The New Class of the Portland R&B Scene
Portland has become a hot spot for up-and-coming R&B musicians.
Jenni Moore
Jenni is an Alaska-born, Oregon-raised writer living in Portland. Read More
When it comes to Portland’s Black community and its musical history, the discussion is often focused on jazz and hip-hop. These days, however, a new generation of artists is attracting more light to the Portland R&B scene than perhaps ever before.
Here are 10 local artists making soulful waves in Portland.
TYuS
For fans of PARTYNEXTDOOR, Bryson Tiller, Usher
TYuS is often credited with putting Portland on the nation’s map of modern R&B hubs. The then-20-year-old singer’s career took off in 2016 when his self-published songs went viral, thanks to his fierce online following. “City of the Rose,” a popular cut about a romance with a Portland woman, has racked up a staggering 1.2 million views on YouTube.
Now signed to Warner Brothers Records, Tyus released his 2017 EP Phases with the help of famed producer Hit-Boy. And although he’s gained recognition nationally, his work continues to feature Portland in content and collaborations with Portland rapper Cassow. The music video for “Other Side//Brand New” is filled with immediately recognizable shots of Portland’s skyline and bridges. Tyus croons to the upbeat R&B track while walking downtown, visiting Alberta Market and exploring Forest Park.
Chanti Darling
For fans of Patrice Rushen, Morris Day, Cheryl Lynn
After winning Willamette Week’s Best New Band poll in 2015, retro-futurist R&B group Chanti Darling’s star has continued to rise. Meanwhile, frontperson Chanticleer Tru has become one of the most in-demand artists in town. Tru grew up with a diverse music background, listening to jazz, R&B, gospel, opera, dance music and musical theater. This range of influences is apparent in singles like “Stars” and “Casual” (featuring Portland’s the Last Artful, Dodgr), which show off Tru’s immense vocal ability.
When you see the band live, you’ll understand why they draw crowds. Keys, live tracks and two enthralling back-up dancers typify the Chanti Darling experience. Shows often feel like traveling back in time to the days of disco — or jumping forward to a dance party in the funk-i-fied future. A similar vibe prevails at Jump Jack Sound Machine, the monthly dance party Tru DJs with singer Natasha Kmeto. Chanti Darling’s studio debut RNB: Vol.1 — a 10-track project that includes a wide range of R&B genres and production help from Portland’s Damon Boucher — was released in August 2018 on Portland’s Tender Loving Empire label.
Blossom
For fans of Erykah Badu, Solange, Brandy
If you called Blossom — aka Keisha Chiddick — the queen of Portland soul music, not many would argue with you. Blossom is also one of the hardest working solo artists in town; she frequently brings her fun live act to venues like Holocene, Mississippi Studios, Rontoms and Doug Fir. She’s also been known to open for established national stars like Ginuwine and BJ the Chicago Kid.
With roots in Trinidad and Tobago, Blossom has lived in Portland since her youth. Her sound is diverse and ever-evolving; earlier songs like “Sass” mix jazz and neo-soul to create super-chill vibes, while newer single “Black Magic Woman,” produced by local artist Fountaine, shows strong reggae influences. Tease, her debut full-length with producer Hot16, includes poppier takes on soul, with summer anthems like “Get Over It,” “So Cool” and the ’90s-tinged “Loves Comin.” With Clout Atlas (a collaborative EP with EYRST labelmate Ripley Snell) released in summer 2018 and another solo album on the way, Blossom’s career is just getting started.
The Last Artful, Dodgr
For fans of Missy Elliott, Anderson .Paak
Originally hailing from Los Angeles, rapper and singer the Last Artful, Dodgr has become one of Portland’s biggest hip-hop acts. Another member of Portland label EYRST, the artist (whose given name is Alana Chenevert) gained wide acclaim with her 2016 single “Squadron.” Bone Music, a collaboration with producer Neill Von Tally, is regarded as one of the best Portland albums of 2017.
Chenevert’s raspy flow, commanding stage presence and impressive singing and rapping talents have earned her opportunities to back up Portland rapper Aminé on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, make an appearance on Sway in the Morning and even tease a studio session with “Uptown Funk” producer Mark Ronson, Christina Aguilera and Anderson .Paak on Instagram.
Fritzwa
For fans of Lauryn Hill, India.Arie
A transplant from New York City, Fritzwa makes contemporary R&B that’s laced with hip-hop. Often performing live with a full band, the singer/emcee is constantly refining her craft as a musician and bandleader. Her full-length project Avenue A is a nostalgia-induced R&B daydream and an ode to New York that’ll resonate with anyone who feels like they’ve left a piece of themselves somewhere. Standout tracks include “Like My Art,” “Ice Queen” and the Trox-produced “Bouncin.’”
