John “Papa” Gros: Interview with a New Orleans’ Funk Band Leader

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Many people immediately jump to jazz when they think of New Orleans’ music. But we’ve got a strong network of funk musicians here as well. One of the best is John ‘Papa’ Gros, the pianist, vocalist, organist and keyboard player for New Orleans-based Papa Grows Funk. Gros started the band years ago as an all-star jam session. Since then, it has become one of the most successful funk bands in the city. Known for their hard-hitting, funk-filled shows, they’ve had residency at the Maple Leaf since 2001, and you can still see them play there on Monday nights. Gros, as band leader, can often be heard calling to the crowd: “Can you feel the music?”

To hear the shortened version of the interview, click on the media player below.

[audio:http://www.gonola.com/images/01-John-Gros-Interview-Go-NOLA-Edit1.mp3|titles=01 Jon Gros Go NOLA Interview Edit]

Like what you heard?  Listen to the full interview.

For more information, check out Papa Grows Funk’s website.

Tagged as: Funk, GoNOLA, jam, Jazz, John Gros, john papa gros, Maple Leaf Bar, monday night, Music, musician, New Orleans, Papa Grows Funk