html
Grand Funk right up there with Cream in my opinion. They came out not to long after Cream broke up. One of the best three piece bands of all time.
Cream redefined music. Grand Funk didn't. Still they were one of favorites but no comparison. Clapton, Bruce and Baker were voted the best on their instruments as well. They each redefined their instruments and the impact on the future of music and musicians is immeasurable.
A superb trio.
Gotta love the good trios:
Cream, Hendrix Experience, James Gang, Rush, GFR, ZZ Top, ELP.
Listen to - Winter & My Soul. I love Schacher and Brewer's work filling in the hole on Bass and Drums. Really full sounding song for a three piece band!
I agree with you Sean--all my favorite rock bands come in threes--and all the ones you mentioned are on my list
How much live rock performances have changed since those days, so much raw energy and no need for elaborate equipment, pitch correction & backing tracks.
Well said my friend!! Raw Energy! Peace!
No need to jump all over the stage or to have half naked girls to compensate for lack of talent.
@@flee4342 LOL!! SO True!! 👍🏼
In today's "Music" business.....its SO much more about business than the music!
@@mikemajer1236 How True, Mike!! I agree 100%.
Janet Jackson in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but not Grand Funk Railroad. Seriously?
The question is why in the hell is Janet Jackson in the ROCK N ROLL hall of fame ,that makes no sense . I agree though these guys are freaking awesome they snub a lot of great bands it's ridiculous.
Because it's not rock n roll it's the music hall of fame. Ridiculous that that name is still there.
@@CrueHead18 yeah they need to fix or change the name because Janet Jackson is not rock n roll
And that is not i mean not racist really lol.....
ASSHOLES
Proud to say this band is from my Home state of Michigan! Even here, they didn't get the fame they deserved!
They got the fame from 71-75. They were really big then.
I'm a 62 year old Texan, and Grand Funk Railroad was definitely a huge part of my adolescence...these guys could really sing so soulfully and rock out with the best of them! Another great choice Fil.
Hey Homeboy. Same age. Saw them in Lubbock. Sin's a Good Man's Brother.
There with ya . Just hit the 6,2 Dec. 28th . Been a FunkHead since I was @ 9 🎶
This absolutely one of the best performances I've ever seen! This is as good as anybody! Why aren't they in the R&R hall of fame!?
Your a smart woman
Yes they are. Never saw them live but this is freaking amazing.
I believe this was done in a studio for a BBC series. The energy is off the charts.
You are so right man! These guys were soooo tight.
What a stronge voice
I saw Grand Funk live in the early 70's, I was 13 years old and this my first true rock concert. I had known of them by listening to my older sisters' LP blaring through the house, and knew their work well, but wasn't prepared for what, to this very day, was the most incredible live performance I have ever seen, and I've seen many many top rock acts since. The chord structure, dynamics, instrumentation, vocals, and stage presence were unmatched. And by a power trio too, they were appropriately super loud, over the top energy, and a mind-blowing visual spectacle. They were and will always be (50+ years now) my favorite band of all time.
Yes. To truly appreciate GFR you had to * be there.* I saw them 5 times "back in the day." It is fair to say that not all of Mark's songs were exactly the greatest. But, that band was so tight and disciplined that it didn't matter. Mark sold those songs with his great voice and soul, along with the bands ability to belt out rock and roll. They were as good as it gets live. No question. I was there when they were an opener for Zep in Detroit when the show was stopped due to, "A contractual agreement with Led Zeppelin," and I'm going tell you that had GFR not stopped no one would have cared. GFR had the place on fire. Don't get me wrong, Zep was AMAZING. But, when GFR was stopped it was truly Funkus Interruptus. You could feel the letdown in the building. GFR was no doubt one of the best live bands EVER.
🤟
L
I don't think they ever came to Hawaii 😔🤙🏼
@@demeaningplebny1363 oh man I only recently heard about this and I'm 70 years old now. Wish I was there!
No auto tuning back then or fake performances. They had to deliver and they did in spades with musicality and desire!! I was in high school when GFR were at their peak. Incredible band. Incredible voices from Mark and Don!!
These guys are from my hometown of Flint! The graffiti of their namesake is on the train overpass on Fenton road to this day
This is one of my favorites and their Not In The Rock Hall Of fame,,,,that's just plain stupid
Grew up listening to these guys on the east side state streets!
