Columbia Arts and Black in the Gorge proudly present a powerful musical celebration of Black History Month, featuring the "The First Lady of Portland Blues," LaRhonda Steele & Band with special guest, renowned saxophonist Eldon T. Jones.

Black Music History Celebration
LaRhonda Steele and Band with Eldon T. Jones
A Benefit Concert for the Black in the Gorge Scholarship Fund
SAT, FEB 22 | 6:30 PM
Doors open at 6 PM

LaRhonda Steele and Band will take us on journey through the rich legacy of African American music—from blues and jazz to gospel and soul.
Known as “The First Lady of Portland Blues,” LaRhonda Steele is one of the PNW’s most revered rhythm and blues vocalists. Her powerful voice, deeply rooted in gospel and soul, has earned her induction into both the Oregon Music Hall of Fame and the Cascade Blues Association Hall of Fame. As the music director of the Portland Interfaith Gospel Choir and the Portland Center for Spiritual Living, she embodies the spirit of leadership and musical excellence. Steele’s collaborations with legends like Gino Vannelli, Curtis Salgado, and Norman Sylvester showcase her versatility and artistry, making her the perfect guide for this musical tribute.

Saxophonist Eldon T. Jones will bring his signature smooth jazz sound, heartfelt melodies, and infectious groove to the stage. A masterful performer, Jones has graced national stages, from Yoshi’s (Oakland) to the Capital Jazz Fest, and shared the spotlight with icons like Earth, Wind & Fire, and Tower of Power. Another Portland treasure, he’s been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the MLK Tribute and has wowed audiences at the Vanport Jazz Festival, Jazz Alley, and the Oregon Symphony’s Gospel Christmas.

Together, LaRhonda Steele, her band, and Eldon T. Jones will bring the sounds of history to life in a concert that celebrates the resilience, joy, and power of Black music. Don’t miss an incredible evening, all while supporting a great cause!

About the Black in the Gorge Scholarship Fund

The Black in the Gorge group saw a need in our community and established the first scholarship for Gorge residents who self-identify as Black/African American, Black bi-racial, or Black multi-racial. The BiG Scholarship will be available to all ages seeking to further their education, from graduating seniors to adults with financial need. Black in the Gorge grows the fund through various community events and appeals so that we can help more students with more substantial scholarships to give them more equal opportunities for higher education.