🎸Join us for the 4th of the First Friday Concerts in the Square series, happening every 1st Friday from May through October at Dick Copeland Town Square in the Grassroots District!
✨ FREE & open to the public
✨ FREE Crafts for the kiddos
✨ Food, shopping, and fun in the Grassroots District
🪑 Bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy a beautiful evening of live music, dance, and community vibes in downtown Princeton!
💃 Shayar opens the show from 6:00–6:45pm
🎤 Father Sun takes the stage from 7:00–9:00pm
⭐ About the Artists:
🎸Father Sun is a roots reggae band blending deep island rhythms with fresh energy and soul. Known for both authentic reggae covers and original compositions, their performances are more than just music—they're full-on celebrations of life, connection, and the power of rhythm.
The band is led by Janiah Allen, a multi-genre bassist and composer raised between Key West and Ecuador, now based in Floyd, Virginia. With decades of international touring and studio experience across genres—from funk and soul to metal and world music—Janiah brings a masterful foundation and musical direction to the group. His son Nyo Allendelivers dynamic and joyful drumming, locking in tightly with his father’s bass lines. Aram Skenderian adds expressive lead guitar work, layering tasteful solos and textures over the groove.
Father Sun released their debut album in 2023, featuring standout originals like “Good Day” and “Rising Fire”. They’ve backed nationally known reggae artists and have become a staple at festivals and regional venues across the East Coast. Based in the vibrant Floyd music scene, the band is a regular presence at FloydFest, returning year after year with an ever-growing following. Whether on a big stage or an intimate set, Father Sun brings a message of love, unity, and groove that’s impossible not to feel.
fathersunband.com
🇯🇲 Shayar (Lenval Jarrett), born in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, in 1956, exhibited a natural inclination toward music from an early age. His father, a bass player, was a significant influence on his musical journey. Shayar began piano lessons in primary school and, by age 12, convinced his father to buy him a guitar, solidifying his commitment to a musical career.During high school, he played in a band that performed along the north coast hotel circuit in Ocho Rios. At 19, renowned Jamaican producer Jack Ruby introduced Shayar to reggae legend Burning Spear. This connection led to Shayar playing guitar for Burning Spear on international tours. Over the decades, he also toured with notable artists such as Anthony B and The Itals.
Beyond his collaborations, Shayar focused on his original music, recording eight albums to date. His 2006 release, Spiritual Warrior, received radio play in Europe and gained popularity on the local circuit. His latest album, Get Up and Try, was released in October 2019. In addition to his solo work, Shayar contributed to the reggae genre as a member of the group Crucial Force, releasing the single "Spread Out" in 1991. He is also the CEO of Conch Shell Production, further showcasing his dedication to music production and promotion.
Now residing in the mountains of Beckley, West Virginia, Shayar continues to create and share his music, blending his rich Jamaican roots with diverse influences.
These concerts are presented by RiffRaff Arts Collective with support from WVU Medicine/Princeton Community Hospital and Optimum.
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