Owosso here, someone recently vandalized the overpass sign, assholes!
I work in Port Huron, I need to see it before it goes away
Yep, you can see it from a Google maps street view. Still there and likely will be forever.
Gritty, Blue Collar Michigan Rock N Roll. Good Choice Fil.🤙
The "Greta Van Fleet Band" of Frankenmuth, MI. is carrying on the Michigan tradition of great musicians, They are already worldwide,,,see youtube.
@@raybassman7536 Yes Sir... Have a good Independence Day. 🤙
Couldn’t agree more, I’m born and bred in Ga, and I can personally say that we Southerners down here worship all the Great Michigan Bands, Nugent, Grand funk, The Stooges , and my ultimate favorite The MC5, it’s like fuel to my day. Tryin to get Fil to put them up on one day.
@@brandonhaynes2652 I saw MC5 when they played at and outdoor park in Ann Arbor MI. in 1968. I was 11 years old, rode my bicycle down there. was right up front. Rob Tyner and the boys.
@@brandonhaynes2652 I am from MI. but always loved southern rock. Allman Bros., Skynyrd, Marshall Tucker band. Met Gary Rossington from Skynyrd and told him, even though I am a Bass Player, I bought my first Les Paul because of his playing on "one more from the road" album.
I have watched this video at least seven times and never get tired of it. Critics hated GFR. What do they know anyway.
They clearly never listened to their albums. They only judged them by where they came from, and their reputation for being loud in concert. Most of it came from the "hip" police at Rolling Stone Magazine, the same ones who, I believe, hold the keys to the kingdom of Cleveland's RRHOF, even though they are located in the Midwest that those San Franners detest so much. The charges that always pissed me off the most were talentless and one-dimensional. Talentless? Are you kidding me? Mark is a virtual one man rock band, and even helped Brewer play percussions in his live drum solos, in addition to organ, harmonica, vocals, and nearly all the quality songwriting, and you call him "talentless"?
@@impalaman9707 Well said, sir! Agree with EVERYTHING you said. Many don't remember or realize how HUGE GFR was across the USA. I don't even pay attention the R&RHOF because these guys and Steppenwolf are not in.
they were not hip enough because they werenot, druggies or publicity whores--They are the epitome of rock
I never got the criticism. They simply were great.
It's ironic that critics scorn a band and expect to be taken seriously when the band is making 100 times as much money as the critic is.
This song and GFR’s performance is one for the records. Funkalicious!
Nice to see a positive analysis on one of my favorite bands....when they were a young new band...thanks
These guys gave funk to rock and roll like no other. Mark would constantly work the stage with grooving moves that made you mesmerized !!!! Thanks so much Fil for your kind review.
December 1969, Cleveland Public Hall. The bill was James Gang, Grand Funk Railroad and Led Zepplin. The James Gang was a very popular local band on the edge of breaking out. Grand Funk was touring in support of their first album. And Zepplin was...well...Zepplin. The James Gang had a great opening set and did themselves proud! Grand Funk, in its first, and only, show with Zepplin came out and
BLEW THE ROOF OFF the house!!!! Zepplin came out and played like they were in shock but put on a good show. After the show, Peter Grant, Zepplins manager, kicked Grand Funk off the tour because they SMOKED Zepplin! That evening was one I'll never forget!
Cleveland wasn't Zeppelin's first and only show with GFRR, but it was the last. In October 1969, GFRR, along with supporting acts Lee Michaels and the MC5, opened for Zeppelin at the Olympia in Detroit. Being a local band, GFRR got huge applause(MC5, although also a local group, didn't get much applause - but that's another story), and eventually Peter Grant literally pulled the plug on GFRR during their performance. The Olympia was silent for about a half an hour, during which time, GFRR's manager, Terry Knight announced to the crowd that Zeppelin didn't want to follow GFRR. I guess things finally came to a head a couple months later in Cleveland.
Great story! Wish I had been there.
Cool!
@@onethumbpicker MC5 - that's a name I haven't heard in a long time and their influence was massive - think of all the great Detroit bands, Iggy and the Stooges (another groundbreaking band pre-punk), GFR, Bob Seger, Suzi Quatro, Henchmen, Mitch Ryder, Amboy Dukes, Alice Cooper (Earwigs), Funkadelic and that's not counting all Motown groups.