Fritzwa is also a spectacular DJ, regularly spinning at spots like Church Bar and Holocene, getting crowds bouncin’ with a holy trinity of hip-hop, Afrobeat and dancehall.
Brown Calculus
For fans of Erykah Badu, SassyBlack
Formed in 2016, interstellar neo-soul duo Brown Calculus features Andre Burgos and Young, Gifted and Brown co-founder Vaughn Kimmons — also known as Brown Calvin and Brown Alice, respectively. The duo, who are also members of soul/hip-hop outfit Tribe Mars, are a stalwart act on local bills around town.
In 2017, Brown Calculus released its debut EP Live at the Map Room, featuring spacey, twinkling production and spoken word/vocals from Kimmons. Highlights include the surprisingly cheery “Good Job” and the much-needed “Self Care.”
Festivals
Biamp Portland Jazz Festival
The Portland Jazz Festival returns every February with a stellar series of concerts and events celebrating Black History Month.
Portland’s Waterfront Blues Festival
Every Fourth of July weekend, the Waterfront Blues Festival takes over downtown Portland’s Waterfront Park.
Music Festivals in and Near Portland
Looking for a tuneful way to enjoy your time in Portland? Get your tickets now for these exciting annual celebrations.
Fountaine
For fans of originality and Michael Jackson-esque dance moves
Rapper/producer Fountaine (aka Michael Stewart, formerly known as Mikey Fountaine) is popular for his forward-thinking sound, energetic and captivating live sets, and innovative “anime rap,” first seen on his free 2015 project Blak $ushi. A native Portlander, Stewart plays the protagonist in Seena Haddad’s X-Ray web series about a young rapper hustling in Portland’s underground hip-hop scene.
Fountaine’s massive third full-length H.F.I.L (Hell for Infinite Losers) is a highly personal story of his experience dealing with depression and racism as a Black artist born and raised in Northeast Portland. Although the album is largely hip-hop, it includes “All for Me,” featuring Blossom and a sample of Aaliyah, as well as a danceable soul-infused song called “Dressed to Kill,” which utilizes talk-boxy vocal treatment. Fountaine also produces an array of sounds for other artists, and plans to release a more R&B-focused solo project soon.
I$$A
For fans of Akon, Sean Kingston, Shaggy
Senegal-born singer/producer I$$A is one of the most experienced and hardest working artists in the Portland R&B category. His sound pulls from global influences — most notably dancehall and Afrobeat.
His most popular release by far is “Sleep on You,” a 2015 single featuring Canadian rapper/singer Tory Lanez. Since then, I$$A has released a pair of catchy island-hop singles: “Bambi” and “Open Your Heart.”
Maarquii
For fans of Princess Nokia, Big Freedia, Mykki Blanco
Marquis Dickerson, who performs under the moniker Maarquii, is probably best known for being a hip-hop artist with a focus on experimental booty-house music. But if you’ve listened to their 2016 EP Heavy Petty, you know not to place Maarquii in any one box. In addition to rapping, Maarquii also sings on select tracks and is a former dancer for Chanti Darling.
The 26-year-old’s stunning presence in the local spotlight has become a beacon of empowerment for Black femmes, and songs like “Wirecutters” and “Dam God” should show you why. Slowed-down R&B tracks abound on 2017’s Lullaby in Gemini EP, with highlights like “2Chill” and “Prettywrecked.”
Reva DeVito
For fans of Robyn, Alina Baraz
Portland R&B songstress Reva DeVito is known for her solo work, like her sultry debut EP The Move and tracks like “Babe Squad.” Lately, however, she’s been making waves as one half of Umii, a joint project with Cali funk producer B. Bravo.
The duo’s aqua-themed album This Time from the Fresh Selects label feels both timeless and modern, with fluid and electronic production, funky guitar and DeVito’s heavenly vocals. Lead singles “Masquerade” and “Dangerous” are especially addictive, with throwback vibes that’ll win the heart of every ’90s kid who appreciates a quality pop record.
Upcoming Concerts & Shows
Asian Heritage Month
Join Lan Su to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. In partnership with more than 20 local cultural organizations, performers, and artists, explore the history, traditions, and arts that make up the rich cultural tapestry of AANHPI. From May 4th to 31st, Lan Su highlights the stories, the culture, and the…
Darcelle XV’s Weekend Drag Show
Darcelle XV and Company have been entertaining audiences from all walks of life for over 50 years with Las Vegas-style cabaret revues of Glitz, Glamour and Comedy. Stop by when you are in Portland and you will be glad that you did! We have traveled the United States presenting a show that you have to…
Karaoke From Hell
The Northwest's original live karaoke band, Karaoke From Hell, has been rocking Portland for over 25 years and counting. The catalog boasts nearly 700 songs for you to sing, covering every genre from show tunes to skate punk. Catch it every Monday at Dante's and every Thursday at The Spare Room.
