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
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.
StumpFest
StumpFest is an annual, three-day festival of metal music. 4/11 Pallbearer, Helms Alee, Young Widows, Simple Forms, Eagle Claw, 4/12 YOB, Drunk Horse, Aequorea, Black Math Horseman, Desslok, 4/13 Trans AM, Danny Carey Trio, Daniel Romano's Outfit, Terry Gross , Glowing Brain, Low Plateau,
Portland Lindy Exchange
The Portland Lindy Exchange (PDXLX) is Portland’s annual dance exchange celebrating the vintage swing music and dances of the '20s – '50s, including Charleston, Lindy Hop, Balboa, and Collegiate Shag. PDXLX was first hosted in 1999.
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…
Inner City Blues Festival
A Benefit for Health Care for All Oregon – OREGON presents Soul Queens and Blues Kings Healing the Health Care Blues Norman “Boogie Cat” Sylvester and Lenanne Sylvester-Miller bring together some of this region's finest Rhythm & Blues favorites for an amazing night of Soul and Blues.
Edgefield Concerts on the Lawn
With acts that have ranged from Al Green to ZZ Top, McMenamins Edgefield Concerts on the Lawn are an annual rite of summer and the hottest ticket in town.
Waterfront Blues Festival
Every Fourth of July weekend, the Waterfront Blues Festival takes over downtown Portland’s Waterfront Park.
Pickathon
Every August, Pickathon draws diverse musical performers to celebrate music and the outdoors at the lush Pendarvis Farm just outside of Portland.
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,…
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,…
Home Front
A distinct sound is made when freshly polished Dr. Marten boots crunch through the snow in northern Canada’s frozen tundra. When the hum of traffic is low, Dr. Marten's boots make a hard rhythm on the cold concrete. Welcome to HOME FRONT, a beat a sound unique to a working-class city like Edmonton, Alberta. For…
Stephanie Strange and Buff By Monday
Oringinal songs and stories from Stephanie Strange (Strange & the Familiars) and Buff By Monday (fomerly Mr. Monday) Havalina serves classic cocktails with a twist in Portland’s historic St. Johns neighborhood.
Killer Queen – A Tribute To Queen
Killer Queen formed back in June 1993. Their first public shows were at London University, following in the footsteps of the real Queen, who had played their first shows there 22 years earlier. By 1995, Killer Queen's UK popularity had grown to such an extent they secured a residency in London's Strand Theatre attracting nationwide BBC…
Sonic Symphony
Sonic Symphony is an immersive live experience that celebrates more than three decades of music from SEGA’s iconic mascot. From the classic 8-bit and 16-bit tunes to rock bands and EDM, this concert will take you on a musical journey through the colorful world of Sonic the Hedgehog. Relive your favorite Sonic moments, brought to…
Spring Fling at The Abbey
Anthony Rivera, Rajime The Block Bishop, Birdboy, Jayy Flowe, City D Great, Dub Dynamite, Lil Gus, Rainezra, Khoraan, The Oregonization, 40UR, Callisa J, Heavensent, Potland Ownagun, Funkaveli, Sierra Stone, LSO Lil' Reno, and Special Guests.
The Lone Bellow
The Lone Bellow burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut in 2013. The Nashville-based trio (Zach Williams, Brian Elmquist, Kanene Pipkin) quickly became known for their transcendent harmonies, serious musicianship and raucous live performance — creating what NPR calls, 'earnest and magnetic folk-pop built to shake the rafters.' In 2015, the band released Then…
Lindsay Lou
“I saw a literal manifestation of the sacred feminine and had this profound sense that I was meant to embody it,” recalls celebrated singer-songwriter Lindsay Lou after journeying through a hallucinogenic ritual that would inform the way she processed waves of grief in the sea of change ahead of her. The loss of her grandmother,…
Kindness Farm: A Song Circle for Community
Join a monthly song circle. A space to connect, ground, heal, and sing with the community. Show up as you are. All are welcome. This gathering aims to create a safe, nourishing space to support each other communally through singing and movement practices. In the face of so much global and personal grief, the intention…
Batman (1989) in Concert
Celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Warner Bros. Pictures’ iconic 1989 DC Superhero film, Batman, live in concert. The Dark Knight, the defender of law and order in Gotham City, treads the shadow zone between right and wrong, fighting with only his skill in martial arts and his keenly honed mind to defend the innocent and…
High Fade
On a three-man crusade to set dance floors alight with their inimitable brand of razor-sharp funk and disco, Edinburgh’s High Fade captured the attention of a global audience with their music amassing over 30 million views and streams within six months of their first release and, in the process, gaining recognition from music heavyweights including…
