MC5’s Rob Tyner sings an homage to Detroit’s infamous rock venue the Grande Ballroom, which in spirit was the Fillmore of Michigan. Tyner is introduced by pioneering Detroit deejay Dave Dixon.

Both these guys were on the cutting edge of the Detroit music scene in the late 1960s and beyond. Dixon was known for having a less than pleasant disposition but was a hugely influential presence on Detroit radio, a surly John Peel of sorts. Tyner of course was the front man for the Motor City 5. Odd to see him playing an electric autoharp but this ode to his rock and roll past is sweet and a little bit sad.

“Grande Days” appeared on Tyner’s only solo album Blood Brothers released in 1990. Tyner died a year later of a heart attack at the young age of 46. This TV appearance was filmed shortly before he died.

Tyner may the only person to wear biker gloves while playing an autoharp. Beautiful.
 

 
Thanks to catshitty for the video.