Jimmy Thompson
Long-time talent entertains at The Pink Feather
By Keith Cantrell
Originally from Colorado Springs, Jimmy Thompson landed in PDX way back in 1976 and has played a part in the music scene ever since. During that time, he has seen some major changes in the industry. While he admits that the quality and variety of musical talent in this city is incredible, he also points out that it is harder than ever to make a living as a musician. Most venues can’t afford to hire a full band, so they are forced to pay minimal stipends and unfortunate artists must rely on mere tips for additional income.
As a result, Thompson has become a one-man band with the help of the electronic mixer and sound effects-processor in his keyboard. Essentially that means the bass track, percussion and any other additional sounds are programmed beforehand to coincide with Thompson's guitar chords and lead patterns.
At his performance on Sept. 6, at the Pink Feather on S.E. 141st and Division, Thompson proved that he has a pretty good handle on mixing his sounds and levels to provide a smooth, interesting product to listeners.
Thompson's first song was the 1970s classic, Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding. Using this first number to ensure his balance and mix were appropriate, he moved on into his set for the evening.
The 65-year-old Thompson has perfected his delivery on classics such as Folsom Prison Blues, Tulsa Time, Cold, Cold Heart and Under the Boardwalk. His style reflects the country-western influence on early rock 'n' roll in the music of artists like Jimmy Buffet and Johnny Cash. That means his renditions of old, classic rock, pop and country-western standards delight his listeners on any evening he happens to be playing. Thompson's amazing range and natural-born clarity of his tenor voice and you have a consummate musician able to imitate all his current idols.
Not without his difficulties, Thompson has weathered setbacks, including the loss of his voice from too many years of cigarettes and alcohol. While his voice has recovered, to this day he no longer drinks or smokes, preferring straight water to wet his vocal chords during performances. Additionally, he suffered a burst lung and broken pelvis in 1996 from a motor home accident.
In spite of these trials and tribulations and with the help of fellow musicians, Thompson has managed to overcome difficulties to the point of keeping his performances professional and entertaining, to the delight of his audiences. He can also be found performing at the Gin Sun on N.E. 207th and Sandy Blvd. on Sundays, 4-12.
As a long-time survivor in the uncertain world of musical entertainment, Thompson can appreciate the hard work and business savvy that goes into keeping an establishment going for over 50 years. The Pink Feather is a neighborhood staple since 1957 in the east side netherlands. In 2007, The Pink Feather hosted a 50-year celebration of the bar’s beginnings. Owners Shirley and Claude Ogle paid special tribute to Les and Verna Harrington, the venerable founders of The Pink Feather.
While many generations of customers have graced the doorway of this blue collar bar, it continues to pride itself on quality food and services at reasonable prices. One way they accomplish this goal is in the tradition of an old-style restaurant and bar. The kitchen stays open after the restaurant closes to serve the needs of the bar patrons.
The bar is a cozy little place featuring what has got to be the smallest dance floor in Portland. One couple is fine, two is cozy, three is packed. Be that as it may, the patrons are friendly and accommodating, filling the five booths and bar stools with a friendly ambience that welcomes everyone who walks through the door.
The Pink Feather is located at 14154 S.E. Division and can be contacted at (503)761-2030. Maggie, the manager, can answer all your questions and will extend you a hearty invitation. (See ad for details.)