Farner Freak

Sinn-Ah-Wah Custom Wah-Wah Pedal Built For Farner Funk-Shon!

2012-01-30T00:38:00.000-05:00

With Funk Function In Mind::Celestial Effects Presents;

Mark Farner's Custom Built Wah-Wah Pedal

Looks like Mark is gearing up for a great year!
Buy Mark Farner Official Gear Click Here!

Click In When Mark Talks: "All things Sixx String"

2012-01-15T23:23:00.000-05:00

“ALL THINGS SIXX STRING”

TUESDAY JAN. 17th, 2012

OUR SPECIAL GUEST

WILL BE

MARK FARNER

From

GRAND FUNK RAILROAD

8:00 p.m. And Midnight E.S.T.

And

5:00 p.m. And 9:00 p.m. P.S.T.

Live From:

http://www.livefromrocknrollranch.com/?page_id=36

Mark's New Stomp Box~Custom Pedal By Celestial Effects!

2012-01-14T20:01:00.002-05:00

Looks like the creative staff at Celestial Effects are thrilled to be building a special light weight but, for Hard Rock pedal for Grand Funk Railroads Ace guitar player Mark Farner!

Custom PC board for Mark Farner

Prototype For Mark Farner Pedal

Production PCB For Mark Farner Pedal

Four In One

Celestial Effects
Conceptual Artwork Drawing for the custom Mark Farner "The Librarian" pedal ... I'M GETTING CLOSER TO MY HOME :)

Celestial Effects Mark Farner prototype pedal built and working. It will be called "The Librarian" per Mark who is a Libra and this pedal is "A Library" of Celestial Effects Pedals.

Finished Product as the Librarian~Mark Farner American Rock Legend!

Mark Farner The Tone Maniac With D'Addario Strings!

2012-01-14T12:54:00.000-05:00

Cleveland Rocks And Grand Funk Railroad Were There...From The Beginning!

2011-11-16T17:00:00.002-05:00

Mark tells us about the deep roots he and the band members put down in support of the Cleveland Rock scene. His appearances, along with Craig Frost and Don Brewer on the Cleveland "Up Beat Show" showcase talent and the beginnings of the beloved band: Grand Funk Railroad"
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Excellent Interview with Grand Funk Railroad's MARK FARNER

If you need more proof of why Mark Farner, Mel Schacher, Don Brewer and Craig Frost NEED to be inducted into the Cleveland Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame...Here you go, Two rare video's from 1968, the Genesis of Grand Funk:

Let Me Stand Next To Your Fire;

"Move Over Rover...And Let Markie Take Over..."

Also, Antics included; "Let Me Stand Next To Your Fire"

Feel Free to write in; GRAND FUNK RAILROAD on Goldmine's Poll of: "Who We Wish Would Be Inducted To The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame 2012"

GET THE FUNK IN!

Mark Farner: "I got Layed Off From High School" Parts One through Nine

2011-11-09T07:42:00.000-05:00

Podcast Interview~Rocktologist

2011-11-09T07:17:00.000-05:00

http://reviewfix.com/2010/01/steve-janowsky-the-review-fix-rocktologist-episode-two-mark-farner-interview/

Mark Farner On Fox's "Huckabee" Show With Shea Stadium Footage!

2011-11-06T18:51:00.000-05:00

JESSE FARNER FUND::Sweetrelief.org

https://www.sweetrelief.org/program/jesse-farner-fund

Farner Finally 'Fess's Up! Railroaded Out Of His Own Railroad!

2011-11-06T18:20:00.004-05:00

It took about 10 year's for Mark Farner to speak of the real reason he is not appearing onstage with the band that legally won the rights to the moniker; "Grand Funk Railroad"

Mark Farner en la Arena Monterrey

2011-03-14T07:51:00.000-04:00

MARK FARNER EN GUADALAJARA 10-MARZO-2011

2011-03-12T13:10:00.000-05:00

A Great Interview With New Funk Stories From Mark

2011-02-05T16:35:00.004-05:00

Mark Farner Interview
Uploaded by ReviewFix. - Explore more music videos.

Link to Interview:
http://video.aol.ca/video-detail/mark-farner-interview/290599107/?icid=VIDLRVMUS06

Mark Farner At The Good Will Benefit For Detroit!

2011-02-04T14:14:00.000-05:00

MARK FARNER IN GRAND FUNK, SAYS HE WAS RAILROAD-ED

2011-01-28T16:55:00.001-05:00

For Benefit Of Jesse Farner~The Big Gun's Of Rock Take The Stage In NYC

2011-01-10T05:41:00.000-05:00

Press release reads as follows:

The Who’s Roger Daltrey Joins Mark Farner for Benefit at B. B. Kings

(New York, NY) – The entertainment industry at large has long been a leader in helping those in need with benefit concerts and charity events. On Monday January 17, 2011 at B. B. Kings in New York City, rock legends will join together in support of Jesse Farner as he struggles to recuperate from a severe neck injury after a fall last summer. The concert will be held in conjunction with the New York Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp festivities and will include rock legends participating in the camp plus the Kryptonite rock of 3 Doors Down.

Jesse Farner is the twenty-one year old son of rock’s legendary frontman Mark Farner and his wife Lesia. Mark Farner (formerly of Grand Funk Railroad) is best known for fronting the band Grand Funk Railroad, the band that sold out Shea Stadium faster than The Beatles and sold over 50 million records worldwide.

When hearing of Jesse Farner’s plight from Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp founder, David Fishof, Roger Daltrey of The Who stepped up immediately in support of the family. “I’m humbled to be able to help Jesse and the Farner’s in any way I can,” began Daltrey. “We are all very fortunate, in our business, to be able to give back. And sometimes circumstances demand that we give back to our brothers and sisters in the rock and roll business. Rock for Jesse calls us to do just that for our friends the Farner family,” he concluded.

Mark Farner commented on Daltrey’s participation stating, “Roger is a man’s man with a good heart and that means more to me than anything either of us has accomplished in music. On behalf of our son Jesse and family, the Farner’s extend our gratitude to Roger and his family, Cliff Williams of AC/DC, 3 Doors Down, Kip Winger and our friends and fans in rock and roll.”

TTickets for the event are available through Ticketmaster. Included in ticket price (early VIP seating, meet and greet with Mark Farner and friends).

Tickets are $300 These funds go to Jesse SHOWTIME: 8 PM EST

DONATIONS: Donations can be made directly by visiting www.sweetrelief.org

Or, a special bank fund; Bank of Northern Michigan. Check will need to made out to "Mark Farner FBO Jesse Farner. The address to send them to is The Bank of Northern Michigan, 406 Bay Street, Petoskey, MI 49770

FACE BOOK PRAYER WALL FOR JESSE:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=137095029642126&ref=ts

CAMP: For Information on Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp www.rockcamp.com

Media Contact: jim@thepressoffice.com

Good Will Towards Detroit's Employment Challenges at the Fillmore Detroit~Spirit of Detroit Flying High!

2010-11-27T15:43:00.000-05:00

Mark Farner's Guitar Is Gone- In the Windy City!

2010-11-22T17:21:00.004-05:00

Mark Farner's "Tiger" striped Parker-Fly guitar is missing or, Gone with The Windy! Taken from Chicago's House Of Blue's gig for Rock And Roll Fantasy Camp.

The tiger-stripe Parker was Mark's spare guitar and was gone from the dressing room Sunday night after the Camp finale. It's likely that someone has helped themselves to their own version of a Five Fingered discounted Fantasy in obtaining a souvenir stolen from Grand Funk Railroad's lead singer and guitar slinger. "Mark is really bummed" reads the post on the official website.

I'm wondering, How could anyone enjoy holding this guitar, showing it, looking at it and knowing who it belongs to and that you stole it from him? Let's hope it makes a journey back to Mark Farner, the one who wields it well and is it's righteous rock owner.

For The Vets: I'm Your Captain / Closer to Home (1985)

2010-11-18T21:01:00.000-05:00

Mark Farner And Seger's Saxman~Give Thanks For The Best Kinda Riot in Detroit~a Rockin'/Soul Riot!

2010-11-12T13:33:00.004-05:00

May just be THE BIGGEST SAX IN THE CITY!!!

”ALTO REED “ALL-STAR” CONCERT ROCKS THANKSGIVING!
BOB SEGER “SAX-MAN” HEADS TEAM OF STARS TO SUPPORT
METRO DETROIT UNEMPLOYED
...
Alto Reed/Mitch Ryder/Mark Farner/Martha Reeves/Jeff Daniels Set To “Rock For Jobs!!”

DETROIT – Farmington Hills, Mich.-based TGIF Entertainment Group today announced details of “Alto Reed’s AllStar Thanksgiving Celebration” concert scheduled for Friday, Nov. 26, 2010 at The Fillmore Detroit (formerly the State Theatre). A portion of the proceeds from the event will support Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit programs that help unemployed Metro Detroiters earn jobs. “Events like this help Goodwill continue leading the way in the fight against Metro Detroit unemployment,” said Mark Lane, director of public relations and special events for Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit.
Goodwill Industries is the only organization in Southeast Michigan solely dedicated to helping local individuals overcome employment challenges.
TGIF Entertainment Group worked with legendary SaxMan Alto Reed, founding and current member of “Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band,” to assemble a star-studded roster of Detroit’s top talent for this celebration of the Motor City’s rich music legacy. “This concert is about gathering musicians together rooted in Detroit history to give back and address a major crisis for the region,” said Reed.
Concert line-up features Rock ‘n Roll icon Mitch Ryder, Mr. Grand Funk Mark Farner and Motown great Martha Reeves plus Very Special Guest Jeff Daniels.

Martha Reeves, a lover of live instrumentation, is delighted to participate in a live concert with live music that helps the jobless, one her biggest causes. Ryder believes the concert is a very worthy cause since jobs must to be the #1 priority. He says that Detroiters have to be the ones to raise awareness. Mark Farner immediately came on board and Jeff Daniels grabbed his guitar on got on the "Detroit Train".......

Concert goers will enjoy all the ingredients for a stellar night of Rock ‘n Soul in the “D” with Reed’s “Special Friends” including Muzik Mafia member Cowboy Troy, fresh from Nashville.

Detroit area “A” list musicians “Rockin' for Jobs” include Alto Reed’s Motor City All-Stars featuring:
The Groove Council
The Howling Diablos with Jimmie Bones
The Brothers Groove
The Motor City Horns
Julianne and the Rogues
Victoria Reed, Jill Jack
Barbara Payton
David Shelby
Michael Brock and more
WCSX on-air personality, Doug Podell will be featured as the event emcee.

“Alto Reed’s All-Star Thanksgiving Celebration” is presented by TGIF Entertainment Group, WCSX and Live Nation. Tickets start at $10, available through Live Nation www.livenation.com . Platinum Mezzanine and Gold Main Floor Reserved premium seating available. The Fillmore Detroit is located at 2115 Woodward Avenue, next to The Fox in the heart of the theater district. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Concert is 7:00 PM.
::::

About Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit
Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit provides people who have disabilities and other employment challenges with opportunities to become independent, self-supporting citizens through training, work experience and employment in the community. Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit is a Michigan Works! affiliate and is funded in part by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth and Detroit Workforce Development Department. Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. For information, visit www.goodwilldetroit.org.

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL FANTASY CAMP RAISES FUNDS FOR RECENTLY PARALYZED SON OF MARK FARNER ON FALL ‘WEEKEND WARRIOR’ TOUR

2010-11-04T23:42:00.000-04:00

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL FANTASY CAMP RAISES FUNDS FOR RECENTLY PARALYZED SON OF MARK FARNER ON FALL ‘WEEKEND WARRIOR’ TOUR

We now have a special account set up for financial gifts for Jes at the Bank of Northern Michigan. Check will need to made out to "Mark Farner FBO Jesse Farner. The address to send them to is The Bank of Northern Michigan, 406 Bay Street, Petoskey, MI 49770

Honky Tonk Woman/Surrender/American Band - Jared Goldstein

2010-10-28T14:50:00.000-04:00

Mark Farner Signing Autographs

2010-09-28T19:18:00.000-04:00

Mark Farner Receives VVA President's Award for Excellence in the Arts

2010-09-24T20:42:00.000-04:00

The Mark Farner Family's Mighty Mission~Faith Filled Farner Fans Please Step Up To The Mic

2010-08-24T18:40:00.013-04:00

Please join us with positive thoughts and prayers for full restoration to Mark and Lesia's youngest son Jesse Farner.

Jesse took a serious fall on July 3RD of 2010 and suffered a fracture to the C-5 vertebra in his neck. We are Praising the Lord that his spinal cord was not severed and we are Praying to the Lord for his full restoration. If you would like to post blessings and prayerful thoughts to Jesse there is a Face Book GROUP Page titled: "Pray For Jesse Farner" with pictures and well wishers for Jess. But please, they have asked that no video's, music or other pollution be posted...this is purely about a wonderful, loving young man that needs all the good energies we can supply with our caring, motivational words...it's not about Mark.

Mark said: "Thank You for the prayers my son floats on"

For further information on Jesse's progress, Mark and Lesia have graciously supplied some progress reports on the homepage at: http://www.markfarner.com/jesse.php

From the stage, Mark dedicated I'm Your Captain to Nam Vets and regarding Jesse's condition said: "He ain't feeling nothin' from the neck down but, he tell's me; "Dad we're gonna rock it again someday"

Jesse has decided NOT to be a victim of his current circumstances and so intends to "pull himself up by the bootstraps." This is the mighty mission set before Jesse Farner and the entire Mark Farner family. Please respond in Love, light and good wishes to:

Jesse Farner
PO Box 47
Lynn, North Carolina, 28750

Also, a Jesse Farner fund has been set up on his behalf. There will be remodeling and special needs apparatus needed to have him go home from the rehabilitation center.

Please make checks payable to:

Mark Farner FBO (For Benefit Of) Jesse Farner

Mail to:

The Bank of Northern Michigan

406 Bay St.

Petoskey, MI 49770

Thanks so much fellow Farner Fans!

THE FARNER AND THE DELL FANTASY CAMP BAND!

2010-04-25T12:40:00.006-04:00

As you may know, Mark Farner has been a favorite Camp counselor and mentor at David Fishof's "Rock And Roll Fantasy Camp" for many years. Here's Mark showing us how great he is no matter what band is backing him up!

