Frank E. Gratto

In researching my memories thanks to Phil Thomas, who also worked with us, I realized it's possible that the road crew of "The Pulse" consisted of Frank, Jeff Ford, and Beau Bensink, on the occasion when Frank came to my rescue, so I wanted to give proper credit where it was due. Nonetheless, all the guys who worked with our band were great characters, and I have no doubt Frank is getting as much of a kick out of my retelling these stories as we all are, from his place up there in Rock & Roll...

I was a roadie/sound engineer in Erie bands with Frank for several years during the 70's, beginning with Red, White and Blueberry, and beyond. Frank was a friend and we shared many good times and adventures on the road together though I lost touch with him after I moved to California. He was unpretentious, direct, and honest. He was above nothing to do with furthering the success of the band. I would tell friends in LA that David Lee Roth stole Frank's act. I meant it. Boy we had some...

So sorry to hear about Frank.
He was my neighbor when i was growing up. He was a bit older than me and could play guitar. He taught me my first notes on the guitar. I looked up to him and now when i think back, i see where he showed a lot of patience having some young kid hanging around. Thanks for that Frank, you were my first rock hero. I thought you were cool and you had long hair.

Back in about 1980, Frank played an integral part in one of the greatest periods of my life, the outrageous heyday of "The Pulse". Frank was a very colorful part of our wild and crazy road crew, and there were many great adventures starring the irrepressible Mr. Gratto. Let me relate a few of the most memorable:
1) We had a standing offer to pay $20 to anyone in the organization willing to drink an entire bottle of Tabasco Sauce. Frank was the only person who ever collected the easy...

I was Frank's band manager & friend back in the 70's in Erie, PA. Frank joined Red White & Blueberry when it was already the most popular band in the area. I can remember having a "passing of the guitar pick" ceremony on stage in front of a huge crowd at the Erie Arts Festival in 1975 when we replaced both guitarists. As the new lead singer & rhythm guitarist he helped lead the band to new success as we began playing in the Cleveland area. Band practices were often at Frank's house on W. 4th...

I am very sorry for your loss. Don't forget I am only a phone call away if you need anything to get you through this hard time. Don't hesistate to call me!!!!! Love you guys a lot!!!!!

Kathie,
I am so sorry to hear about Frank. Brett just said how we should get together again,that it had been to long.Please contact me.If you need anything, do not hesitate to call.My heart is breaking for you and the kid's.
Love, Sherry