Doors at 6:00 | Show at 7:00
All ages are welcome.
Join us for "Melanated Laments", a powerful and immersive celebration of Black Heritage, Afro-Indigenous culture, and the transformative power of art and music. Taking place on June 22nd at Alberta Abbey, this event invites you to experience a one-of-a-kind journey through personal healing, storytelling, and cultural expression.
Step into a world where each artist shares their authentic story through soulful live performances and visual art that speaks to their mental wellness and resilience. With talented artists performing you'll be moved by their messages of survival, strength, and healing. Between sets, engage in intimate conversations with the artists as they share how their art contributes to their journey — making you feel as if you are walking alongside them every step of the way.
Enhance your experience with a featured visual gallery showcasing artwork from Afro-Indigenous artist Vincent J. Osborne, and participate in our art raffle for a chance to win a custom portrait painted by Vincent himself. This celebration is designed to foster community connection, cultural pride, and understanding, with interactive elements that make you feel part of each story being told.
Admission is $20-$5 sliding scale, and no one will be turned away due to lack of funds — because this night is about bringing our community together to honor and celebrate our shared heritage. Come as you are, and leave with a refreshing perspective of your own melanin, inspired by the rich stories and artistry on display.
Experience a night of healing, heritage, and community — an unforgettable celebration of Black, Afro-Indigenous, and African Diaspora culture. We can’t wait to see you there!
Ra☀️
This Amazing Talent goes by the Name Ra☀️
His genre is best known as GODHOP. He’s a crafty and unforgettable Conscious HipHop Artist that use unique wordplay, smooth harmonies, and deep messages in every song he makes. His intent and goal in music is to change the world one soul at a time, To Make people think and plant seeds in ways people will eat it through Lyricism and to raise the frequency of the world. He mixes and masters his own music and is truly a talent that will light the entire world one day.
Beyond his musical talents, Ra☀️ is a self-sufficient creator, taking full control of his sound by mixing and mastering his own tracks. This hands-on approach ensures that every note and beat aligns with his artistic vision. With a mission to change the world one soul at a time, Ra☀️'s work is a testament to the power of music as a tool for healing and transformation. His dedication to his craft and his message positions him as a rising star in the music industry, one whose light is destined to shine globally.
VinceDaPoet
“VinceDaPoet” is a distinguished author, artist, and mental health advocate whose work profoundly impacts the African American community, particularly those of Afro-Indigenous descent. Raised in Long Beach, California, as one of nine siblings,Vince's journey into the arts began at a young age. His passion for writing ignited at seven, and by his teenage years, he was recognized as a literary prodigy, captivating audiences with his poetry and storytelling.
In 2019, Vince co-founded The Lost Poets, a collective dedicated to amplifying voices within the African American community. Their debut anthology, Suicide Notes, and subsequent works like Black in 2019, delve into the complexities of identity, mental health, and societal challenges faced by Black individuals. These publications serve as both artistic expressions and tools for advocacy, shedding light on the pressing need for mental health awareness.
Beyond his literary contributions, Vince is deeply committed to mental health advocacy. Recognizing the historical and systemic barriers to mental health care within the Black community, he has been instrumental in promoting conversations around emotional well-being and healing. His efforts align with initiatives like the Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM), founded by Yolo Akili, which seeks to address the disconnect between mental healthcare access and the Black community . Vince work emphasizes the importance of culturally competent care and the need for community-based support systems.
Currently residing in Portland, Oregon, Vince continues to engage with his community through workshops, readings, and collaborations aimed at destigmatizing mental health discussions and fostering a culture of support and healing. His advocacy underscores the significance of addressing mental health within the context of racial and cultural identity, ensuring that the voices of Afro-Indigenous and African American individuals are heard and valued.
Vince’s dedication to mental health awareness and his contributions to the arts make him a pivotal figure in the ongoing dialogue about emotional well-being and cultural identity within the Black community.
Kershawn the Don
Kershawn Tha Don is a multifaceted femme artist whose influence reverberates through the Los Angeles music scene and beyond. As the founder of Ladies Love Loops, a dynamic movement established in 2022, she has cultivated a vibrant platform that empowers women in music. Initially conceived to support female producers, the initiative has blossomed into a collective that includes singers, DJs, MCs, and poets, all united by a shared commitment to creativity and collaboration.
At the heart of Ladies Love Loops is a dedication to breaking barriers and
fostering a supportive community where women can thrive as leaders and innovators in the industry. The collective's impact is further amplified through its monthly radio show on KLBP Radio and live events like the upcoming showcase at the Record Box in Long Beach, providing artists with platforms to share their work and connect with audiences.
Beyond her role as a founder, Kershawn is a talented DJ, MC, and vocalist, known for her dynamic performances and genre-blending style. Her music reflects a deep exploration of personal experiences, particularly in her forthcoming album, which delves into the evolution of a woman navigating love, life, and relationships. This project promises to offer an intimate and powerful soundtrack to the multifaceted journey of womanhood.
Through her artistry and leadership, Kershawn Tha Don continues to inspire and uplift, making significant contributions to the music community and paving the way for future generations of women in the industry.