Latin Rock Exchange
Latin Rock Exchange plays dance music with a Latin and Afro-Cuban flair and flavor, with lots of percussion and salsa-inducing rhythms. Their sets cover Latin rock music from War, Barrabas, Buena Vista Social Club, Jobim, Santana, Bublé, Sade; and many other classics across generations, songs that almost everyone will know. Although this band is fresh…
Never Come Down
Weaving together modern and traditional styles of bluegrass and americana, Never Come Down is a Portland, Oregon based 5-piece composed of Joe Suskind (guitar), Crystal Lariza (vocals), Brian Alley (banjo), Kaden Hurst (mandolin), and Ben Ticknor (bass). Their dedication to thoughtful songwriting and dynamic arrangements highlight polished technical skills and a commitment to listening to…
Jazz at Jo Bar
Jo Bar is jazzed (pun intended) to once again have live music flowing every Wednesday and Sunday. No cover, but it is suggested to make a reservation if you'd like a table. 12/13 — Mary Flower & The BBQ Boys, 12/17— Bossa PDX, 12/20 — Rebecca Kilgore, 12/27 — Beleza Project, 1/10 — Ryan Meagher Quartet, 1/14 — Christopher Woitach's Pedal…
Resurrection: A Benefit for The Steep and Thorny Way to Heaven
This Easter Sunday, help repair and re-home legendary inner Southeast industrial performance and rehearsal venue The Steep and Thorny Way to Heaven. Join some of Portland’s best alternative performing artists as they throw one heck of a party to help raise the funds it will take to fully “resurrect” this beloved Portland institution. Featuring mini…
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.
Mike Doughty
Mike Doughty, is taking his new band Ghost of Vroom on the road for the first time this fall. The group, consisting of Doughty, Andrew “Scrap” Livingston and drummer Madden Klass released their latest album Ghost of Vroom 3 September 2023. The aptly titled full-length is their third release from acclaimed producer Mario Caldato Jr (Beastie…
Tyler Ramsey
At the core of any great singer-songwriter lies this inherent trait of stage presence, one where an entire room, no matter the size, is pulled in by this lyrical tractor beam — all eyes, emotions and energies aimed in one direction at a single voice. For Tyler Ramsey, it’s being able to honestly connect with…
Hippie Sabotage
Hippie Sabotage is a Sacramento-born, LA-based production duo of brothers Kevin & Jeff Saurer. The duo started as bedroom producers in middle school after obsessing over the music used in their favorite skateboarding videos. In 2014, Hippie Sabotage skyrocketed to #1 on Billboard’s Next Big Sound chart after releasing their remix of Tove Lo’s ‘Habits…
Kublai Khan
Kublai Khan are a metalcore quartet from North Texas with an aggressive, punishing sound that combines monstrous riffs and thrashing blastbeats with thoughtful lyrics that address issues such as racism, depression, and addiction. Not to be confused with the '80s speed metal band of the same name, Kublai Khan issued their punishing debut full-length, Balancing…
Meth Math
Meth Math has always been a band of contradictions, of light and darkness, of — in their own words — the “fine and filthy.” The esoteric trio comprises vocalist Angelicá Ballesteros and producers Bonsai Babies and error.error, met and developed their work in the Mexican city of Hermosillo, where they grew up. Chupetones, their debut…
Sh-Boom! Life Could Be A Dream
Return to the days of yesteryear with nostalgic hits from the Golden Oldies, “Fools Fall In Love,” “Tears On My Pillow,” “Runaround Sue,” “Earth Angel,” “Stay,” and “Unchained Melody.” Meet Denny and the Dreamers, a fledgling doo-wop singing group hoping to realize their dreams of making it to the big time when trouble comes in…
Bernhoft
Jarle Bernhoft had a new album come out in 2023, a fact that surprises the man himself. The Norwegian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist intended to have a break from recording this year. Now, he finds himself reaching out to the world with new music and a new outlook, propelling himself back to a global stage with…
Gallery Opening: Rattle Can Revival
Join ADX for the opening of a new open-call gallery show: The Rattle Can Revival. The Rattle Can Revival open-call show offers an homage to street art and the repurposing of discarded objects, inviting artists to breathe new life into a rattle can through transformative artistry. In this open-call show, artists were prompted to transform…
Mom Jeans
Treading the same lines as Modern Baseball and the Front Bottoms, California-based Mom Jeans deliver an affecting, heart-on-sleeve mix of emo-tinged indie rock, as heard on their 2016 debut, Best Buds, and subsequent efforts Puppy Love (2018) and Sweet Tooth (2022).
