Lysn and Prof Eros. Courtesy of the artists.
On the shoulders of giants
Featuring Lysn and Prof Eros, First Friday: On the Shoulders of Giants is a dynamic celebration of Black History Month. Presented in three short sets, the performance draws on traditional rhythms, deep cultural heritages and the contemporary zeitgeist to create a unique experience of drums and lyrical spoken word. Special guest artists appearance.
Register for tickets in advance to ensure a fast check-in at the admissions desk.
Performance times
6:15–6:45pm: Set One
7:15–7:45pm: Set Two
8:15–8:45pm: Set Three
About
Lysn
A multifaceted artist, songwriter and vocalist, Lysn’s distinctive sound blends elements of hip hop, soul, reggaeton, R&B and electronic rap with his passion for engaging with audiences through improvisation, innovation and creative inclusion.
Prof Eros
Prof Eros is both a biomedical engineer, teaching at SJSU, and an Afrobeat hand drummer and vocalist. Known for his innovative fusion of generational rhythms and distinctive vitality, his passion is shaping a future where creativity and science converge to unlock and express the complexities of the human experience.
Special Guest: Esther Young
Esther Young is a San José-based singer and songwriter who uses lyrical prose to tell a sincere story. By day, she works in community engagement, and on the side, she writes for local publications such as Content Magazine and Metro Silicon Valley. Her sound ranges from ethereal dream pop to indie folk.
Scroll down to read the full bios of Lysn and Prof Eros.
First Fridays
Art lovers at these free monthly programs enjoy an inviting atmosphere with open galleries and live entertainment.
MUSEUM CAFÉ
Friday specials, light bites, and cash bar at El Cafecito, by Mezcal Restaurant.
Member benefit: Receive a 10% discount with every purchase at the Café!
MUSEUM STORE
The Museum Store is also open late!
Member special: During the First Friday of every month, Museum members receive a 20% discount with every purchase at the Store!
This offer does not apply to items that are on sale.
Support
San José Museum of Art First Fridays are made possible in part by major support from the Jay Paul Company.
Operations and programs at the San José Museum of Art are made possible by principal support from SJMA’s Board of Trustees, a Cultural Affairs Grant from the City of San José, and the Lipman Family Foundation; by lead support from the Adobe Foundation, Toby and Barry Fernald, Brook Hartzell and Tad Freese, the Richard A. Karp Charitable Foundation, Tammy and Tom Kiely, Kimberly and Patrick Lin, Yvonne and Mike Nevens, the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the Skyline Foundation, and the SJMA Director's Council and Council of 100; and with significant endowment support from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation and the San José Museum of Art Endowment Fund established by the Knight Foundation at the Silicon Valley Community Foundation.
About the performers
LYSN
Lysn is a multifaceted music artist, songwriter, and the lead vocalist of the Bay Area band, Barelyfunktional, based in San Jose, California. Growing up immersed in a diverse range of musical genres, Lysn developed a unique creative perspective and an open-minded approach to music. His passion for connecting with audiences through improvisation and engaging performances has made him and Barelyfunktional well-known for creating an inclusive, fun environment for all ages.
Lysn's stage name originates from his deep appreciation for the art of listening—an approach that has allowed him to gain valuable knowledge and insights over the years. With this knowledge, he had the opportunity to teach Hip Hop Culture and History to middle school students at DCP Middle School in San Jose, California, inspiring the next generation of artists.
As an independent artist, Lysn has been consistently releasing new music, collaborating with Reggaeton artist Mu, and expanding his musical horizons by incorporating bilingual elements into his songs. His evolving artistry has led him to perform on the same stages as renowned artists such as Blessed, Oro Solido, Dragon, Ñejo El Broko, Sonora Dinamit, and Andre Nickatina.
Lysn's distinctive sound blends elements of Hip Hop, Soul, Reggaeton, R&B, Electronic Rap, and Alternative, showcasing his versatility and commitment to pushing creative boundaries. With a career marked by innovation and community engagement, Lysn continues to make an impact in the music industry while staying true to his roots and passion for authentic artistic expression.
Folarin Erogbogbo (Prof. Eros), Ph.D: Pioneering Afrocentric Percussionist
Dr. Folarin Erogbogbo, affectionately known as Prof. Eros, Ph.D., stands at the forefront of Afrocentric performance, wielding his mastery in percussion and vocal call-and-response dynamics. Of Nigerian descent, his journey into the rhythmic realm began under the tutelage of the now esteemed Nigerian record producer, Don Jazzy. From those early days, drumming became more than a skill for Prof. Eros; it evolved into a fervent passion that would shape his life's trajectory.
Throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Eros has graced the stages of a myriad of events and venues, captivating audiences with his infectious beats and electrifying performances. From the pulsating rhythms of JollofTech to the corporate halls of PricewaterhouseCoopers and Google, from the academic sanctuaries of San Jose State University to the cultural celebrations of the Dream Keepers Awards and First Friday festivals, Prof. Eros has left an indelible mark on each stage he touches.
His transcendent artistry extends beyond mere entertainment; it delves into the very essence of Afrobeat hand drumming. Prof. Eros unveils the transformative power inherent within the drum, a force capable of reshaping atmospheres and elevating energetic states with its primal rhythms. Through his presentations and performances, he elucidates how these rhythmic variations infuse Afrobeat music with its distinctive vitality, serving as the heartbeat of the genre.
Unlocking the Transformative Power of Afrobeat Hand Drumming
In his captivating presentation, Prof. Eros unveils the hidden potential of Afrobeat hand drumming. Drawing upon the rich traditions of Nigerian percussion, he demonstrates how the rhythmic pulse of the drum possesses the alchemical ability to metamorphose emotional and mental states. With each beat, a subtle shift occurs, resonating deeply within listeners and catalyzing profound transformations. Through live demonstrations and interactive sessions, Prof. Eros invites audiences to experience firsthand the captivating allure of Afrobeat hand drumming.
Drumming as a Medical Device: Healing Rhythms for the Mind and Body
Prof. Eros's pioneering research delves into the therapeutic efficacy of drumming as a medical device. From its ancient origins as a tool for depression alleviation to its modern-day applications in neuropsychological healing, he explores the intricate interplay between rhythm, physiology, and mental wellness. Through engaging presentations and hands-on workshops, Prof. Eros elucidates the biomechanical feedback loop between drumming and the body, showcasing its profound impact on brainwaves and physiological biomarkers. By harnessing the power of rhythm, he empowers individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, one beat at a time.
As a visionary Afrocentric performer and esteemed scholar, Prof. Eros continues to redefine the boundaries of percussion artistry while advancing the therapeutic potential of drumming. With each resounding beat, he not only ignites the spirit of his audience but also heralds a new era of holistic well-being through the transformative power of rhythm.
Bridging Artistry and Innovation in Biomedical Engineering
In addition to his illustrious career as a pioneering Afrocentric percussionist, Dr. Folarin Erogbogbo, known affectionately as Prof. Eros, Ph.D., stands as a beacon of innovation in the field of biomedical engineering. With a steadfast focus on medical device development and the revolutionary applications of nanotechnology in healthcare and energy sectors, Prof. Eros seamlessly melds his artistic prowess with cutting-edge scientific inquiry, forging new frontiers in both realms.
A Fusion of Creativity and Science
As a biomedical engineering professor, Prof. Eros brings a unique perspective to the intersection of art and innovation. Drawing upon his diverse expertise, he navigates the complex landscape of medical device development with ingenuity and precision. From conceptualization to implementation, Prof. Eros spearheads interdisciplinary research initiatives that push the boundaries of traditional methodologies, infusing his projects with a creative flair born from years of musical exploration.
Nanotechnology for Health Care and Energy Applications
At the forefront of nanotechnology research, Prof. Eros explores its vast potential in revolutionizing healthcare and energy sectors. Leveraging the power of nanomaterials, he pioneers novel approaches to drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapeutic interventions, offering promising solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in modern medicine. Simultaneously, his endeavors in energy applications harness the inherent properties of nanotechnology to drive sustainable innovation, paving the way for cleaner, more efficient energy technologies.
Innovative Solutions for a Healthier Tomorrow
As a biomedical engineering professor, Prof. Eros is committed to cultivating the next generation of innovators and change-makers. Through dynamic coursework, hands-on research opportunities, and mentorship, he empowers students to explore the intersection of creativity and scientific inquiry, instilling in them a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible. With an unwavering dedication to advancing both artistry and innovation, Prof. Eros continues to leave an indelible mark on the fields of biomedical engineering and beyond, shaping a future where creativity and science converge to unlock the full potential of human potential.