Biography
Keeping the Funk Alive
John 'Papa' Gros grew up in New Orleans steeped in the city's piano tradition, and his playing reflects a deep knowledge of Professor Longhair, James Booker, and the R&B and funk players who defined the sound of the city. As the leader of Papa Grows Funk, he led one of the city's most celebrated ensembles for years.
Papa Grows Funk became legendary for their Monday night residency at Tipitina's, a weekly gathering that became one of the essential live music experiences in New Orleans. The band's combination of tight funk grooves, jazz improvisation, and Gros's soulful piano and vocals drew devoted audiences week after week.
"In New Orleans, the piano isn't just an instrument. It's a conversation with everyone who played before you."
— John 'Papa' Gros
As a solo artist, Gros has continued to develop his voice, recording albums that showcase his songwriting alongside his virtuoso keyboard playing. His music honors the New Orleans tradition while bringing his own personality and vision to bear.
Gros remains one of the most active and respected musicians in the city, performing regularly and collaborating widely. He is a central figure in the post-Katrina renewal of New Orleans music and a worthy inheritor of the city's great keyboard legacy.
He has spoken about feeling a responsibility to pass that legacy down — describing himself as a bridge between Allen Toussaint, Mac Rebennack (Dr. John), and The Meters and the younger players who never heard them live:
"I feel a responsibility to share my stories of why I play the music the way I do and why I made the choices I made with the arrangements. I can explain the differences between The Meters' version of “Ain't No Use” and each individual member's version. I've heard and played countless versions of “Yes We Can Can.” I feel like I'm a bridge between Allen, Mac, and The Meters and the younger generation who never heard them play live. They shared the language with me, and I should pass it down the line."
— John 'Papa' Gros, via Facebook