Keller Williams
Virginian Keller Williams released his first album in 1994, FREEK, and has since given each of his albums a single syllable title: BUZZ, SPUN, BREATHE, LOOP, LAUGH, HOME, DANCE, STAGE, GRASS, DREAM, TWELVE, LIVE, ODD, THIEF, KIDS, BASS, PICK, FUNK, VAPE, SYNC, RAW, SANS, ADD, SPEED and CELL. Each title serves as a concise…
Luis Miguel
Mexican performer Luis Miguel is an international star who is loved for his well-produced albums and strong live performances. Since 1990, he has been one of the most popular performers in Latin America, beloved enough to be referred to as "El Sol de México" ("The sun of Mexico"). In the United States, he was the…
SHUTTER
PDX Presents is pleased to announce its first-ever curated show: SHUTTER – A Celebration of Portland Punk, Rock, and Live Music Photography featuring Black Shelton & the American Dream, Buddy Wynkoop, and The Upkeeps. The night’s theme is an exploration of modern punk, hard rock, and local live music photography that define the post-pandemic era in Portland,…
Wisteria Lodge, Rachel Brashear, Strange & The Familiars
Embarking on a beautiful and strange journey creating original music inspired by the works of David Lynch, the Pacific Northwest duo is composed of classically trained vocalist Lady K and accompanied by producer and multi-instrumentalist Dustin Carpenter. Performing sold-out shows from Portland to Dallas, WISTERIA LODGE conjures a unique and mysterious sound balanced between radiant dream…
sapphic factory
The Sapphic Factory: Queer Joy Party has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 per ticket goes to supporting the LGBT National Help Center and their work providing vital peer support, community connections, and resource information for the LGBT community. if you want to go out dancing and celebrate the sounds of eternal longing, we…
Brutus
When times are tough, or you’re feeling worn down, you start longing for a life of total peace. A life where there are no fights, arguments or lies; where there is no such thing as disappointment and your actions have no consequences. Some might call it a fantasy world. Genre-jumping Belgian trio Brutus call it…
Qabaret Quesa
Join Fuse every First Friday at 10 p.m. for Qabaret Quesa — a monthly live musical drag cabaret featuring and hosted by the cheesy, breezy, bleutiful Quesa D’Mondays. Enjoy the Back Door Theatre’s newly renovated living room space as Quesa serenades and slays with 70-musical minutes of show tunes, parodies, comedy, and more. Sit back, enjoy…
Mallets of Mass Percussion: Marimba Music of Zimbabwe
Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy eight marimba bands playing the high-energy music of Zimbabwe and beyond. All performers are students of MyLinda King of Boka Marimba. FREE All ages are welcome Come for any part of the show. Donations will benefit Humwe.org. Feeling lucky? Raffle tickets for an exquisite African-inspired quilt lovingly made…
Black + Loud Music Festival
Categorically, through the entire history of music and American culture, Black folks have not received proper love or credit, and if they do, it is not until decades after their passing, from Sister Rosetta Tharpe to Seattle's Tina Bell to the contemporary pioneers Fishbone. In the PNW, Black-fronted bands need proper support and recognition of…
Peter Cincotti
Singer-songwriter-piano phenom Peter Cincotti burst onto the scene at 18 years old when he became the youngest artist ever to reach #1 on the Billboard Jazz Charts. Since then Peter has been wowing audiences around the globe in some of the world’s most prestigious venues from Carnegie Hall to L’Olympia in Paris. His albums have been…
Mozart's Requiem
Shrouded in the mystery surrounding the composer’s death, Mozart’s Requiem is a work of comfort that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. William Grant Still’s Darker America explores the power of hope and redemption in a fusion of classical, jazz, and African American spirituals. Program Still: Darker America James Wilson: Remnants for Poet…
Erika de Casier
Erika de Casier isn’t searching for perfection — she’s just trying to show you where she’s at right now. The 33-year-old Danish singer, songwriter and producer built a cult following with her 2019 debut album Essentials, and emphatically built on that “cult” designation with 2021’s Sensational, her first album for 4AD. In the past few years, she’s performed…
Low Cut Connie
For years, Low Cut Connie has built its grassroots coalition of oddballs, underdogs, and fun-loving weirdos with songs that celebrate life on the fringes of polite society. The band’s infamously wild, passionate live shows provide a total release — of stress, inhibition, and shame — working up a primordial rock n roll sweat for fans to…
The Veronicas
Alt-pop icons The Veronicas hail from Australia, yet their impact has been felt around the globe. Signing a record deal in 2005 with the Grandfather of Punk Rock Seymour Stein, (Madonna, The Ramones) twin sisters Jessica and Lisa Origliasso released their first album, THE SECRET LIFE OF to critical acclaim with three top 10 singles,…
Soloist Emily Rumpca
Welcome to an enchanting afternoon of music featuring tubist Emily Rumpca. Tualatin Valley Symphony is a community orchestra, dedicated to making high-quality live orchestra performances available and enjoyable for everyone in our community: SW Portland, Oregon and nearby cities in the Tualatin Valley.
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