We're an American Band (song)
"We're an American Band" is a song by American rock band Grand Funk Railroad, released in 1973 from the band's seventh album of the same name, which became the band's first number one single, released July 2, 1973. Written by Don Brewer and produced by Todd Rundgren, its huge chart success broadened Grand Funk's appeal. Its sung by drummer Don Brewer who began doing more lead vocals for the band and helped with their transition to making top 40 hits. It is the 99th song on VH1's list of  the 100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs. Lyrics. Brewer's lyrics are somewhat autobiographical, detailing the band's recent tour and their energetic live performances. In the song, Brewer mentions playing poker with blues great Freddie King, traveling through Little Rock, Arkansas, as well as stopping to party with four groupies who snuck into their hotel in Omaha, Nebraska. The lyrics also mention "sweet sweet Connie", in reference to the legendary Arkansas groupie Connie Hamzy. According to rock critic/writer Dave Marsh in his book, "The Heart of Rock and Soul", Grand Funk was touring with the British group Humble Pie  in early 1973. After one performance, the two groups were drinking in a bar when they began arguing over the merits of British versus American rock. Grand Funk drummer Don Brewer stood up and after bragging about American rock heroes such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley, proudly announced, "We're an American band!" Thus inspired, he wrote the song the next morning; by late 1973, it was the top-selling song in the world. Brewer says "it never happened". "We were good friends with the guys in Humble Pie and even asked guitarist Peter  Frampton to join our band". Don says the song was written during the terrible period when their former manager Terry Knight was suing them and trying to keep them from touring as Grand Funk. The band desperately needed a hit record and Brewer came up with the song. A video was also made, showing the band playing the song as well as engaging in activities such as basketball, dirtbike riding, and watersports. The original single was released on gold transparent vinyl. Reception. "Cash Box" said that the "group comes through with powerful, chunky rhythms and meaningful lyrics." We're an