I’m just saying this... Alabama in my heart, in my ears, and in my soul will be a four member band..I don’t care what anybody says, makes, or sells!! Teddy, Randy, Jeff and Mark !! Best Country band of all time .. Period
I agree. It's hard Collin Alabama for with only three guys. Without the fourth guy. Now it's going to be even harder because of Jeff Cook passing away. If I was Randy Owens if they are going to continue playing anymore which I don't think they're going to after this last tour if it's not even done yet I don't know but if they do I would try to make amends with Mark Herndon. Because he was there for it all because they lost one of the best you know what I mean. But I get what you're saying there brother Alabama always had a four man cover on your own. You know they got three guys now which don't look bad one of their albums. But it's hard to look at about 4:00 and all their videos that they show on TV y'all see four guys.
From what I have hear from friends in the Music business, Mark would always embarrass the three cousins which would result in light knockdown agurements! Mark always jumped in to live interviews which the band didn't like. Mark did drink a little (heard it from the same friend), and I believe as well as several others believe caused Mark to say things that should have never been said. Mark was from the ROCK generation. It didn't fit in with the Country Band mainly "Alabama". This is several reasons Mark was kicked off the main buss. Mark was forced to ride with the crew members. Then Mark didn't get along with them! It just reached the point the three cousins couldn't deal with it anymore. By contract, Mark was just a hire hand. Mark was never a paid member of the band. Mark did it to himself. Mark probably could make amends with the band, but this never happened. Mark just wouldn't give in. I had heard this from several friends in the business. One conversation took place in Fort Payne, in the front of the Bands museum and practice center parking lot. It's what it's meant to be! We love them all. R I P Jeff.
ALABAMA was, is, & always will be 4 members, and that will always include Mark Herndon! Teddy Gentry said it himself-"when Mark came along, things started to take off for us." So he & Randy need to remember that, & be thankful!
Classy...very classy Sally! Me as a fan felt extremely blessed to have alabama in my ears im not much of a country music fan but in my opinion i think they are the greatest country band ever i hope to see them live before im dead lol
Your dad Teddy is quite a hero figure to me, Miss Sally, as a country music bassist, and I know the camaraderie that a drummer and a bassist develop over a long time of playing together makes them tight. I sure hope that they remained the best of friends through all this and also hope they get to share some great stories together around the campfire soon enough. God bless! Hope your songwriting is coming along great!?
I'm going to see your dad, Randy and Jeff in September!!! Alabama's music has been a part of my life since I was 3. My late father used to sing their songs to me and took me to see them when I was 7. I'm excited to see them again as a 30 something.
As a music fan and an Alabama fan, I have to say I am very disappointed Mark got cut out of the big bucks. He was there from the get go and playing in the small clubs with the band. They make it and he suddenly is not a full partner. You know the saying goes that to much that is given much is expected. Meaning the 3 other guys had a moral duty to make sure Mark was treated fairly and they failed to treat Mark right by cutting him in on the big bucks. The band was wrong and Mark deserves his fair share of their success. He earned it.
I have always been a huge fan of Alabama but unless you wright or are one of the great singers you are replaceable. As just a drummer you are number one on the list to be replaced. Good drummers are a dime a dozen, Sorry but that is the reality. Money talks and bullshit walks.
@@mickeygibb6823 so aren’t the other two musicians that worked with Randy Owens, albeit they are cousins but band as s whole is the chemistry between these guys, If my face is gonna be on the cover of the Album then by god I want my damn 1/4 fair share. So it is some sorry Greedy crap that Randy dealt Mark just bc he wasn’t familiy.
ALABAMA BAND: MOUNTAIN MUSIC TOUR 1982: In 1982 on the Mountain Music tour I met drummer Mark Herndon during a break of the band playing softball 🥎 against the local radio station DJ’s. I was a beginning drummer and asked him how to play the fast part on Mountain Music. He showed me with his hands on his legs explaining it was a paradiddle-diddle between the kick and snare 🥁. He said to learn it slowly listening to Ride the Train from the Feels So Right album. I’ll never forget how kind he was to a young drummer and a total stranger! I’ll always love the Alabama band!
Mark, you have always been an awesome drummer. There is not much to a band without a great drummer. Alabama will always consist of Randy, Teddy, Jeff, and Mark. You deserve the recognition and anyone that thinks otherwise needs to go back and read the history of Alabama. God bless!
I agree with you. But still the same he was a higher hand right from the get-go. He had a contract. But back then it sounds like Mark kernan was a kind of a hot head and not paying attention to the business part of the band. When you start making money in it like they were doing really fast you have to have management and contracts and all that stuff. But Randy Teddy and Jeff they were all cousins. And Jeff Cook was the founder of the group. But now with Jeff God. It will be probably hard for them to continue touring. I'm not sure if the 50 anniversary tour is done or not I'm not sure. But once that's all done I think they're done touring they're going to spend the rest of their years with their families and probably just having family parties maybe occasional show up for awards or whatever which they don't do that even anymore. And they're still the number one band even today cuz there's no bands out there country bands even performing. Just like Alan Jackson says the country music today it's like too much poppy stuff he won't go to another CMA or anything like that. Charlie Daniels said the same thing Toby Keith they all said all the greats says a bunch of crap George Jones said they don't even play us on the radio no more what the hell we made country music. Down south I'm not sure what they do down there but all I know Michigan don't play shit for country music. Only when I care about right now that I like on the country station is Blake Shelton Luke Bryan Toby Keith if they play them. And that's about it it ain't too many nobody the girl singers to me suck. Yeah they look pretty Carrie Underwood she ain't country. Miley Cyrus she switched she's a hoe. Miranda Lambert she's okay I guess. I can keep going but I guess I'll stop right here you're probably laughing at me cuz I'm still rambling on LOL I'll take it easy bro I agree with you
@SalGL.I have been a fan of Alabama's since 1980, & have been Blessed to get to see them in many concerts, & theb the meet & greets afterwards, June Jams, & several Fan Appreciate Days.All of the guys were always so nice & respectful. You have a very nice dad, so decent & respextful. Thank you for your kind words about Mark Herndon. He will always be an important part of Alabama, to me. I hope that you & your family are all doing well. Also, I hope that Lisa Cook is doing well. God Bless you, & bless you in your songwriting, as well! Take care.
I Love All Of Them. Seen Them About 6 Times Been To Randy's Farm For A Concert. Mark Was A Awesome Drummer when I seen him. Love U All Prayers For Jeff.
