Atlanta International Pop Festival in 1969

Grand Funk Railroad was the only unsigned act at the Atlanta International Pop Festival in 1969. They were novices with a fire to perform, and would often do so for free to gain exposure and experience. Manager Terry Knight persuaded the festival's promoters to put them on the bill, which they eventually did, granting them the opening slot.




Mark Farner, the power trio’s guitarist and lead vocalist, gazed nervously out at the crowd of 180,000 on that 110-degree summer day, and then walked onstage.
The band broke into their lively opener, "Are You Ready", and there was no turning back. This show led to a deal with Capital Records.

Though it appears the perfect Cinderella story, Grand Funk Railroad still had an uphill climb in their effort to establish themselves in the music world of the early ‘70s. Often snubbed by critics and disregarded by radio, constant touring became their key to developing a devoted fan base for their innovative style of hard driving, bluesy rock. However, five platinum and three gold records over the three following years was an achievement even the critics couldn’t ignore.

Farner’s unmistakable signature lead guitar sound and funky rhythm chops added with his instantly recognizable vocal talent is considered by many to be one of the greatest in rock history.



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