Summer Grooves: BB and Company Light Up Concerts in the Park
BB and Company brought an unforgettable night of funk, soul, and crowd-pleasing fun to Concerts in the Park, keeping the community dancing, singing, and smiling all evening long.
Warm summer evenings, cool breezes, and the sound of live music—there’s nothing quite like Concerts in the Park in the San Diego Country Estates. Over 100 music-lovers gathered with lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets, ready to enjoy an evening of community, entertainment, and great music.
The featured band, BB and Company, brought a lively mix of R&B, old school, funk, Motown, and pop favorites to the stage. Their high-energy performance had toes tapping, kids and adults dancing, and the crowd singing along to familiar hits. From smooth guitar riffs to powerful vocals, BB and Company delivered a show that kept the audience grooving from start to finish. Their cover of Prince’s classic “Kiss” captured the true spirit of the musical genius. Lead vocalist Kevin Smith took the fun even further—stepping into the audience with his wireless mic to sing directly to groups and individuals, creating an interactive, feel-good atmosphere.
BB and Company features Geoffrey Brown on drums, Kevin Smith on bass and lead vocals, Eric Griffith on guitar and background vocals, and Bernard Battle, SDCE homeowner since April 2012, on keyboard and background vocals. The band has been performing together for eight years and has become a staple in the local music scene. They’ve graced the stage at Concerts in the Park for five consecutive years and also play at the Par Lounge, Coyote Bar & Grill, Kimball Coastal Eatery, Pala Casino, Humphrey’s by the Bay, and private events, weddings, and corporate gatherings.
Battle, who previously played with The Detroit Underground for 13 years, co-founded BB and Company with Smith and has seen many talented musicians join their lineup over the years. “It’s always been Kevin and me,” he said, noting that this year’s lineup is especially strong.
What Battle loves most about Concerts in the Park is the welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. “I like that it’s a concert setting, not a club setting. Families come out, bring food, and enjoy the music together.”
In addition to BB and Company, Battle plays with several other groups, including The Lucky Devils, NuVintage, The Corvelles (for over 21 years), Platinum Vibe, and the Luvalot Group. A Shell Oil retiree of 28 years, Battle has also been a longtime sports official, with decades of experience in football, lacrosse, and baseball umpiring.
For audience members, the night was a highlight of the summer. “I was here last year, and my wife Melanie planned for us to attend with friends this year,” said Jim Piva. “This band is great.”
Concerts in the Park continues to be one of the community’s most loved traditions—celebrating local talent, family fun, and unforgettable summer nights in the park.
View the Concert with BB & Company on Facebook!
Photos by Heather McGhee
