Mark Farner is a co-founder and original singer, songwriter, and guitarist for the legendary rock band Grand Funk Railroad. That band sold more than 10 million albums in just two years at the beginning of the 70’s, and they would sell out Shea Stadium in just 72 hours – a feat which took The Beatles 7 weeks. They would go on to have eight Top 40 hits, two #1’s, and sales of more than 25 million records. Mark has also had great success as a solo artist, especially in the Contemporary Christian genre, and he has just released a single in advance of a brand new full-length record that comes out on November 8th, 2024. The new record is aptly titled Closer To My Home.
In this interview, Mark shares his warm personality and his rock and roll soul with us. He talks about his new record and the very intimate personal stories behind the songs. He discusses working with Ringo and his All-Starr Band, and tells a fun and humbling story about Ringo. He tells us about working with Frank Zappa and Todd Rundgren as producers, how the socio-political climate in 2024 is similar and different to that of 1968, and if he thinks playing with Don Brewer and Mel Schacher again might happen someday.
“I’m Your Captain (Closer To Home)” on the Howard Stern Show (2006):
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Hello everyone! My name is Scott Itter, but some know me as Dr. Music. I am a music journalist and photographer out of the Chicagoland area, and I have been in practice for over 20 years. I grew up in the 70’s with two big brothers that showed me all kinds of rock and roll. As I grew older I ventured out into different genres like jazz, funk, folk, and whatever else I could wrap my ears around. As I read every liner note and every Circus and Hit Parader like they were the Old and New Testament, I came to realize that I just love sound and appreciate all the people that create it.
I later became a stay-at-home dad and started honing my writing and photography skills to keep my mind from turning into mashed peas. My kids are now adults, my mind is only slightly mushy, and I am thrilled to have the honor of presenting my work to you!
