TMP 131 John "Papa" Gros Carries the Torch

The keyboard player and singer’s tenure with George Porter and Papa Grows Funk stemmed from his love of New Orleans R’n’B, particularly the triumvirate of Art Neville, Allen Toussaint, and Dr. John. His years on Bourbon Street taught him the value of a timeless song. He brings these twin imperatives to bear on his latest album, “Central City,” recorded with an all-star lineup and released this spring. His early reluctance to live streaming has morphed into a full embrace of the possibilities of high quality online performance. Like any new medium, the virtual environment presents a unique set of challenges. Tune in as John takes on the challenge of the Troubled Men Podcast. Topics include cancelled parades, Mardi Gras alternatives, a swingers convention, a campus exodus, holiday traditions, Catholic high school, Billy Spenser, Loyola University, a first audition, Madigan’s, Dave Ferrato, Mark Mullins, Rum Boogie, cover tunes, a Chris Owens nightmare, the Olde Point Bar, Russel Batiste, the Maple Leaf Bar, celebrity sightings, touring, June Yamagishi, the Radiators, a blueprint, songwriting, Don Vappie, a retirement plan, a Magnificent 7 record, future predictions, and much more. Support the podcast [here.](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/troubledmenpodcast) Shop for Troubled Men’s Wear [here.](https://www.bonfire.com/troubled-mens-wear/) Subscribe, review, and rate (5 stars) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or almost any podcast aggregator. Follow on social media, share with friends, and spread the Troubled Word. Intro music: Styler/Coman Break music: “Old Joe’s Turkey” from “Central City” by John “Papa” Gros Outro music: “Mardi Gras” from “Central City” by John “Papa” Gros