SAVE THE DATES FOR OUR 2026 EVENT SERIES - July 14, July 28, August 11, 6pm.
2026 NIGHT ONE EVENT INFO:
7/14 - Datrian and the Family 6pm
Datrian and the Family brings an electrifying blend of Appalachian soul, gospel, blues, Americana, and deep Southern groove to the 2026 Groovin’ on Grovemont concert series. Led by Asheville vocalist Datrian Johnson, the group delivers powerful, heartfelt performances rooted in musical tradition while pushing boldly into modern soul and improvisational Americana.
Born and raised in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Datrian has become one of the region’s most celebrated vocalists, sharing stages and collaborating with artists including Warren Haynes, John Medeski, and Luther Dickinson. His soaring voice and magnetic stage presence have made him a standout performer across the Asheville music scene and beyond, with work spanning gospel, funk, psychedelic soul, roots music, and Americana.
For Groovin’ on Grovemont, Datrian will be joined by an all-star lineup featuring Tony Black on bass, Mike Rhodes on drums, Duane Simpson on guitar, and Matt Smith on pedal steel. Together, the group creates a rich and soulful sound that moves seamlessly from gospel-inspired intensity to laid-back mountain groove, blending heartfelt songwriting, improvisation, and deep musical chemistry.
Datrian’s music has been described as “Appalachian Soul”, a sound deeply connected to the musical heritage of the Southern mountains while embracing the healing and communal power of song. Audiences can expect an evening filled with passion, groove, storytelling, and musical connection.
For more about Datrian Johnson, visit https://www.datrian.com
2026 NIGHT TWO EVENT INFO:
7/28 - Ska City 6pm
Hailing from both England and the United States, this high-energy nine-piece ska band brings the infectious rhythms of over six decades of ska music to life, blending the best of rocksteady, dancehall, two-tone, third-wave ska, and punk.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, the band infuses each performance with a passion and authenticity that honors the genre’s rich history while keeping the dancefloor moving with fresh, dynamic sounds. From the laid-back grooves of rocksteady to the sharp, punchy energy of 3rd wave ska, Ska City offers something for all ska lovers, spreading their love for ska across the southeastern United States.
With their infectious energy, tight instrumentation, killer horn section, and love for the genre, this band is a must-see for anyone who loves the ever-evolving world of ska music.
More info about Ska City: https://ska.city
WHAT IS GROOVIN’ ON GROVEMONT?
Groovin’ is a free-admission outdoor concert series benefiting two Swannanoa nonprofit organizations: The Friends of the Swannanoa Library and the Swannanoa Community Council.
These events are held at Grovemont Park, adjacent to the Swannanoa Library. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, and come enjoy these free family-friendly evenings of great music and food! A large selection of tasty and freshly prepared foods will be available for concert goers to enjoy. This year’s concerts will feature specially-curated Groovin’ culinary creations in partnership and in support of selected Swannanoa Valley restaurants.
All proceeds go to the Swannanoa Community Council and Friends of The Swannanoa Library for the benefit of all those who use and enjoy Grovemont Park & Playground and the Swannanoa Library.