Mark if you were hired by Randy and the band for an amount to be paid, you should bow to that and know it was a job, just be happy that the band went places and you are a legend for being a part of the band , I do think you will always be known as Alabama's drummer! Good luck!
all I know is that Mr.Mark Herndon,was the best thing that ever happened to the (BAND) Alabama. and if they want to play he said ,she said,? then i will never listen to that band again,,,,,,,,,LOVE YOU MARK,,,,,,Peace be with you , you are a strong man to admit your faults..... all ppl should be as strong as you ;
Review of Mark Herdon's book: as a fellow drummer and musician, I bought Mr. Herndon's book and read it cover to cover. I easily could have read it in one day, as it was an easy read, but I wanted to savor each chapter, and I am glad I did. Overall, it was a good book, but don't expect a lot of airing of dirty laundry, which should be apparent by the book's title. After finishing the book, overall, I wish it had been longer, and this book seems to only scratch the surface of his life. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I was left wishing he had expanded more on this life and with Alabama. He goes into his early years, and he tells a lot of hilarious stories of him as a teenager and getting into trouble here and there. His prose on the death of his parents was quite poignant and heartfelt. I found it a little strange that he told of his marriage to his wife and his eventual divorce but didn't tell how the two of them met, their relationship, and didn't provide a lot of detail of their relationship while in the band or at home. He does a nice job encapsulating the birth of his daughter and their relationship but again, doesn't go into much detail. To reiterate, Mr. Herndon sticks to the high road, per the title of the book, and doesn't tell much of it in the book. Much of what was learned by the public afterwards (in the press and elsewhere) of his non-membership status with the band, his second class status, etc. isn't discussed in much detail in the book. Again, it would have been better if he fleshed out his memories more in the book. We also learn of Mr. Herndon's love of flying and his eventually second profession after Alabama. Again, he does discuss a few aspects and stories of his flying, but I wish he was able to tell more about his career outside of Alabama and more of his pilot profession. Overall, it's a good book, and as a drummer, I always liked Mark Herndon's feel and his rock influence in Alabama. I actually found a youTube clip of Alabama on American Bandstand in the early 80s, which just shows their cross over appeal was huge in the 1980s. Thank you Mr. Herndon for your nice book. I enjoyed it! BMM
Mark clearly loved Alabama and they did not do right by him. Craig Frost came into Grand Funk after they had success and got a share of the band while Mark got shafted. He seems really cool and I can only hope the best for him. Reading Mark's book is shocking. The way the others treated him is shameful. 28 years and you can't even thank the other 3 guys or refer to them as something other than "lead singer" and "bass player." The treatment by the three cousins to Mark was horrible and disgraceful. Then these 3 jokers/goofs sue Mark because he made a few bucks on merch during the farewell tour??? The fact the court ordered these 3 doofuses to pay Mark's lawyers fees speaks volumes as to how the court saw this farce of a case. Mark, I hope your life from here on is absolutely great and I am glad you got into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
I met Mark back in 1982. He is a very nice person and an Awesome drummer.He played them drums as hard as John Bonham or Keith Moon though it was country..
Where would Alabama have been today if it was not for Mark Herndon? Love him or hate him he was the 4th piece.... Just putting it out there. He was the rock image, bad boy image of the band. That chemistry worked did it not?
But how many writing or cowriting credits does mark have? How much producing and composing did he do? My memories of Alabama will always have mark in them, but I see where everyone keeps saying everyone should be paid the same, and those who put in more work and do more receive more as they should
I haven't seen the whole interview but good luck Mark. I've been clean and sober for 39 years by the grace of God. And I've been to a few June Jams. It was ruff sometimes but you gotta ride it out to be a June Jammer. Got very fond memories of those days. It was when I first got sober and believe me its a lot more fun sober than being drunk and most likely going to jail. Only best wishes for you Mark. And remember its only a day at a time in recovery. Bless you and your family.
Thank you all for viewing the video! I hope you all enjoyed the interview. If you'd like to keep up with what I'm doing check out my music and campaign: igg.me/at/racheltripp
For years had no idea there were issues. Mark awesome drummer!!! I was under impression Mark retired as he was going through h__l with serious spine problems and ironically I am a drummer and my spine went same time. Was under my knowledge that Mark was getting treatment at a place I chose to go to in hopes I would also get.help. All that to say I am totally jacked up and was praying Mark got relief. Thought that was why Mark not in studio, concerts, etc..So now what, did they dump him because he couldn't keep up. When you are down like that you find oit who your friends are! Whatever may be GOD bless you Mark, you were and are a talented and sweet guy. By the way You Are Looking GOOD darlin'!. Peace and prayers handsome!
Use to hang out with the band when they played the Bowery then hung with them a lot when winter came and they came to Greenville to play Chiefs during the winter we had some great times back in those days Great guys
Wow. How disappointing is that? To learn, those three guys, were so greedy...they couldn't share a little with thier drummer? Those 3 made millions while Mark was salaried. Then they sued him, because he made a few grand on merchandise during their farewell tour? Wow. Just how much money, does a person think they just have to have? Apparetnly they wanted ALL of it Glad the judge saw through that...and judged in Mark's favor. Wow. As much money as they made...they could have paid him well...and still made millions, and made Marks life better. I remember when Metallica hired their new bass player...they gave him a sign on bonus of $1 million. Right off the bat. I am so very disappointed in Randy, Jeff, and Teddy. I was 13 years old, the first time I heard Alabama...and fell in love. I have spent countless dollars on Alabama music and merchandise. I will from now on...reconsider when faced with a choice to purchase Alabama products. So very disappointing to learn this news. I will never look at those 3 the same way again.
Sally Gentry, it wasn't an accounting error for 20 something years. 4 band members, 4 way split of all proceeds. I have loved Alabama my whole life but I won't ever spend another dime on anything Alabama until Mark is an equal partner. Mark was a member of Alabama, It's only fair!!
Again he was paid TWICE. SO DOUBLE what even the guy's got HENCE it wasn't the band or didn't get paid. See how hate and lies spread. Shame on you You have NO IDEA and just slandered the guys name. Bye....
Always loved these guys! Got to see several shows at Missouri State Fair in Sedalia in early '80's and see them at a Hereford cattle sale at that time. Great memories.
I listened to Mark on headphones whil I played along on all the songs up to Pass it on Down. I was a church drummer. Mark and Lars Ulrich (up to the black album) were my biggest influences. I played like them.
I must say I was shocked when I read an interview with Randy Owen talking about how Mark was simply "hired" as a drummer and NEVER was an actual "band member". What the heck? As I remember, all album covers featured all FOUR of their pics, he was with the band accepting awards, etc, etc, etc. I just don't get it. They "hired" him as a drummer but he was not a band member and therefore NOT entitled to $ and royalties, etc? I always loved Alabama but this just makes NO sense to me. I truly just don't get it..............................
My room mate in Nashville and his brother worked for the Group and his brother held a quarter share in Wild Country their business side of the band. Rick Scott was their drummer for about 5 years who wrote Why Lady Why and also Johnny Cash's "Tennessee" got a job offer from a signed artist to go on tour with him. Dealings within the group was not to his likings so he left about 6 months before they got noticed. Now Rick found Mark as his replacement then after which Rick settled his partner ship with the group. Mark was not offered Rick's Share and was only and I say only a paid drummer who showed up every night to play for pay.... some other negative dealings but I will not get into that ,...
You have no clue. Amazes me even a decade later people like you who don't know a dang thing still flapping. It amazes me how people like you forget the families involved and how we have to CONSTANTLY deal with people like you. The group is my daddy and 2 cousins. There is no bad blood. He's been with Leah Seawright for years now and when they went back on tour they asked him, he said not. NO bad feelings, NO anger. People would rather bash than listen to the facts. It was an accounting error. NOTHING to do with the band. God Bless.
How's is your daddy? I loved Alabama since the first time I heard them. Their three voices together are what made them what they are. No disrespect to Mark, he's actually the guy that inspired me to play drums. In fact the first song I attempted on drums was "The Closer You Get." I certainly hope that there's no bad blood between them, that would be unfortunate.
Sally Gentry No offense ,BUT IF MARK had NOT BEEN THERE to help your dad as well as Randy and Jeff,Alabama may not have been successful has they were. PLUS IF YOU DISRESPECT THE FANS YOU CAN FORGET IT. DON'T BE DISRESPECTFUL TO US. AS FAR AS ALL OF THE BAND'S FANS ARE CONCERNED --MARK IS A PART OF ALABAMA. I,AS A FAN SURE AS HELL DID NOT HAVE TO SPEND MY HARD EARNED MONEY ON ALBUMS ,TAPES ,CDS,CONCERT TICKETS -BUT I DID BECAUSE I CONSIDER MYSELF A FAN AND AS FAR AS I'M CONCERNED ,MARK IS PART OF ALABAMA.