Glen Kelly, being a native Clevelander, I couldn't agree with you more about the Detroit influence! Let's not forget Vanilla Fudge, Mike Quatro and his jam band, Cactus, Terry Knight and the pack..... I'm swimming against the local tide here, but I've always felt that Detroit has a much larger claim to the "Rock Hall" than Cleveland.
Onethumbpicker, I could be wrong in my memories, but it could've been earlier. And considering the geographic locations of Detroit and Cleveland, it would make sense that it might've even been the next show. Either way great rock history!!!
As many have already remarked, Fil, just watching you enjoy great musicians is a pleasure in itself. In short, love the positive vibe you always give.
When these three got together it was like three minds molded into one. They were incredibly popular in the early days of FM radio and became superstars because of FM radio playing the Grand Funk Railroad live album. Their talent was amazing. They could even do covers!
I just want to know from anyone, “why the hell are they not in the RNR HOF??” I grew up listening to them and the talent level is amazing!!
Because of BS politics. If you see who's in it you'll leave scratching your head.
Frederick White I know that’s right!! Some of the inductees aren’t even rock n roll and some can’t even carry a tune!!
@@vickieray yep lots of great bands aren't in there. Most folks and groups know it's BS. They should let fans decide.
They should have been one of the founding members. The RRHF is bullshit.
@@frederickwhite6416
In 1974 Barbara Strysan won song of the year with,"The Way We Were."
She isn't even Rock N Roll. That's
when the American Music Awards
got started in 75. Let the listeners decide. May have spelled her name wrong. It shocked me.
Nowhere to hide in a power trio. Things I love....vocals on the gritty edge that don't go over it, and drummers who aren't afraid to hit their drums. Things that you would all love...... would be a dollar for all the times I played "Grand Funk Live" in the early '70s, especially this track. I never thought that Grand Funk got the respect that they deserved back then. I just don't think many people got the sense of the power in their combination. As usual, you have made every observation that I could have, and a good few more. A very enjoyable watch, both the video and the analysis.............Rock on!
One of the best American rock bands!! Pure raw passion!! So tight and great chemistry, they all compliment each other! Mark’s vocals almost get to that gospel level, very intense🤘🏻
AMEN JAZZ MASTER!
I'll triple up on that one
Paula Blissett 🦊ee Lady!!!
@@jazzcat8786 Hey Jazz, thankyee, wink....
And the fact that they aren’t in the rock n roll hall of fame, shows what a joke it is....
The Hall of Fame is a sorry ass joke period. GFR is iconic, they don't have to be in their bull crap so called Hall of Fame. I Don't recognize the Hall of Fame.
amw78 the reason is b/c Mark has found Jesus now and thats how these evil bastrds operate! has nothing to do with music- everything to do with message.
@@MrToko0412 Spoken like a typical melodramatic Christian. Get a grip, dipshit.
And yes they are a joke one time i talked to one guy ask me are they any good and i said ARE THEY ANY GOOD? of course he was only 30 something i ask him so what do you listen too guess what shoop dog really are you kidding me i feel really sorry for this guy but why i should loser lol...........
Whaaat? I listened to Grand Funk Live everyday in 7th grade.
FIL, THANKS FOR THE VIDEO OF A GREAT BAND, AND YOUR GREAT COMMENTS, WHEN I WAS 17 YEARS OLD, A FRIEND OF MINE HAD A SMALL FARM AROUND ANN ARBOR MICHIGAN, WE WENT OUT IN HIS FIELD ONE DAY AND I HEARD LOUD MUSIC, I SAID YOUR NEIGHBORS HAVING A PARTY? HE SAID NO, THAT IS GRAND FUNK RAILROAD PRACTICING IN THAT BARN OVER THERE, SO WE WALKED OVER THERE AND WALKED IN THE BARN , HE KNEW THEM, WE SAT THERE FOR AN HOUR AND LISTENED TO THEM, WHAT A PRIVATE BARN CONCERT, THEN THE NEXT WEEK I SAW THEM PLAY A CONCERT IN THE DETROIT AREA, MEMORIES MAN, ROCK ON FIL, COUSIN FIGEL
What amazes me about Farner is he is just as fresh and in Shape, today as he was then..... He is a great example of what can be obtained and preserved, through the years.... Still a great show in 2019!... Amazing performer.......
