"The diva-at 86 years young-is still a firecracker on stage, doing little dances and hitting her notes better than any imitators could ever dream. A heartfelt congratulations to the Portland Jazz Festival for holding it all the way down again in 2026."
"Portland is internationally known for being a tough room to work (just ask The Hives' lead singer Pelle Almqvist). Let's change that reputation! Let's become a city touring bands are dying to play and a hometown artists are proud to represent-a better future is possible... now!"
"Get into it, Portland. Let yourself feel and express joy. You are allowed to take up space. You are allowed to dance! Shit is so rugged right now, let's get with it! Love and community and joy are all right there if you want it."
Mavis Staples, at 86 years old, performed at Portland Jazz Festival with remarkable energy and vocal prowess. The writer praised her performance and the festival's organization while critiquing Portland's audience for remaining stiff and unresponsive throughout the show. This pattern of reserved audiences has been observed at other performances, including Clipping.'s recent show. The writer attributes this to Portland's reputation as a difficult venue for touring bands and calls for the city to embrace joy, movement, and emotional expression at live performances. The piece encourages Portland audiences to dance, celebrate, and support artists by actively engaging with performances.
#live-music-performance #portland-audience-culture #concert-review #community-engagement #music-venues
Read at Portland Mercury
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