I have not ever seen such stupidity, ignorant, nasty, and down right WRONG comments. NO ONE got screwed, It was an accounting error had NOTHING to do with the guys. Do you know how my daddy found out? OUR LOCAL NEWS. It wasn't the band, it was with the accounting department. But I guess that's just not as juicy as you want to hear. My Lord...Did you not read what I wrote??? When they took a break, he went with someone else, when they went back on the road, he decided to stay with Leah. He was offered it but chose not to. No hard feelings from ANYONE in the group. It's been over a DECADE. People like you don't take into consideration you DON'T KNOW what happened, the families are involved and hurt by reading all the hate based on people's OPINION. I don't understand what you are trying to do. I didn't bash nor put down anyone. Everyone else has moved on, why can't you??? I pray for you, God Bless..
Everyone makes their own business deal when they enter into any kind of contractual agreement rather as an hourly employee or full partner with a law firm. Mark will ALWAYS be the drummer that brought the beat for the group Alabama and without him the group is just 3 cousins and some other guy. Just like Van Halen losing David Lee Roth or the Beatles treating Ringo Starr like a 2nd class member, Mark is much more than just a drummer for hire as his contract stated. I would also like to remind everyone that Mark did VERY well financially as "Drummer for hire" but had he invested just 10,000 dollars a year into tech stocks through the early 1980's and allowed of growth over 20 years his personal wealth would have eclipsed all the money he made as "Drummer for hire". And hey, maybe he did
You ever notice how many artists and athletes have to wear sunglasses while being interviewed? Not sure what that’s all about. If I ask someone a question and want an answer, I like to see the honesty in their eyes
I have been a performer / musician all my life, and used to think Alabama was the greatest, but after the way Owen and the others treated mark Herndon I have nothing but disgust for them. Saying he was an employee after all the records and publicity.. can't stand them anymore...peck
I don't like how things have gone down either, but on one hand I can understand their reluctance in the beginning, to make him a full fledged member. At least when you take into account all the trouble they had with drummers before him. Also, from what I understand, and I could be remembering this wrong, but Mark wasn't on the albums. Only the live albums (where they were concert recordings). Otherwise, it was a studio drummer. I do wish that they'd mend fences though. Especially with Jeff doing so poorly, health-wise.
I live in Alabama just a few miles from Fort Payne and I am one of the biggest Alabama fans in the world, but,,,,,,,,the way this man was treated is very disappointing to say the least. I saw an interview with Randy Owen discussing this subject and I have never thought as highly of him since!
That was the problem, he got paid TWICE. Again, not the guys, an accounting error. It makes me sick how many "fans" turn on them. and here so many years later people are still cruel. Mark's dream was to be a pilot. After he and Leah were apart he does it full time now. How you judge....sad
@@SalGL FANS ARE THIS WAY BECAUSE OF RANDYS COMMENTS ON HIM BEING A HIRED HAND . AND I DONT BELIEVE HE WAS ASKED BACK. RANDY SAID AFTER THE FAREWELL TOUR THEY NEW THEY WERE DONE WITH MARK FOR GOOD. NEVER WILL I LOOK AT YOUR DAD OR THE BAND THE SAME
@@theangrymomshow1881 pathetic....lol that's why he was at my daddy's events and get together's. I don't give 2 cents what your OPINION is. Now go back to lies and rumors. Never surprises me. I pray for people like you. Now go on and grow up. Ciao'
@@SalGL what lies? This is in Randy's interview. Everything you are saying there is no proof of. Make a video with your dad clarifying this if you have a problem with what Randy said .
Unfortunately drummers get the short end of the stick in the music business more than any other musician. Drummers should insist on being part of the writing, arrangements, album cover art, etc ……otherwise this is what happens. Shame on you Alabama. I for one am not a country music fan but i bought your albums because the drummer was the only reason i tuned in to begin with due to the fact that he stood out. His playing was exceptional.
I admire a good drummer. My band teacher asked me to never try to play the drums again. He was a very encouraging guy, so that shows how bad I was at the drums. Oh, well, I stuck with piano and violin, though.
Honestly, no one can clearly judge either party regarding what happened because we don't know for sure who is right. Its all he said and he said, this is a common occurrence in the music industry. Its sad cause it splits talented people up who make a great group.
They were making millions and they couldn't even give a begger some scraps. Bunch of greedy basterds at its finest. I'm damn glad the little guy won the lawsuit for once the little guy came out on top. To hell with the rest of them.
I believe this since Mark wasn't there during most of the early days at the Bowery. Might be one of the reasons he never was a full partner in the band. I don't know exactly when he joined but I remember in interviews it was around 1978. He never would get any royalty on the songs. Since he didn't write any. That was the other three.Who knows what went on behind closed doors when they agreed to pay. The best deal for Mark would have been a percentage of the net profits for each tour. Which would have made him millions. The other would be to be paid for each performance.
The 3 main guys had played together for years and years. They had drummers come and go with no commitment. They then decided that from that point on it would be just the 3 of them. If you have functioned as a long term full time musician, you will understand.
When the guys got back together, they offered him to come back but he declined because he's been with Leah Seawrite. It was an accounting error, not the guys. So anyone who puts them down, shame on you. It amazes me how people judge when they have ABSOLUTELY NO CLUE what is really going on. I love Mark and wish him all the best. My daddy *Teddy* and him have ALWAYS been brothers. Gossip is a sin. Think about the families that read the nasty lies and gossip instead of knowing the truth. Love to all, and God Bless.
+Sally Gentry Its true that he was always more of a "hired gun" right? I'm not putting it down, its a great thing to have. Many brilliant musicians have been hired guns like that, and still are.
Your father, Randy, Jeff and Mark have been a part of my life since I was 3. I'm now 30 and I still listen to Alabama. Saw them in concert as a kid. Their music made me smile and dance always.
Sally Gentry I'm a huge fan of Alabama. Could you please clarify, if theres no ill feeling & it was a accounting error, then why did Randy, Jeff, Teddy file a lawsuit against him. Those facts should of been looked at before the lawsuit was filed by Alabama. All they did was create turmoil & dislikes by there fans, the fans who made them millions. Your talking about $200,000 roughly, the dollars, is of no subquential matter. It's sad that there all millionaires but there gonna fight about $200,000, like they really need it. I understand Mark was a paid drummer by gig, but, was it worth the embarrassment & turmoil to Alabama. It wasn't gonna break the band financially. They could of just swallowed there pride, & considered it a bonus, after all he helped them climb to fame. I hope someday the 3 of them make amends & tell truth to there fans & make it right with Mark. As far as I'm concerned Mark Herndon will always be the best drummer in country music, he's definitely a legend. Sometimes being right is wrong & one has to think is it worth it. Just a thought. Please share with your dad & have him talk to the others. I hope Jeff gets well, sorry to hear about him. I hope your dad & randy are healthy. Did your dad ever write any of there songs? Loved his trade mark hats, & tennis shoes. Got to meet them twice in Ionia, Mi at the free fair. Had lunch with them. I was in the boy scouts & we got to meet them, still have my autographed pictures & was so happy they let us see them for free by side of stage. I think they did it because we had our uniforms on. I'll always treasure that moment. Look forward to hearing ur songs that you've written.
I NEVER KNEW that mark wasn't an even split with finances......I feel waaaaay different about these guys on a personal level now....but they were the best!
