4: Bop City Records

Oregon’s first Black-owned record store. Founded in the 1950s, the shop was owned by Wilson Smith Jr. and Fitzgerald “Eager” Beaver. Wilson Smith III recalls growing up immersed in the world of Bop City. Known for carrying Black music that wasn’t otherwise available to Portlanders, Smith's father sourced vinyl records throughout the country while making trips as a pullman porter on the Union Pacific railroad. He’d track down the latest hits available on Black radio stations throughout the country and bring these records back to Portland, connecting the Albina community to the emergent sounds of rhythm and blues, soul, and gospel music. Former employee Hurtis Hadley remembers working at the shop during his high school years.

Speakers: Paul Knauls, Sr., Wilson Smith III, Hurtis Hadley

Music:
The Hi-Liters - “Bobby Sox Baby”
Judy Proctor - “Storm in My Heart”
Donnie Wells & The Tabs - “A Real Love”

Transition Music: The Harlequins - “You Spec”