2025 Music In The Mountains: John ‘Papas’ Gros

Please join the Arts Council of Big Sky for the second concert of the 2025 Music in the Mountains free summer concerts with a performance from John “Papa” Gros!

We are beyond excited to continue a summer full of incredible music with the legendary sounds of New Orleans’ own John “Papa” Gros. The concert takes place in Len Hill Park in the Big Sky Town Center and is family-friendly and free! Food and beverage vendors will be available. Please remember that NO DOGS, NO GLASS CONTAINERS, and most importantly, NO PERSONAL FIREWORKS are allowed in the park. The park opens at 6 p.m., with music starting from our emerging artist “Strumbucket” at 6:30 p.m. John “Papa” Gros takes the stage at 8 p.m.

Tonight’s Headlining Band
John “Papa” Gros
New Orleans has 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, Gros melds funk, rock, jazz, and blues to deliver a sound that is both innovative and unmistakably New Orleans.

Gros launched his career as a solo performer in the early 1990s, quickly gaining attention from marquee artists such as George Porter Jr. and Snooks Eaglin, both of whom brought him on board as a supporting musician. As he sat behind the 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, Day’s End, in 2004. 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’s River’s On Fire and cemented his legacy as a part of the direct lineage of New Orleans music with 2020’s Central City.

In keeping with the energy and spirit the Big Easy is known for, Gros is a consummate live performer. His infectious band shows have been the highlight of festivals and venues across the U.S. and Europe, showcasing versatile musicianship, relentless grooves, and eclectic songcraft of the highest order. Drawing on the full breadth and depth of his extensive catalog, Gros’ live performance marries style with substance, bringing that unique, can’t-put-your-finger-on-it magic of New Orleans and infusing the audience with a joyous energy few artists can match.

Tonight’s Emerging Artist
Strumbucket
Kicking off the evening at 6:30 p.m. is Strumbucket, a rising force in the jamgrass scene that blends foot-stomping bluegrass with funk, rock, and a playful spirit that’s uniquely their own. Known for their high-energy shows, quirky personality, and creative musicianship, Strumbucket’s performances are as tight as they are wild, promising a set that’s sure to get the crowd moving. Don’t miss the chance to catch this up-and-coming band as they bring their infectious sound to the Music in the Mountains stage.