Marks drumming played a 25% part of what made Alabama. Alabama was once my favorite band. I just look at the band different now. They made fame together, from playing in bars, and night clubs. I threw all my Alabama cd's and cassettes away. They were my classics. I just think that they're now worthless. I just lost all respect for the three that took advantage .
Every member contributes to a bands success. Sad to hear that super success and monies as well as greed in the music business can once again ruin what was once something real and special..
At one time was a huge fan of the group. After what they did to Mark I refuse to even listen to one of their songs. If one starts playing, I change the station. Almost all their songs can be identified simply by marks drumming.
He was a good drummer for sure. I remember those Slingerland drums he played. Back then you had to order and pay for the kit before you got it. Always been a Ludwig guy myself.
As Mark said he was not interested in the money side of music! If he was, he may have been able to buy into the group and become a partner, rather than just a hired employee. The three partners may or may not of been interested in adding him. That was there right. Of course becoming a partner, would mean he would of had his neck on the line financially! Tour buses, tractor trailers, managers and stage hands all cost money and need to be paid for! Either way, He had to have known that he was only getting X amount of money for playing the drums. So he was not screwed! He provided a service and they paid him well to do it.
Mark Herdon was the fourth piece of Alabama he complained the sound . I don't think Alabama would have been as successful as they were able to become without mark I saw Alabama 24 times before they retired in 2005 since they've come out of retirement the harmonies and the guitar playing still spot on with the music is missing definite piece that refined the music they made prior to retire in 2005 Alabama will always be the greatest country band but they really need to find a way to bring mark back to fill out the sound that made them the success that they were
Lying in court, screwing over a guy who was there for 25+ years, and ultimately losing the lawsuit when it was revealed they were lying is about as Hollywood as it gets.
Money is the root of all evil. They made fame as a group of 4. Not 3. Mark's talent stood out. Its sad how these three blood family members screwed over Mark. Seems there was enough money there to pay Mark an equal share.
People make bad choices in life sometimes alcohol and drugs distort our reality if he would been like some people buisness minded not wanting to party.partying doesn't pay much.i know personally he should have been paid as a member he was with alabama for 20 plus years and the early days.he was taking advantage of.
Really like mark. We all thought he was full fledged member. They could have handled it a lot better .in the end..randy is Alabama. Teddy and jeff could have been replaced easily
This story has haunted me many times because I was and I mean WAS a hardcore Alabama fan until I found out how they mistreated Mark... Never again I won't listen to them ever again until Randy Owen publicly says I'm sorry to Mark and makes things right with him
Well will Mark, let me sit the record straight, I lived it. Deal with it, let it go, apparently you couldn't let it go. You were the 4th. Or did you happen to leave that big detail out.
After what they did to Mark, I quit listening to them. To lot of us ,Mark will always be a part of Alabama. By the way,Sally how's it feel to see your dad get busted for drugs?
Ultimately, Mark's story is a great example that celebrities should not be put on a pedestal. The the ones flying the Christian flag highest are often the lowest of the low in real life. The guys in Alabama essentially played characters in order to sell more albums. In real life, they are NOTHING like the characters that they portray in interviews and concerts.
Because they never paid him for the live albums he played on, and then sued Mark claiming they overpaid him by $200 grand. The Alabama guys were lying and lost the lawsuit.
Maybe he should not have kept the merchandising money that was not rightfully his. That led to his dismissal. He knew that money was not his, yet he tried to keep it. Not much integrity there if you ask me.
Randy Owens Jeff cook Teddy gentry we're cousins not mark herndon the three were cousins and Mark was hired as their drummer. these for in my book made the group Alabama. I still love their music to me they're the best country music band if all time. I was sry to see them go their separate ways.
He was in it for the money & when he left he sued & when fans wouldn't back him he came back & said oh it wasn't for the money it was to be a partner. In the begining he wanted money! Tell the truth!
There are sidemen in all areas of music. Neil Diamond has had mostly the same band for decades, but they do not "graduate", they will always be sidemen and they get paid and are happy. I think people were maybe living on an assumption and when it turned out not to be true they were bothered. Its really none of our business. We buy records and listen to them. That's it.
Mark must realize that he had a very small contribution to the bands success. GOOD drummers are a dime a dozen. You got paid well and got to enjoy the lime light. Enjoy the fact you had a good run and get over it!!!
I’m just saying this... Alabama in my heart, in my ears, and in my soul will be a four member band..I don’t care what anybody says, makes, or sells!! Teddy, Randy, Jeff and Mark !! Best Country band of all time .. Period
I agree. It's hard Collin Alabama for with only three guys. Without the fourth guy. Now it's going to be even harder because of Jeff Cook passing away. If I was Randy Owens if they are going to continue playing anymore which I don't think they're going to after this last tour if it's not even done yet I don't know but if they do I would try to make amends with Mark Herndon. Because he was there for it all because they lost one of the best you know what I mean. But I get what you're saying there brother Alabama always had a four man cover on your own. You know they got three guys now which don't look bad one of their albums. But it's hard to look at about 4:00 and all their videos that they show on TV y'all see four guys.
From what I have hear from friends in the Music business, Mark would always embarrass the three cousins which would result in light knockdown agurements! Mark always jumped in to live interviews which the band didn't like. Mark did drink a little (heard it from the same friend), and I believe as well as several others believe caused Mark to say things that should have never been said. Mark was from the ROCK generation. It didn't fit in with the Country Band mainly "Alabama". This is several reasons Mark was kicked off the main buss. Mark was forced to ride with the crew members. Then Mark didn't get along with them! It just reached the point the three cousins couldn't deal with it anymore. By contract, Mark was just a hire hand. Mark was never a paid member of the band. Mark did it to himself. Mark probably could make amends with the band, but this never happened. Mark just wouldn't give in.
I had heard this from several friends in the business. One conversation took place in
Fort Payne, in the front of the Bands museum and practice center parking lot.
It's what it's meant to be! We love them all. R I P Jeff.
ALABAMA was, is, & always will be 4 members, and that will always include Mark Herndon! Teddy Gentry said it himself-"when Mark came along, things started to take off for us." So he & Randy need to remember that, & be thankful!
I'm Teddy's daughter. Mark was always a part of my life. I am a songwriter. Mark, I wish you all the love and Blessings in the world... xox
You'll never be one again!!!!
Classy...very classy Sally! Me as a fan felt extremely blessed to have alabama in my ears im not much of a country music fan but in my opinion i think they are the greatest country band ever i hope to see them live before im dead lol
Sally Gentry
Heartfelt and very well said.👍
Your dad Teddy is quite a hero figure to me, Miss Sally, as a country music bassist, and I know the camaraderie that a drummer and a bassist develop over a long time of playing together makes them tight. I sure hope that they remained the best of friends through all this and also hope they get to share some great stories together around the campfire soon enough. God bless! Hope your songwriting is coming along great!?
I'm going to see your dad, Randy and Jeff in September!!! Alabama's music has been a part of my life since I was 3. My late father used to sing their songs to me and took me to see them when I was 7. I'm excited to see them again as a 30 something.
in my heart Alabama will always be Randy Teddy Jeff and Mark. All the album's tours photos.
amen
I totally agree!! Will always be the 4!!
I agree
👍 agree
As a music fan and an Alabama fan, I have to say I am very disappointed Mark got cut out of the big bucks. He was there from the get go and playing in the small clubs with the band. They make it and he suddenly is not a full partner. You know the saying goes that to much that is given much is expected. Meaning the 3 other guys had a moral duty to make sure Mark was treated fairly and they failed to treat Mark right by cutting him in on the big bucks. The band was wrong and Mark deserves his fair share of their success. He earned it.
