Complete List Of Grass Roots Band Members

Feature Photo: ABC / Dunhill Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

If you grew up in the 1960s and 70s as a young lad or teen, you are well aware of the Grass Roots. Their songs were always on the radio. They were a perfect blend of pop and rock. The Grass Roots were formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1965. Known for their pop and folk-rock sound, the band achieved significant success in the late 1960s and early 1970s with hits like “Let’s Live for Today,” “Midnight Confessions,” and “Sooner or Later.” Over their career, The Grass Roots have released over a dozen albums and numerous singles, with many of their songs charting on the Billboard Hot 100. The band has seen various lineup changes throughout the decades, with multiple musicians contributing to its legacy. Despite changes in membership, The Grass Roots have continued to tour and perform, maintaining a loyal fan base and lasting impact on the rock and pop music scene.

Rob Grill

Rob Grill was the lead vocalist and bassist for The Grass Roots from 1967 until his death in 2011. Grill joined the band during the recording of their debut album, Let’s Live for Today (1967), and quickly became a defining voice of the group. He contributed to the band’s biggest hits, including “Midnight Confessions” and “Temptation Eyes.” Grill’s tenure with The Grass Roots was marked by his distinctive voice and leadership. Outside of the band, Grill released a solo album, Uprooted, in 1979. He also collaborated with artists such as Brian Wilson and The Turtles.

Warren Entner

Warren Entner was a founding member of The Grass Roots, serving as a guitarist and vocalist from 1965 to 1974. Entner played a key role in the band’s early success, contributing to albums like Feelings (1968) and Lovin’ Things (1969). His vocal harmonies and guitar work were integral to the band’s sound. After leaving The Grass Roots, Entner transitioned to a successful career in artist management, representing bands such as Quiet Riot, Faith No More, Rage Against the Machine, and Korn.

Rick Coonce

Rick Coonce was the drummer for The Grass Roots from 1966 to 1972. He joined the band shortly after their formation and played on their major hits and albums, including Leaving It All Behind (1969) and Move Along (1972). Coonce’s dynamic drumming style helped define the band’s rhythmic foundation. Following his departure from The Grass Roots, Coonce continued his music career with various projects and artists, including a collaboration with The Surf Punks.

Creed Bratton

Creed Bratton was a founding member of The Grass Roots, serving as a guitarist and vocalist from 1965 to 1969. Bratton played on the band’s early albums, including Let’s Live for Today and Feelings. His guitar work and contributions to the band’s harmonies were significant during their formative years. After leaving the band, Bratton pursued an acting career, becoming well-known for his role on the television show The Office. He also continued to make music as a solo artist, releasing several albums and working with musicians like Dan Bern and The 88.

Dennis Provisor

Dennis Provisor joined The Grass Roots as a keyboardist and vocalist in 1969, staying with the band until 1972 and returning for a brief period in the early 1970s. He played on albums such as Leaving It All Behind and Move Along. Provisor’s keyboard playing and vocals added a new dimension to the band’s sound. After his time with The Grass Roots, Provisor continued to work as a musician and songwriter, collaborating with artists such as Lou Rawls and Etta James.

Reggie Knighton

Reggie Knighton was a guitarist and vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1974 to 1975. During his tenure, he contributed to the album The Grass Roots (1975). Knighton’s work with the band was part of their efforts to continue evolving their sound in the mid-1970s. After leaving The Grass Roots, Knighton formed The Reggie Knighton Band and released solo material. He also worked with artists like Gary Wright.

Terry Furlong

Terry Furlong was a guitarist for The Grass Roots from 1969 to 1971. He played on albums such as More Golden Grass (1970) and Move Along. Furlong’s guitar work was an essential part of the band’s music during his tenure. After leaving The Grass Roots, Furlong continued his career as a musician and songwriter, working with artists like Loggins and Messina and producing music for television and film.

Virgil Weber

Virgil Weber was a keyboardist for The Grass Roots during the early 1970s, contributing to the albums More Golden Grass and Move Along. Weber’s keyboard playing added a rich texture to the band’s sound during his time with them. Following his stint with The Grass Roots, Weber continued to be active in the music scene, collaborating with artists such as The Righteous Brothers and Johnny Rivers.

