Griot B lines up NPR Tiny Desk stop, new single and Juneteenth event

Brandon “Griot B” Brown is releasing a new single and video, performing on NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest tour in San Francisco and headlining a free Juneteenth event in Culver City this month. The run spotlights his School Yard Rap project and his push to use music, education and community programming to reach families and students.

Why it matters: - Brandon “Griot B” Brown is using music releases and live events to push a larger message about Juneteenth, civic engagement and community support. - The June slate links a national music platform, a family-focused visual release and a free local event for Los Angeles-area families. - Brown’s work also keeps School Yard Rap in front of educators, students and community audiences.

What happened: - Brown will perform Friday, June 12, at Bimbo’s 365 Club in San Francisco on NPR’s 2026 Tiny Desk Contest “On The Road” Tour. - Brown released “Fresh Out,” a family-friendly music video and single inspired by Juneteenth celebrations, neighborhood gatherings and summer traditions. - Brown will headline a free Juneteenth Celebration and Community Care Activation on Friday, June 19, at the Robert Frost Auditorium in Culver City. - The Juneteenth event will include live music, youth and family programming, community resources and direct-service activations.

The details: - “Fresh Out” centers on a community cookout and highlights freedom, family connection, culture and community. - The video introduces a new line dance designed for all ages. - Brown said the song was meant to feel like a neighborhood cookout, a family reunion and a history lesson during Black Music Month. - Fans can stream “Fresh Out” on Apple Music and watch the official video on YouTube. - Brown’s forthcoming EP, Good Trouble, is inspired by Congressman John Lewis and his call to make “good trouble” in pursuit of justice, equality and civic participation. - Brown says the EP will explore history, freedom, voting rights, leadership and community action. - School Yard Rap says the organization has reached more than 1 million students across 228 school districts in 24 states. - School Yard Rap says it has generated more than $5 million through educational programming, live productions and strategic partnerships. - Brown has released eight albums, including the first-ever Black History Album and the first-ever Latino History Album. - Brown’s work has been presented in more than 2,000 schools and 50 colleges nationwide and has earned a Billboard plaque. - The Culver City event will distribute grocery packages, student backpacks, diapers, baby clothing, hygiene products and family essentials. - The event will also provide CalFresh information and community resource referrals. - Limited free tickets are available through Eventbrite while supplies last. - For more information, audiences can follow @thegriotb or visit School Yard Rap.

Between the lines: - The June rollout positions Brown as both a performer and a cultural educator, not just a recording artist. - The combination of a national NPR appearance and a free community event suggests a strategy that reaches both broader audiences and local families. - Brown’s messaging ties Juneteenth to intergenerational programming, which could help the release connect with schools, parents and community organizations.

What’s next: - Brown’s San Francisco performance comes first, followed by the Culver City Juneteenth event one week later. - Good Trouble is expected to continue Brown’s blend of music, history and civic themes. - Media outlets can request interviews, credentials and event access through the press contact listed in the release.