Fantasy Camp Makes Mark's "Loco-Motor" Slide Into Super-Drive!

2010-03-06T23:54:00.005-05:00

Yes it is "Some Kind Of Wonderful" when a guitarist can put the guitar on the stand and use just a mic and passionately pro-ceed to "Aww" the audience with a performance like this! I wonder if Elvis would call Mark; "That Funka-Funka Burnin' Luvvvv" Lord A'Mighty!

A Rock And Roll Fantasy Camp To Melt Your Little Marshmallows!

2010-01-27T06:58:00.018-05:00

Dear Rock Star,

Many thanks for all of the well wishes we've received regarding our upcoming camp! If you haven't heard, the February camp will be filmed by Mark Burnett Productions for a reality television show to air on VH1 Classic. Every camper who registers for Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp will receive a questionnaire from the production casting department. If you are interested in being featured in the show, submit the questionnaire, if not, no worries! There is no obligation to participate in the filming portion of the camp. Please see a casting notice from Mark Burnett Productions below.

I'm proud to announce that RRFC will donate $500 of every campers registration fee, who registers between now and February 22nd, to the Red Cross to help the people of Haiti.

The 3½ day camp is almost sold out! We still have a few spots left for vocalists, keyboardists, and guitarists at the shorter camp. We have spots open at the 5 ½ day camp in all instruments.

Talent Updates!

A handful of amazing artists have signed on for the February Camp. Joining us as a guest star is the iconic bass player Lemmy Kilmister from the band Motorhead! We've also added a few super counselors including Jeffrey Foskett, Brian Wilson's musical director and a former member of The Beach Boys, guitarist/singer extraordinaire Richie Kotzen, and Ron Nevison who produced bands ranging from The Who to Led Zeppelin. Ron, along with Eddie Kramer, will be in studio producing our camper bands' original songs. Campers will record at the newly remodeled EastWest Studios on Sunset Blvd in Hollywood! This beautiful studio is where The Mamas and The Papas recorded California Dreaming� and Monday, Monday, Bob Dylan and The Who recorded, while The Beach Boys ushered in a new era of sound with their masterpiece album Pet Sounds.

Time is running out! Don't get locked out of this camp! Come be a part of Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp history. Register online at www.rockcamp.com or call 888.762.2263 x2.

Rock on!

David Fishof

WANTED: FEMALE MUSICIANS - 24 hours to respond! 1/27/2010

Are you a rock and roller at heart? Maybe now you live the corporate life as a surgeon, stay at home parent, or you work in securities but it doesnt matter because deep down you still have those dreams to become a rock and roll star! Mark Burnett, the producer who brought us shows like Survivor, Apprentice, Rock Star: INXS and Rock Star: Supernova is giving you a chance to finally live out your dreams of becoming a rock and roll star. We are looking for singers, guitarists, bassists, drummers, and keyboardists. This exciting new docu-series presents musicians with a once in a lifetime opportunity. We want to send you to Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp®.

The series Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp will take a group of aspiring musicians who for 8 days will live the rock and roll lifestyle while being coached by real-life rock stars. This will culminate with you taking to the stage and performing for a live audience to show the world that you can still rock!

We are looking for musicians who are 30-50 years old who live in the Los Angeles area. We want to hear your story of why you bailed on your dreams of becoming a rock and roll musician. Was it family, career, or were the pressures too much? Most importantly do you still have the fire & passion to get up in front of a full house and bare your rock and roll soul? If this is you and you have a great story to tell email us at rockcampcasting@gmail.com with your name, age, recent photo, contact information, and a brief explanation as to why you would good for and Roll Fantasy Camp. Please also include a short video of yourself playing. Are you ready to live out your dreams of being a rock star?

Featured Guest Star: Lemmy Kilmister

Motorhead - the name alone stands on it's own, a band that lives according to their own rules. A band that has never sacrificed anything and has always remained true to what they are. Lemmy Kilmister, Phil Campbell and Mikkey Dee - what you see is what you get! Lemmy's enthronement as an Icon of Rock happened a while ago and proves that Rock and Roll is alive and exhilarating. (On June 16th Lemmy received the Mojo Icon Award).

Lemmy is the undisputed head, gruff and with the typical British humour (despite calling L.A. his home for more than 18 years). Motorhead is without a doubt one of the most respected rock bands in the world and made it clear to everyone when they finally received a well deserved Grammy in 2005 for Best Metal Performance.

In the spring of 2010, the band will commence work on their as-yet untitled new album. This will be Lemmy's first appearance at Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp, and we are thrilled to have him on board!

Mark Farner at 2010 Fantasy Camp
February 24th through 27th

More at TOUR DATES:: MARKFARNER.COM

Featured Counselor

Jeffrey Foskett is a guitarist and singer best known for his work with Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys. Foskett has also toured and recorded with many other luminaries in the music industry such as Paul McCartney, HEART, Roger McGuinn, Roy Orbison, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Ringo Starr, Chicago, The Moody Blues, The Everly Brothers, Christopher Cross and America to name a few. He has also been an occasional member of the surf-rock group Papa Doo Run Run since 1993 and continues to record his original music with New Surf, LTD label mate Jeff Larson, among others.

Imagine being instructed by a Rock legend! It might look something like this;

"Tell Ev'rybody Ya know...A Movie About Rock 'n Roll's Soul" The Grande Ballroom, Forever: "Louder Than Love"

2010-01-07T23:54:00.012-05:00

That's Right, stuff your feet in to those scuffed up fruit boots! Better have your Nehru jacket hanging close by too! You just may have to grab ahold and hang on to something 60's as this Intense Teaser for the Grande Ballroom Story crescendos (Louder Than Love) through your consciousness! This movie is going to paint it's way into your pre-paisley past! For it is told that in her wild, light shows and incense filled hey-day, Detroit's Grande Ballroom showcased the Genesis of rock genius. Now the legend will live on forever thanks to this Tony D'Annunzio Hard Rock Documentary.

Simply stated; The Grande Ballroom was the Grande Mother's house of Rock during Rock's infancy. So, feel free to Click On and Right On my brother's and sister's...Let's just see and hear how much Grande'ma loves her Hard-Rockin', Axe-Kickin' babies!

[blogger's note] Overlaying the interviewee's on the Rubble inside The Grande is brilliantly creative and I think the finished product is going to be "Outta Sight!"

LOUDER THAN LOVE-The Grande Ballroom Story from Tony D'Annunzio on Vimeo.

LOUDER THAN LOVE is the story of the Grande Ballroom in Detroit Michigan. The Grande Ballroom was the birthplace of the Detroit Rock Music Scene. Bands like MC5,Iggy & The Stooges,Ted Nugent & The Amboy Dukes,Alice Cooper and many more got their start here. The Grande not only influenced local Detroit musicians but inspired bands from all over the US & from Europe.Legendary acts like Led Zeppelin,The Cream,BB King,Janis Joplin,Pink Floyd and the Who graced the stage at the Grande on a regular basis.
While the west coast was groovin' to the sounds of the "Summer of Love" in 1967, Detroit was pumping out a hard driving,gritty and raw sound that was "LOUDER THAN LOVE"

From the Director Tony D'Annunzio
tony@moonproduction.com
We can all get in on the excitement by kickin' out the "bread" to pay for music fees:
http://www.indiegogo.com/LOUDER-THAN-LOVE-The-Grande-Ballroom-story

Russ Gibb brought in bands the likes of:
Machinegun Thompson
MC5 MC5
The Frost
Cream
Janis backstage

Yardbirds
Vanilla Fudge
Buddy Guy's Blue's Band
The James Gang
Canned Heat
The Byrds
Moby Grape
Jethro Tull

The Who

Ten Year's After
Traffic
Mother's Of Invention
The Chamber Brother's
Jefferson Airplane
Spooky Tooth
Iron butterfly
Procol Harum
Amboy Dukes

Blue Cheer
Chuck Berry
The Bossmen The Bossmen
Rare Earth
Deep Purple
Country Joe And The Fish
The Pack The Pack
The Grateful Dead

More of the bands: http://www.motorcitymusicarchives.com/bandlist.html

"The Grande was Detroit's Fillmore"
[Alice Cooper]

"It was a legend...it's still is a legend!"
[Mark Farner]

"God Bless the ghost of The Grande"
[Machinegun Thompson]

...and the congregation say's: "Amen"
[stoner's of the ages]

Grande News: http://grandenews.blogspot.com/2010/01/7-years-of-wwwthegrandeballroomcom.html

Panorama of the Grande Ballroom: http://www.detroityes.com/webisodes/2003/03daily/11-GrandeBallroom.htm

It will trip you out to see the psychedelic posters and the handbills as you scroll through the name of now-famous legends of rock! http://home.comcast.net/~lux2001/grandecal.html

Friends Of The Grande on Face Book: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Friends-of-the-Grande-Ballroom

Sir Graves Ghastly on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/sirgravesghastly

In Memoriam to those that have passed on before us, thanks for the memories:
http://www.motorcitymusicarchives.com/inmemoriam.html

Grand Funk Railroad: The Railroad Ties That Bent Their Tracks

2010-01-02T21:44:00.015-05:00

In the beginning there were "Pack" members destined to form the legendary Rock Forging Railroad: Grand Funk Railroad. Mark Farner and Don Brewer cut their chops in the mid-western region in their early musicianhood with the Michigan Rock radio station DJ that was plugged in to the biz.
The historic results are explained better here in song and video:

PRE-FUNK GOLD (1966-1967) TERRY KNIGHT AND THE PACK

Snippet and video from the Farner/Funk dedicated channel by JohninFunk.

"The time period "Baby Boy" went out [October 1966] The Bossmen included a former T.K.P. member [who rejoined T.K.P. right after The Bossmen split at the end of 1966] Mark Farner! Let alone that Terry Knight is credited as producer on this 45 [probably unfairly...]
B.T.W. Back then, Mark Farner had 2 great spots live with The Bossmen: His very first composition Heartbreaker and a cover of The House Of The Rising Sun! He obviously could level another legend..."

Thanks JohninFunk

The Pack Anthology [2002]

The Pack Anthology - 2002

1. The Tears Come Rolling - 2:40
2. How Much More - 2:34
3. I've Been Told - 2:42
4. Better Man Than I - 2:54
5. Got Love - 3:13
6. Lady Jane - 2:48
7. Lovin' Kind - 3:00
8. A Change on the Way - 3:41
9. What's On Your Mind - 1:49
10. I (Who Have Nothing) - <3:22/font>
11. Numbers - 2:28
12. This Precious Time - 2:50
13. Love,Love,Love,Love - 2:54
14. One Monkey Won't Stop No Show - 2:41
15. The Train - 2:10
16. Harlem Shuffle - 3:04
17. Down in The Valley - 2:22
18. I've Got News For You - 2:51
19. Wide Trackin' - 2:45
20. Does It Matter To You Girl - 2:01
21. Next to Your Fire - 2:44
22. Sleep Talkin' - 3:02

Rest In God's Peace Terry Knight

Terry Knight and The Pack
Band Members Included:

* TERRY KNAPP (KNIGHT) - Vocals & Keyboards
* DON BREWER - Drums
* MARK FARNER - Guitar & Bass
* BOB CALDWELL - Keyboards
* KURT JOHNSON - Guitar

...From the liner notes of the incomparable bootleg compilation LP: "Michigan Brand Nuggets".

"Flint-Saginaw, the upper wastes of Northern Michigan may seem an unlikely hotbed for musical activity, but three notable acts emerged from this region—Terry Knight & The Pack, Dick Wagner's Frost and Question Mark (sic) & The Mysterians. Before They Were (Grand) Funked... Terry Knapp cum Terry Knight had been a disc jockey at CKLW (Windsor/Detroit) in the early '60's (he actually got away with such on-the-air shenanigans as playing the Rolling Stones "Little Red Rooster" repeatedly for an hour). By '65 he was ready to view things from the other side. The problem was, as a recording artist, he didn't possess a great deal of talent. Nevertheless, after assembling The Pack he scored locally with his cover of the Yardbirds' "Better Man Than I". After a couple of weak follow-ups, Knight & Company hit again with "A Change On the Way", an original tune in the "Shape of Things To Come" vein. Then came the melodramatic "I Who Have Nothing" which hit #46 nationally. Knight spent the better part of his recording career trying to sound like other artists, having little personality of his own, at least not on record. Terry & The Pack's recording career soon nosedived. But Terry got his revenge on the record buying public. After an unsuccessful stint at making solo records, he assembled ex-Pack members Mark Farner and Don Brewer and ex-Mysterian Mel Schacher and created a monster: Grand Funk Railroad. The rest, as they say, is history."

For more bio information: http://www.markfarner.com/discography.php

Where they are NOW:

Flint, Michigan mini-Pack Reunion; 2008

A 3-Pack Dennnis Bellinger Curt Johnson, Mark Farner

Flint's 2009 Revivial and Atwood Stadium Concert brought together Herm Jackson, Dennis Bellinger, Curt Johnson. Very special appearance from GFR keyboardist Craig Frost.

Dennis Bellinger (GFR bass '81-'83) Curt Johnson (GFR soundman on tour) now together again as: Pac O Mojo

A Christmas Card In Sight And Sound: Mary

2009-12-10T16:47:00.009-05:00

When asked to contribute a Christmas song to the collection; "A Classic Rock Christmas" Mark wrote the mournfully beautiful song: "Mary" (The Return From Calvary) after becoming inspired by a painting depicting Mary and the "Loss of her baby" at Calvary.

As Jesus' re-birth approaches at Christmastime each year we are born again with him. A gift to ALL of mankind. Mary's return from Calvary may have been sorrowful as Mark expresses gloriously in his vocals.

Mark states on the CD liner: "The reason I chose Mary (The Return From Calvary) is because JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON."

"We commemorate the Redeemer's Birth."

"People speak of His Mother in a religious sense,but in a heartfelt feeling for her as a mere mother of a boy-child, the song begs the question."

MARY(the Return From Calvary) Written,Produced & Performed for you by Mark Farner. (2002) Righteous Rock Music (BMI)
Sit 'a spell, put your feet up, enjoy the slide show by JohninFunk.