Joel Larson

Joel Larson was the original drummer for The Grass Roots, playing with the band from 1965 to 1966 and returning for various periods in the late 1960s and 1970s. He contributed to the band’s early recordings, including the single “Where Were You When I Needed You.” Larson’s drumming helped shape the early sound of The Grass Roots. After his time with the band, Larson played with The Merry-Go-Round and performed with artists such as Lee Michaels and The Turtles.

Rob Bonfiglio

Rob Bonfiglio joined The Grass Roots as a guitarist and vocalist in recent years, contributing to their ongoing tours and performances. Bonfiglio’s work with the band continues to uphold their classic sound while bringing a modern touch to their live shows. Outside of The Grass Roots, Bonfiglio is known for his solo work and his role in the band Wanderlust. He has also worked as a producer and songwriter for artists like Wilson Phillips and Carnie Wilson.

Read More: Top 10 Grass Roots Songs

Mark Dawson

Mark Dawson has been the lead vocalist and bassist for The Grass Roots since 2008. He continues to contribute to the band’s ongoing tours and performances, maintaining their classic sound while adding his own unique style. Dawson’s tenure with The Grass Roots highlights his strong vocal presence and musical versatility. Outside of The Grass Roots, Dawson has pursued a solo career and collaborated with various musicians in different genres.

Dusty Hanvey

Dusty Hanvey has been the lead guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots since 1984. His guitar work has been a consistent element of the band’s performances and recordings over the years. Hanvey’s contributions include maintaining the classic Grass Roots sound while also bringing his own flair to the music.

Larry Nelson

Larry Nelson has been the keyboardist, synthesizer player, and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots since 1984. Nelson’s keyboard work has been integral to the band’s sound, adding rich textures and harmonies to their music. He continues to perform with the band, contributing to their live shows and recordings.

Joe Dougherty

Joe Dougherty has been the drummer and percussionist for The Grass Roots since 1989.

Steve Barri

Steve Barri was involved with The Grass Roots as a backing vocalist, instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer from 1965 to 1973. Barri, alongside P.F. Sloan, played a crucial role in shaping the band’s early sound and success. His work included producing and writing many of their hits. Outside of The Grass Roots, Barri has had a successful career as a producer and songwriter, working with artists like The Mamas & the Papas, Steppenwolf, and Tommy Roe.

P.F. Sloan

P.F. Sloan was a lead vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and producer for The Grass Roots from 1965 to 1967. Sloan co-founded the band and contributed significantly to their early sound and success, including writing their hit song “Where Were You When I Needed You.” After leaving The Grass Roots, Sloan continued his music career as a solo artist and songwriter, writing hits for artists such as Barry McGuire, The Turtles, and Johnny Rivers. Sloan passed away in 2015.

Denny Ellis

Denny Ellis was the rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1965 to 1966. Ellis was part of the band’s original lineup, contributing to their early recordings. After leaving The Grass Roots, Ellis continued his music career with various projects and collaborations, including working with bands like The Bedouins.

Willie Fulton

Willie Fulton was the lead vocalist and lead guitarist for The Grass Roots from 1965 to 1966. Fulton was part of the original lineup and contributed to the band’s early sound and recordings. After his time with The Grass Roots, Fulton continued his music career, collaborating with other artists and bands.

David Stensen

David Stensen was the bassist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1965 to 1966. Stensen was part of the original lineup.

Bill Shoppe

Bill Shoppe was the drummer for The Grass Roots in 1966. Shoppe was part of the band’s original lineup.

Brian Naughton

Brian Naughton was the lead guitarist for The Grass Roots from 1971 to 1972. He played on albums such as Move Along and contributed to the band’s evolving sound during his tenure. After leaving The Grass Roots, Naughton continued his career as a musician and songwriter, working with other artists and bands.

Reed Kailing

Reed Kailing was the lead guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter for The Grass Roots from 1972 to 1974. He played on albums such as Move Along and Alotta Mileage. Kailing’s contributions included his guitar work and songwriting. After his time with The Grass Roots, Kailing continued his music career, collaborating with artists such as The American Breed.