I saw GFR with Zep and I just remember being completely blown away with the energy of GFR. They were so tight, and powerful.... They absolutely owned the stage that night... Still one of the best concert memories I have...
GFR and Zep !!!....blessed by the Gods of Music.
Greetings from the majestic mountains of PERU.
And why Zep threw them off the tour
What a combination, I wish I saw it, I have seen both separately
Loving this band since i was 12yrs old, im now 65 and still in awe of them!!! They are so underrated, phenomenal band 3 piece band making all that sound...beautiful!!!
Okay, I'm just two years younger, was in just as much awe, but they were only just, "An American Band!"..lol God were they good! You just float along the reverb on Mark's voice on the simple lyrics. Then BAM! He hits you. They each hit you. They take turns hitting you, then they gang up on hitting you. I love this performance. These guys are great musicians, and oh ya, a totally underrated, phenomenal 3 piece band.
The band Mountain was another excellent three-piece that was iconic in that era.
In high school in the states we all had that album.
On the next album, “I’m Getting Closer to My Home” was like the national anthem.
lisa richards my mother thought there was something wrong with me I use to come home from school put grand funk on and listen to them and some others for hours and hours. But my sister said Iv always been like that since I was a little kid . One of my favorite pictures is sitting at the table with my 45s with a big grin on my face enjoying the music. At 3 years old
Leslie West just died yesterday.
My dad, the hugest GFR fan, swears by Leslie West and Mountain. Btw. His Missouri tags on his car say GRN FNK
@@deborahpaley21 well damn. A year later I still hadn't heard that
Recently I overheard a conversation were one man told another, "think of the greatest, most influential bands of all time, name the first 5 that come to mind, and you will see that none of them are American". and then they proceeded to name all the British bands we all know, but GFR never crossed their minds. When I got up to leave, as I walked past them I said "Grand Funk Railroad", and walked away.
I would've done the same.
GFR lives on 💪👊👊👊
And they laughed at your stupid assertion.
Good on you.
(Notice how they didn't even break a sweat?)
I passed them after you and added Allman Bros and Kansas. Greetings from Europe.
@@spaceghost8995 The whole world is laughing at your stupid conclusion! It was with them that Hard Rock and Heavy Metal began, and not with LZ or DP! All these incompetent Englishmen became cool, heavy, technical, only thanks to GFR and their first two albums of 1969! Everyone started to copy their style, playing style, titles and song structure stupidly! Because in 1 year they put the whole world on the ears! In 1970 alone, GFR sold more CDs than any other band or artist! This year they have already had 4 gold albums, including the greatest and revolutionary live album "Live Album"! And this is also an innovation of GFR, after which all rock bands began to try to release live albums! But of course, no one came close to them, in terms of professionalism, technique, speed, charisma and level of professionalism! GFR was also the best live rock band ever!
I am a non musician. I just like what I like. What I like about the Pegasus guy is that he breaks stuff down into mathematics and timing. I have no clue what he is talking about. But, it all comes down to a gorgeous piece of music so thank you Pegasus.
I'm 58 years old and I learned to play the drums playing to GFR back then Don Brewer was a monster on the drums, he still is I have a lot respect for him as a drummer, but for what he did to Mark Farner I will never respect him as a person .
Bob Dodge I totally agree. We do reap what we sow.
He's a backstabbing bastard, great drummer or not. He sucks as a human being. Just a two faced drummer. Do Not ever go see present day Grand Funk. It's a farce! Let them know we know they suck without Mark.
You got that right. GFR is nothing without Mark!!!!
Growing up in the 70's, my step mom had a lot of classic rock records, and this is one of them. I "discovered" this song when I was about 13. I got my first electric guitar shortly after. I still have all of my step mom's records from the 60's and 70's.
I love that palm mute rhythm guitar interplay with the bass.
This is one of the best live songs/performances of our time. When the instruments and the artists become one, you get-Grand Funk Railroad 💘
Couldn't agree more
This band was so creative and versatile in their sound. Nothing cookie cutter ever came from this band. One of the many reasons I loved them. Unbelivable talent!
Grand Funk was my favorite band in high school in early 70s. This song I felt always had the best guitar , drum solo ever....thx for another great vid
One of my favorite bands. Don Brewer inspired me as a young drummer in those days. His solo in TNUC is incredible!!! Mark and Mel. Awesome!!
aminor1950 yeah, that's an old one!!! But, that's not what it meant.