Download MP3 at Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Mary-The-Return-From-Calvary/dp/B001O3MIT8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1260484654&sr=8-1

Teaser Video From Joe DiMaggio's Childrens Hospital Charity Rock Ball...Fund Raiser With The Funk Raiser

2009-11-16T12:38:00.011-05:00

Here Ye', Here Ye' now performing at The 6TH Annual, 2009, Excalibur Fairy Tale Ball through video; great friends and talented artists, Billy Livesay, Steve Argy, and Mark Farner:

"Fairy Tales Do Come True"

Diamond Angels for Joe DiMaggio's Children's Hospital On Face Book

[special thanks to seasidemusicmgnt for video clips]

In its first five years, the Fairy Tale Ball has raised nearly $1.4 million. The partnership with Ray Imperial's Excalibur Classic brings additional fundraising resources to the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Foundation. The Westin Diplomat is a major sponsor of the Fairy Tale Ball.

The Foundation ( www.jdchf.org) raises money to help underwrite the cost of programs and equipment at the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, the leading children's hospital in Broward and Palm Beach counties. Tickets to the Fairy Tale Ball and its activities undoubtedly will be available next year. This year, the golf tournament costs were $250 per player and pro-am tennis were $1,000 per player, which includes two tickets to the evening activities. It was $250 per person for those just attending the banquet and concert.

http://www.diamondangels.org/
http://markfarner.com

Mark Farner's 40 Year's 'a Funkin'

2009-10-21T16:08:00.003-04:00

40 Years 'a Funkin' Merchandise!

Limited Edition Jackets
Orders welcomed through December[2009]

Mark Farner And Chiodos Craig Owens Croon Poe's Poem El Dorado

2009-10-10T12:33:00.008-04:00

Mutual respect of musicianship had brought together two talented singer/song writers. Mark Farner of the Classic Hard Rock Original Grand Funk and the Screamo singing style of Craig Owens with Heavy Metal Chiodos. The highly anticipated result is a track titled "El Dorado" that didn't make it on Craig's solo effort when he decided to release only 7 songs on an EP instead of a full CD. Who knows maybe El'Dorado will land on a CD by another favored band...
Here is:

Craig Owens with Chiodos

Mark Farner with the Classic Original Grand Funk

Craig Owens talks about Mark Farner vocal prowess and the "El Dorado" track he collaborated on with him.

Craig Owens performing acoustic Solo El Dorado, Punk Rock Song and I Didn't Say I Was Powerful, I said I'm A Wizard

twitter.com/craigeryowens
https://twitter.com/farner9

Presentng Mark Farner With The KEY To Hometown Flint!

2009-09-29T00:38:00.008-04:00

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame committee has sent us another listless list of inductee's. And, no surprise, due to politics and swayed opinions, the name "Grand Funk Railroad" is bizarrely missing from the vote. Again and again, year after year, Grand Funk Railroad is missing from the list. But, let's not subscribe to all that nor the magazine Empire that makes the elite committee possible.

"It's better than being in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame"

In mid-August, as I remember it, standing there off to the side of the red carpet. I heard Mayor Dayne Walling present Mark Farner with an impressive black plaque holding the key to Farner's first hometown of Flint, Michigan. Mark was visibly humbled and proud and had this to say to the film crews and fans there on the red bricks of Flinttown: "It's better than being in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. To think that the people of my hometown think that much of me means a lot." [See New's article]

August 14, 2009 Mark Farner receives the Key to the city of Flint for his achievements in music.

The little gold plaque Reads: "Mark Farner, Flint's Rock Patriot"

This dedication took place the day before the Atwood Stadium concert. After dinner the band went to do a night time sound check then, Mark did an awesome interview for Flint's own Kettering University radio station, WKUF 94.3
Find Mark with the Butcher Shop Brother's on the Pod Cast Player, Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/butchershopshow

Mark shakes hands with Mayor Walling. To Mark's right is Flint's hostess with the Mostess, Lynn Sorenson, Flint Revival Committee.

Pics by;
Mary N & Sue T

Mark Farner's: "The Most Famous Messenger" Guitar

2009-09-08T19:17:00.008-04:00

Labor Day was the last day to check out the "Rock Star's Car's and Guitar's" exhibit at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. So,I was on a mission to meet the Messenger! Guitar, that is..like the sign say's: "It was Grand Funk's first guitar voice and was used to record the first three albums"

I walked right past the Kiss costumes. Too much makeup,not enough chords. And sure the cars were cool. I did slow down by Elvis' Caddy, Kid Rock's Ride was all right, Alice's Billion Dollar Babies mobile was interesting but, the lure of the Guitar's behind plexiglass pulled me just around the cordoned corner from Janis Joplin's pretty little psychedelic Porsche. Here hangs the Famous and frazzled stringed-ones in suspended animation. One in pieces, from The Who, it was displayed underneath a likely story from Pete Townshed on how it accidentally got smashed when he tripped, creating a signature Axe Assault expectation to their shows. There was an "H" shape guitar from Ian Hunter, A Checker board guitar along with too many other things to care about from Cheap Trick, John Entwistle's Axe from the "Ox" was an "Awww-Wow" attention grabber but, the one many little boys and Farner Fanaticals stopped to fingerprint the glass in front of was that magical Messenger with the sign reading: "The most famous Messenger guitar in the world" Courtesy of MARK FARNER:

I took a picture of every inch of this unique piece of history so when Mark Farner tells his story [click here for tekky interview] I can refer you to:

"The Jimi Hendrix Fuzz Tone" toggle switch! Built right into the guitar. Reached down and flicked it on during a lead.

"The body was HOLLOW. Sound would get in the "F" holes and just feedback and squeal so, I stuffed it full of foam and put duct tape and masking tape on them then, I did a psychedelic paint job on it, kinda glow in the dark a little bit"

"WHY the Messenger? Because my friend, distributor in Michigan, allowed payments on the $200 dollar purchase! Used it up until '71-'72 right up in there..."

"The neck, actually, you didn't run into any wood until the last fret. That's when the body began, so you could play it, it was the same dimension all the way there so, it was very easy to play, aluminum neck and, inside the body was an A440 tuning fork"

The Messenger Axe that became an instrument of Hard Rock at it's masters fiery fingers at the Atlanta Pop Festival, Shea Stadium and huge crowds in America and Japan!

The taped guitar something to be hold! I hope it gets home safe.

And to the right of the legendary Messenger...The Gibson L5S, we'll save that for another story...stay "In Tune"

~Cruizinsuezin

njc2kmhysv

C'Mon Baby Do The Local Motion: Mark's In Flint!

2009-08-14T00:01:00.005-04:00

The Eagle has landed...Mark Farner in Flint building up momentum.

Local Farner Fans line up to Meet 'n Greet their hometown Rock legend:

Signing Autographs and talking with friends and neighbors:

Interviews:

Flint Revival Booklet:

Mark Farner will Burst through these Gates and give the "40 Years Funkin'" concert of a lifetime right here in Flint...couldn't get much Closer To Home! See Ya There!

For a list of Flint establishments selling tickets: Tickets at: http://www.flintrevival.com
$15.00 pre-show, $20.00 at the gate

Pics by Mary Newton

MARK IS INTERVIEWED ON FLINT TOWNS "THE BUTCHER SHOP" at 10:00 EST
By RT, producer/host of the "Butcher Shop" Radio show on WKUF-LP 94.3 FM, Flint, Michigan USA.
Yes, the in-studio interview with Mr. Farner will be "LIVE" both terrestrial FM broadcast and streaming audio.
The set time for the interview begins at 10:0pm (EST)

Here is the direct link to the stream:

http://webstream.wkuf.org:6232/

The studio call-in line is (810) 762-9725

Mark say's: "Alright" I'm Runnin With The Pack in Flint! [Again]

2009-08-08T23:01:00.007-04:00

When Mark Farner's speech at the party to announce the Atwood concert in Flint contained his dream of playing Atwood Stadium, it was clear that this would be a heartfelt genuinely special show. He remarked: "Back in '69 when Grand Funk hit big, I always dreamed of playing Atwood Stadium. Here it is 2009, 40 years later and, I'm gonna play Atwwod Stadium!"

Mark Farner, the engine of the Grand Funk train is building up N'rG...momentum is mounting...the anticipation for this huge scale Flint Reviving event is a breath of fresh air! On August 15TH Flint's Atwood Stadium makes history with the gates opening at 10:00AM. Bands start at 11:00 and play all day until around 6:30 when members of Mark's old bands come to jam and lead into his two hour set! Lets see just who Pack O Mojo are:

In the beginning for Mark Farner , before Flint's Famous Funkman was to be the charismatic conductor of Grand Funk Railroad, we find 1964 with the Genesseians as his very first band.

1965 saw Robin's Hoods (aka: The Derelicts) formed with noted musicians Craig Frost and Mike West.

Through 1965 to 1968 Mark was in and out of such Flint area bands as "Terry Knight And The Pack" and "The Fabulous Pack", "Terry Knight And The Fabulous Pack Part II" with a break for "The Bossman" in 1966 where he met Dick Wagner that later went on to produce the album, play and sing back up vocals of the haunting song "Lorraine" from the [1977] solo album: "Mark Farner"

The Hard Rock Year of 1969, with the edition of stolen bass player Mel Schacher (from ?The Mysterians) just the power trio three; Mark, Don and Mel take the world and Grand Funk Railroad blew us away with their freight train full of Funk!

So you see, the band going on just before Mark Farner: Pac O Mojo are life-long friends and musicians in their own right.

Curt Johnson [guitar] from The Nightwalkers with Mark, The Pack And/Or Fabulous Pack (4/'67-4/'67) Curt also landed the job of Grand Funk sound man during the rigorous touring years.

Dennis Bellinger ( Coolie Group '68 and The Pack [Mark on lead vocals of both bands that Summer]) Grand Funk reunion tour included Dennis on bass 1980 to 1983 when Grand Funk once again, dis-banded

Mark Performs "I'm Your Captain" With Curt And Dennis At Jester's In Flint

The Pack

The Fabulous and the Famous! Let The Funk Fly!

Preceding Pack O Mojo and Mark with N'rG will be local talent drawn from the musical melding pot that is Flint's gift to the Indie world!

Mark Farner and N'rG play that good ol' Axe-Kickin' Grand Funk Rock 'n Roll PLUS, some Farner Flavored, NEW, Funked Up, For The People, For The Flintoids, For The Flint Revival, For 2 hours...For Heaven's Sakes be there!

That's two hours of the Fabulous and the Famous! Rock bands from the Flint area melding pot personally dipped into by Mike Abrahams of "Mikes Triple Grille" in downtown Flint! Get tickets by going to: http://www.flintrevival.com and locally at the MARK FARNER ticket BOX office downtown Flint, at Kearsley and South Saginaw.

Downtown Businessman Tom Z is buying tickets to give away to the unemployed. Stop by his restaurant and ask. Tom has been promoting the concert on his electronic billboard.

Elecro Billboard at: 3010 N Saginaw St~Flint, MI 48505~(810) 787-1111

New Mayor Dayne Walling will be asked to designate a Mark Farner Day and award him the key to City. This will be done a t a 103.9 remote promotion. He will also have a role on stage during the concert before Mark Farner.

The VIP tent is $100 for admission. This gets seating next to the stage, food, under a tent, cash bar and bathrooms near. General admisison seats are $15 advance, $20 day of the event. I'll be there with bells on...Bell bottom jeans that is!

Let's all keep fully hydrated with the special Farner N'rG Stimulus Ade:

Special Thanks to:
Terry Bankert for sharing info from: http://goodmorningflint.blogspot.com/

Fill It Up With Funk Please Or, Rock 'n Roll Soul Slurpee

2009-07-30T20:28:00.006-04:00

Tell Ev'rybody ya know'ooo...
You got some Rock 'n Roll Soul...in your SLURPEE CUP!

Yep,the 70's were COOL...
Does not get much cooler than a Grand Funk Slurpee from the 7-11 Carry Out

FILL IT WITH FUNK PLEASE!

Don Brewer and Mel Schacher

"FUNKY STUFF" FLAVOR!

Mark Farner

"Oh Thank Heaven For 7-11"

Pics courtesy of the Sensational Allee Willis blog on:
www.alleewillis.com/blog/category/famous/

The Hunk-Of-Funk Now Appearing On Billboards In Hometown

2009-07-26T20:56:00.014-04:00

What's Mark Farner UP to these days you ask? Well, IN and Around Flint, Michigan, we'd say he's up to maybe 12 feet or more off The ground! It's Flint's finest marketing Mark with multiple Banners, Lighted Displays, Handbills and Billboards:

Flint's Farmer's Market Banner
Farner Tickets Sold Every Saturday

Raffle Poster
Proceeds To Benefit "Mission Of Hope"Homeless Shelter, Win An Autographed Guitar!
Contact: http://flintrevival.com/

Lighted Displays

Billboards

Photo credits:Terry Blankert

Forty Years Funkin' Collectors T-Shirts available at: MARKFARNER.COM

Farner Show's Us~Summer Kind Of Wonderful In Port Huron

2009-07-19T02:07:00.007-04:00

July 17th, Friday FARNER SHOW IS; SUMMER KIND OF WONDERFUL~PORT HURON

Guest Blogger; Cruizinsuezin;

Ah Summer concerts...And another great trip to see my favorite musing-musician, soulful singin', guitar slingin', Shaman-showman, Fit as a finely tuned fiddle...the man Ringo Star calls: "Mr. Grand Funk Railroad himself"...Mark Farner!"

Seriously, the crowd goes wild and I am in the front rearing and whinnying like a filly of fifteen again! And since it's the third time around for fifteen, I'm much better at it and enjoying it so much more! Yeah, Mark can make ya feel like that.

But the getting there is always worth the effort and fun too. So I'll start with the multi-tasking I did during the two hour cruise up to Port Huron... I let the time spent driving benefit my concert psych-up ritual. Remember those? I day-dreamed about how my friends and I used to always do concert psych-ups in the 70's man. We'd listen to the artist for days before the concert. We'd play ALL their albums the day of the show. We'd save all the best uh, stuff for this show then,We'd let the build up explode once we'd get in the great groove that only Grand Funk Railroad got us in to. The Funk band would be gettin' down with us as one big communing party as we'd all inhale "that funky stuff" and blew it their way...togetha Forever!

