The Showdown

Gram Jam is a celebration of the music of Gram Parsons. A seminal figure at the roots of what is now referred to as Americana. A mix of traditional country, rock n roll, blues and soul. Gram called that mix Cosmic American Music. Gram Parson’s efforts with The International Submarine Band, The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers and his two solo albums, GP and Grievous Angel were not commercial successes but his songs and style influenced all that came after. The Eagles, Little Feat, Workingman’s Dead by the Grateful Dead, The New Riders of The Purple Sage, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris are just a short list. Cosmic American Music is still alive and well in Portland and many other places around the world. Shorty and The Mustangs have organized five Gram Jam benefit concerts for the Jeremy Wilson Foundation https://www.thejwf.or since 2016. So why do a sixth now? In November, Gram Parsons would be turning 80 within two days of Gram Jam VI and will also be inducted into The Rock n Roll Hall of Fame within a few weeks of the show. In addition, Shorty and The Mustangs are celebrating their 30 th Anniversary in 2026. Too many dates have aligned. It’s meant to happen. A stellar list of local musicians are donating their time and talent to this benefit show. Get your tickets, you don’t want to miss this!

"Grab your boots and get ready to step back into a honky-tonk in 1996! Friends in Low Places is a celebration of the biggest country radio hits of the ’90s, performed live by some of Portland’s favorite local musicians, seven bands will take on the classics. Throughout the night, each band will transform into an iconic ’90s country artist or group, playing the songs everyone knows, loves, and can’t help but sing along to. Expect a packed dance floor, full bands, plenty of nostalgia, and hit after hit from the artists who raised us. Each set is short, high-energy, and filled with country classics made for dancing and belting out with your friends. Our first two Friends in Low Places shows sold out in advance, and we cannot wait to bring Portland together for another night celebrating the golden era of country music. Western wear and your best ’90s getup are very much encouraged, so dress up, bring your dancing boots, and get ready to sing every word!"