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Joel David Ahumada
Joel is a New York-based multimedia journalist and producer who specializes in highlighting niche communities located in unexpected places.
Businesses Supporting Portland’s Hip-Hop Community
Believe it or not, the Portland hip-hop scene is vibrant and growing; here are a few ways to experience it.
Joel David Ahumada
Joel is a New York-based multimedia journalist and producer who specializes in highlighting niche communities located in unexpected places.
It might surprise you that our headline references the Portland hip-hop scene, much less that there are multiple ways to experience it, but hip-hop heads rejoice because it’s true!
Thanks to the tireless efforts of the legendary DJ O.G. One, Portland has become the hip-hop center of the Pacific Northwest. Together with his late friend, Starchile, the pair worked with the city to declare Portland Hip-Hop Day in 2015, which has since grown into a robust week of events, Portland Hip Hop Week.
In the past, Portland police have targeted hip-hop events, but the city is actively working on repairing its relationship with the community. The following businesses have all played an essential role in empowering the voice of Portland’s hip-hop lovers.
The Mission Theater
The McMenamins Mission Theater is a multipurpose space with balcony seating, a bar, a dancefloor and a stage. Originally built as a church and then converted into a theater, the building has served the city for 110 years.
For the past two years, the Mission Theater has hosted Portland Hip-Hop Week’s STAR Awards, but you can find hip-hop acts here all year long. The theater’s calendar offers performances and events of all genres.
Abbey Creek Winery
In 2018 Bertony Faustin became Oregon’s first Black winemaker and opened Abbey Creek Winery. Born in Brooklyn, NY, to Haitian parents, Faustin ensures that hip-hop is the main vibe at his winery. “We always play mostly East coast hip-hop,” boasts Faustin, “I rock my overalls and Tims [Timberlands] all the time as well.”
During Portland Hip-Hop Week, the winery hosts a Wine and Chill Night where hip-hop lovers from all industries come together. But come to Abbey Creek on any night, and you’re bound to see people of all backgrounds bobbing their heads to Jay and Biggie.
Platinum Lights and Sound
Since 1993, Platinum Lights and Sound has supplied Portland’s DJs with all the equipment needed to get the party started. The experienced DJs, music producers and performers that work here are ready to answer any question, whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
Platinum is DJ O.G. One’s go-to technology arsenal: “I’ve been shopping for music equipment here for over 20 years, so this is like my equipment home here in Portland.” Whether you’re a budding DJ or not, the store’s impressive record collection is definitely worth a visit.
Crate-Digging in Portland
Oaks Park Roller Rink
Planning a full day of family fun is not hard at Oaks Park. Inside, you’ll find a seasonal amusement park, miniature golf and a roller rink open all year long. DJ O.G. One hosted Hip-Hop on Wheels here, where he spun classics from the ’90s and current hits for a night of nonstop skating and dancing.
You can also come on any of their other theme nights like Retro Roll, where they blast throwbacks from the ’70s and ’80s, or Glow Skate, where they bring out the disco ball and glow sticks. And if you work up an appetite, their adorable café is the perfect spot for a mid-skate snack.
Alberta Street Pub
Alberta Street Pub is more than just a bar; although, if that’s what you’re looking for, it’s a fantastic option. Patrons can choose from a constantly changing selection of draft beers and craft cocktails to go with their food, hop into the music venue section for a show or spend a nice night outside on the inviting patio.
Their wide array of events includes Portland Hip-Hop Week’s Flip & Flo Challenge, where emerging producers and lyricists can perform their music in front of an eager crowd and panel of judges. The winner gets radio time, a cash prize and their song played at Portland Trail Blazers basketball games.
These businesses have provided a safe space for hip-hop to grow within Portland, diversifying and building upon the city’s cultural offerings. To learn more about how these businesses shaped Hip-Hop Week, watch the video above, or on YouTube: How Portland’s Hip-Hop Community Started a Growing National Movement.
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