So, with these fond memories to tickle my fancy, I slid "On Time" [Funk's first] into the player and let the music move me as I traveled at 70 Miles Per Hour forward with the 70's retrospection in the rear view mirror. Psychedelia, and music that can never be reproduced in the same righteous spirit. Sadly to me, the innocence before media manipulation is history. The daze of days gone by. Back when peace was our collective agenda...it lives here in the magic sound that Messenger has...What depth of lyrics...What a great voice... And, then the melancholic mist lifted and I realized I'm about to make it to the meet & greet through Mark's "Closer To Home" Fan club! You guessed it...That thought drove my foot to hit 80 MPH as I'm thinkin': "I gotta get there [On Time]" Next thing I know I'm meeting Mark's kind concert concierge "Liz" who hands me a cool "40 Years Funkin'" patch and a VIP ticket! What happens next is not for the squeamish, I know it's not bear baiting season yet but, next was a "howdy do" bear hug from Mark himself! I was still in "shock and awe" when a camera flash went off... Shocked that he'd do that and, "awe it was worth the two hour drive for that! "

Mark Farner concerts are many things if your there to receive.The music has so many timeless and new ideas. It creates this time portal and I adore dancing through it. I always end up grinning like I'm crazy about classic rock 'n roll but, if you sit on your gluteus maximus and watch Mark on the venue's LED screen..it is, and shall always be, your choice which set of cheeks are sore a little later! Let's make a pact to always show this charismatic artist the ut most respect by getting up and shakin' what God gave us while we still can! I wasn't sure I should mention this and the thought that I almost didn't kinda bothers me...Hope you "get it" and I hope I get it right... Mark in announcing he's a Christian from the stage, told us one day he asked, something like this: "God should I cuss?" and the answer was: "I don't give a shit" It was really funny! Thank God for humor, that's where we got it!

At this show and the many I've been to in the past, the guitar playing was seemingly effortless. The Funk tunes flourish with that Parker guitar in Farner's strong hands. It's something I'm so used to I might forget to appreciate it. This night the vocals were behind me and the guitar is most of what I heard....Three guitar lessons and forty-five year's experience flowing through those fingers! And "We The People" are the benefactors of this Grand Funk-straight shootin' guitar'd government. And why does he do it? For the People..for the passion...It's The Same Ol' Feelin' from the Rock Patriot.

Songs that soul soothing voice graced us with are in no particular order here as I tend to live in the moment at these things, blissed out, singing along, ....Oh, I can't relay how Fun these shows are but, here's a few jams that lit me up with that "perma-grin" I like to wear on the weekends; Are You Ready, Aimless Lady, Creepin', The Railroad, Sin's A Good Man's Brother, Badtime, We're An American Band, Some Kinda Wonderful, Locomotion, Same Ol' Feelin', Closer To Home!

It was beautiful man...the voice of Grand Funk Railroad, with the same dynamics the past power trio possessed. When the songs were recorded with the original GFR as a three piece, Mark performs them with just the bass, guitar and drums! True to the sound...True to the way we want to hear it...Loud, proud and powerful...melodic, patriotic and hard rockin'! Any promoters that put Mark on their stage and his great entourage in the side lights will never be sorry...Nicest professionals you'll ever love meeting...For Summer Festivals...Mark Farner is the group we've been waiting to see...Only the original is Summer Kind Of Wonderful

Farner Music Is Born In The USA...Forty Year's Funkin'

2009-07-04T16:53:00.008-04:00

High Noon and High Temperatures saturated sound and souls back in '69 as Mark, Don and Mel stepped onto the stage and into history on that July fourth at International Speedway in Georgia! With a full head of steam...Grand Funk Railroad moved their audience to a gutsy groove most remember to this day...forty years later!

It was 1969, and Alex Cooley's Festival brain child was born on the same day three guys from the garage band circuit in Flint would choose to make history. The birth of America, July 4th, the birth of festivals in the Southern regions, and the birth of Grand Funk Railroad from this day and forevermore! This was one great and groovy celebration of peace during the Vietnam War trauma. Over 100,000 people witnessed this prelude to the 70's era of epic Rock and Roll. After record execs saw the hold that the "power trio" had over their audience the Funkers were signed to their first record deal...and, the Hard Rock Railroad rolls out; "On Time."

The poster depicts today's Super-Stars that were then upstarts;
[courtesy of; alexcooley.com

]

Indeed a "ticket to paradise"

A festival of Music, Love and Peace
From the Grand Funk album titled:"Survival" Liner notes;
(Even if this story is a bit contrived, it's true to the spirit of the tremendous event)

" I don't think I'll ever forget those expressions as they wiped the sweat from their eyes in disbelief and watched that giant sea of faces,more than 180,000 strong,rise in unison and roar out a thunder of approval so loud that,to this day,they still talk about hearing it down on Peachtree St.,a full ten miles from the site. And I'll remember the look in their eyes when the hush fell over the crowd as Mark asked for quiet,and room for the young mother to give birth to her child on the blanket by the bales of hay near the front row. The next day they saw their first reviews in print- all damning critical prophecies that decreed,along with New Life that hot July day in Atlanta, had somehow come what would surely prove to be the most grotesque of all of Rock's children. Two infants had been born that day,they wrote,and one was named GRAND FUNK RAILROAD. The press gave odds that neither would survive the catastrophe.This album is joyfully dedicated to that child, their Brother, from Mark, Don, and Mel." [TK~~RIP]

[Mark Farner's signature solo move]

Jul 4, 2009 4:59 AM
"OMG !!! I was there!!!!!! I had run away from home and we all rode to Atlanta in an old bread truck. That was my first concert of any kind and my gosh, it was awesome. Well, what I remember of it anyway....if you know what I mean...lol. Thousands of people just wandering...music everywhere....people yelling for "medic" all the time....dirt, mud, jumping in the close by river with nothing on but a smile. When we first got there of course you were supposed to present your ticket and go thru the gate...yeah, like that happened. It was "down with the gate" and some bikers were supposed to be controlling the masses but that didn't work out very well for them. CHARGE !! We were thru and the days began. Unfortunately, I don't recall many of the music acts that played. My mind was just a tad bit on the messed up side. I was there for the whole thing but only remember Jimi Hendrix (barely)...I think it was him anyway. I was pretty out of it and someone kept telling me to get up and listen to him...but I was just laying on the ground as happy as could be. Theres alot more fuzzy memories that I have but won't go into all of those. I just know it was a blast....wish I could go back there one more time. Loved it." [from Kim Z.]

Peace and Love reign in Hampton's International Speedway;

For show info, "Forty Year's Funkin'" merchandise, fan club memberships, music, etc., Visit; MARKFARNER.COM

Farner and Anderson On The Hunt For "Shorty" But, "Shorty's Long Gone"

2009-07-02T19:19:00.001-04:00

Country Star John Anderson and Mark Farner in a Hunting & Song writing Session:

John Anderson’s excitement about the release of his newest CD [Bigger Hand's] was contagious as he shared that “Hawaii in Hawaii” is his favorite song! A rocking “Shorty’s Long Gone,” which he co-wrote with Mark Farner, lead singer and songwriting guitarist of the original Grand Funk Railroad, ranks a close second.

“It’s a bit different than the honky tonk stuff. It says what it needs to say. Mark’s a dear friend and we have written many songs together, hunted together, and he’s a great, great rock ‘n’ roller,’’ said Anderson.

Mark Farner and John Anderson on the hunt for "Shorty" but, "Shorty's Long Gone"

Photo credits L.Farner

GFR~Three Faces In Those Square New York Times

2009-06-15T18:33:00.007-04:00

Flash back to June 14TH, in the very groovy year, 1970...Grand Funk Railroad unleash a feast to the dimentional senses with their Gi-Normous "Closer To Home" billboard in New York's Time Square!

To create the dynamic decoupage would cost 70 thousand dollars and 35 thousand more would need to be spent to rent the 60 foot high, entire city block long, prime peeping space between 45TH and 46TH Streets on Broadway!! The inscription read: "Three faces among the countless who belong to the New culture, setting forth on the final voyage through a dying world...searching to find a way to bring us all CLOSER TO HOME"

"...I didn't realize it was that BIG until I finally saw it for myself....It was huge. I thought it was the coolest thing. I just stood there with my mouth open and tears came to my eyes...." [more on this in; From Grand Funk To Grace] Another help to the band came from striking union workers that would have changed the billboard when the rental agreement expired. As the strike wore on...the sign stayed larger than life for several extra months for free!

Little over a year later:
Long line for Grand Funk Railroad at Shea Stadium. A 72 hours hour sell out in 1971!

Vietnam Veterans Vote "I'm Your Captain/ Closer To Home" the song of honor at the 25TH Anniversary of "The Wall" Memorial Service.

Flint's Farner Fervor Flows

2009-06-06T14:15:00.013-04:00

Guest Post from Cruizinsuezin:

Here's a quick little slide show commercial with a great Marquee Farner behind Farner Marketeer/Spokeswoman Lynn.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30366181@N05/sets/72157619214357961/show/

I can just imagine how many "takes" she took to finally eloquently enunciate "Mark Farner" and "Farmer's Market in Flint" in the same sentence! On camera no less! Add the fact that she had to say: August "fifteenth" too, and I think she's ready for a "cold one" from one of the sponsors foamy fountains. Good thing she didn't add the"Forty Year's Funkin'" quip! She may have hurt herself!

But, speaking of sameness, how easy is that to remember: "Farmer Farner at..." No wait, Mark Farmer (happens all the time) Mark Farner's Marketed at Flints Farmer's Market...yeah, that's the ticket! Oh, [Caution cheesy segway ahead] Somebody say ticket? Buy ticket's at Farmer's Market in Flint for Mark Farner's August 15 !

Now, this particular depiction of Mark is from the MT. Clemens, Michigan show where Mark Farner/N'rG held the stage and attending spectators as happy captives for a solid hour and a half. Two or three days earlier "the other guys"(you know, the two against one guys that hold the trade mark) had played the area and it was like Mark had set himself to prove something that day...and prove it he did that day and many times since! In the crowd, I saw a sign that read: "The Real Deal-Mark Farner" Nuff said. It was one of THE BEST Mark shows I had ever experienced! The description, "on fire" doesn't even cover it..."OF Fire" would be closer.

Mark Farner Fires Up the Fans

Anyway, the picture they picked for the banner is capturing Mark in Michigan. He is conducting the audience during the spiritually moving chorus of Mark's gift of song: "I'm Your Captain/Closer To Home"

"I'm Getting Closer To My Home"

The audience sings back to Mark: "I'm Getting Closer To My Home"

Mark receives you: "your the best"

This is destined to be a HOT time in Flint! Get your ticket's! Tell your friends!
Come Fan the Flames!
Don't forget...It's the "Forty Years Funkin'" Celebration and the fan club has had contests like members sending in their favorite Grand Funkin' story to have Mark draw entry's at random. The winning entry wins a personal phone call from him! Sign up and 'fess up today!

Special Thanks to T. Bankert for the Flint footage for this;

Buy Tickets in these Fine Flint establishments:

Blackstones Eatery; (810) 234-9011
Mike's Triple Grille; (810) 239-4444
Farmer's Market; (810) 232- 1399

Purchase tickets online and more: http://www.flintrevival.com/

~Suez

Farner To Funk Flint This Summer

2009-05-29T13:46:00.005-04:00

Let's start tripping through time and Myspace and rewind the time continuum to when Mark Farner made three's trips down from Petoskey (publically) to make spark's in Flint, Michigan. This time, you don't have to boomerang around the Sun to go back in time here. I have the pictures in my external hard drive!

In 2007...this is the exciting Touch Tunes Jukebox launch of his latest CD titled "For The People" Sample tunes on: MARK'S MYSPACE

TOUCH TUNES JUKEBOXES ARE LOADED WITH MARKS TUNES IN MIDWEST MICHIGAN
(requesting his 2006 CD be added to your local Jukebox is a cool idea-yes? We all need this Patriotic, country defining updated Funk~Right On!)

Anyway, The trifecta "Grip 'n Grin" session at three of Flint's fine establishments went well and many fans showed up to get items autographed or receive a big hug from this home town legend of Rock and Roll!

If that wasn't cool enough, a few months later when one of our favorite local journalist (Doug Pullen) moved on to Texas from the Flint Journal...Mark Farner showed up at the Going Away Party at Jester's Lounge in Flint for Doug and brought along Fabulous Pack member Curt Johnson plus Dennis Bellenger from Mark's 1968 band; The Coolie Group)

Dennis Bellenger, Curt Johnson, Rusty Wright and Mark Farner (pic by L. Wright)

Right at the start of the party Mark Farner and friends performed his signature song "I'm Your Captain/Closer To Home" and it was a very touching tribute to Doug and to the love the locals have for music (so much musical talent in attendance that night) and for Mark and his Grand Funk Railroad music!

(Video compliments of Mustard Seed)

Mark is so gracious when signing autographs! And when we joke that he'll sign whatever you bring...I guess that means even if all you have is yourself! So, just for FUN I'll include this picture!

Now, the big new's was announced at Blackstone's Eatery in downtown Flint!
This Summer, During the "Back To The Bricks Festival" on August 15TH, Mark Farner and his band "N'rG"[Energy] will take the stage at Atwood Stadium! The FUNK will Fly and spirits will be high!

The Media converged and took notes!
Mark's speech

Film at 11:00
The Newton's signed and framed album cover shown on TV

It's a beauty

"Thank You For Coming..."

(pics by Mary Newton)

C'Mon and show your Rock and Roll Soul!