Ejiipt
Hailing from the small town of Lompoc, California, and now rooted in Oregon, Ejiipt is a rapper whose story and sound are as multifaceted as his name suggests. Born into a rich cultural tapestry and raised amidst the contrasts of California’s coast and Oregon’s vibrant creative scene, Ejiipt found his passion for music early, scribbling rhymes in notebooks and freestyling to the beats of everyday life. His journey began at his grandparents’ house, where their home became his creative sanctuary. It was in that warm, familial space that he honed his craft, experimenting with his voice and pushing the boundaries of his lyrical abilities. Inspired by the authenticity and rawness of life, Ejiipt developed a style characterized by intricate wordplay, thought-provoking narratives, and a cadence that commands attention.
More than just a rapper, Ejiipt is a storyteller, using his music to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. His lyrics are vivid and cinematic, painting pictures of ambition, struggle, and triumph while delivering a powerful message: “Chase your dreams with authenticity.” This mantra defines his work, inspiring others to embrace their individuality and pursue their passions fearlessly. Now based in Oregon, Ejiipt is making waves in the hip-hop scene, blending West Coast roots with a modern flair. His music draws from diverse influences, seamlessly weaving together classic rap elements with contemporary beats to create a sound that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Each track is a reflection of his journey—one of perseverance, growth, and unwavering commitment to staying true to himself.
Ladee
Ladeè's poetry transcends personal expression; it serves as a powerful catalyst for community dialogue, healing, and transformation. Her verses invite individuals to confront societal norms, embrace vulnerability, and create spaces where every voice is valued and celebrated. Central to Ladeè's mission is the transformative power of self-expression, which she believes can lead to profound personal and collective healing.
Through her poetry, Ladeè not only shares her personal experiences but also creates a space for others to explore their own truths, fostering a community grounded in empathy, understanding, and collective healing. Her work exemplifies the profound impact of self-expression on both individual and community transformation.
Shiaian Price (Thebathtubpoet)
Shiaian Price, known artistically as “thebathtubpoet, is a dynamic poet, performer, and community organizer whose work delves into themes of love, growth, and personal transformation. Her evocative poetry resonates deeply with audiences, offering a raw and authentic exploration of the human experience. Beyond her performances, Shiaian is committed to fostering a supportive environment for fellow poets, regularly hosting the "Moment of Truth" open mic night. This monthly event, held at L'Atelier Yaffé—a Black-owned café located on NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in Portland, Oregon—serves as a platform for emerging and established voices to share their work and connect with the community.
Through her poetry and community initiatives, Shiaian Price continues to inspire and uplift, creating spaces where individuals can express themselves and find solidarity in their shared narratives. Her dedication to the arts and community engagement underscores her belief in the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of fostering inclusive spaces for creative expression.
Jaykhali
JayKhali, a native of Rockford, Illinois, emerged from the rich tapestry of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) gospel tradition, where he first discovered the profound power of music to heal and uplift. His early exposure to R&B further honed his vocal and keyboard skills, allowing him to express a wide range of emotions and connect with listeners on a profound level. Relocating to Atlanta, Georgia, marked a significant turning point in his musical journey. Atlanta's vibrant music scene, known for its fusion of trap, classical, contemporary, jazz, and traditional sounds, provided JayKhali with the opportunity to experiment and refine his unique, genre-blending style.
Beyond technical proficiency, JayKhali's music serves as a conduit for emotional expression. His performances are characterized by a soulful delivery that conveys vulnerability, joy, and introspection. This emotional depth allows him to connect with audiences on a personal level, making each performance an intimate experience. In addition to his musical talents, JayKhali is a dynamic performer skilled in acting and dancing. His versatility enhances his stage presence, enabling him to engage audiences through a combination of music, movement, and storytelling. Collaborating with churches, ensembles, and bands nationwide, he has built a reputation for his magnetic stage presence and ability to inspire and uplift through his art.
Featured Visual Artist:
Vincent J. Osborne
Vincent J. Osborne is a self-taught artist whose journey began in the first grade, captivating classmates with his exceptional artistic abilities. Throughout his formative years, he was recognized as a prodigy, displaying a remarkable sense of hand-eye coordination and precision akin to that of an architect. This innate talent, coupled with a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, has shaped his unique artistic vision.
Osborne's artistic prowess has garnered him commissions from numerous individuals in Hollywood, solidifying his reputation within the entertainment industry. His work has transcended borders, leading to international recognition and opportunities to showcase his art globally. His contributions have enriched the artistic community, earning him the esteem of peers and art enthusiasts alike.
Beyond his technical skill, Osborne's art reflects a profound understanding of human emotion and societal dynamics. His pieces often serve as a mirror to the complexities of life, inviting viewers to engage in introspection and dialogue. This ability to connect on a deeper level with his audience has established him as a cherished figure in the art world.
In an industry where formal degrees are often emphasized, Osborne's journey underscores the value of determination, passion, and a genuine love for the craft. His self-taught background and unwavering commitment to his art have led to years of satisfied clients, with many expressing sentiments of amazement, awe, and surprise at the depth and authenticity of his work.
Vincent J. Osborne stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and the enduring impact of self-expression. His contributions continue to inspire and uplift, making him a true gem in the artistic community.
Co-sponsored by the City of Portland Office of Arts & Culture and the Arts Access Fund and the Robert D. and Marcia H. Randall Charitable Trust. Thank you for supporting Alberta Abbey's community arts programming!