Ml
I have always been a huge fan of Alabama but unless you wright or are one of the great singers you are replaceable. As just a drummer you are number one on the list to be replaced. Good drummers are a dime a dozen, Sorry but that is the reality. Money talks and bullshit walks.
@@mickeygibb6823 so aren’t the other two musicians that worked with Randy Owens, albeit they are cousins but band as s whole is the chemistry between these guys, If my face is gonna be on the cover of the Album then by god I want my damn 1/4 fair share. So it is some sorry Greedy crap that Randy dealt Mark just bc he wasn’t familiy.
@@deaf19830 Agreed
Mark was a draw for the ladies. My wife was a fan mostly because of the long haired blond drummer.
ALABAMA BAND: MOUNTAIN MUSIC TOUR 1982:
In 1982 on the Mountain Music tour I met drummer Mark Herndon during a break of the band playing softball 🥎 against the local radio station DJ’s. I was a beginning drummer and asked him how to play the fast part on Mountain Music. He showed me with his hands on his legs explaining it was a paradiddle-diddle between the kick and snare 🥁. He said to learn it slowly listening to Ride the Train from the Feels So Right album. I’ll never forget how kind he was to a young drummer and a total stranger! I’ll always love the Alabama band!
I may have always loved Alabama but only because Alabama was all 4. With Mark Herndon gone a piece of Alabama is gone. Will miss you Mark as Alabama
Mark, you have always been an awesome drummer. There is not much to a band without a great drummer. Alabama will always consist of Randy, Teddy, Jeff, and Mark. You deserve the recognition and anyone that thinks otherwise needs to go back and read the history of Alabama. God bless!
I agree with you. But still the same he was a higher hand right from the get-go. He had a contract. But back then it sounds like Mark kernan was a kind of a hot head and not paying attention to the business part of the band. When you start making money in it like they were doing really fast you have to have management and contracts and all that stuff. But Randy Teddy and Jeff they were all cousins. And Jeff Cook was the founder of the group. But now with Jeff God. It will be probably hard for them to continue touring. I'm not sure if the 50 anniversary tour is done or not I'm not sure. But once that's all done I think they're done touring they're going to spend the rest of their years with their families and probably just having family parties maybe occasional show up for awards or whatever which they don't do that even anymore. And they're still the number one band even today cuz there's no bands out there country bands even performing. Just like Alan Jackson says the country music today it's like too much poppy stuff he won't go to another CMA or anything like that. Charlie Daniels said the same thing Toby Keith they all said all the greats says a bunch of crap George Jones said they don't even play us on the radio no more what the hell we made country music. Down south I'm not sure what they do down there but all I know Michigan don't play shit for country music. Only when I care about right now that I like on the country station is Blake Shelton Luke Bryan Toby Keith if they play them. And that's about it it ain't too many nobody the girl singers to me suck. Yeah they look pretty Carrie Underwood she ain't country. Miley Cyrus she switched she's a hoe. Miranda Lambert she's okay I guess. I can keep going but I guess I'll stop right here you're probably laughing at me cuz I'm still rambling on LOL I'll take it easy bro I agree with you
I feel like The three other members of ALABAMA took a dump on Mark. I will always have the up most admiration and respect for Mark.
It is a shame how they did him
@SalGL.I have been a fan of Alabama's since 1980, & have been Blessed to get to see them in many concerts, & theb the meet & greets afterwards, June Jams, & several Fan Appreciate Days.All of the guys were always so nice & respectful. You have a very nice dad, so decent & respextful. Thank you for your kind words about Mark Herndon. He will always be an important part of Alabama, to me. I hope that you & your family are all doing well. Also, I hope that Lisa Cook is doing well. God Bless you, & bless you in your songwriting, as well! Take care.
I Love All Of Them. Seen Them About 6 Times Been To Randy's Farm For A Concert. Mark Was A Awesome Drummer when I seen him. Love U All Prayers For Jeff.
Let this be a lesson, get everything in writing and have your contract reviewed by an attorney. This protects everyone and it is good business sense.
Mark if you were hired by Randy and the band for an amount to be paid, you should bow to that and know it was a job, just be happy that the band went places and you are a legend for being a part of the band , I do think you will always be known as Alabama's drummer! Good luck!
all I know is that Mr.Mark Herndon,was the best thing that ever happened to the (BAND) Alabama. and if they want to play he said ,she said,? then i will never listen to that band again,,,,,,,,,LOVE YOU MARK,,,,,,Peace be with you , you are a strong man to admit your faults..... all ppl should be as strong as you ;
Review of Mark Herdon's book: as a fellow drummer and musician, I bought Mr. Herndon's book and read it cover to cover. I easily could have read it in one day, as it was an easy read, but I wanted to savor each chapter, and I am glad I did. Overall, it was a good book, but don't expect a lot of airing of dirty laundry, which should be apparent by the book's title. After finishing the book, overall, I wish it had been longer, and this book seems to only scratch the surface of his life. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I was left wishing he had expanded more on this life and with Alabama.
He goes into his early years, and he tells a lot of hilarious stories of him as a teenager and getting into trouble here and there. His prose on the death of his parents was quite poignant and heartfelt. I found it a little strange that he told of his marriage to his wife and his eventual divorce but didn't tell how the two of them met, their relationship, and didn't provide a lot of detail of their relationship while in the band or at home. He does a nice job encapsulating the birth of his daughter and their relationship but again, doesn't go into much detail.
To reiterate, Mr. Herndon sticks to the high road, per the title of the book, and doesn't tell much of it in the book. Much of what was learned by the public afterwards (in the press and elsewhere) of his non-membership status with the band, his second class status, etc. isn't discussed in much detail in the book. Again, it would have been better if he fleshed out his memories more in the book. We also learn of Mr. Herndon's love of flying and his eventually second profession after Alabama. Again, he does discuss a few aspects and stories of his flying, but I wish he was able to tell more about his career outside of Alabama and more of his pilot profession.
Overall, it's a good book, and as a drummer, I always liked Mark Herndon's feel and his rock influence in Alabama. I actually found a youTube clip of Alabama on American Bandstand in the early 80s, which just shows their cross over appeal was huge in the 1980s. Thank you Mr. Herndon for your nice book. I enjoyed it! BMM
Love you Mark your the reason I still play music...I watched you play and came home and played what I saw!!!! you're amazing.
when you are in a band or in any kind of group every one is important. it doesn't matter but every person plays an important part.
Mark clearly loved Alabama and they did not do right by him. Craig Frost came into Grand Funk after they had success and got a share of the band while Mark got shafted. He seems really cool and I can only hope the best for him. Reading Mark's book is shocking. The way the others treated him is shameful. 28 years and you can't even thank the other 3 guys or refer to them as something other than "lead singer" and "bass player." The treatment by the three cousins to Mark was horrible and disgraceful. Then these 3 jokers/goofs sue Mark because he made a few bucks on merch during the farewell tour??? The fact the court ordered these 3 doofuses to pay Mark's lawyers fees speaks volumes as to how the court saw this farce of a case. Mark, I hope your life from here on is absolutely great and I am glad you got into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
He knew by contract that he was an employee not a participating band member financial wise im speaking.
Even as a contract employee they could have taken care of him better. Greed pure and simple.
@@hipfilms Even so fuckin a What about Me. Lol 😂
I met Mark back in 1982. He is a very nice person and an Awesome drummer.He played them drums as hard as John Bonham or Keith Moon though it was country..
Awesome couch!