More Information at: http://www.markfarner.com

For a Grand Funk Tour of Flint complete with the signing of a gigantic picture of Mark Farner in the local Flint music store CLICK HERE:
Good View's For Flint~Thank You Terry R. Bankert

Rock and Roll Fantasizers Share Farner Footage From Camp

2009-05-23T23:34:00.006-04:00

Fresh from the 2009 Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp; The Warm Up:

"Cool Jam"

Mark Farner playing that Parker Fly and singing;

"Sin's A Good Man's Brother"

Instructional Counselor Mark with;

"Mean Mistreater"

Gibson Guitar Show Room Show;

"I'm Your Captain/Closer To Home"

All Star Counselors Jam;

"Footstompin' Music" & "Some Kinda Wonderful"

One "Happy Camper" Video "Thank You"
http://s62.photobucket.com/albums/h92/fstodolak/Freds%20Music%20Videos/

Mark's most famous Messenger Guitar and the Gibson L5S

2009-05-09T15:46:00.005-04:00

The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan has a major draw for me this Summer! Rock Star's Guitar's! Well, Rock Star's Car's too but, for me, it will be surreal to stand in the presence of Mark Farner's magical Messenger. You know, the instrument the critics called "junk!"
The very guitar that Mark was allowed to make payment's on till the full purchase price of $200 was reached! [See Artist Interview for this story]

Another of Mark's great Gibson guitars will also be displayed at the museum. The very Gibson L5S that went on the "We're An American Band" tour!
For all the guitar aficionado's; the display of rock stars guitar's will run May 16TH September 2ND...See you there!

Like the song say's; "Nothin' But A Party"

2009-05-03T13:24:00.004-04:00

The lyrics to: "Rock and Roll Soul" could be used as captions for these snap shot character captures supplied by David Keeler who was enjoying the Funk as a photographer at Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp Here we are, front row, right at the Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp Gala:

"WE'RE HAVIN' A PARTY"

"EVER'Y BODY'S INVITED..."

"...FIND OUT IF YOU'VE GOT SOME ROCK'N ROLL SOUL"

TURNS OUT...WE ALL HAVE THAT "ROCK'N ROLL SOUL"

BRUCE KULICK, MARK FARNER, MARK HUDSON

Some Kinda Wonderful at Fantasy Camp!

2009-05-02T08:29:00.002-04:00

The Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp Gala took place at Gibson Guitars Showroom in Beverly Hills! Mark Farner sings "Some Kinda Wonderful" with Mark Hudson,Bruce Kulick, Kip Winger,Sandy Gennaro and a great backup rhythm section.

Many thanks to DaveK at;
http://vintagetourjackets.blogspot.com/2009/05/mark-farner-sings-some-king-of.html

Pictures from Fantasy Camp: http://www.wireimage.com/ItemListings.aspx?igi=370183&nbc1=1

Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp Blog: http://www.rockcamp.com/blog/

Mark Farner~ Celebrity Judge

2009-05-01T09:55:00.005-04:00

Final judgment is set for 05-02-2009 19:00 at:
Leelanau Sands Casino Concert Showroom
2521 NW Bay Shore Drive
Peshawbestown, Michigan 49682

Mark Farner of Grand Funk fame judging!

The Finale Main Event for ROCK YOUR WAY TO THE TOP. Finalists compete for
the grand prize $2000 cash, studio session time at Radius Recording http://www.radiusrecording...com and song production by Major Label Industry engineers/..producers.

See: myspace.com/rockyourwaytothetop

April 4TH had a whole lotta shakin' goin' on

2009-04-30T01:46:00.003-04:00

KLOS Radio Shakin' Bake Festival~MARK FARNER/N'rG
April 4, 2009
Photos and Review By: Kelly Stevens
[Review courtesy of The Fan Zone at http://www.easybreezes.com

It was a perfect day for an outside festival. Not too hot, not too cold, only a few clouds and a light breeze. I didn’t know precisely when Mark was supposed to start so I decided to get there early. My friend Jim and I took off to the gig around 11:30 am and arrived about 12:30 pm. It was smooth sailing all the way. We soon met up with another friend of mine, Dave. Of course I was dressed in my Mark garb, the “I’m Your Captain” t-shirt, a Grand Funk hat, and lanyard with my membership card.

We made our way to the middle area of the Santa Anita racetrack where the stage was set up. There was already a lot of people. There was barbeque, beer and lots of stuff going on all over the place. Jim, Dave, and I settled in initially at the opposite end from the stage. The radio station that sponsored the event (95.5 KLOS) were doing some contests where they would give away money, in the amount of $250.00 each time. During this time they also mentioned something about backstage and Mark doing some pictures. I figured this might be a good queue for me to make my way to the stage and see if I could locate Lesia Farner. I remember saying to my friends just as I got up to walk towards the stage “Wouldn’t that be cool if one of us won some of that money they’re handing out, like that would ever happen!” So there I was, walking towards the stage, when they decided to have another contest. They announced “Okay, this time we’re going to give $250.00 to the first person to show us they’re wearing a Grand Funk hat. I couldn’t believe it! As I approached the stage I could see people looking around to see if anyone was wearing one, but nobody spotted any, so I took my hat off and waved it and yelled “Right here!” As I got closer they could see the “Grand Funk” on the hat and they then announced “We have a winner!” How lucky is that! Needless to say, that hat is now my lucky hat.

After that happened I was allowed backstage and I soon met up with Lesia. This was the first time I ever met her. She was very nice and seemed to enjoy accommodating all us fans, making sure everyone had a chance to meet her Rock n Roll husband. Thank you Lesia. Mark is a lucky guy to have you in his life. Well, the next thing I knew, there was Mark! He posed for a few photos with some fans at first but when he finshed I said: “How’s it going, Mark!” and he said “Hey! Fan of the month!”

I then told him how I won $250.00 just for wearing his hat. We had a few laughs and then Lesia was nice enough to take a picture of me with Mark.

Then came the show. I think Mark started around 4:30pm. I’ve seen Mark play many times but this had one of the most unique gigs. His first set was only 3 songs long before he stopped because the horses would race and then he would go back on and play 3 more songs, stop again, the horses would race again, and then Mark played solid to the end. He started with “We’re An American Band” which surprised me. I’ve never seen him start with that before. I think the next song was “Mr. Limousine Driver” followed by “Nothing Is The Same”. Forgive me if don’t remember it quite right. I was doing a lot of running around and I was a little tired and a little sunburned by the time Mark started, but not to worry. I did catch a second wind. Mark’s second set I think started with “Shinin’On” followed by “Creepin” and then “Aimless Lady”. Mark’s keyboard was over modulating during Creepin and was breaking up a bit. The soundman was trying to fix the problem all through the song. I don’t know for sure but I think the sound system was not their own. By the time Mark came back for the final and main set, the problems were fixed and Mark kicked some serious ass, not that he didn’t already. Let see if I can remember the rest of the songs and there order: “Are You Ready”, “Heartbreaker”, “Footstompin music”, “The Locomotion”, “Bad Time”, “Some Kind Of Wonderful”, “People, Let’s Stop The War” and “Closer To Home”.

It was an awesome day. I had a great time. When I got home that night I was sooo tired, but in a good way. It amazes me how much energy Mark puts out in his performances to this day and still makes time for all his fans. I wish I had some of that energy! I know some day Mark might decide it’s time to retire, but after seeing him again on Saturday that seems a long, long way off. I hope he never retires and just keeps doing what he does best…Rockin’ our socks off!

Kelly Stevens

FROM MARK FARNER'S OFFICIAL YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
Santa Anita "Shakin' Bake Festival Video:

SHININ' ON

HEARTBREAKER CLIPS

Mark Farner's Official You Tube Channel

SEND US YOUR SHAKIN BAKE PHOTOS!

2009-04-08T22:26:00.003-04:00

ROCK N ROLL HALL OF FAME PETITION

2009-04-05T10:38:00.003-04:00

To: Rock N Roll Hall of Fame

Mark Farner/Grand Funk Railroad should be inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame.

Forming in late 1968, they were the first American rock band to obtain 10 consecutive platinum albums, they had many top 40 singles and also had two #1 singles.

The 1973 #1 hit, “We’re An American Band”, expresses the life of a rock band on the road and made them the quintessential American Band.
Born as a garage band from the industrial city of Flint, Michigan, they rose to fame quickly because their music and persona spoke to the soul of the people.

The average Joe (or Jane) found reason in the lyrics and musicianship of GFR and many musicians following them found inspiration in the style of Grand Funk.

The band’s many sold out concerts are highlighted with a 1971 Shea Stadium show that sold out in 72 hours ….. it took the much higher hyped Beatles 7 weeks to sell out the same venue 7 years earlier.

Grand Funk Railroad hits include: “I’m Your Captain/Closer To Home”, “Footstompin’ Music”, “Rock and Roll Soul”, “We’re An American Band”, “Walk Like A Man”, The remake of Carol King/Gerry Goffin’s “The Locomotion", the Soul Brothers Six remake “Some Kind of Wonderful”, “Bad Time”, and others.

Based on the contributions vocalist/lead guitarist,Mark Farner, drummer, Don Brewer, bassist, Mel Schacher and the later added orgainist, Craig Frost made to the history of rock n roll, Grand Funk Railroad should be inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame.

over 6000 people have signed already...

SIGN THE PETITION HERE

SHAKIN BAKE KLOS FEST THIS WEEKEND!

2009-04-01T19:29:00.007-04:00

We have had a ton of Californians visiting the blog this week for info on Santa Anita. We're hoping for a big crowd this Saturday for Mark's show. Won't hurt that they have the Hawaiian Tropic Model Contest going on during the festival!

Get more info on the show HERE

copy and paste into your twitter page Tweet this post!

Legends and Lyrics:Mark Farner Appearance

2009-04-01T19:21:00.003-04:00

UPDATE:

Just heard from the producers of Legends and Lyrics and they told us Mark's appearance will air this Fall. They tape the series almost a year in advance.

We will update the blog in plenty of time to get your Tivo's and DVR's ready to tape the show. We hear it's terrific. We will have more information by July.

Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra)
Mark Farner (Grand Funk Railroad)
Ian McGlynn (Rising Star)

RE: Announcement:

Latest Performers Set to Tape Legends and Lyrics February 20-24
BMNN wrote: on Feb. 20, 2009:Nashville, TN -- Legends and Lyrics, a Public Television series, which honors the creators of song-- who are professional recording artists, song poets and rising stars has added February 24th to the taping schedule. In all ten performances will be shot, two each day on February 20, 21, 22, 23 and now the 24th. Robert Cray, Mark Farner, Kevin Griffin & Darryl Worley are the latest performers set to tape Legends and Lyrics.

The show is produced out of Nashville, Tennessee by "Songwriters In The Round" and shot in HD 1080p with Surround Sound. The performances will be taped at the historic hall in the Grand Masonic Lodge which is located at the corner of Broadway and Seventh Avenue (downtown Nashville).

Two shows will be taped a day, one at 3:00 pm, the other at 8:00 pm. The public is invited to attend. Just go to legendsandlyrics.com to sign up for the free passes.

Please note, you do have to climb stairs to get into the performance hall.
Robert Cray, Darryl Worley, Mark Farner (Grand Funk Railroad) and Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra) are the latest performers confirmed--other participants so far include: Felix Cavaliere (The Rascals), Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon), Mac Davis, Lamont Dozier (Stop! In The Name of Love), Justin Hayward (Moody Blues), Amy Lee (Evanescence), Melissa Manchester, Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil (You've Lost That Loving Feeling), David Pack (Ambrosia), Peter Yarrow, (Peter Paul & Mary), Guy Clark, Roger McQuinn (The Byrds), Dwight Yoakam, Tony Joe White, with more expected to confirm.
Each taping will showcase well-known recording artists, and legendary song poets from different genres of music in an "in-the-round" setting. Each performer will play their most memorable songs, as well as tell the inspiration behind the creation of their songs.

Fantasy Camp ‘09 April 29-May 3

2009-03-29T14:03:00.005-04:00

Mark Farner puts his soul into the Music
(Rick Diamond / Image Direct)

Fantasy Camp ‘09

Corporate types looking to live like a rock star will get some help from artists including Velvet Revolver bassist Duff McKagen, former Grand Funk Railroad guitarist Mark Farner and ex-KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick at the latest installment of organizer Dave Fishof’s Rock ’n’ Roll Fantasy Camp in Hollywood April 29-May 3.

Campers get treated like rock royalty for five days – forming bands, rehearsing, attending master classes, recording an original song at Capitol Studios and taking part in a concert at the Whisky A Go Go.

Registration is available at RockCamp.com.

And for tag-along spouses, a companion package for $699 includes access to the Fantasy Camp evening activities, dinners, master classes and the concert at the Whisky.

A1 Artist Spotlight.Com/Mark Farner

2009-03-28T07:41:00.008-04:00

A1 Artist Spotlight.Com

Listen to full podcast interview HERE

A1 Artist Spotlight featured a phone interview with Mark about
his CD For The People.

Mark Farner’s newest CD is called For the People. He is the self proclaimed Rock Patriot. As a proud citizen of the United States of America, Mark Farner is telling the Americans that there is a big problem going on in this county and you better wake up to it before all your freedoms are taken away.

The title track “For the People” and “Where Do We Go From Here” in my opinion should be required listening by all American citizens.

These two songs are the most important songs any American can hear this year. If Bob Dylan put these songs out the media would be screaming about what Dylan has written.

They’d be telling you in the papers, on the radio, and on TV, “this is the most important song Bob Dylan has written since “The Times They Are A Changing”. Well this may be the most important song since “The Times They Are A Changing”, but Mark Farner The Rock Patriot wrote it, and hardly anyone is playing it.

Thanks to Mark Kerr’s Blues Nation podcast, I’ve got to hear the song “For the People”, a lot. What’s wrong with the radio stations? Why have they not taken the time to play these important songs?

This is not some guy their listeners have never heard of, this is Mark Farner the man who gave us “I’m Your Captain”, “Footstompin’ Music” and “We’re An American Band”. The leader of Grand Funk Railroad, one of the biggest American bands of all time.

The media has ignored this record but you can save the day. Call your local radio station and demand them to play these songs. Mark said the reason he wrote “For the People” is to provoke people to think about where we are as a nation and how we got here.

Mark’s tired of the media and the government telling us lies about everything. The war, the oil, the money. Who is really in control of these things? Why are we as a nation doing what the people of America do not want our government to do?

Who is really running this country, the government or rich Europeans that control our banks? What ever happened to “by the people and for the people”?

GUEST POST:70'S MUSIC REVISITED

2009-03-28T06:48:00.007-04:00

THE LOCO-MOTION:

Grand Funk, the self proclaimed American Band, was pure rock band. In 1974 as they were working on their album Shinin’ On and were thinking that they may need one more song to complete it.

Mark Farner as a lark began singing ‘Everybody’s doing a brand new dance now’, which with standard reaction other members of the band thought, ‘Yeah, Grand Funk doing the Locomotion’.

