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What’s your favorite thing to do in Rock Creek Park? Do you like to bike, or jog, or ride horses? Forty years ago, D.C. R&B group the Blackbyrds suggested that the park’s greatest pleasures are to be had after sunset. “Doin’ it in the park, doin’ it after dark, oh, yeah, Rock Creek Park” are the only lyrics to the group’s classic six-and-a-half minute funk track. It’s no wonder that the Blackbyrds paid tribute to one of D.C.’s greatest assets: The group formed at Howard University in 1973 under the guidance of legendary trumpeter Donald Byrd, who taught music and earned his law degree there. Throughout the ’70s, the group enjoyed mainstream success outside the Beltway, including a Grammy nomination for its 1975 single “Walking in Rhythm.” The Blackbyrds’ influence also extended into the hip-hop world long after they released their last album in 1980; acts as varied as N.W.A., De La Soul, and Wiz Khalifa have sampled “Rock Creek Park.” Now, two years after Byrd’s death, his former students are coming home to play a Father’s Day celebration at the Lincoln Theatre. Their brand of funk always turns sedate live shows into lively parties. The Blackbyrds and Tom Browne perform with In Gratitude at 6 p.m. at the Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW. $50–$60. (202) 888-0050. thelincolndc.com.