Joe Pollard

Joe Pollard was the drummer and percussionist for The Grass Roots in 1972. He contributed to the band’s recordings during his brief tenure. After leaving The Grass Roots, Pollard became a renowned session drummer, working with artists like The Beach Boys, Steely Dan, and Tom Waits.

Gene Barkin

Gene Barkin was a guitarist for The Grass Roots in 1974. He contributed to the band’s recordings during his tenure. After leaving The Grass Roots, Barkin continued his music career with various projects and collaborations.

Alan Deane

Alan Deane was the lead guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1976 to 1977.

Glen Shulfer

Glen Shulfer was a guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1977 and again from 1980 to 1982.

Brian Carlyss

Brian Carlyss was the bassist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1977 to 1978 and again from 1979 to 1980. He contributed to the band’s recordings and performances during his tenure. Carlyss passed away in 2007.

Mark Miller

Mark Miller was the lead guitarist and lead vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1977 to 1978 and again in 1981.

Lonnie Price

Lonnie Price was the keyboardist and lead vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1977 to 1978.

Randy Ruff

Randy Ruff was the organist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1977 to 1978.

Scott Hoyt

Scott Hoyt was the lead vocalist and lead guitarist for The Grass Roots from 1978 to 1980.

Gene Wall

Gene Wall was the keyboardist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1978 to 1980.

Dave Nagy

Dave Nagy was the bassist and lead vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1978 to 1979.

Reagan McKinley

Reagan McKinley was the drummer and percussionist for The Grass Roots from 1979 to 1980.

Steve Berendt

Steve Berendt was the bassist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1980 to 1981.

Luke Meurett

Luke Meurett was the drummer and percussionist for The Grass Roots from 1980 to 1981.

Ron Pitt

Ron Pitt was the bassist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1981.

Mike Daley

Mike Daley was the drummer and percussionist for The Grass Roots in 1981.

Terry Oubre

Terry Oubre was the lead guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1982 to 1984.

Ralph Gilmore

Ralph Gilmore was the drummer, percussionist, and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1982 to 1984.

Charles Judge

Charles Judge was the keyboardist, synthesizer player, and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1982 to 1984. He contributed to the band’s recordings and performances during his tenure. After leaving The Grass Roots, Judge became a sought-after session musician and arranger, working with artists like Katy Perry, Seal, and The Rolling Stones.

Bob Luna

Bob Luna was a fill-in keyboardist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1982. He contributed to the band’s recordings and performances during his tenure. After leaving The Grass Roots, Luna continued his music career as a session musician and arranger, working with artists like Neil Young and Shakira.

Coy Fuller

Coy Fuller was the drummer and percussionist for The Grass Roots in 1984.

George Spellman

George Spellman was a guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1984..

Dave Rodgers

Dave Rodgers was a keyboardist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1984.

David Page

David Page was the drummer and percussionist for The Grass Roots from 1984 to 1990.

Terry Danauer

Terry Danauer was the bassist for The Grass Roots from 1987 to 1992.

Cary Lenard

Cary Lenard was the keyboardist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1989.

Richard Fanning

Richard Fanning occasionally played trumpet with The Grass Roots from 1987 to 1988.

Kevin Osborne

Kevin Osborne occasionally played trombone with The Grass Roots from 1987 to 1988.

Robbie Barker

Robbie Barker was a keyboardist for The Grass Roots in 1987.

Michael Lewis

Michael Lewis was a keyboardist for The Grass Roots in 1987.

Mark Tomorsky

Mark Tomorsky was a guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1987.

Michael Stec

Michael Stec was the bassist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 1992 to 1993.

Scott Sechman

Scott Sechman was a fill-in guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots in 1998.

Chris Merrell

Chris Merrell was a fill-in lead guitarist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 2000 to 2003 and again in 2006.

Hal Ratliff

Hal Ratliff has been a fill-in keyboardist and backing vocalist for The Grass Roots from 2000 to the present. He has contributed to the band’s recordings and performances during his tenure. Outside of The Grass Roots, Ratliff has collaborated with various artists in different musical genres.

Sonny Geraci

Sonny Geraci was a fill-in lead vocalist for The Grass Roots in 2002. He contributed to the band’s recordings and performances during his tenure. Geraci was also known for his work with The Outsiders and Climax. He passed away in 2017.