After thought they said Why not and turned out this version of the ’60’s pop classic. The Locomotion became the group’s 2nd Number 1 single and their biggest selling single.

MARK FARNER: MESSENGER GUITAR

2009-03-24T23:16:00.008-04:00

By Art Thompson

Whenever the words “aluminum” and “guitar” are put together, it’s usually in regards to Travis Bean or Kramer, who were the best-known makers of alloy axes. Those companies weren’t the first, however. In fact, Bean was predated by some seven years by a small outfit called Messenger, which, in 1967, began building 6- and 12-string guitars that featured aluminum-magnesium necks running though a medium-depth hollow body.

Messengers sported distinctive cat’s eye soundholes and three finishes:
Morning Sunburst, Midnight Sunburst, and Rojo Red. Some models had built-in fuzztones, and all suffered from being equipped with cheap DeArmond pickups. Some models were wired for stereo output with a switch that let you route both pickups through one jack. To enhance resonance, the metal neck/chassis assembly was tuned to resonate at 440Hz.

The principals of the company—which was known as Musicraft Inc., and was located at 156 Montgomery Street, San Francisco—were Bert Casey and Arnold Curtis. Intending to expand Messenger production, Casey and Curtis relocated to Astoria, Oregon, in 1968, but the company quickly disappeared.

Messenger’s claim to fame is tenuous, but these alloy oddities remain high on the must-have list for some collectors—probably due to their use (in modified form) by Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad.

So little is known about Musicraft/Messenger that we probably wouldn’t have much more to add to the story had it not been for Detroit photographer Ken Settle, who sent us the following recollections of his tumultuous relationship with a Messenger.

“As a 13 year old in 1972, I was a big fan of the primal power of Mark Farner’s guitar playing,” says Settle, “and I tried in vain to find out the name of that strange, duct-tape covered hollowbody guitar he used. One night, while discussing it with my cousins, Paul and Randy, Paul suddenly said, ‘I know where Mark Farner lives.’

“Soon, we were driving though the verdant farmlands of South Eastern Michigan until we arrived in the tiny farming town of Parshallville, and approached the white, wooden fence of Farner’s huge farm estate.

“‘Go look at the name on the mail box,’ Paul suggested. I chuckled as I read the name aloud: ‘Ivan K. Baum.’ Then I heard the vicious sounds of an angry dog, and froze in fear as a snarling Doberman deftly slid under the fence and headed toward me. ‘Tish, get back here,’ boomed a nervous voice. The dog halted, and the fellow quickly attached a leash.

“Gathering my composure, I asked, ‘Do you know the name of that tape-covered guitar Mark plays?’

“‘It’s a Messenger,’ the man tersely responded, as he and the dog headed up the long driveway to the house.

“My search for a Messenger finally paid off when I answered a local newspaper ad. The seller brought the guitar to my house, and I immediately noticed a thin, rawhide strap tied around the neck, just above the nut. The guy said it was a gift headband from his departed girlfriend, which he had promised to never remove.

The guitar produced the unique voice I heard in Farner’s tone, so I bought it with the money I made from selling a mid-’60s, Olympia White Fender Mustang.

“When I changed the Messenger’s strings, I learned the sentimental ‘headband’ was there for a much different reason: The combination of improperly sized Grover tuning pegs and a faulty nut doomed the E string to pop out of its slot without the rawhide strap holding it down. I also discovered the D’Armond pickups were noisy, and they couldn’t hold their own against a humbucker-equipped guitar. I wanted my money back!

“I called the seller, but his phone had been disconnected. I advertised the guitar in the local Tradin’ Times, but I received no calls. I even took it to every pawnshop in Detroit, but no one would give me a dime for it. Finally, I tried to seed interest by calling local pawnshops, and saying I was looking for a Messenger like the one Mark Farner made famous. That afternoon, I walked into Sam’s Loan on Michigan Avenue.

“‘Hey, do you guys want to buy a Messenger guitar?’ I asked. The pawnbroker looked up, and said, ‘Mark Farner, right? I’ll tell ya son, I’ve been in this business 40 years, and never once has someone called looking for an item, and then it comes walking into my shop the same day. I know when I’m being scammed. Now, get your guitar and scoot!’”

More than 30 years hence, Settle still owns this Messenger, and he has come to appreciate its peculiarities. “I like its nasally, but mellow tone when played through a clean amp—think of the intro to Grand Funk’s ‘I’m Your Captain,’” he says. “I also like the built-in fuzz—which sounds as loud and ratty as two Jordan Bosstones connected together—how the metal neck rings like a huge tuning fork when it’s removed from the body, and the chilly embrace my hand receives from the stone-cold metal neck. But that wayward E string still tests my nerves!”

(hey was that Mark with Trish the Doberman?)

SHAKE N BAKE/SANTA ANITA PARK!

2009-03-22T21:15:00.008-04:00

See Mark Next Weekend Live!

Grab your blackberries and add this event!

Saturday, April 4th - Noon - 6

FIRST EVER KLOS SHAKIN' BAKE FESTIVAL

Santa Anita Park

285 W Huntington Drive

Arcadia CA 91007

Mark Farner will be performing LIVE

Refreshments, Contests, Prizes and...

The Miss Hawaiian Tropic Model Search

Opening for Mark:

Steel Rod

GUEST POST: ASSAULT AFTER GFR SHOW

2009-03-21T13:36:00.003-04:00

Assault After Grand Funk Railroad Show
The cop's pistol looked huge and aimed right at the head of Grand Funk Railroad's lead singer, Mark Farner.

The late night Halloween show on October 31, 1969 at the Houston (TX) Music Theater with Grand Funk Railroad and the opening act, some guys from Austin called ZZ Top had gone well. As the roadies were loading up the equipment, I went up to the box office to see how my wife Cookie was doing closing the shows books. Went up to the door , knocked and waited to be let in.

From inside I heard my wife Cookie cry out my name in distress. I looked through the one way glass and could see her struggling with the Houston Police Officer who was suppose to be guarding her while she counted the money. But, I could see through the glass that he wasn't guarding her, he was trying to assault her !

Pounded really hard on the door and yelled, "OFFICER, OFFICER !" It seemed to throw him off long enough for Cookie to roll out from under him and run to the door to let me in.

It was obvious that the dude was blitzed drunk as he was standing there weaving and holding on to the counter for support.

I approached the officer and in my most authoritative voice proclaimed, 'OFFICER, YOU ARE NOW OFF DUTY...YOU CAN GO HOME NOW !"
He was dazed as I led him across the room and out the door.

I then went to the phone and called the Houston Police Headquarters and told the desk Sergeant what had happened and that they should send an officer to make sure the guy didn't try to drive in his condition. I said no, we did not want to file a complaint, just called to let them know that their fellow officer needed some help, pronto.

No sooner had I hung up then there was a pounding on the door and a roadie outside yelling that a cop had a gun at Mark Farner's head back at the loading dock. Oh s**t !

I ran full tilt back to the stage entrance and sure enough there was that drunk Mexican cop holding his gun at Mark Farner's head mumbling about f***ing long haired hippie freaks and such.

Terry Knight, the band's manager and Don and Mel, Marks band mates and the rest of the road crew were standing around frozen in fear of what could happen next if the gun were to go off. Oh s**t !

I have no idea of how I knew to handle this situation as it wasn't until several years later that Waylon Jennings told me that guys like us don't have problems, we have, "situations".

So I just strode up and again in my most authoritative voice said, "OFFICER, YOU ARE OFF DUTY, HOLSTER YOUR WEAPON !!."...

With that distracting him ,I walked up and took his arm with the pistol in it and lifted it off Mark's head and up to the ceiling., repeating, OFFICER YOU ARE OFF DUTY, HOLSTER YOUR WEAPON...WHERE IS YOUR CAR ?...its TIME TO GO HOME, WHERE IS YOUR CAR ?.

At that point he put the pistol back in the holster and pointed out to a lone car way out in the parking lot.

As I was walking him out to the car, Houston PD cars came flying in from every direction heading right for us. They immediately took over the "situation" and a burly Sergeant asked if I wanted to file a complaint. I said no as I did not want to have to come back to Houston and a court case involving a f'd up police officer as, hey, nobody got raped, or shot.

About two months later we received a letter from the Houston Chief of Police informing us that the officer in question was given a two week suspension (no doubt with pay) and was receiving counseling. Go figure.
Bob Gately

40 YEARS OF MARK FARNER

2009-03-17T23:06:00.009-04:00

2009 is the 40th Anniversary of Mark Farner's career
as a platinum recording artist. Mark continues to rock in
venues through out the US.

Mark Farner legendary singer, songwriter, and guitarist
for one of the biggest American rock bands of the seventies,
Grand Funk Railroad.

Grand Funk Railroad sold 25 million records and played to
sold out arenas around the world, they accumulated 17 gold
and 11 platinum records.

Some of their biggest songs are:
“Closer To Home (I’m Your Captain)”, “Mean Mistreater”,
“Time Machine”, “Inside Looking Out”, “Footstompin’ Music”,
“Rock & Roll Soul”, Walk Like a Man”, “The Loco-Motion”,
“Shinin’ On”, “Some Kind of Wonderful”, “Bad Time”,
“We’re An American Band” and To Get Back In.

That instantly recognizable voice of Mark Farner is still going strong today.

Here he is from that huge event at Shea Stadium:

Mark Trivia From TV.com

2009-03-06T20:14:00.003-05:00

TV.COM

During his time with Grand Funk Railroad, Mark Farner was known for his unique sound and unique-looking guitars. The guitar he is most identified with was made by Messenger. It had an aluminum neck and on-board electronics, including a built-in fuzz tone.

In his sophomore year in high school, Mark and friends poured a bottle of "skunk" perfume in a radiator vent of the school's heating system. The entire school population had to be evacuated and classes were canceled for the rest of the day.

One of Mark's favorite pastimes from childhood was riding a horse bareback through the woods while hanging on to just its mane.

Mark played the tuba in the Preston Elementry School Band.

As part of the tradition of his Native American roots, Mark wears a medicine bag on his side when he performs on stage.

Mark is part Native American from the Cherokee tribe.

In 2002, Mark Farner performed in A Walk Down Abbey Road, a tribute to the Beatles.

Mark participated in Volunteers For America, raising funds for the New York Port Authority after the Authority's devastating loss on September 11, 2001

Mark was expelled from high school in his senior year after hitting a teacher who shoved him into a brick wall, causing his head to bleed badly. He attempted to finish high school at a local junior college but his constant work in bands at night made it impossible. Mark never completed high school and never got his diploma.

In addition to touring with his own band, N'rG, Mark also participates regularly with the Ringo Starr All Starr Band and as a member of the Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp, where amateur musicians rub shoulders and perform with celebrity rock stars.

When asked how he came to write one of his mega-hits, Mark said one night just before going to sleep he prayed for a song that would reach out and touch the people God wanted to touch. He woke up abruptly in the middle of the night with words in his head and instantly wrote them down. The next day he picked up a guitar and finished what would become one of his most popular songs, I'm Your Captain.

In the lean years after Grand Funk Railroad, Mark ran an alternative energy store in Michigan, selling solar power panels and wind mills.

Mark used VO5 mens hair dressing to grease his long hair back to keep from being expelled from high school.

Mark began playing guitar at the age of 15, after a broken finger and bad knees ended his football career.

ROCK AND POP MASTERS MARCH 14 2009

2009-03-06T07:34:00.002-05:00

From the Orleans Blog

Here comes the sun!
In case you had not yet heard, RPM (Rock & Pop Masters)
is doing a SuperShow in the SUN & FUN of …

Weston, FL
Saturday, March 14th - 7 PM
Weston Regional Park (more info)
RPM featuring David Pack (Ambrosia),
Mark Farner (formerly of Grand Funk Railroad), Jeff Scott Soto (Journey),
Joe Bouchard (Blue Oyster Cult), Joe Lynn Turner (Deep Purple/Rainbow),
and Robert Pabst & Jayne Bogaert (Domino)

While we always love playing with David Pack, Joe Lynn Turner and Joe Bouchard (and have many times),
this is the FIRST time we’ll have Mark Farner and Jeff Scott Soto on the bill … as well as Robert and Jayne from Domino, who opened the Orleans shows in Holland last spring.

PLUS — there will be a Special Unannounced Mystery Guest Artist!

Rock 'n' Roll Greats - Mark Farner: In Concert

2009-03-02T23:38:00.005-05:00

Mark Farner: In Concert

With a prowess in the live concert arena that marks
him as an extremely powerful performer, Mark Farner
has left behind a lengthy legacy for himself.

This release presents the full live experience,
offering a selection of his most popular songs,
including "Some Kind of Wonderful," "Locomotion,"
and more...

Get Your Copy HERE

Screen Format: Color Language: English

There's a Land... a Glorious Land...

2009-02-28T13:07:00.003-05:00

Farner is his usual nasty self on the guitar, exploding with rhythm one moment, tearing it up in a solo the next. His guitar playing here hearkens back to the days of Terry Knight and the Pack, but...

nazfan01 (5 days ago)

This song is my favorite of all times with GFR and ties first place with I Can Feel Him In The Morning. Both of these songs are my number one top favorites. Just great music and it doesnt get any better than this

vinnynumbnuts
There are things in this life that are worse than loneliness. To go through life without having had enough of it is a waste, too. And there's nothing worse than too late.

rocnrollurisback
oh I STILL love GFR!~ Yay!
rocnrollurisback
hard to believe isnt it...I just turned double nickels! yay rockin' grandma!~

geojam2001 I used to go see these guys in Flint, Michigan.....an all time great band from the club circuit....wish I would have kept alot of stuff now !!!!!!-
Tommy Stevens
asajderrick
My grandkids didn't believe me when I told them you can have rock AND great vocals! Only rock band in history that harmonized. I still have the Silver Dollar album - as it was called back then. GFR is still in a class by themselves.

enemygod Great song from a classic album. Love FARNER/GFR.

tired57 ....powerful!!!

irisjade84 One of my all time favorites! A masterpiece! Although song was written during the Vietnam War era with the relevance on Iraq but hey did I also sense something about saving Gaia? and that was about almost 40 years ago? How old was Al Gore in 69?