Sabertooth
McMenamins, Portland Mercury, X-Ray and doPDX proudly present Sabertooth 2024. With its roots in Portland’s Crystal Ballroom’s psychedelic history, Sabertooth comes to both the Crystal Ballroom for two nights of psychedelic stoner rock.
Edgefield Concerts on the Lawn
With acts that have ranged from Phoebe Bridgers to Stevie Wonder, McMenamins Edgefield Concerts on the Lawn are an annual rite of summer and a hot ticket for cool nights.
Noon Tunes Summer Concert Series
Noon Tunes Summer Concert Series Presented by 101.9 KINK: The Noon Tunes Summer Concert Series returns on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout June and July. From noon-1:00 pm enjoy music from some of Portland’s best regional and local musical talent. With seven FREE concerts, dancing, and some of Portland’s favorite food vendors at Carts on the…
Rockwood Market Hall Music Series
Each month, on a late Sunday afternoon, the Rockwood Market Hall hosts a local artist to perform for community members who enjoy their food while listening to live music in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. With various cuisine options, the Rockwood Market Hall is a great place to enjoy dinner with family and friends. See you…
Zoo Nights
Enjoy the magic of Portland summer nights with live music, food and festivities at the Oregon Zoo while relaxing among the lush gardens and wildlife at Zoo Nights.
Foster Summer Soiree
The 2024 Foster Summer Soiree will bring live entertainment and vendors to Laurelwood Park, special activations at several Foster businesses, sidewalk sales, and other festivities. This exciting event is back for its second year.
Our Corner of the Sky: Pride on Broadway
Join Portland's Gay Men's Chorus at their annual Pride Month concert.Step into a world of glorious individuality and triumphant self-expression as the Portland Gay Men’s Chorus presents a dazzling concert featuring the music of Broadway. With show-stopping musical numbers and powerful stories, this concert celebrates the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience and love, leaving audiences inspired and…
Chamber Music Northwest Summer Festival
Chamber Music Northwest’s annual summer festival combines high-caliber classical music with a laid-back atmosphere.
Latino Cultural Festival
Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of Latin culture at the 17th Annual Washington County Chamber — Unitus Community Credit Union Latino Cultural Festiva. This culturally rich event provides a platform for sharing information, connecting with the community, and promoting local businesses and non-profits to more than 10,000 attendees. The festivities will…
Waterfront Blues Festival
Every Fourth of July weekend, the Waterfront Blues Festival takes over downtown Portland’s Waterfront Park.
Music on Main
On Wednesday evenings, Portland’5 takes advantage of the summer weather to present the Music on Main concert series. The free outdoor concerts are held on Main Street next to Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall — between Southwest Broadway and Park Avenue in downtown Portland — and feature popular local musicians playing a diverse collection of music….
Summer Free For All
Portland Parks & Recreation offers over 400 free events including free movie screenings, concerts and rock climbing.
Piano Push Play
Piano Push Play invites local artists to transform old, donated pianos into whimsical works of art which are distributed across the city.
Oregon Country Fair
Delight in the Oregon Country Fair's world-class entertainment, handmade crafts, delectable foods, educational displays and magical surprises at every turn of the path. The Oregon Country Fair is nestled in a wooded setting 13 miles west of Eugene, Ore., and offers an other-worldly path ambiance, parades and more. The Oregon Country Fair creates events and…
Fete de la Bastille
The Alliance Française de Portland presents the 22nd Annual Bastille Day Festival to celebrate the French National Holiday. Like the Fourth of July, the French National Holiday celebrates a revolution that changed a nation. In 1789, the French stormed the Bastille prison, marking the birth of the modern French nation. The storming of the Bastille…
Harefest
The annual Harefest music festival in Canby presents the Northwest’s best tribute bands performing on three stages over two days. The Harefest experience has been described by many attendees and performers as an “adult summer camp,” not only for the fun-loving, good-natured attendees but also because of its rustic location and tent camping around the festival…
Cathedral Park Jazz Festival
The Jazz Society’s Cathedral Park Jazz Festival is a free concert open to the public and held over three days in mid-July at Cathedral Park at the base of the St. Johns Bridge in the Cathedral Park neighborhood of Portland. Nearing four decades of history, the festival is the longest-running jazz and blues festival west…
Pickathon
Every August, Pickathon draws diverse musical performers to celebrate music and the outdoors at the lush Pendarvis Farm just outside of Portland.