Can't get any funkier than GFR or the James Gang without crossing genres!
I love watching Fil’s expressions while he watches the videos. He’s so knowledgeable and such a classy guy.
I love your analysis on all of your videos. Thank you for this! From a 68 year old who lived this stuff!
Hi Fil, you know how to get a girl's attention. Mark is my favorite ever performer as I've said before. The infatuation level is pretty high. Thank you for sharing this kick ass performance by The phenomenal, multi-talented, totally gorgeous, 20 year old Mark Farner. Awesome remake of Inside Looking Out. Not too happy with the way Don and Mel mistreated Mark but life isn't always fair is it. Mark is such a natural born showman. His videos have just as much impact today as they did back in the day, maybe more so. Thanks again and much love to you Fil😃💗
I'm lovin' it! Sometimes I think you were supposed to be a baby boomer too Fil. You appreciate classic rock, even though you weren't even born yet. Then you turn around and teach me! When GFR was playing, they were so in tune with each other that just a look communicated between them. Rock on!
Big people artist
Must have seen that performance at least 50 times, absolutely badass !
They were truly a great band and extremely popular on the concert scene. Too bad they were heavily panned by the tone deaf critics of the day. Every album they put out that the critics panned went at the very least gold and many went double platinum.
This is easily the best, most raw, intense live performance I've ever seen. And I am certain that it will be ... til the day I die. Love watching this, seeing how great they were live when they were SO very young. Notice all the eye contact between them (mostly between Mark and Mel)? They are making sure they are on the same page all the way through this performance. Mark Farner is just unbelievable. Honestly, I don't have words to describe how talented these 3 guys were as a "power trio".
And I loved watching your face as you watched them .... lots of smiles.
Mark, Don and Mel! No nonsense, just energy in this song! Raw(rehearsed) emotion.
rawhearsed... i's the offical word from now on :-)
Right song, wrong version. The first live album is the one to play if you want to appreciate this song in all of it's power and sonic glory! And ya don't need video.
Oh hell yeah !. Mark, Don and Mel Rule !. I'm totally getting getting down with the Grand Funk. My friends son is autistic. However, when i put on the Grand Funk. This kid is a Rocking. This kid knows good music. When he hears it.
Rock on !.
Music does wonders.
@@avawhitney1968 Grand Funk best of all !. Thank you.
I have never seen Grand Funk play like this before. I have a new found respect for the band. Thank you Fil for showing this.
Can you believe that the bass player (Mel) was 19, and the other two are only 20 years old (Mark and Don)?!! It was their first year as Grand Funk Railroad. This is my favorite music video.
Saw Mark Farner earlier this year (2019)... and he crushed it! F'n awesome!
Cool!
One of the most underrated bands of all time. Thanks Fil.
Going back and listening to the early Grand Funk made me a fan of theirs. They definitely had a Detroit sound, similar in bass and drum to other Detroit bands of the time, but they are definitely unique as well. Nobody sounded like Grand Funk, until Grand Funk.
Part of their unique sound was the off brand guitar Mark was using at the time and the custom plugging of sound holes and taping over ! Observe all the tape ! I’m a 72 yr male and GFR rocked me and my blood flow ! Thanks Fil for awesome coverage for us fans of GFR !
@@ALASKAPOCKEHOLER thanks for that info! i never knew that.
@@ALASKAPOCKEHOLER Exactly! A duct taped six string, a (relatively) small drum kit, and a bassist that had to strive not to shake down the walls of any venue they played.
And you can see in each of their individual expressions that each of them were having an absolute blast. That passion is the same when they dominated thousands of fans in arenas as when they played for a dozen or so people, like in this video on local access television in 1969. The passion & funk are either there, or are completely absent. If it isn't there on day-one, it'll never come --but when it has always been a part of the band, it will always be there, like an extra bandmate.
Oh Grand Funk RailRoad........they are the greatest
Wow... Catching up on your channel and I find this! What we need is a time machine to go waayyy back to then!
They should have been in the rock & roll hall of fame a loooooong time ago!
I was in the audience for the recording of their first live album. Cheech and Chong opened for them. What a night! Still one of the best bands ever.
Love that live album, it's what turned me on to Grand Funk! How cool you were one of those fans....!
