Grand Funk Railroad

The Tally-Ho was a small club attached to a liquor store, located on the state line between Delaware and Pennsylvania. The venue had two levels and held about 100–200 people at full capacity. There was probably only 75 paying guests on that night. Grand Funk Railroad was originally active from 1969 to 1976 and then reunited from 1981 to 1983. It was at the very beginning of that reunion tour that we experienced this up-close, intimate concert. I believe this was an un-announced “warm-up show.”

I still have many fond memories of that night. I had a great time hanging out with the Funkettes, who provided the backing vocals, and we also had a lot of fun with bassist Mel Schacher. At one point he ran up to the balcony and “shot the moon” over the railing — we couldn’t stop laughing. Another thrill was seeing Don Brewer up close. I hadn’t realized he was the vocalist on We’re an American Band, and watching him sing while playing the drums was incredible. With such a small crowd in a small venue, we were able to stand within 10 feet of this thunder god. And of course, Mark Farner’s guitar work was absolutely mind-melting.

I kept a copy of the setlist, which is really more of a pictogram.

Setlist

Are You Ready
Shinin' On
Closer to Home
Mr. Limousine Driver
Some Kind of Wonderful
Rock and Roll Soul
We're an American Band
The Railroad
Heartbreaker