Papa Grows Funk is one of the most popular funk groups to come out of New Orleans. The group of all-star musicians, led by John Gros (Hammond B3 keyboardist) and vocalist, is rooted in improvisation and has built their enthusiastic vibe on a long-standing musical tradition dating back to the jazz of Louis Armstrong and Fats Domino. Papa Grows Funk, like Dr. John and The Neville Brothers keeps the New Orleans tradition alive while funkifying for the future. Papa Grows Funk has merged the talents of its members to create a unique sound but retains the original spark they ignited while jamming at the Old Point Bar. John Gros says, “While we throw in New Orleans Classics, now our songs are our own and our groove is all ours.” “We still love playing together, and that shows in our music.” The band performs over 100 shows per year to its growing international fan base. Papa Grows Funk’s “Mardi Gras In A Bottle” music has been performed at iconic venues from coast to coast as well as renowned festivals around the world, including the Highline Ballroom, New York City, and the Great American Music Hall, San Francisco. Papa Grows Funk performances are unique and original, with no play lists or rehearsals. The band may change their songs and grooves on any given night. One thing is certain, whether the band is jam band college students or seersucker-wearing professionals, five people or 100,000, the crowd will go wild after John Gros announces that “We’re Papa grows Funk from the great City of New Orleans.” Papa Grows Funk: John Gros – Hammond B3 organ and lead vocals June Yamagishi- Guitar, backing vocals Marc Pero – Bass Jason Mingledorff – Saxophones, backing vocals Jeffery “Jellybean” Alexander – Drums, backing vocals from http://www.papagrowsfunk.com
