"Over the past 18 months, venerable establishments like Landmark Saloon, Lollipop Shoppe, and The Heights shuttered, while the Fixin' To in St. John's changed course, turning its live music venue into a barcade."
"This trend of turbulence... stems from a variety of circumstances-the still-lingering pandemic hangover, systemic economic woes and inflation that have pillaged the job market and audiences' spending power, and unchecked lease agreements from predatory landlords."
"Oregon's independent live entertainment industry, per the report, boasted $1.4 billion in total economic output, supporting over 10,000 jobs, with $130 million in off-site tourism spending."
"Despite new venues opening, forecasts for Portland's reputation as a live music bastion of these United States remain troubling."
Portland's live music scene is experiencing significant turmoil, with closures of venues like Landmark Saloon and Lollipop Shoppe. Changes in business models, such as Fixin' To transforming into a barcade, reflect broader economic issues, including inflation and rising rents. The pandemic's lingering effects and Gen Z's reduced alcohol consumption are impacting attendance. Despite new venues opening, forecasts for Portland's live music reputation remain concerning. A recent NIVA report highlighted Oregon's indie entertainment industry as a $1.4 billion sector, supporting over 10,000 jobs, yet many venues struggle to identify as independent.
Read at Portland Mercury
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]