We need more live shows. We desperately need an environment where people can just go out and have fun and feel their feelings. We need an atmosphere. Nothing compares to the sensation of being surrounded by people you don’t know, shoulder to shoulder, all screaming the words to whatever the bands are playing. People deserve a chance to be sloppy and messy, or to dress up nice, and live shows are such a good opportunity for that,
The hollow feeling in our chest you get is so beautiful, and the fullness you feel too. All brought on by the nostalgia of the song you wouldn’t have felt through vinyl or Spotify. Experiencing that in a crowd of strangers is so euphoric and special. Something like that creates core memories for people and can stick with them throughout their whole lives. As a teenager, especially one coming out of the pandemic, it’s comforting to always have a space like that to fall back on, where everyone is just raw emotion and movement.
My best memories as a little girl are going to see Flogging Molly and Bikini Kill with my mom, and the cover bands they would play at car shows. Having all ages venues in Portland like not only the Crystal Ballroom, but also the Hawthorne Theatre, the Wonder Ballroom, and many others is so wonderful, but having closer places to go to would be even better. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind the occasional live show at Corner 14 or The Hive, but it doesn’t have the same vibe, and it only leaves me craving more. We need a place dedicated to shows, that anyone could go to no matter their age. I think it could even go where Singer Hill cafe used to be, it would really help to liven up the downtown area. There are some cooler newer places down there but all in all it’s still very historic looking, which I feel appeals to an older crowd more than a younger one. There isn’t anything wrong with that necessarily, I just feel like we should spice things up.
I just know that bringing music venues to Oregon City, especially all-ages ones, would absolutely invigorate the local music scene while creating a sense of inclusivity and feeling of community. By providing spaces where music enthusiasts of all ages can come together to enjoy live performances, the city would not only cater to the diverse interests of its residents but also offer a platform for up and coming musical artists to showcase their talent. These venues would serve as hubs for creativity, cultural exchange, and entertainment, enriching the fabric of Oregon City’s social landscape. It would contribute to the revitalization of neighborhoods, attracting visitors and generating economic growth for local businesses.
