WEST SILOAM SPRINGS, Okla. — Known as the heart, soul and voice of Grand Funk Railroad, frontman and classic rock legend Mark Farner and his American Band is taking over the SEVEN Bar stage inside Cherokee Casino & Hotel West Siloam Springs on Friday, Nov. 14, at 9 p.m.
Farner’s influence on 1970s music is undeniable. As the founding member, lead singer, lead guitarist and songwriter behind 90% of the band’s catalog, Farner powered Grand Funk Railroad to the top of the charts with his electrifying performances, soulful vocals and timeless songwriting.
From humble beginnings in Flint, Michigan, Farner helped shape the sound of American rock with hits like “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home),” “Bad Time,” “Some Kind of Wonderful,” “Foot Stompin’ Music,” “Heartbreaker,” “The Loco-Motion,” “Mean Mistreater” and “We’re an American Band.” His music became anthems of a generation and a voice for love, unity and social consciousness.
Over his five-decade career, Farner has sold more than 30 million records worldwide, earning 16 gold and platinum albums. His performances continue to ignite audiences with the same power and passion that filled arenas and stadiums during Grand Funk’s meteoric rise, including the band’s record-breaking 1971 Shea Stadium sellout, which outpaced The Beatles.
Farner’s songwriting and performances have long resonated with fans and veterans alike. His classic “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home)” became an anthem for Vietnam veterans, and he later performed the song at the Vietnam Memorial Wall’s 25th anniversary. The son of a decorated World War II veteran and a proud Cherokee mother who made history as the first woman to weld on a Sherman tank, Farner continues to honor his roots through charitable work that supports veterans, farmers and individuals with disabilities.
Farner has been inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame three times — as a solo artist and as a member of both Grand Funk Railroad and Terry Knight & The Pack. His later success in Contemporary Christian music, including the Dove Award-nominated “Isn’t It Amazing,” highlights his versatility and enduring artistry.
Now celebrating more than 50 years in music, Mark Farner’s American Band continues to deliver the energy, authenticity and heart that define rock ‘n’ roll.
The show is free to those 21 and older.
Located off U.S. Highway 412 and State Highway 59 at the Arkansas-Oklahoma state line, Cherokee Casino & Hotel West Siloam Springs is the region’s leading casino entertainment destination, serving northwest Arkansas and the surrounding area. For more information on gaming and amenities, visit www.cherokeecasino.com and click on the West Siloam Springs tab, or call 800-754-4111. More information about One Star Rewards® is available at www.onestarrewards.com.