
John “Papa” Gros
Sun 20 Sep 2026, 1.30pmSeven Arts
£12/10 plus fees in advance, £12 on the door
"Sharing New Orleans with the world is my calling" - John "Papa" GrosDoors: 1.30pm Music: 1.30pm
New Orleans has had its fair share of musical ambassadors, but few are more rooted in the cracked sidewalks and popping speakers of the Crescent City than John “Papa” Gros. Born and raised in the city, John melds funk jazz rock and blues to deliver a sound that is both innovative and unmistakably New Orleans
Gros launched his solo piano career in the early 1990’s, quickly gaining the attention of marquee artists such as George Porter Jr and Snooks Eaglin, who both brought him on board as a supporting musician. As he sat behind the piano keys backing up some of the city’s most iconic musicians, he soaked in a lifetime of experience and continued to develop his craft. He released his solo debut Days End.The next dozen years would be dedicated to leading and recording six albums with his band Papa Grows Funk. He returned to solo work with 2016 River on Fire and cemented his legacy as part of New Orleans with Central City 2020.
Gros is a consummate live performer, appearing at festivals and venues across the USA and Europe, showcasing his musicianship, grooves and songcraft of the highest order. He also knows his way around the Mardi Gras repertoire as well as anyone!
A Sunday afternoon concert at Seven Arts presented by Jazz Leeds
£12/10 plus fees in advance, £12 on the door Book Tickets
Joh "Papa" Gros
Acoustic piano and vocals