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dedicated to portland hip hop creators
who are no longer with us
out of love, respect & appreciation for their contributions to the culture,
honoring those who have paved the way for portland's hip hop creators of today.
we believe their inclusion here holds great value & allows us a way to honor their legacy,
ensuring the impact of their influence continues to resonate indefinitely.
they are deeply missed and fondly remembered
who are no longer with us
out of love, respect & appreciation for their contributions to the culture,
honoring those who have paved the way for portland's hip hop creators of today.
we believe their inclusion here holds great value & allows us a way to honor their legacy,
ensuring the impact of their influence continues to resonate indefinitely.
they are deeply missed and fondly remembered
every effort has been made to ensure the information presented here
is accurate and relevant to honoring the legacy of these hip hop creators.
Any inaccuracies are unintentional, and this content is intended
solely to memorialize their contributions to the culture.
For corrections or updates, please feel free to email a100 @ prettydopexperience@gmailcom subject = "legacy info".
is accurate and relevant to honoring the legacy of these hip hop creators.
Any inaccuracies are unintentional, and this content is intended
solely to memorialize their contributions to the culture.
For corrections or updates, please feel free to email a100 @ prettydopexperience@gmailcom subject = "legacy info".
Trigger Warning: Content related to loss and grief
This page honors and remembers loved ones who have passed.
It contains reflections, stories and photos that may evoke emotions related to loss.
Please take care while reading.
*
4seas
4seas
He collaborated with other prominent local artists, including Lil'Face and Drae Steves,
and was featured on tracks that highlighted his dedication to the Portland sound.
One of his notable contributions, “My Gang Wit Me,” reflected the strength of his
connections within the community and his passion for uplifting those around him.
4Seas was more than an artist;
he was a friend, a mentor, and a beloved member of Portland’s hip-hop culture.
His music often explored themes of resilience, community, and the daily experiences
of life in Portland, resonating deeply with fans and fellow musicians alike.
As a participant in popular Portland showcases such as
The Thesis and Mic Check,
he helped build and elevate Portland's hip-hop scene,
creating space for new voices and supporting the city's evolving sound.
4Seas’ legacy lives on in his music and the many lives he touched.
His contributions to Portland’s music scene will continue to inspire future generations of artists.
His voice and vision will be dearly missed AND fondly remembered by all who knew him.
and was featured on tracks that highlighted his dedication to the Portland sound.
One of his notable contributions, “My Gang Wit Me,” reflected the strength of his
connections within the community and his passion for uplifting those around him.
4Seas was more than an artist;
he was a friend, a mentor, and a beloved member of Portland’s hip-hop culture.
His music often explored themes of resilience, community, and the daily experiences
of life in Portland, resonating deeply with fans and fellow musicians alike.
As a participant in popular Portland showcases such as
The Thesis and Mic Check,
he helped build and elevate Portland's hip-hop scene,
creating space for new voices and supporting the city's evolving sound.
4Seas’ legacy lives on in his music and the many lives he touched.
His contributions to Portland’s music scene will continue to inspire future generations of artists.
His voice and vision will be dearly missed AND fondly remembered by all who knew him.
bustdownxfredo
BUSTDOWNXFREDO
tracks such as "Loose Screws" and "Mr. Deeds" display his versatility
in blending hard-hitting beats with reflective lyrics.
introspective and gritty music that addressed personal and social challenges.
His songs like "Pain & Envy" reflected life’s struggles, combining trap beats with deep storytelling.
His influence extended within Portland's hip hop scene through collaborations with local artists,
contributing to the city's evolving music culture.
Sadly, he was the victim of a fatal shooting on October 27, 2024, in Portland's Sabin neighborhood.
Police responded around 2 a.m. to a report of shots fired, where he was found deceased in a vehicle.
The investigation is ongoing,
authorities are requesting public assistance with information on the incident
in blending hard-hitting beats with reflective lyrics.
introspective and gritty music that addressed personal and social challenges.
His songs like "Pain & Envy" reflected life’s struggles, combining trap beats with deep storytelling.
His influence extended within Portland's hip hop scene through collaborations with local artists,
contributing to the city's evolving music culture.
Sadly, he was the victim of a fatal shooting on October 27, 2024, in Portland's Sabin neighborhood.
Police responded around 2 a.m. to a report of shots fired, where he was found deceased in a vehicle.