Where would Alabama have been today if it was not for Mark Herndon? Love him or hate him he was the 4th piece.... Just putting it out there. He was the rock image, bad boy image of the band. That chemistry worked did it not?
Great point. You nailed it..
Damn right
Exactly 💯
But how many writing or cowriting credits does mark have? How much producing and composing did he do? My memories of Alabama will always have mark in them, but I see where everyone keeps saying everyone should be paid the same, and those who put in more work and do more receive more as they should
I haven't seen the whole interview but good luck Mark. I've been clean and sober for 39 years by the grace of God. And I've been to a few June Jams. It was ruff sometimes but you gotta ride it out to be a June Jammer. Got very fond memories of those days. It was when I first got sober and believe me its a lot more fun sober than being drunk and most likely going to jail. Only best wishes for you Mark. And remember its only a day at a time in recovery. Bless you and your family.
Thank you all for viewing the video! I hope you all enjoyed the interview. If you'd like to keep up with what I'm doing check out my music and campaign: igg.me/at/racheltripp
For years had no idea there were issues. Mark awesome drummer!!! I was under impression Mark retired as he was going through h__l with serious spine problems and ironically I am a drummer and my spine went same time. Was under my knowledge that Mark was getting treatment at a place I chose to go to in hopes I would also get.help. All that to say I am totally jacked up and was praying Mark got relief. Thought that was why Mark not in studio, concerts, etc..So now what, did they dump him because he couldn't keep up. When you are down like that you find oit who your friends are! Whatever may be GOD bless you Mark, you were and are a talented and sweet guy. By the way You Are Looking GOOD darlin'!. Peace and prayers handsome!
The High Road was a perfect name for his book. I am so glad he ended up doing well. BTW, I didn't realize he was pilot until I read the book.
Use to hang out with the band when they played the Bowery then hung with them a lot when winter came and they came to Greenville to play Chiefs during the winter we had some great times back in those days Great guys
Wow. How disappointing is that? To learn, those three guys, were so greedy...they couldn't share a little with thier drummer? Those 3 made millions while Mark was salaried. Then they sued him, because he made a few grand on merchandise during their farewell tour? Wow. Just how much money, does a person think they just have to have? Apparetnly they wanted ALL of it Glad the judge saw through that...and judged in Mark's favor. Wow. As much money as they made...they could have paid him well...and still made millions, and made Marks life better. I remember when Metallica hired their new bass player...they gave him a sign on bonus of $1 million. Right off the bat. I am so very disappointed in Randy, Jeff, and Teddy. I was 13 years old, the first time I heard Alabama...and fell in love. I have spent countless dollars on Alabama music and merchandise. I will from now on...reconsider when faced with a choice to purchase Alabama products. So very disappointing to learn this news. I will never look at those 3 the same way again.
Damn right. What they did wasn't right
Randy is worth around 40 million and they sue mark over 200.000 that's chicken feed to the other three greedy bastards.
Its a shame how they treated him. I read his highest paid year was like a 100k were they was making millions. Shame on them.
Those pricks sound just like my brother unfortunately.
Get the total earnings of the band, divide by 4 ....... Easy as that!
Who is here in 2022 watching this
Sally Gentry, it wasn't an accounting error for 20 something years. 4 band members, 4 way split of all proceeds. I have loved Alabama my whole life but I won't ever spend another dime on anything Alabama until Mark is an equal partner. Mark was a member of Alabama, It's only fair!!
Again he was paid TWICE. SO DOUBLE what even the guy's got HENCE it wasn't the band or didn't get paid. See how hate and lies spread. Shame on you You have NO IDEA and just slandered the guys name. Bye....
God Bless You Mark. Thank You for sharing your Low point. I'm sober also. And I remember my game changer.
Mark is a good drummer, and his style was a definite part of Alabama’s sound! Was disappointed to hear how he was treated…
Amen Mark , happy for you for your new life !!!!!!!
Always loved these guys! Got to see several shows at Missouri State Fair in Sedalia in early '80's and see them at a Hereford cattle sale at that time. Great memories.
I shook hands with mark way back in the day he is a cool guy.... rock on frt payne Alabama..
It begins and ends with all 4 of them...no matter what anyone says.
Prove me wrong....
I listened to Mark on headphones whil I played along on all the songs up to Pass it on Down. I was a church drummer. Mark and Lars Ulrich (up to the black album) were my biggest influences. I played like them.
that was one of the best interviews i have ever seen!
I must say I was shocked when I read an interview with Randy Owen talking about how Mark was simply "hired" as a drummer and NEVER was an actual "band member". What the heck? As I remember, all album covers featured all FOUR of their pics, he was with the band accepting awards, etc, etc, etc. I just don't get it. They "hired" him as a drummer but he was not a band member and therefore NOT entitled to $ and royalties, etc? I always loved Alabama but this just makes NO sense to me. I truly just don't get it..............................
My room mate in Nashville and his brother worked for the Group and his brother held a quarter share in Wild Country their business side of the band. Rick Scott was their drummer for about 5 years who wrote Why Lady Why and also Johnny Cash's "Tennessee" got a job offer from a signed artist to go on tour with him. Dealings within the group was not to his likings so he left about 6 months before they got noticed. Now Rick found Mark as his replacement then after which Rick settled his partner ship with the group. Mark was not offered Rick's Share and was only and I say only a paid drummer who showed up every night to play for pay.... some other negative dealings but I will not get into that ,...
You have no clue. Amazes me even a decade later people like you who don't know a dang thing still flapping. It amazes me how people like you forget the families involved and how we have to CONSTANTLY deal with people like you. The group is my daddy and 2 cousins. There is no bad blood. He's been with Leah Seawright for years now and when they went back on tour they asked him, he said not. NO bad feelings, NO anger. People would rather bash than listen to the facts. It was an accounting error. NOTHING to do with the band. God Bless.
How's is your daddy? I loved Alabama since the first time I heard them. Their three voices together are what made them what they are. No disrespect to Mark, he's actually the guy that inspired me to play drums. In fact the first song I attempted on drums was "The Closer You Get." I certainly hope that there's no bad blood between them, that would be unfortunate.
Sally Gentry No offense ,BUT IF MARK had NOT BEEN THERE to help your dad as well as Randy and Jeff,Alabama may not have been successful has they were. PLUS IF YOU DISRESPECT THE FANS YOU CAN FORGET IT. DON'T BE DISRESPECTFUL TO US. AS FAR AS ALL OF THE BAND'S FANS ARE CONCERNED --MARK IS A PART OF ALABAMA. I,AS A FAN SURE AS HELL DID NOT HAVE TO SPEND MY HARD EARNED MONEY ON ALBUMS ,TAPES ,CDS,CONCERT TICKETS -BUT I DID BECAUSE I CONSIDER MYSELF A FAN AND AS FAR AS I'M CONCERNED ,MARK IS PART OF ALABAMA.
I have not ever seen such stupidity, ignorant, nasty, and down right WRONG comments. NO ONE got screwed, It was an accounting error had NOTHING to do with the guys. Do you know how my daddy found out? OUR LOCAL NEWS. It wasn't the band, it was with the accounting department. But I guess that's just not as juicy as you want to hear. My Lord...Did you not read what I wrote??? When they took a break, he went with someone else, when they went back on the road, he decided to stay with Leah. He was offered it but chose not to. No hard feelings from ANYONE in the group. It's been over a DECADE. People like you don't take into consideration you DON'T KNOW what happened, the families are involved and hurt by reading all the hate based on people's OPINION. I don't understand what you are trying to do. I didn't bash nor put down anyone. Everyone else has moved on, why can't you??? I pray for you, God Bless..
