FirstWorks Summer Beats Concerts: The GroovaLottos

The Grammy-nominated GroovaLottos bring an all-ages outdoor performance blending soul, rock, funk, hip-hop, and Afrobeats. The group’s sound explores the connections between eastern First Nations and West African musical traditions that helped shape blues and funk. The lineup includes drummer and vocalist Eddie Ray Johnson, keyboardist and vocalist Mwalim Daphunkee Professor, bassist Richard Johnson, and young percussionist and MC The Z.Y.G.

Before and during the concert

An optional creative conversation with the band runs from 5–5:45 p.m. The concert also coincides with Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village, directly across from the Boathouse Lawn, beginning at 5 p.m. Families may bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets and purchase food nearby.

Accessibility

Paved paths lead to the event area, and accessible parking spaces are available nearby, although access-aisle configurations vary. The concert takes place on mostly flat, firm grass, with some park benches available. Accessible bathrooms are located at Carousel Village, and complimentary earplugs will be offered while supplies last. FirstWorks identifies Rainy Stanford-Cordaro as the contact for accessibility questions.