The twist of fate is not lost on Hendrix. Despite his firm stance, he found himself drawn back to the Alberta Street Public House, not just as a performer but now as a part owner. When asked if he ever envisioned himself as a business proprietor, Hendrix laughs, “No, absolutely not. Trust me, I can’t believe I’m the owner of a venue. It’s pretty, pretty cool.”
This transition feels remarkably natural for Hendrix. Since moving to Portland from Oakland nearly two decades ago, this 47-year-old musician has embedded himself into the city’s musical fabric. He anchored the legendary Dookie Jam, a monthly funk jam session that resonated throughout Portland for almost a decade. His talent has placed him alongside music icons, including Stevie Wonder and Prince. Currently, he tours as the drummer for neo-soul sensation Allen Stone. Once the individuals responsible for his negative experience at Alberta Street Pub were no longer present, Hendrix became a regular, supporting fellow musicians and curating the popular Lunch & Soul series during the pandemic.
However, venue ownership was never on his radar until Ezra Holbrook, a previous owner of Alberta Street Public House, suggested he consider taking the reins. Hendrix embraced the opportunity last year, partnering with his friend Monica Mast in this new venture. Mast explains her support: “I have known Tyrone for over 15 years. Through those years of supporting him as a musician, and absolutely having no musical gifts myself, when he approached me about this business venture, it was a no brainer! This was a way for me to personally contribute to the music community in Portland by providing a space that all people feel safe, from all backgrounds, orientations and colors.”
Hendrix’s ownership is especially significant. According to Jim Brunberg, founder of the Independent Venue Coalition, Alberta Street Public House is now the sole Black-owned music venue in Oregon. This marks a return to its roots. Hendrix learned that in the 1970s, the venue, then known as the Love Train, was a vital part of a network of Black-owned establishments along Alberta Street. These venues catered to Northeast Portland’s predominantly Black community, showcasing local funk and R&B artists.
“I never knew,” Hendrix admits about the venue’s history. “I was like, ‘This was Black-owned at one point?!’ When I started talking to the building manager, Django [Amerson] and Ezra, they explained to me what it was.” This revelation has added a layer of depth to his commitment. “That’s been the cool magic of this place. The kids of the parents that used to come here back in the day are coming by saying, ‘I remember this place! My parents and my uncles and aunties used to come here and hang out.’”
Hendrix and his team are actively honoring this legacy. Signs from the Love Train era are still prominently displayed, serving as a visual connection to the venue’s past. Their booking strategy also reflects this respect, featuring a diverse array of artists with a spotlight on Black talent within Portland. Upcoming performances include gospel-infused soul from Aléa Lorén on May 24th and the jazz vocals of Donna Jones on June 7th.
“I’ve definitely felt the love from the neighborhood,” Hendrix reflects. “I’ve seen Alberta change since I came here in 2004. Being that we’re on the forefront of resurrecting the area and being Black-owned, it’s not a weight, but it’s a responsibility that I take seriously.”
Visit Alberta Street Public House at 1036 NE Alberta St., Portland, OR 97211. Contact them at (503) 284-7665 or explore their website at albertastreetpub.com. Open Monday–Thursday 3 pm–2 am, Friday noon–2 am, Saturday–Sunday 11 am–2 am.