“Brothers and sisters in the front row”
That era of rock had no rules, labels sure made mega bucks. FM stations were underground sources to hear this group, they were a word of mouth band. It was greatest time musical freedom.
@Michael Bentello absolutely, back when FM radio was underground. By the time they had "top 40 " hits there was a whole following that had been around for years. Same way with Lee Michaels
Before lawyers and accountants hijacked music
Saw them in 71. What a concert. This was the last song, Mark was standing up high on some speaker towers doing that wicked solo. King of the mountain. Fantastic concert. Maybe the loudest too. That guitar had a tone like no other. He should still be playing it. Big thumbs up Fil!
I love watching them communicate with each other and be so in synch. The looks they give each other!
Thank you for introducing this particular Grand funk Railroad song! Wow! Sheer talent and pure energy from all 3 talented men who are all on FIRE... as Phil said could easily be mistaken for 4 or 5 band members. I'm blown away!!!
I still remember my first car. One of the few non-homemade tapes that I had was a best of GFR/BTO each with one side. I played that tape til it couldn't be fixed anymore. Also as a bass player, he was laying down some funk.
First record I ever bought was GFR "OnTime" ( followed closely by The Who Live at Leeds, Black Sabbath's Paranoid, & Deep Purple Made in Japan). I also had a cassette of whichever Grand Funk record it was that had an *excellent" cover of Dave Mason's "Feelin Alright" , and I think it had the Stones' Gimme Shelter on there as well. The critics always hated Grand Funk Railroad, but they were real crowd-pleaser.
@@goodun6081 That was "Survival", also *my* first GFR album! I picked up the album at a flea market for $1.00 about 30 years ago, still had the caveman photos of each band member. Still my favorite GFR record.
The one comment always made after a GF performance was that they couldn't believe they were only three members. Their sound was much bigger due to the fact that you mentioned regarding their ability to do several things at once. Great band! I'm 66 and they were my favorite in 69.
I was never really into GFR. What is wrong with me? These guys are GREAT! Now not only are these analysis videos introducing me to new artists but they are also helping me to reevaluate old artists. I also watched Fil's anaysis of Mark Farner. Wow! I have a lot of GFR catching up to do. Thanks, Fil!
FIL, I have never seen you smile so much!! This was the effect that GFR had on people. I was in high school, grade 7 when GFR were peaking. My brother and I played their earlier recordings every day. Homework? What homework. GFR were musical, raw and passionate. We were so fortunate to have all this great music around us. Amazing band, fantastic period!!! 😀. Thanks FIL!! Unforgettable video and analysis for one of my all time favorite bands!!!
Great job Fil! I had that same goofy look on my face watching this phenomenal 3 pc rip it up!! Cheers
Chills chills and more chills... What a great screamer too!
Although they used a keyboardist live sometimes they were basically a power trio. They took the whole Cream concept of a power trio to the next level.
FIL, THIS BAND WAS HUGE IN MICHIGAN WHEN I WAS A TEENAGER. WHILE EVERYBODY WAS PLAYING A LES PAUL, OR A STRAT BACK THEN, MARK FARNER ALWAYS PLAYED THE DIFFERENT GUITARS THAT YOU NEVER SAW BEFORE, THEY HAD A DIFFERENT SOUND TO THEM, THEY SOUNDED GREAT, THANKS FOR THE VIDEO, KEEP ON ROCKIN, COUSIN FIGEL
Mark is playing a 1967 Musicraft Messenger guitar. The first guitar commercially available with an aluminum /magnesium alloy neck.
From nearby (for me) Flint, Michigan. Their performance of this on their concert LP was great, too.
Three top players and two of them capable of carrying the lead vocal. And the groove of the R & B sound and the Rock and Roll vibe PLUS the ability to go Psychedelic Rock, these guys were going to be a great force for a while. And then management came between the guys and completely screwed everything up. Man! I love their groove and have missed it over the years since they were split up.
I saw them in 1970, along with the Kinks and Mott the Hoople (triple bill for about $5). GF was the loudest band I'd ever heard, at least until I saw the Ramones in a small club 8 years later.
Sounds like a great show. I saw the Kinks with The Cars and Tom Petty opening. And I gotta' agree about The Ramones.
Cool!
I saw them a couple of times in 1970. They were in fact loud as Hell. That was part of their thing.