Vanport Jazz Festival
The Vanport Jazz Festival features some of the biggest names in jazz. Grammy winners Patrice Rushen and Esperanza Spalding highlight this year's performers. Come out and enjoy the music, food, and merchandise vendors, as well as Oregon wine and spirits, in an atmosphere that attracts visitors from throughout the United States.
William Byrd Festival
Every August, some of Oregon’s finest choral singers convene to perform the stirring music of England’s greatest Renaissance composer, Shakespeare contemporary William Byrd.
Multnomah Days
This beloved annual event incorporates a one-day open-air, family-friendly street festival with scheduled musical acts, a community parade, an art fair and over 125 vendor booths, and food and beverage services available via outdoor street dining and food carts — plus outdoor street dining.
Montavilla Jazz Festival
Montavilla Jazz’s 10th Annual Festival runs September 1–3, 2023, with concerts across the city featuring original jazz by world-class local artists. This year, the festival highlights some of Portland’s jazz scene-makers, with internationally-acclaimed drummer Alan Jones headlining the festival Sunday evening with his quartet featuring Grammy Award-winners Tivon Pennicott and Kevin Hays, joined by NYC…
PDX Pop Now!
PDX Pop Now! was created when 14 people envisioned local music emboldened by local recognition and were driven to ignite it. The idea that Portland’s self-sustained scene had reached a level deserving of recognition, discovery, enhancement, stimulation, participation, accessibility and — most importantly — celebration. Thus, the PDX Pop Now! music festival was born in…
Mt. Angel Oktoberfest
In the heart of Oregon's hop-growing region, Mount Angel's Oktoberfest brings 350,000 people to the Bavarian village every September. The Northwest's oldest and best-loved folk festival celebrates the fruits of the harvest with a nice focus on hops. German-style biers, Northwest craft brew favorites, lots of wine, and a bit of cider are served in…
El Grito
Join in the most important holiday celebrated by the Hispanic community in Oregon. El Grito 20th Anniversary immerses the rich traditions of the Latinx community with delicious Mexican cuisine and family-friendly entertainment, folkloric and Aztec dancers, live mariachi, salsa, cumbia and pop music, and interactive and educational community booths. The event also features contests, prizes, raffles,…
Comfort and Joy
Make memories together as your Oregon Symphony creates a magical winter wonderland through classic sing-alongs and your favorite holiday music. And, just in case you forget how many fa-la-la-las are in “Deck the Hall,” lyric sheets will be provided. Artists Deanna Tham, Conductor Oregon Chorale
Gospel Christmas
Feel the spirit of the holiday season with the 25th annual performance of this beloved concert, featuring the region’s premier gospel singers alongside your Oregon Symphony. Experience the joy and uplift of gospel music, performed with passion and feeling by some of the finest musicians in the region. Artists Charles Floyd, Conductor NW Community Gospel…
Porch Concert Series
Cathedral Park Performing Arts Collective proudly presents the 2024 Porch Concert Series. Come to the front lawn for free live music on the porch of the building on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month from May through September. Stop at the St. Johns Farmers Market and then check out some great local musicians…
She Persisted: The Musical
Fourth-grader Naomi's field trip to a Women's History Museum turns into a time travel adventure where she encounters inspirational women who have overcome barriers and made waves throughout U.S. history. From activists to athletes, artists and more, this musical features the stories of female trailblazers such as Harriet Tubman, Virginia Apgar, Ruby Bridges, Sally Ride,…
Harry Potter And the Deathly Hallows Part I in Concert
The end begins… Witness the beginning of Harry’s most important battle yet, with the feature film accompanied by a live symphony orchestra. Harry, Ron, and Hermione set out to track down the secret to Voldemort’s power Artists Deanna Tham, Conductor Oregon Symphony
Jacob Collier
Recognized by audiences, critics and fellow musicians alike as one of the most gifted young artists of modern times, 29-year-old Jacob Collier already boasts a seemingly endless list of achievements including five Grammy wins – which saw him become the first British act in history to win four Grammys for each of his first four…
Glacier Veins + Pure Hex with Clarity and Pterosun
Glacier Veins is the Portland, OR-born dream punk group grown from the vision of vocalist and guitarist Malia Endres and in collaboration with bassist Kyle Woodrow. The band’s latest release, “Connect,” is a b-side to their introspective sophomore album "Lunar Reflection," released on Equal Vision Records in March 2022. Since the project’s 2015 conception, Glacier…
This Will Destroy You
This Will Destroy You is a Texan group that composes lengthy, atmospheric instrumental pieces utilizing a variety of guitar effects and dynamic changes. Incorporating influences such as shoegaze, ambient, and doom metal, they reject the "post-rock" label usually applied to them. Initially appearing with a well-received 2005 demo EP, Young Mountain, the group continued to…
Folias Duo Live in Concert
Join a concert with Folias Duo, the celebrated musical pairing of flutist Carmen Maret and guitarist Andrew Bergeron, who redefines classical music with a dynamic blend of jazz, world music, and improvisation. With two decades of collaboration, their compelling compositions and mesmerizing performances have earned them recognition as pioneers in the contemporary flute and guitar…
Psychedelic Porn Crumpets
A mix of sprawling, exploratory psych-pop, prog-rock, and heavy garage riffs, Australia's Psychedelic Porn Crumpets rose out of Perth's indie underground, earning a devoted fan base through hard touring and releases like 2016's High Visceral, Pt. 1 and 2019's more muscular And Now for the Whatchamacallit. The group's ARIA-nominated fourth album, Shyga! The Sunlight Mound,…
Country Music Night
Every Sunday Portland's premier country music DJs, The Country Co-Op plays outlaw country and honky tonk music at The Sandy Hut. The bar is always packed with people dancing and singing.
