Papagroove

Papagroove delivers an electrifying and powerful afro-funk fusion. Their DNA draws from politicized afrobeat, funk, soul, vibrant pop, and rock. Their greatest strength—and the secret behind their remarkable longevity in Quebec’s music scene—is their identity as a true collective, with no designated leader. Throughout the band’s evolution, its members have taken turns ensuring the project’s continuity, each contributing according to their talents, time, and creative energy. This unwritten principle has always been at the heart of Papagroove.

Born from a thirteen-piece ensemble in 2006, the band has captivated audiences across Quebec with its punchy music and raw stage energy. Now composed of eight musicians, Papagroove stands out with its powerful horn section and explosive rhythm section.

Over the years, they have performed on some of the most renowned festival stages, sharing the spotlight with local and international artists at events such as the Montréal International Jazz Festival, Calgary Folk Music Festival, Hornby Festival, Calgary International Blues Festival, SunFest, Festival d’été de Québec, Rimouski Jazz Festival, Woodstock en Beauce, Ottawa Jazz Festival (opening for Medeski, Martin & Wood), Le Festif! (opening for Cat Empire), Festival International des Rythmes du Monde, Global Groove, Nuits d’Afrique, and Festival de la chanson de Tadoussac. They also received a GAMIQ award for World Music Album of the Year for The Hunt.

Following three acclaimed albums (We’re not Blind, Civilized Ghetto, and The Hunt), Papagroove reinvented themselves in 2022 with Les Sabliers, a five-song EP featuring a more pop-oriented sound and lyrics entirely in French. With their album Y’annonce beau! (2023), the band further embraces instrumental exploration, blending afrobeat, urban influences, and a stronger Francophone identity.

Papagroove continues to push boundaries with creativity and vitality, always ready to surprise. The chemistry between its seasoned musicians shines both on record and on stage, reflecting an undeniable pursuit of boldness, freedom, and musical exploration.

AWARDS

2022 – GAMIQ – Nomination – Album Folk, Les sabliers            2018 – GAMIQ – Album World of the Year, The Hunt                2018 – ADISQ – Nomination – World Music Best Album of the Year, The Hunt

HIGHLIGHTS

Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, Calgary Folk, Hornby Festival, Calgary International, Blues Festival, SunFest, Festival d’été de Québec, Festival de Jazz de Rimouski, Woodstock en Beauce, Ottawa Jazz Fest, Le Festif!, Festival International des rythmes du Monde, Global Groove, Nuits d’Afrique, Festival de la chanson de Tadoussac and more…