@@GUR-ARYEA stop with the self promo on another person's site.
"Beat on the brat, beat on the brat, beat on the brat with a baseball bat, oh yeah, oh yeah, oh oh"
Farner defined rock singing for all of us. And he's a great guy too.
Blows my mind every time.
I can tell you hated to interrupt this piece, it's so freaking good.
One of the many reasons why no one really respects Rollingstone the rag. GFR toured with Led Zepplin . RS fed the whole scene to make it big and one of their best morsels they could feed off of was Led Zepplin. Rp Jp and the boys did NOT like tha fact that Grand Funk Railroad was getting a lot more attention from the fans while on tour with them. So they booted GFR from the tour.
THAT alone should get them into the HoF. Let alone their jaw dropping grooves and funktatsic licks and vocals.
They destroyed Zepplin as they didn't perform with the energy GFR, awesome. Mark was shafted, he wrote most of the music and since he had to leave I'm done. A damn effing shame.
*_Grand Funk Railroad on paper is the most successful band of all times being the first to put out TEN GOLD ALBUMS even the manager of Led Zepplin pulled the plug on them in New York for being scared for them out performing Led Zepplin before they went on stage &)) That says it all and can't be undone 🇺🇸 !! Grand Funks tenth and last album's cover art was of them laying in open coffins !! Even in death they went out on top !! Top of the World !!_* .. 🌎.. ruclips.net/video/87ApAbRCaxA/видео.html
@@djs3484 You can't even spell Zeppellin? Really?
@@spaceghost8995 neither can you ... Led Zeppelin .... en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Led_Zeppelin
That's the reason I hate led zep,their manager was a fuckwit bully !
The sooks couldn't handle a band being better than them
Fuck the Led zep Pussies!
Isn't Mark so talented?? Every time I give this a listen (and it's frequent) I'm blown away! Mel on his bass, extraordinary! And Don, wow. Does this talent even exist today?🤔
This is one of the first albums I ever bought with my own money. The red album paranoid! They were a great band filling stadiums and then everything went down hill years later with Terry Knight. Mark Don and Mel lost everything to that bastard!! What a great band. There’s like a five piece videos documenting there whole story here on RUclips. I saw them three times live in stadiums and two more times in a local bar with about 200 people in New Hampshire years later! Thank you for doing this. Now, I’ll watch this video....had to VENT a bit first. 👍👍✌🏼Don Brewer is the reason I became a professional drummer for over 30 years.
Cool!
I echo your comment. On Time was the GFR album that hooked me. That, and "Heartbreaker".
@@avlisk All great music from the early years of GFR! Things went down hill after Terry Knight threw them under the bus. Yeah, Heartbreaker, I'm your Captain/Closer to Home, Paranoid from the Red Album. Well, the whole Red Album was the first time I heard them and they became my band! Into The Sun! The list goes on. Nice to meet other GFR fans! Take care!
Brewer's chops during the harmonica was an absolute groove fest.
After Terry Knight sue them in court and won. The band came out with their biggest hit...
We're an (AMERICAN BAND)
What a band! Way overlooked (IMO)..I saw them live during this part of their career...I actually recommended this video some time ago...just great...thanks Fil...your comments couldn't be more spot on...they needed a champion like you back then...the critics didn't love them...but as usual the test of time is giving them passing marks with flying colors..this is how it's done....Paul
It was refreshing, if that's the right word, to hear the bass so much. It seems like a lot of bands use it as just a backup instrument, so when it's pulled to the front of the song so much, it really shines. By the way, I had that album on 8-track, that's right, I had an 8-track player in my 54 Chevy.
I wore out my mom's 8 track player till cassettes came out , I was born in 77 so I didn't really discover these guys till the late 80s but It blew my mind.
The love of music shines through everything they did in those days.
And to think they were just college-age kids when this was recorded for record execs. Incredible, raw talent! Carry me back... OMG!!!
The LPs these guys released were crazy! Silver, red etc.! Thank you Fil!
When I overheard this being played by accident as a teenager I was blown away by the power of the performance.What a track and what a brilliant band.
Saw GFR in Tucson 1971..
They’re STILL my fave live rock band
🌟🌟🌟
Still one of my favorite bands of all time, absolutely one of the best power trios ever. Possibly even the very best ahead of Jimi, Cream and Rush