Con Funk Shun brings funk and soul to downtown Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) — The soulful rhythms of the 1970s are set to echo through downtown Alexandria as legendary R&B and funk band Con Funk Shun takes the stage at RiverFête on Friday, May 2, from 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

This performance marks a significant cultural moment for the city, offering residents a chance to experience live music from one of funk’s most influential groups — and honoring Alexandria’s own musical roots in rhythm and blues.

Originating from Vallejo, California, Con Funk Shun rose to prominence in the late ’70s and early ’80s with their electrifying blend of R&B, funk, and soul. Led by co-founders Michael Cooper and Louis A. McCall Sr., the group became known for tight instrumentation, velvet vocals, and high-energy live shows.

The resurgence of “Love’s Train” on platforms like TikTok — with thousands of videos using the song for love stories and dance trends — has introduced Con Funk Shun’s timeless sound to younger audiences, reaffirming the lasting power of R&B across generations.

Hosting the band as part of AlexRiverFête is more than a concert; it’s a cultural celebration. As lights go up, the Ferris wheel turns, and Third Street transforms into a festival boulevard, this performance will serve as both entertainment and tribute to the city’s soulful musical lineage.

Admission to the concert is free and open to the public as part of the RiverFête celebration. For full festival details, visit AlexRiverFete.com or follow the city’s official pages for updates.