Let’s face it, folks: Chris Brown really is coming to town. And while there are those of us who enjoy some of his music (I know I do), his aggressive behavior and stalker tendencies continue to get worse; he finally got served with ex-girlfriend’s Karrueche Tran restraining order, and she’ll be testifying in court about the threats and assaults she endured from him. The only reason that Brown has yet to get his shit together, get clean, and stop threatening the safety of the women he dates is because he has money, fame, and “bitches” to boot. It’s because he has support. Don’t be an enabler by supporting this man financially—at least until further notice.
Believe me, as someone who used to be a HUGE Breezy fan back in 2009 before he became a batterer, it truly makes me sad I can’t go enjoy a Chris Brown concert. But you know what makes me even sadder? Seeing a talented young Black man unnecessarily live up to a stereotype, especially when it’s for something as atrocious as repeated domestic violence. Maybe someday Brown will turn this hell-bound train around and avoid pulling an O.J. Simpson, but in the meantime, there are at least three other awesome hip-hop shows happening this week that you should check out instead! Chris, if you’re reading this (you’re not), don’t get mad—get THERAPY! Also, not that you asked, but two of these events fall on my birthday, and if I were going to be in town, I’d definitely be partying at both of them. Support these shows in my honor.
ODDISEE
Here’s a perfect alternative to the Chris Brown concert on the same night: a dope lineup in support of rapper/producer Oddisee, who’ll be backed by live band Good Compny. With more than 25 projects dating back to 2006—11 of which are studio albums—and producing “Musik Lounge” on Jazzy Jeff’s The Magnificent, the New York-based artist is definitely established. His catchy, soul-influenced hip-hop continues to grow, with his latest effort, Iceberg, offering 12 tracks about money, sex, politics, race, and religion. Along with Berlin-based singer/songwriter St. Louis Olivier, Portland’s favorite neo-soul singer Blossom will grace the stage, as well as local rap veteran HANiF. Wed May 10, 7:30 pm, Hawthorne Theatre, 1507 SE César E. Chávez; w/St. Louis Olivier, Blossom, HANiF
YGB
The semi-regular Young Gifted and Black/Brown (YGB) showcase is back this May for a bundle of community music events. First up is the shindig this Saturday, with sounds provided by resident DJs Lamar LeRoy and Solo, a live performance from Nigerian-born singer Sifter, and joyful movement modeled by Uriah and Paige. The event will be a fundraiser for the Healing in Oyam Project, an organization that aims to use art to bridge the gap between people from countries healing from genocide. Sat May 13, 10 pm, Jade Club, 315 SE 3rd; w/Sifter, DJ Lamar LeRoy, DJ Solo
QUESTLOVE
How depressing that I won’t be here to drink Moscow mules on White Owl’s sprawling patio while enjoying a DJ set from the Roots’ leader, legendary percussionist and record producer Questlove. Since White Owl became THE summer spot and this is a huge event, I would recommend getting there very early. It’s going to be first come, first serve, cash only, with tickets exclusively available at the door. Local DJ stalwarts Rev Shine and Dev from Above will be on deck as well. Sat May 13, 9 pm, White Owl Social Club, 1308 SE 8th; w/Rev Shines, Dev from Above
