By January 1, 1974, Grand Funk Railroad was reaching a pivotal point in their career. The live performance of "Locomotion" captured in this recording occurred shortly after the release of their album "We're an American Band," which came out in July 1973. This album marked a significant turning point for the band, propelling them into mainstream success and featuring their first number-one single. During 1973 and early 1974, Grand Funk Railroad was enjoying immense popularity, particularly with their powerful live shows, characterized by energetic performances and a dedicated fan base. The band's sound during this period laid the groundwork for their reputation as one of the quintessential rock bands of the era, blending hard rock with pop sensibilities. Notably, "Locomotion," originally recorded by Little Eva, showcased their ability to transform classic hits and make them resonate with the rock audience.