In Concert on Downtown’s Transit Mall
Picture this: A serene mid-day in Portland, the sun gently casting its warmth over Pioneer Square. As you sit down for lunch, the air is filled with the melodic strains of live music. It's Concerts on Downtown’s Transit Mall, an oasis of sound amidst the bustling city. Let the music serenade you as you savor…
Jazz Combo Nights
The Jazz Are Combos present a series of performances featuring several small groups. Students present a variety of jazz and contemporary music arranged or composed for their ensemble peers. Directed by Darrell Grant, Sherry Alves, Owen Broder, George Colligan, Todd Marston and Ben Medler.
PSU University Band Concert
Portland State University Band presents their spring concert. The PSU University Band is PSU's largest band and is open to players of all abilities. This ensemble is a great option for non-performance majors to earn their large ensemble credits while performing with a fun and diverse group of musicians.
John Craigie
Portland, Oregon based singer-songwriter John Craigie covers the entire Beatles album 'Rubber Soul' with his unique "Lonely" blend of wit, humor, history and stories told between each beloved song. Five special guests will open the show, each playing one non 'Rubber Soul' Beatles song. Much like community, music nourishes us mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It…
Duniway Live Music
Enjoy live music by local musicians in the Mayrose Lounge Bar with Happy Hour specials from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Receive a 20% Local Discount on all food and drink. Must show ID.
PSU Percussion Ensemble
The PSU Percussion Ensemble presents its Spring concert, featuring contemporary percussion works, and command performances by members of the PSU Percussion Studio.
Jet Black Pearl
Hailing from the Netherlands, the untamed and inimitable Jet Black Pearl spent many years in the south of France before settling in Portland in 2014. She has performed on more than a thousand stages all over the world. Smartly wacky, her songs are a mad hatter's European party with a funky attitude. With her loop…
The Spitfire Grill
Broadway Rose Theatre Company presents "The Spitfire Grill", a touching tale filled with folk melodies. Based on the 1996 film, "The Spitfire Grill" is a touching and inspirational musical. Percy, a spirited parolee, follows her dreams to the small town of Gilead, hoping to create a new life for herself. She takes a job working at…
Concerts at Ardiri Winery
Allow Ardiri Winery to appeal to your senses with delicious wines, stunning views, and intimate concerts by various local artists and performers. Featuring concerts from a number of artists who bring the dulcet tones of jazz and funk to the winery while Ardiri brings the wine. Whether the Oregon forecast brings rain, shine, or snow,…
Carrie Jennings
Live music by singer-songwriter Carrie Jennings from Seattle, WA. Her music is deliberate and sultry, combining melancholic singer-songwriter lyricism, soulful horn lines, and dreamy indie pop aesthetics. Her performances are both tender and bold, with lush instrumentals and endearing stage banter. She is a storyteller and groove-maker compelled to explore the depths of the human experience…
Fonograf Editions Fundraiser w/ Eileen Myles, and more
Please join Fonograf Editions for a very special night of readings, music, libations, raffle prizes, and support for this small, non-profit literary press/record label. The line-up of artists and writers joining includes: Eileen Myles (virtual), Brandon Shimoda (virtual), Dao Strom, Neal Morgan , Emilly Prado, Connect on Instagram @fonografeditions, Twitter @fonograf_ed, Started in 2016, Fonograf Editions has always focused…
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