A musical stroll into Albina's past. Hosted by Calvin Walker and Paul Knauls, Sr. presented by Albina Music Trust.
Hosted by Calvin Walker and Paul Knauls, Sr., this one-mile walking tour explores Albina's vibrant musical culture of the 1960s-1980s. Visiting former venues and community hubs, we invite attendees to experience these historic landmarks and consider how we might preserve Albina's music for future generations.
The late 20th century was a vibrant time for music in Albina. From the roots of gospel, blues, and jazz sprang new forms of soul, funk, disco, and electrified R&B. Teenagers and elders alike fused genres to create new sounds in church. Musicians spent afternoons and after hours hopping from jam session to jam session. And residents dressed to the nines, hitting the clubs every night of the week.
Over time, however, this rich musical culture was crippled by redlining, community disinvestment, and gentrification. Black musicians experienced racism in the city's club circuit, restricting access to capital and recognition outside of Albina. Though music in the neighborhood was alive and well, record labels largely ignored Albina musicians and few albums were produced in their time.
Guided by local legends, Albina Soul Walk attendees will hear stories of the times while being asked to reflect on what’s happened in Albina since. In addition, amplified music from the Albina Music Trust archive adds a unique sonic dimension to the walk.
Masks are required for participation. 25 attendees max.
The live Albina Soul Walk will also coincide with the release of a companion self-guided soundwalk of the same name, which will be available on the ECHOES mobile application starting June 12! This self-guided soundwalk, produced by artist Megan Hattie Stahl, is narrated by lifelong Portland musicians Norman Sylvester and Calvin Walker. Along the way, musical selections from the Albina Music Trust vault complement oral histories from Bill Deiz, J.W. Friday, Paul Knauls Sr., Marlon McClain, and Gregg A. Smith.
The Albina Music Trust is an initiative of World Arts Foundation Inc., preserving African-American contributions in American culture, since 1978.
This event is free, but limited to 25 attendees.
Masks are required