Which band IS really America's Greatest (rock & roll band)?

Since The Band were 4/5’s Canadian, and Rockpile English/Welsh (and played American Rock & Roll at least as well as any band of which I am aware), I’d say NRBQ. But then I don’t consider The Eagles a Rock & Roll Band. Rush can be called many things, but a Rock & Roll band is not one of them. Am I being too literal? The Beach Boys output was great, but that’s because of Brian Wilson’s songwriting and vocal arrangements, not because they were a good band. As a band they were pretty weak. Yet when they toured with The Dead they mopped the floor with them. The Dead also weren’t a Rock & Roll band.

Agree with the above, but add the Stones, Blondie, the Four Seasons and Fleetwood Mac.  The Rumors LP is iconic.

I think The Band would qualify as "American". Rush too. And if Rush isn't rock and roll I don't know what they are. Yes, prog rock, but that's a pretty big, impressive and influential genre of rock. But no, not American roots rock.

Of course Grand Funk is an "American Band". ;-)

But when I think of "American" band and think of Americana or roots rock being part of the qualification....that still puts The Band right up there. CCR too.

Don't forget Lynrd Skynrd. 

Allman Brothers.

I think the Eagles are in there too. Its easy to split hairs.

Neil Young. Not a band.