Rob Tyner, born Robert Derminer in 1944, left a great mark on Detroit’s proto-punk scene.
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Raised by Jacqueline and William Finnegan, he embraced a strong sense of family and community from an early age.
Tyner’s musical journey began with the bass guitar, but it was his commanding vocals that propelled him to fame with MC5, adopting the stage name “Tyner” in homage to jazz great McCoy Tyner.
MC5’s electrifying energy and politically charged lyrics found resonance, particularly in their iconic 1969 live album, “Kick Out the Jams,” showcasing Tyner’s dynamic vocals on tracks like the title song and “Motor City is Burning.”
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Beyond his vocal prowess, Tyner showcased his talents as a harmonica player and songwriter, infusing the band’s music with a socially conscious message drawn from his Native American heritage and working-class struggles.
After MC5 disbanded in 1972, Tyner remained committed to music, forming “Rob Tyner & the National Rock Group” and releasing an album in 1990. Despite his rockstar lifestyle, Tyner prioritized his family, marrying Rebecca “Becky” Cobb in 1967 and raising three children with her.
Sadly, Tyner’s life was cut short when he passed away in 1991 at the age of 46.
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