Alabama's the black album is one of the best albums of all time.
Everyone makes their own business deal when they enter into any kind of contractual agreement rather as an hourly employee or full partner with a law firm. Mark will ALWAYS be the drummer that brought the beat for the group Alabama and without him the group is just 3 cousins and some other guy.
Just like Van Halen losing David Lee Roth or the Beatles treating Ringo Starr like a 2nd class member, Mark is much more than just a drummer for hire as his contract stated.
I would also like to remind everyone that Mark did VERY well financially as "Drummer for hire" but had he invested just 10,000 dollars a year into tech stocks through the early 1980's and allowed of growth over 20 years his personal wealth would have eclipsed all the money he made as "Drummer for hire".
And hey, maybe he did
not to be ugly.he was a hired gun the financial structure was set. had he bucked the arrangement my two cents they would got another drummer.
This man is every bit of Alabama as the other members idgaf what anyone says!
Mark did some awesome drum solos back in the day. Could have played for Rush!
He loves Rush!
Oh no no no no no. I like Mark but no way in Hell he could outdo Neil Peart. No drummer in this World ever could. Fr.
Good advice from Mark. I really enjoyed this interview.
You ever notice how many artists and athletes have to wear sunglasses while being interviewed? Not sure what that’s all about. If I ask someone a question and want an answer, I like to see the honesty in their eyes
Usually, it's because of the bright lights used. Being very nervous and shy is another reason.
I have been a performer / musician all my life, and used to think Alabama was the greatest, but after the way Owen and the others treated mark Herndon I have nothing but disgust for them. Saying he was an employee after all the records and publicity.. can't stand them anymore...peck
I don't like how things have gone down either, but on one hand I can understand their reluctance in the beginning, to make him a full fledged member. At least when you take into account all the trouble they had with drummers before him. Also, from what I understand, and I could be remembering this wrong, but Mark wasn't on the albums. Only the live albums (where they were concert recordings). Otherwise, it was a studio drummer.
I do wish that they'd mend fences though. Especially with Jeff doing so poorly, health-wise.
@@31Mike Correct in saying he wasn't on the albums except for the live stuff. Fact.
But they could have compensated him a little better.
. Jeff is gone now too.😢
I live in Alabama just a few miles from Fort Payne and I am one of the biggest Alabama fans in the world, but,,,,,,,,the way this man was treated is very disappointing to say the least. I saw an interview with Randy Owen discussing this subject and I have never thought as highly of him since!
If this is true, shame on Alabama. How much money do 3 guys need not to share with one more?
Blood is thicker than water unfortunately.
This guy WAS part of the band
Why he didn't get proper payment
That's a true shame
So many good hits there one of the best ...😃
That was the problem, he got paid TWICE. Again, not the guys, an accounting error. It makes me sick how many "fans" turn on them. and here so many years later people are still cruel. Mark's dream was to be a pilot. After he and Leah were apart he does it full time now. How you judge....sad
@@SalGL FANS ARE THIS WAY BECAUSE OF RANDYS COMMENTS ON HIM BEING A HIRED HAND . AND I DONT BELIEVE HE WAS ASKED BACK. RANDY SAID AFTER THE FAREWELL TOUR THEY NEW THEY WERE DONE WITH MARK FOR GOOD. NEVER WILL I LOOK AT YOUR DAD OR THE BAND THE SAME
@@theangrymomshow1881 pathetic....lol that's why he was at my daddy's events and get together's. I don't give 2 cents what your OPINION is. Now go back to lies and rumors. Never surprises me. I pray for people like you. Now go on and grow up. Ciao'
@@theangrymomshow1881 PS Your name fits you hahaha
@@SalGL what lies? This is in Randy's interview. Everything you are saying there is no proof of. Make a video with your dad clarifying this if you have a problem with what Randy said .
Unfortunately drummers get the short end of the stick in the music business more than any other musician. Drummers should insist on being part of the writing, arrangements, album cover art, etc ……otherwise this is what happens. Shame on you Alabama. I for one am not a country music fan but i bought your albums because the drummer was the only reason i tuned in to begin with due to the fact that he stood out. His playing was exceptional.
I admire a good drummer. My band teacher asked me to never try to play the drums again. He was a very encouraging guy, so that shows how bad I was at the drums. Oh, well, I stuck with piano and violin, though.
Great drummer….hands down.
Honestly, no one can clearly judge either party regarding what happened because we don't know for sure who is right. Its all he said and he said, this is a common occurrence in the music industry. Its sad cause it splits talented people up who make a great group.
Its looks pretty clear he got shafted. They did not treat him as good as they could have.
They were making millions and they couldn't even give a begger some scraps. Bunch of greedy basterds at its finest. I'm damn glad the little guy won the lawsuit for once the little guy came out on top. To hell with the rest of them.
I believe this since Mark wasn't there during most of the early days at the Bowery. Might be one of the reasons he never was a full partner in the band. I don't know exactly when he joined but I remember in interviews it was around 1978. He never would get any royalty on the songs. Since he didn't write any. That was the other three.Who knows what went on behind closed doors when they agreed to pay. The best deal for Mark would have been a percentage of the net profits for each tour. Which would have made him millions. The other would be to be paid for each performance.
The 3 main guys had played together for years and years. They had drummers come and go with no commitment. They then decided that from that point on it would be just the 3 of them. If you have functioned as a long term full time musician, you will understand.
Oh, bull. He played drums live and portrayed as a member for 25+ years.
When the guys got back together, they offered him to come back but he declined because he's been with Leah Seawrite. It was an accounting error, not the guys. So anyone who puts them down, shame on you. It amazes me how people judge when they have ABSOLUTELY NO CLUE what is really going on. I love Mark and wish him all the best. My daddy *Teddy* and him have ALWAYS been brothers. Gossip is a sin. Think about the families that read the nasty lies and gossip instead of knowing the truth. Love to all, and God Bless.
+Sally Gentry Its true that he was always more of a "hired gun" right? I'm not putting it down, its a great thing to have. Many brilliant musicians have been hired guns like that, and still are.
Your father, Randy, Jeff and Mark have been a part of my life since I was 3. I'm now 30 and I still listen to Alabama. Saw them in concert as a kid. Their music made me smile and dance always.
Sally Gentry, the duet Country singers Montgomery Gentry, were you related to Troy Gentry?
@@alextownsend4930 same here and I'm 36. I still pull out the Alabama Christmas cd every year and it takes me back to the 80s when times were good.
Sally Gentry I'm a huge fan of Alabama. Could you please clarify, if theres no ill feeling & it was a accounting error, then why did Randy, Jeff, Teddy file a lawsuit against him. Those facts should of been looked at before the lawsuit was filed by Alabama. All they did was create turmoil & dislikes by there fans, the fans who made them millions. Your talking about $200,000 roughly, the dollars, is of no subquential matter. It's sad that there all millionaires but there gonna fight about $200,000, like they really need it. I understand Mark was a paid drummer by gig, but, was it worth the embarrassment & turmoil to Alabama. It wasn't gonna break the band financially. They could of just swallowed there pride, & considered it a bonus, after all he helped them climb to fame. I hope someday the 3 of them make amends & tell truth to there fans & make it right with Mark. As far as I'm concerned Mark Herndon will always be the best drummer in country music, he's definitely a legend. Sometimes being right is wrong & one has to think is it worth it. Just a thought. Please share with your dad & have him talk to the others. I hope Jeff gets well, sorry to hear about him. I hope your dad & randy are healthy. Did your dad ever write any of there songs? Loved his trade mark hats, & tennis shoes. Got to meet them twice in Ionia, Mi at the free fair. Had lunch with them. I was in the boy scouts & we got to meet them, still have my autographed pictures & was so happy they let us see them for free by side of stage. I think they did it because we had our uniforms on. I'll always treasure that moment. Look forward to hearing ur songs that you've written.
