Tyrone Hendrix’s journey with Alberta Street Pub in Portland, Oregon, is a story of transformation, community, and the unifying power of music. Initially marked by an unpleasant first experience at the venue in Northeast Portland around 2016 or 2017, Hendrix, a seasoned drummer, had vowed never to return. “It was some racial stuff that went down, and I was not feeling it at that point. I said, ‘I’ll never play here again,'” he recounts, his words reflecting the seriousness of the incident.
However, life, and the vibrant Portland music scene, had other plans. The irony is rich: Hendrix not only returned to grace the Alberta Street Pub stage multiple times but has now stepped into a significant role – part owner of this cherished local institution. When asked if he ever envisioned himself as a business owner, especially of a venue, 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 surprisingly natural for someone deeply embedded in Portland’s R&B, hip-hop, and jazz circles. For nearly two decades since moving from Oakland, Hendrix has been a cornerstone of the city’s musical landscape. He anchored the legendary Dookie Jam, a monthly funk jam session that enlivened various Portland locations for almost ten years. His talent also led to incredible opportunities, performing with music icons like Stevie Wonder and Prince. Currently, he tours as the drummer for neo-soul artist Allen Stone. As for Alberta Street Pub, once past grievances were addressed, Hendrix became a regular, supporting fellow musicians and contributing to the popular Lunch & Soul series during the pandemic.
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The idea of ownership wasn’t even on Hendrix’s radar until Ezra Holbrook, one of the previous owners, suggested he consider taking the reins. Last year, Hendrix embraced this new venture, partnering with his friend and business associate, Monica Mast. Mast’s enthusiasm for this collaboration is evident in her statement: “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 particularly significant. According to Jim Brunberg, founder of the Independent Venue Coalition, Alberta Street Pub now stands as the only Black-owned music venue in the entire state of Oregon. This fact alone underscores the importance of Hendrix’s role in Portland’s cultural landscape.
Furthermore, Hendrix’s involvement marks a historical return to Black ownership for the pub, a fact that was unknown to him initially. In the 1970s, under the name “Love Train,” the venue was part of a vibrant network of Black-owned establishments along Alberta Street. These venues catered to the predominantly Black community of North and Northeast Portland, showcasing local funk and R&B artists. Hendrix recalls his surprise upon learning this history: “I never knew,” Hendrix admits. “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. 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.’”
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Hendrix and his team are actively honoring this rich heritage. They’ve retained signs advertising the Love Train, prominently displayed near the entrance and in the patio. Their booking choices also reflect a deep respect for the venue’s history and a commitment to Portland’s diverse music scene. Alberta Street Pub’s stage now welcomes an impressive array of artists, with a particular emphasis on showcasing Black talent within the city. Upcoming performances, like gospel-inspired soul singer Aléa Lorén and jazz vocalist Donna Jones, exemplify this commitment to diverse programming.
“I’ve definitely felt the love from the neighborhood,” Hendrix notes, reflecting on the community’s response to the new ownership. Having witnessed the evolution of Alberta Street since his arrival in 2004, Hendrix understands the significance of this moment. “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.” Alberta Street Pub, under Tyrone Hendrix’s leadership, is poised to continue its legacy as a vital hub for live music in Portland, celebrating its past while enthusiastically embracing its future.
Visit Alberta Street Pub: 1036 NE Alberta St., Portland, OR 97211. For schedule and more information, visit albertastreetpub.com. Open from 3 pm–2 am Monday–Thursday, noon–2 am Friday, 11 am–2 am Saturday–Sunday.
