Modman

This was only the fifth show presented at the Grande Ballroom which was essentially the “Fillmore of Detroit.” Former DJ Russ Gibb presented the shows and here the upper left hand corner notes that it’s brought to you by the Uncle Russ Travel Agency – a typical late 1960’s reference to taking a trip.

Artist Gary Grimshaw, [1946-2014], was the first major poster artist outside of the San Francisco scene to attain national attention and his body of work is often considered to be the equal of the San Francisco “Big Five.” 

To avoid being drafted into the Army, Grimshaw joined the Navy and served from 1964 to 1966. At the close of his tour of duty, Grimshaw's ship was sent to San Francisco for service. It was during this time, in 1966, that he was first exposed to the music and the political and cultural scene – and the posters - that were emerging in the Bay Area.

In August of 1966, Grimshaw returned to Detroit, and through old friend and MC5 founder Rob Tyner, Grimshaw was introduced to Russ Gibb, the promoter of the Grande Ballroom. Gibb had just returned from a pilgrimage to San Francisco, where he had also experienced the dance-hall scene in its early stages. He was determined to create a similar scene in Detroit via the Grande Ballroom. Grimshaw became the first and primary artist for Detroit's Grande Ballroom, from its inception in late 1966 until May of 1969.

The Bossmen, from Saginaw, Michigan featured guitarist and singer, Dick Wagner. Wagner later formed a band called “the Frost,” but is best known for trading epic licks with Steve Hunter on the intro to Sweet Jane and the rest of the seminal Lou Reed album, “Rock ‘n Roll Animal.” Wagner also played a key role as a guitarist with Alice Cooper.