Diary of an Ardent Fan

For the first time since 2005, I saw Grand Funk Railroad. I last saw them when I worked Summer Motion in Ashland, Kentucky and this time I saw them at Portsmouth River Days in Portsmouth, Ohio.

Founding member/singer/songwriter/guitarist Mark Farner is not in the band anymore (solo artist), but founding drummer/singer/songwriter Don Brewer and founding bassist Mel Schacher are still in the band.

The band also includes singer/guitarist Max Carl, keyboardist Tim Cashion, and last but not least, lead guitarist Bruce Kulick formerly of KISS Blackjack, Union, Meat Loaf, solo artist, and more.

They played a rocking 75-80 minute set, playing all their hits like We’re An American Band, Some Kind Of Wonderful, their version of The Loco-Motion, I’m Your Captain/Closer To Home, and more.

They even had a drum solo and guitar solo (Bruce played The Star Spangled Banner!!!!!).

This band was one of the most popular bands of the 70s. They even sold out Shea Stadium in NYC faster than The Beatles did.

Hopefully someday the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame will finally induct them.

I miss Mark but they still kick butt and they’re all awesome!

And being a big KISS fan, I love that Bruce is in the band.

He did spot me (I was wearing a KISS Hot In The Shade album shirt, which is from his era of the band), and he threw me a guitar pick. Thank you Bruce!!!!!

What a fun show.

Opening the show was Moving In Stereo, a The Cars tribute band.

They were very good too.

It’s concerts like this and concerts in general that truly make me happy and feel alive.

I hate my life most of the time but when I’m at a concert, I’m free.

Hopefully more shows to come soon.

I love Grand Funk and I love you Bruce!!!

My girlfriend Mariah Startzman is seeing you guys tomorrow.