LIVE ALBUM/CLOSER TO HOME

2009-02-27T15:44:00.005-05:00

Retrokimmer:

These 2 albums were Mark Farner in all his rawest, sexual, high energy, live bombastic, and energized glory. Two of my personal top 5 favorite albums of all time. They're both in my jeep cd player right now.

My top 5 favorites of Mark Farner tunes:

Into the Sun

Loneliness

Mean Mistreater

Heartbreaker

I Don't Have to Sing the Blues (I love that song)

GFR Live is one of the Greatest Live Album's of all time; there are no overdubs here, only a few tweaks with the audience noise. We all bought this record and recently just bought the new re-mastered version. This album generated millions of fans for Farner and GFR. This music is not dated one bit. It still rocks the house down and new Farner fans pop up from the younger generations every day.

That Farner lead guitar and vocal magic gave GFR a special sound all to their own, It can't be faked or copied, or replaced. It was something natural with Farner's voice and his guitar.

The NEW edition of LIVE ALBUM is a 24 Bit Remastered Masterpiece, of hard rock n roll that never will be dated. David Tedds managed the project and he did a wonderful job.

The songs have all be restored to there proper order and lengths; The track's are; Introduction, Are you Ready, Paranoid, In Need, Heartbreaker, Words Of Wisdom, Mean Mistreater. Mark Say's Alright, T.N.U.C., Inside Looking Out, and Into the Sun.

Closer to Home is my favorite studio produced GFR record. Not because of Closer to Home which was the break out hit of that decade. It featured Mark singing Hooked on Love and I Don't Have to Sing the Blues. It was my obsession as a teenager living on an Army post in Georgia and far away from my home near Detroit. Mark's voice took me home everytime I heard him play.

Closer to Home was also big because I wanted to go home so badly. A city girl transplanted to the south. I liked it down there but I longed for the Motor City.

Here is one of my favorites:

Mean Mistreater/Mark Farner: Boy can Move...

MARK FARNER: FOR THE PEOPLE

2009-02-24T23:04:00.005-05:00

Get Your copy HERE

Reviews of For the People 5 stars across the board

From: Tony Spada
Mark Farner is still the man !! In my opinion the best voice in Rock and Roll. Lotta Rock'n Roll Soul here . Thanks Mark for giving me a carreer in Music
Mark Farner is the best.

From: Julian David

This album has so much 'feel' and 'soul'. Mark writes great message music.

From: Spunky Munkey
Actually saw Mark Farner perform last night in Belleville On. Certainly a thrill of my lifetime. Got to meet him and he signed the CD. Was very honored to meet such a great musical icon. I scanned the signed CD cover and it's on my website. www.myspace.com/spunkymunkeymusic
No disappointment here....

From: Jay Wescott
It doesn't matter...Funk, God Rock, "Nrg", or just Mark, this stuff is great!!! Keep it comin'!!! nothin' unlearnt...

RINGO'S INTRO ~MARK FARNER!

2009-02-24T22:54:00.002-05:00

In 1995, Ringo Starr toured with an All Star band of musicians including Mark Farner, Randy Bachman, John Entwistle, Zak Starky, Pete Riviera & Billy Preston. The outcome was magical. (Especially Mark Farner's Locomotion )

Sign Up For Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp

2009-02-24T06:58:00.005-05:00

JAM WITH LEGENDARY ROCK STARS

PLAY IN A BAND WITH FAMOUS MUSICIANS

PERFORM LIVE AT MAJOR CONCERT VENUES

LIVE THE ROCK AND ROLL DREAM

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Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp™ is the ultimate music experience,

that allows musicians and enthusiasts alike the once in a lifetime

opportunity to jam with legendary rock stars, play live on stage

at major concert venues, and live their rock 'n' roll dreams.

For more about the camp please click here.

Welcome to the Rock 'n'Roll Fantasy Camp.

Ever wonder what it's like to jam with your favorite rockstar?

Ever wanted to play in a band and be treated like royalty?

Then watch the video and learn how you can make it happen!!

Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy
Camp is the ultimate music experience.
For the novice and the expert, the amateur and the
aficionado, we make rock n' roll dreams come true.

Simply stated, our mission is to bring people's
musical fantasies to life!

For more about the camp and what to expect please
click here.

Legends and Lyrics

2009-02-21T01:30:00.007-05:00

Set for taping next Tuesday Mark is scheduled to appear on the PBS show Legends and Lyrics set to air in April 2009 so get your DVRS and Tivos ready
to grab Mark on PBS

Mark's taping is set for Tuesday 02-24-09
If you live in the Nashville area you may be able to see the taping live and for free!

Nashville 8pm
Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra)
Mark Farner (Grand Funk Railroad)
Ian McGlynn (Rising Star)

Announcement:

Latest Performers Set to Tape Legends and Lyrics February 20-24
BMNN wrote: on Feb. 20, 2009:Nashville, TN -- Legends and Lyrics, a Public Television series, which honors the creators of song-- who are professional recording artists, song poets and rising stars has added February 24th to the taping schedule. In all ten performances will be shot, two each day on February 20, 21, 22, 23 and now the 24th. Robert Cray, Mark Farner, Kevin Griffin & Darryl Worley are the latest performers set to tape Legends and Lyrics.

The show is produced out of Nashville, Tennessee by "Songwriters In The Round" and shot in HD 1080p with Surround Sound. The performances will be taped at the historic hall in the Grand Masonic Lodge which is located at the corner of Broadway and Seventh Avenue (downtown Nashville).

Two shows will be taped a day, one at 3:00 pm, the other at 8:00 pm. The public is invited to attend. Just go to legendsandlyrics.com to sign up for the free passes.

Please note, you do have to climb stairs to get into the performance hall.
Robert Cray, Darryl Worley, Mark Farner (Grand Funk Railroad) and Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra) are the latest performers confirmed--other participants so far include: Felix Cavaliere (The Rascals), Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon), Mac Davis, Lamont Dozier (Stop! In The Name of Love), Justin Hayward (Moody Blues), Amy Lee (Evanescence), Melissa Manchester, Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil (You've Lost That Loving Feeling), David Pack (Ambrosia), Peter Yarrow, (Peter Paul & Mary), Guy Clark, Roger McQuinn (The Byrds), Dwight Yoakam, Tony Joe White, with more expected to confirm.
Each taping will showcase well-known recording artists, and legendary song poets from different genres of music in an "in-the-round" setting. Each performer will play their most memorable songs, as well as tell the inspiration behind the creation of their songs.

Atlanta International Pop Festival in 1969

2009-02-19T20:07:00.005-05:00

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.

More from Modern Guitars Magazine Here

I'm Your Captain/Closer to My Home

2009-02-19T07:07:00.005-05:00

We have received requests asking about whether or not Mark wrote I'm Your Captain. The answer is....

I'm Your Captain
Grand Funk Railroad
by Mark Farner

The tune that is remembered as "Closer To Home", is actually labeled "I'm Your Captain" on both the album sleeve and record label. It is from the album "Closer To Home", released by Grand Funk Railroad in June of 1970.

Everybody, listen to me, and return me, my ship.

I'm your captain, I'm your captain, though I'm feeling mighty sick.

I've been lost now, days uncounted,and it's months since, I've seen home.

Can you hear me, can you hear me,or am I all alone?

If you return me,to my home port,I will kiss you,mother earth.
Take me back now, take me back now,to the port, of my birth.

Am I in my cabin dreaming,or are you really scheming,to take my ship away from me.

You'd better think about it,I jsut can't live without it,so please don't take my ship from me. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

I can feel the hand,of a stranger,and it tightening,around my throat.

Heaven help me, heaven help me, take this stranger, from my boat.

I'm your captain, I'm your captain, though I'm feeling mighty sick.

Everybody, listen to me, and return me, my ship,

I'm your captain, yeah yeah yeah yeah
I'm your captain, yeah yeah yeah yeah
I'm your captain, yeah yeah yeah yeah
I'm your captain, yeah yeah yeah yeah

I'm getting closer to my home. I'm getting closer to my home.

1969 Time Machine

2009-02-17T22:24:00.004-05:00

From the incredible Blues Blogger:

Whenever I drift through time, I often find myself coming back to 1969… Thinking of Mark Farner and Grand Funk Railroad always reminds me of my brother’s oldest friend The Big F. He was also his roadie/bodyguard and loved to play the drums. One night he came over to our house to show off his Grand Funk Railroad LP called On Time…

All the gear was in the basement. So he raced down the stairs to the stereo system, placed the LP on the turntable and carefully aligned his chosen groove… The Big F then briskly took a seat behind the drum kit and started playing along to the tune Time Machine…

My brother then walked over and strapped on his axe; joining along in the bluesy impromptu jam. It's cool moments like these that I frequently recall. And I remember Farner and the boys being part of that extraordinary moment in time 40 years ago… Of course that was only the beginning of Mark Farner’s incredible story…

TheBluesBlogger

Here's a video when the Motor City Mad Man strapped on his axe to play along with MARK

Mark is "The Rock Patriot"

2009-02-17T06:45:00.004-05:00

Mark Visitng the Vietnam Wall
photo: Lesia Farner

Mark Farner, "The Rock Patriot"
by Donna Teresa, Homefront Journal

Sunset Beach sits 16 miles south of Santa Cruz. In the 1970s, it was a popular site for families, surfers and for anyone who just loved going to the beach. You knew it was going to be a great beach day when you could hear Grand Funk Railroad playing on the radio.

With songs like "We're an American Band "or "Some Kind of Wonderful," their concerts were legendary. Grand Funk's lead singer, songwriter and guitarist, Mark Farner, has been doing his part to appreciate America's veterans and troops for many years, by tirelessly giving his time and music to appreciate and celebrate our veterans. It's no secret that his inspiration to lend a hand to veteran causes is true and deeply heartfelt.

"My father was a World War II veteran, a tank driver in the Seventh Armored Division. My mother was the first woman to weld on Sherman Tanks at General Motors Fisher Body plant in Flint Michigan. Some of my friends from school didn't make it back from Vietnam and I miss them" Farner said.

Farner has been entertaining troops since the 70s. "The first 'Guitar Army' show put on by and for Vietnam Vets at Harpo's was in Detroit. It was a theater turned into a huge night club and it rocked! Other veteran benefits and shows where we were able to entertain and speak to those who are personally responsible for the preservation of freedom. It's an honor to be with brave people."

Farner also enjoys sharing the story about doing a Grand Funk Railroad show for the troops in Schweinfurt, Germany. There were 10,000 troops and they also sold tickets to civilians.

"The stage was made up of two flatbed trailers backed up to each other. The spotlights for the stage were target lights on the barrels of three tanks setting out in the field in front of us, pointing directly at you know who," Farner said. "Every time I would make a move the turrets would turn and three highly skilled tank drivers would follow me closely!"

While entertaining the troops, Farner has had opportunities to meet many veterans.

"There aren't many vets whom I have spoken with personally who were all that willing to share personal stories about their military involvement. I would never pry or even ask specific questions," Farner said. "I will only wait for my turn to speak and do it respectfully as we could only imagine the emotional trauma these beautiful people may have had to contend with.

"We don't see much being done for our troops on the Federal level for personal recognition. It would show a lot of love if there was more national exposure of the lives of the soldiers, their sacrifices and their level of commitment, it would certainly help. This could only build troop morale that must sometimes be far away from love of family and friends because of their loyalty to their commitment. To know the nation they served was watching a special program about them would be nice," Farner said.

If you would like to read more about Mark's work with veterans, and his music go to http://www.markfarner.com/. It is full of terrific information about Mark past and present and his highly anticipated new record. Mark has a special message to all the veterans out there, "I love these people without end. God bless our men and women of the U.S. military."

Thank you Mark Farner for your great and generous kind heart and for making our troops feel appreciated and giving them the welcome home they deserve. You have truly helped make them feel closer to home.

Donna Teresa can be reached at donnateresa@sbcglobal.net. Donna writes for the Homefront Journal at http://www.montereyherald.com/.

New Post On Mark Today!

2009-02-14T17:49:00.002-05:00

From: Art Lopez 70's Classic Rock

Here's a cool new site designed by my good bud Kim Maki of Retro: Kimmer, The Sn ar k ey View and Mackyplanet. As I sit here listening to my Grand Funk Railroad - "Capitol Collector's Series" album, how appropriate that I delve into a site dedicated to Mark Farner. The front man of GFR. An awesome collection of images, videos and details spanning from the most memorable concert at Shea Stadium in '71 to his most recent release, "Mark Farner- The Rock Patriot".This is a must visit for any Mark Farner - GFR fan and 70's Classic Rock enthusiast. I've got to tell you... checking the site out while listening to American Band piping thru my headphones adds a whole other dimension to the experience. Awesome.

Thanks Artster!

Mark Farner - The Rock Patriot

2009-02-13T06:56:00.005-05:00

Mark Farner - The Rock Patriot
For The People
© 2006 Righteous Rock Music/ Mark Farner (783707370408)
CD price: $13.99
CD IN STOCK. ORDER NOW. Will ship immediately.
(About MP3 downloads at CD Baby)

Classic Rock & Roll Artist retains feel with new funky R&B influenced release.
tracks
1 For The People
2 Cry Baby
3 Nadean
4 Girl
5 You Know Who I Am
6 Same Ol' Feelin'
7 You're My Girl
8 This time
9 Waiting Here for You
10 Symptons
11 Where Do We Go From Here

Mark Farner The Rock Patriot
Apple iTunes

Notes from CD BABY

Long revered and acknowledged as a primary force in popularizing the American power trio, Mark Farner re-emerges with both guns blazing and perhaps his most defining album of his solo career, For The People.Rock icon Mark Farner’s latest album portrays a return to his roots--the roots of American rock. Laden with powerhouse tracks, For The People harkens back to the artist’s definitive style that has been embraced by tens-of-millions of fans worldwide. The inimitable knack for a well written song, perfectly placed power-chord, hooky melody line, blistering guitar solo and, of course, an ever-soulful vocal makes this album perhaps Farner’s high-water mark as a solo artist. “For The People” leads off the album with a political message that doses the listener with a driving guitar that seamlessly weaves itself into the lyric creating a perfectly meshed pop track. “Nadean” follows suit and has been likened to Farner’s “Bad Time To Be In Love,” often cited as a pure pop classic. “You’re My Girl” again, slams into the realm of powerhouse rock with Farner’s take-charge rock attitude in full bloom. “Where Do We Go From Here” poses powerful political questions and reminds fans that Mark Farner has many layers to this persona that go way beyond Mark Farner, Rock Star. Long-time fans will readily recognize his message and new listeners will perhaps be enlightened by his inspired point of view. No matter how you approach this record, For The People has something to say and the artist takes that message on the road live this summer in support of this defining work.Mark Farner has a rich history that sometimes overshadows his solo work. This is a syndrome that is common to so many great artists that were vital members of iconic bands, i. e., John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Ironically both artists emerged simultaneously onto the late-sixties rock scene to great acclaim and Farner and his band mates in Grand Funk Railroad proceeded to blow the roof off the rock world in 1971 by selling out New York’s Shea Stadium faster than The Beatles! With monster hits including: “I’m Your Captain (Closer To Home),” “The Locomotion,” “We’re An American Band,” “Bad Time” and “Mean Mistreater,” Grand Funk Railroad went on set attendance records and record sales throughout the world. Mark Farner remains in touch with that legion of fans and has truly made and album, For The People.