I NEVER KNEW that mark wasn't an even split with finances......I feel waaaaay different about these guys on a personal level now....but they were the best!
They were just Greedy!!
@@gulfportflamefighter4545they were just making sure their families would be set for Life.
@@kenperkins7921At the expense of Mark's family.
Marks drumming played a 25% part of what made Alabama. Alabama was once my favorite band. I just look at the band different now. They made fame together, from playing in bars, and night clubs. I threw all my Alabama cd's and cassettes away. They were my classics. I just think that they're now worthless. I just lost all respect for the three that took advantage .
You gave me a ride on your motorcycle in waco,tx during the roll on tour
Every member contributes to a bands success. Sad to hear that super success and monies as well as greed in the music business can once again ruin what was once something real and special..
At one time was a huge fan of the group. After what they did to Mark I refuse to even listen to one of their songs. If one starts playing, I change the station. Almost all their songs can be identified simply by marks drumming.
I love Alabama regardless of what this fool says. They are the best country band ever
the only fool I know is what I just read. Mark got screw
What an ignorant comment!
I thought u were dead. Your comment was.
loved his drumming.....made the band...............
He was a good drummer for sure. I remember those Slingerland drums he played. Back then you had to order and pay for the kit before you got it. Always been a Ludwig guy myself.
Great drummer that was part of a great band! Guess maybe some greed stepped into the picture?
Imagine John, Paul and George doing this to Ringo?
Interesting interview.👍
ALLL ABOUT MONEYYYYYYYY.YUP,ALABAMA WANTED!!!!YOU GO MARK.F THEM DOUCHES BAGES!!
he got screwed
As Mark said he was not interested in the money side of music! If he was, he may have been able to buy into the group and become a partner, rather than just a hired employee. The three partners may or may not of been interested in adding him. That was there right. Of course becoming a partner, would mean he would of had his neck on the line financially! Tour buses, tractor trailers, managers and stage hands all cost money and need to be paid for! Either way, He had to have known that he was only getting X amount of money for playing the drums. So he was not screwed! He provided a service and they paid him well to do it.
Thank you, God Bless.
tray4168 He owes them money and won't pay them back
Judging from that threadbare couch there sitting on, he's not doing very well financially.
No he didn't. Maybe know the facts before you make false accusations.
Mark Herdon was the fourth piece of Alabama he complained the sound . I don't think Alabama would have been as successful as they were able to become without mark I saw Alabama 24 times before they retired in 2005 since they've come out of retirement the harmonies and the guitar playing still spot on with the music is missing definite piece that refined the music they made prior to retire in 2005 Alabama will always be the greatest country band but they really need to find a way to bring mark back to fill out the sound that made them the success that they were
I love that they were so successful but never went hollywood.
Lying in court, screwing over a guy who was there for 25+ years, and ultimately losing the lawsuit when it was revealed they were lying is about as Hollywood as it gets.
I think they all got shafted. Look at their earnings. One of the biggest selling bands ever. And their net worth is so low...
Bless em all...
Money is the root of all evil. They made fame as a group of 4. Not 3. Mark's talent stood out. Its sad how these three blood family members screwed over Mark. Seems there was enough money there to pay Mark an equal share.
Maybe not an equal share but surely better than a hired drummer.
People make bad choices in life sometimes alcohol and drugs distort our reality if he would been like some people buisness minded not wanting to party.partying doesn't pay much.i know personally he should have been paid as a member he was with alabama for 20 plus years and the early days.he was taking advantage of.
Really like mark. We all thought he was full fledged member. They could have handled it a lot better .in the end..randy is Alabama. Teddy and jeff could have been replaced easily
I have an autographed photo of Alabama
This story has haunted me many times because I was and I mean WAS a hardcore Alabama fan until I found out how they mistreated Mark... Never again I won't listen to them ever again until Randy Owen publicly says I'm sorry to Mark and makes things right with him
I'm very disappointed Alabama screwd Mark.
Well will Mark, let me sit the record straight, I lived it. Deal with it, let it go, apparently you couldn't let it go. You were the 4th. Or did you happen to leave that big detail out.
They did dis brotha wrong mane
The last copy band I was in,I was just hired as a bass player.I was never a full member.
Your garage band isn't Alabama
it hurts the image of the band the fact he was never really cut in.
After what they did to Mark, I quit listening to them. To lot of us ,Mark will always be a part of Alabama. By the way,Sally how's it feel to see your dad get busted for drugs?
Am I the only one cringing at the couch?
No you are not!
Rachel's voice too loud
I just wonder why his staue is downtown ,if he isnt part of the band,just sayin
I can see why he is a former.
Ultimately, Mark's story is a great example that celebrities should not be put on a pedestal.
The the ones flying the Christian flag highest are often the lowest of the low in real life.
The guys in Alabama essentially played characters in order to sell more albums. In real life, they are NOTHING like the characters that they portray in interviews and concerts.
And it should be noted Mark won the lawsuit, and the band had to pay for his legal fees.
Everybody thinks Mark was done wrong well they better look deeper than that he done alot to make him leave Alabama they asked him to leave
He was with them over 20 years must not been doing too much wrong
Guy, they didn't ask him to leave, they "retired".
Or... wanted to scam their fans because they weren't drawing well.
He said himself that he went along with it, and he accepted the pay he was given. Why complain now?
Because they never paid him for the live albums he played on, and then sued Mark claiming they overpaid him by $200 grand.
The Alabama guys were lying and lost the lawsuit.
Maybe he should not have kept the merchandising money that was not rightfully his. That led to his dismissal. He knew that money was not his, yet he tried to keep it. Not much integrity there if you ask me.
Uh...if that was true, why did he win the lawsuit? The Alabama guys were lying and it was proven in court.
That couch is disgusting
Looks like all the couches in Alabama....Lol
Damn it's nwa all over again and yes I'm aware of the different music type.
nuts and bolts
Randy Owens Jeff cook Teddy gentry we're cousins not mark herndon the three were cousins and Mark was hired as their drummer. these for in my book made the group Alabama. I still love their music to me they're the best country music band if all time. I was sry to see them go their separate ways.
Alabama was and still my favorite country band of all time
He was in it for the money & when he left he sued & when fans wouldn't back him he came back & said oh it wasn't for the money it was to be a partner. In the begining he wanted money! Tell the truth!
terri hodgin And you know this because...?
Thank you!! As I've tried to tell everyone it was an accounting error. NOT THE BAND. I truly appreciate you telling the truth. Love and God Bless.
Chris Kidd Don't believe all you hear.
There are sidemen in all areas of music. Neil Diamond has had mostly the same band for decades, but they do not "graduate", they will always be sidemen and they get paid and are happy. I think people were maybe living on an assumption and when it turned out not to be true they were bothered. Its really none of our business. We buy records and listen to them. That's it.
Neil has himself a pretty good drummer in Ronnie Tutt. Ronnie was of course the drummer for none other than Elvis Presley.
Ronnie Tutt was treated the same way by Elvis, most underpaid drummer in the world relative to talent.
Mark must realize that he had a very small contribution to the bands success. GOOD drummers are a dime a dozen. You got paid well and got to enjoy the lime light. Enjoy the fact you had a good run and get over it!!!