In 1983, competing against several thousand contestants throughout the United States, she won the First “Star Search” aka “Fantasy” national talent competition on NBC Television. Shirley was recognized as “Best Female Vocalist in Portland” from 1981 to 1991. She appeared in the stage play “The Colored Museum” written by George C. Wolfe, in a parody of Josephine Baker. In 2000, she appeared in Truman Capote’s “The Grass Harp” performed at the Lakewood Theatre in Lake Oswego, for which she received an Artistic Merit award from the theater company.
Shirley was chosen twice as the only jazz vocalist to be represented by the Oregon Arts Commission. In May of the following year, she began the task of making her first recording entitled “See You Later”. It was released in 1992.
Rebecca Kilgore: is one of America's leading song stylists who finds particular delight in preserving and interpreting the music of the Great American Songbook.
She regularly performs worldwide at jazz festivals, jazz parties, and on jazz cruises. She has been a frequent guest on National Public Radio’s ‘Fresh Air’ with Terry Gross, has appeared on ‘A Prairie Home Companion’, and with Michael Feinstein at Carnegie Hall.
Christopher Brown: Born and raised in Portland, Christopher is an acclaimed musician, composer, bandleader, and educator who seeks to be a voice within the advocacy of Jazz music and American culture. And through the expansive range of groups that he has assembled and/or performed with— which range from duos to Jazz big bands to military marching bands and orchestras—his musical and personal experiences have led him towards an interest in synthesizing the principles of Jazz with the day-to-day practicalities of life. And if there is one imprint that Christopher hopes to leave in this world to make it better, it would be to create one that runs on art, as it would necessitate everyone learning to embody the mindset of an artist.
Description: This benefit music series will feature Portland's top Soul, Latin & Jazz bands.
During the shows, we will spotlight positive tangible commentary from community activists, select nonprofits, and social equality advocates sharing ideas and strategies to unite our divided country.
Unity Benefit Music Series
Facebook Live Streaming
Seating is limited due to the city and state restrictions. Reservations are suggested in order to ensure entry.
Botanist:21 & Over.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
Performer subject to change.
Date / time Fri, September 17, 2021 Doors open: 5:00 pm Event begins: 6:00 pm Buy Tickets
Venue info Botanist
910 NW 14th Ave.
Portland, OR, 97209