Mark on Playing Shea Stadium

2009-02-13T06:18:00.003-05:00

Mark Farner led Grand Funk Railroad at the memorable Shea Stadium show. (Courtesy Mark Farner Music)

It was July 9, 1971, and Mark Farner couldn't believe what he was seeing and hearing.

As the former lead singer of the multi-platinum rock group Grand Funk Railroad, the Michigan native had seen plenty of packed arena crowds grooving to his music in the recent months as they climbed up the charts. But this was a little "heavy," to use a popular period term.

Grand Funk had already set a record by selling out Shea Stadium faster than anyone, including a quartet from Liverpool, England, known as the Beatles. And when Farner and his bandmates were whisked from Manhattan to the Shea parking lot by helicopter, the magnitude of this accomplishment hit him like a Tom Seaver fastball to the ribs.

"We took off from East River, and we were supposed to land in the parking lot, where a limo was going to pick us up," Farner said. "And when we got over the stadium, with Humble Pie already on stage, we could actually see the building bouncing up and down from the fans so excited from the music.

"And to really describe it, I'd have to say it was something you'd have to experience to really know what it was like. The emotion that comes over you when you see that -- there are no words for it."

After a police escort to the backstage area, Grand Funk pulled off what Farner still considers their most memorable gig.

Among the high points was the ballad "I'm Your Captain (Closer to Home)" which would become a radio hit but at the time was simply the song that connected the most with the younger audience, Farner says.

"New York had been a great audience for Grand Funk Railroad, and we had done shows at Madison Square Garden and Randalls Island with Jimi Hendrix," Farner said. "The people loved what we stood for and what we had to say, and that's why we were popular."
courtesy Mark Farner Music

In particular, the ending of "I'm Your Captain," in which Farner sings, "I'm getting closer to my home" over and over, became the refrain that seemed to truly captivate the crowd.

"It was the Vietnam era and everybody wanted the war to stop," Farner says. "They got behind 'I'm Your Captain,' and even today, it's the most requested song of all Vietnam veterans. It's easy to see why. A soldier who's dug in, he wants to be closer to home, and maybe that's why he can survive day after day with the bullets flying. It still fits today in that theater of war.

"And it was powerful. Women were crying. Guys were crying. It was a very emotional time. New York City in 1971 was ready not only to hear the song but to react to the feelings it stirred up. And they reacted. They sang it louder than the damn PA, dude. I could hear them singing louder than I was singing."

Thirty-seven years later, Shea Stadium is in its final season of existence, and Farner says he'll miss the yard where all of this drama once unfolded.
(see more demolition photos HERE)

"It saddens me," Farner says. "As long as it was standing, it was a visible memory. It was a reminder to everybody that was there. And now that it'll no longer be that landmark that it's been for all these years, it's disturbing to think about. But it's also a happy memory because that was a high point in my life."

Grand Funk would go on to play more memorable shows in baseball stadiums, including a particularly wild -- and wet -- one during monsoon season in Osaka, Japan, in which the band was forced to "dodge manhole covers that were blowing up from the street in front of us," as Farner remembers.

And even now, with Farner still enjoying the rock n' roll lifestyle that keeps him touring his favorite cities -- a complete listing of current album and concert information is available at Mark's Website -- while taking breaks to enjoy the pastoral comforts of his home on Michigan's lower peninsula, he says he still thinks about that one magical night in Flushing Meadows, Queens.

"The attendance record still stands," he says, "and that's something to be proud of. The kids slept overnight on the lawn in sleeping bags. Wherever there was room for a body, there was one laying there waiting to buy a ticket. I thought it was pretty special that they were that devoted to what we all had to say when we got in that stadium.

"It was a time like that when people were willing and able to hear what we had to say. It's time to go back to that. It's a vivid time that's burned in my memory forever."

Doug Miller is a Senior Writer for MLB.com/Entertainment. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

"From Grand Funk to Grace"

2009-02-12T23:00:00.000-05:00

Anyone who has even the slightest brain cells remaining after 1969 and the festivals of the summer of love, know who mark farner is!

This savage samite singer of the Shea stadium legendary performance and the lighting bolt that charged Grand Funks shows and albums( yeah , vinyl)was and is stratospheric in his approach to audience participation.

You knew from the start of the song, until the last tune , that you were on a laser bound for the heart of rock and roll.

This biography does exactly what i would expect from a Mark Farner project, piss you off while chuckling at his brashness.

The book is a personal look at the formative relationships of family and the tragedy of losses that took their toll on the young athlete turned musician.A fond recall of the days of yore and how they impacted him.

The un heroic flight from armed services via any means possible, even so far as to appear gay or drug addicted. Reckless youthful pranks of every variety and mayhem.A all too normal background in Michigan’s industial environment and it's root beliefs, rowdy being the norm , not the exception.

The salvation by the music of the era that sparked the drive that possessed the man and the boy to follow an uncertain and unmapped future to rock's shaking shoes , where the glass slipper is always a foot away from royalty, and gold and silver come a in vinyl gem.

The drug culture is alive and well in this storied testament to youthful endurance and luck, not to mention miraculous recoveries.

The famous co-horts in pranks and mischief are no less than Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix, unfortunate examples of the excess of stardom that leads to a free fall without a net.

The success of the power trio phase of grand funk is enlightening , but too limited for my taste, more telling of the concerts would have thrilled me since i was at many of them and they were wild and untamed events that were by any one’s account, intense!!

His child by an affair with a touring female is touching and sad, evidence of his need to right a wrong.

Buy Mark's Book

A Few Things Hangin' Around the Farner Homestead

2009-02-12T19:48:00.000-05:00

Those fantastical Farnerphiles at Mark Farner's Railroad presented some pretty special personalized gifts here through the years.

The AMERICAN EAGLE COLLECTOR PLATE; was signed on the back by Farner fans!

"SAY NO" PAINTING; Daughter Tinya Finch of gifted Cherokee artist Dana made a gift of her mother's wonderful works stating that her mother used a certain long haired, arm-banded guitar slinger's physique as a model for the braves abs!

A LEATHER CHRISTMAS BOOK; also hangs around down in the Farner studio. The American Bald Eagle flying over Bethleham carries a peace pipe in his beak and a dream catcher hangs loosely over the Star of Bethleham. Mule hide and Fringed leather with a Deer antler holder to hang on the wall!

Many personalized pages made this a humbling and thrilling collection to receive!

Mark Farner

2009-02-10T19:28:00.001-05:00

Mark Farner Biography

True rock 'n roll legend, Mark Farner found fame and success at 20 years of age as the leader of one of America's biggest bands of the 1970's - the original Grand Funk Railroad.

The band recorded 17 albums with total sales of more than 25 million records. Mark Farner is the unmistakable voice, guitarist, and songwriter that powered the original Grand Funk Railroad to 12 platinum and 15 gold albums.

After only 3 guitar lessons, Mark put various bands together. In the mid 1960's, Mark and his bands played the usual dates that a teenage band would play - high school dances, VFW halls, wedding receptions and the like. Upon leaving high school, Mark turned professional, working with Terry Knight and the Pack, The Bossmen (with Dick Wagner), then just the Pack (this time with no Terry Knight, but with drummer Don Brewer).

In 1969, Mark started the original Grand Funk Railroad with teenage friends Mel Schacher and Don Brewer - one of the first American power trios was born. Mark and Grand Funk hit big just several months after forming. They were the only unsigned act on the show when they opened the first day of the Atlanta International Pop Festival in July 1969.

Mark and Grand Funk Railroad played before 180,000 people in 110-degree heat and the acclaim was instantaneous. They were invited back to close the show the next day. Following their hugely successful Atlanta appearance, the band was signed by Capitol Records and their first gold album "On Time", was recorded and released within four months.

The saga of Grand Funk Railroad is well documented. The albums included such titles as "Grand Funk Railroad", "Survival", "Live Album", "Closer To Home", "E Pluribus Funk", "Phoenix", "Good Singin,' Good Playin'", "Caught In The Act", and "All The Girls In The World Beware", among others. The hit singles included "I'm Your Captain (Closer To Home)," "Foot-Stompin' Music," "We're an American Band", "the Loco-motion", "Mean Mistreater", "Bad Time", "Some Kind Of Wonderful" and others.

Farner Freak

Sinn-Ah-Wah Custom Wah-Wah Pedal Built For Farner Funk-Shon!

Click In When Mark Talks: "All things Sixx String"

“ALL THINGS SIXX STRING”

TUESDAY JAN. 17th, 2012

OUR SPECIAL GUEST

WILL BE

MARK FARNER

From

GRAND FUNK RAILROAD

8:00 p.m. And Midnight E.S.T.

And

5:00 p.m. And 9:00 p.m. P.S.T.

Live From:

http://www.livefromrocknrollranch.com/?page_id=36

Mark's New Stomp Box~Custom Pedal By Celestial Effects!

Mark Farner The Tone Maniac With D'Addario Strings!

Cleveland Rocks And Grand Funk Railroad Were There...From The Beginning!

Mark Farner: "I got Layed Off From High School" Parts One through Nine

Podcast Interview~Rocktologist

Mark Farner On Fox's "Huckabee" Show With Shea Stadium Footage!

Farner Finally 'Fess's Up! Railroaded Out Of His Own Railroad!

Mark Farner en la Arena Monterrey

MARK FARNER EN GUADALAJARA 10-MARZO-2011

A Great Interview With New Funk Stories From Mark

Mark Farner At The Good Will Benefit For Detroit!

MARK FARNER IN GRAND FUNK, SAYS HE WAS RAILROAD-ED

For Benefit Of Jesse Farner~The Big Gun's Of Rock Take The Stage In NYC

Good Will Towards Detroit's Employment Challenges at the Fillmore Detroit~Spirit of Detroit Flying High!

Mark Farner's Guitar Is Gone- In the Windy City!

For The Vets: I'm Your Captain / Closer to Home (1985)

Mark Farner And Seger's Saxman~Give Thanks For The Best Kinda Riot in Detroit~a Rockin'/Soul Riot!

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL FANTASY CAMP RAISES FUNDS FOR RECENTLY PARALYZED SON OF MARK FARNER ON FALL ‘WEEKEND WARRIOR’ TOUR

Honky Tonk Woman/Surrender/American Band - Jared Goldstein

Mark Farner Signing Autographs

Mark Farner Receives VVA President's Award for Excellence in the Arts

The Mark Farner Family's Mighty Mission~Faith Filled Farner Fans Please Step Up To The Mic

THE FARNER AND THE DELL FANTASY CAMP BAND!

Fantasy Camp Makes Mark's "Loco-Motor" Slide Into Super-Drive!

A Rock And Roll Fantasy Camp To Melt Your Little Marshmallows!

"Tell Ev'rybody Ya know...A Movie About Rock 'n Roll's Soul" The Grande Ballroom, Forever: "Louder Than Love"

Grand Funk Railroad: The Railroad Ties That Bent Their Tracks

~~A Christmas Card In Sight And Sound: Mary~~

Teaser Video From Joe DiMaggio's Childrens Hospital Charity Rock Ball...Fund Raiser With The Funk Raiser

Mark Farner's 40 Year's 'a Funkin'

Mark Farner And Chiodos Craig Owens Croon Poe's Poem El Dorado

Presentng Mark Farner With The KEY To Hometown Flint!

Mark Farner's: "The Most Famous Messenger" Guitar

C'Mon Baby Do The Local Motion: Mark's In Flint!

Mark say's: "Alright" I'm Runnin With The Pack in Flint! [Again]

Fill It Up With Funk Please Or, Rock 'n Roll Soul Slurpee

The Hunk-Of-Funk Now Appearing On Billboards In Hometown

Farner Show's Us~Summer Kind Of Wonderful In Port Huron

Farner Music Is Born In The USA...Forty Year's Funkin'

Farner and Anderson On The Hunt For "Shorty" But, "Shorty's Long Gone"

GFR~Three Faces In Those Square New York Times

Flint's Farner Fervor Flows

Farner To Funk Flint This Summer

Rock and Roll Fantasizers Share Farner Footage From Camp

Mark's most famous Messenger Guitar and the Gibson L5S

Like the song say's; "Nothin' But A Party"

Some Kinda Wonderful at Fantasy Camp!

Mark Farner~ Celebrity Judge

April 4TH had a whole lotta shakin' goin' on

SEND US YOUR SHAKIN BAKE PHOTOS!

ROCK N ROLL HALL OF FAME PETITION

SHAKIN BAKE KLOS FEST THIS WEEKEND!

Legends and Lyrics:Mark Farner Appearance

Fantasy Camp ‘09 April 29-May 3

A1 Artist Spotlight.Com/Mark Farner

GUEST POST:70'S MUSIC REVISITED

MARK FARNER: MESSENGER GUITAR

SHAKE N BAKE/SANTA ANITA PARK!

GUEST POST: ASSAULT AFTER GFR SHOW

40 YEARS OF MARK FARNER

Mark Trivia From TV.com

ROCK AND POP MASTERS MARCH 14 2009

Rock 'n' Roll Greats - Mark Farner: In Concert

There's a Land... a Glorious Land...

LIVE ALBUM/CLOSER TO HOME

A Christmas Card In Sight And Sound: Mary