The investigation is ongoing,
authorities are requesting public assistance with information on the incident
drae steves
drae steves
Drae Steves gained a dedicated underground following,
opening the door for more new voices like his in the Portland scene.
Despite Portland's smaller market and limited hip-hop infrastructure,
Steves was recognized as a critical figure driving the local scene forward
and had collaborations with others who shared his regional pride.
known for his collaborations and gritty street-focused sound,
he teamed up with other well-known Northwest artists,
such as portland icon Cool Nutz, who has collaborated with Drae on several tracks including
“Did It Twice”
- a song that highlights their rise in the industry with production by J. Fresh.
Drae Steves also featured on Cool Nutz’s track
“Bass Beatin”
alongside big names like E-40 and Mistah F.A.B.,
which underscored his skill at holding his own among seasoned artists.
Beyond collaborations, Drae Steves built a reputation for his storytelling style,
often reflecting themes of resilience and ambition.
His music resonates with fans of street rap and those looking for authenticity within hip hop.
Tragically, he passed away december 21st, 2021 due to a fatal shooting,
a loss felt deeply by the local community.
Police found him with fatal gunshot wounds outside of a bar on Southwest Morrison Street.
The suspect, Josiah Nettles, was later apprehended and
charged with second-degree murder and unlawful firearm possession.
The incident reportedly involved gang-related violence, a concern highlighted by Drae's family,
who also emphasized the need for healing and an end to community violence following the sentencing.
His death underscored some of the ongoing challenges in Portland's hip-hop scene but also highlighted
the strong community ties and resilience within the local music culture.
opening the door for more new voices like his in the Portland scene.
Despite Portland's smaller market and limited hip-hop infrastructure,
Steves was recognized as a critical figure driving the local scene forward
and had collaborations with others who shared his regional pride.
known for his collaborations and gritty street-focused sound,
he teamed up with other well-known Northwest artists,
such as portland icon Cool Nutz, who has collaborated with Drae on several tracks including
“Did It Twice”
- a song that highlights their rise in the industry with production by J. Fresh.
Drae Steves also featured on Cool Nutz’s track
“Bass Beatin”
alongside big names like E-40 and Mistah F.A.B.,
which underscored his skill at holding his own among seasoned artists.
Beyond collaborations, Drae Steves built a reputation for his storytelling style,
often reflecting themes of resilience and ambition.
His music resonates with fans of street rap and those looking for authenticity within hip hop.
Tragically, he passed away december 21st, 2021 due to a fatal shooting,
a loss felt deeply by the local community.
Police found him with fatal gunshot wounds outside of a bar on Southwest Morrison Street.
The suspect, Josiah Nettles, was later apprehended and
charged with second-degree murder and unlawful firearm possession.
The incident reportedly involved gang-related violence, a concern highlighted by Drae's family,
who also emphasized the need for healing and an end to community violence following the sentencing.
His death underscored some of the ongoing challenges in Portland's hip-hop scene but also highlighted
the strong community ties and resilience within the local music culture.
johnny ratchet
johnny ratchet
as a rising rapper in Portland, he grew to be recognized for
his unique style of mixing gritty lyrics with engaging beats,
establishing a notable presence for himself within the Nw music community.
Some of his most popular tracks from
"The Adventures Thru The Eyes Of Young Johnny Ratchet"
showcase his versatility, blending introspective storytelling with dynamic rhythms.
His music often reflected his experiences & realities of life in Portland,
resonating with listeners in the local community and beyond.
.
Over the years, Johnny performed at various local venues,
further cementing his reputation in Portland's music circles,
gaining attention for his authentic and relatable lyrics.
.
Johnny Ratchet passed away unexpectedly on May 7, 2022, at the age of 40.
He is remembered for his unique musical talent and the joy he brought to those around him.
His legacy continues through his music and the memories shared by his family and friends.
his unique style of mixing gritty lyrics with engaging beats,
establishing a notable presence for himself within the Nw music community.
Some of his most popular tracks from
"The Adventures Thru The Eyes Of Young Johnny Ratchet"
showcase his versatility, blending introspective storytelling with dynamic rhythms.
His music often reflected his experiences & realities of life in Portland,
resonating with listeners in the local community and beyond.
.
Over the years, Johnny performed at various local venues,
further cementing his reputation in Portland's music circles,
gaining attention for his authentic and relatable lyrics.
.
Johnny Ratchet passed away unexpectedly on May 7, 2022, at the age of 40.
He is remembered for his unique musical talent and the joy he brought to those around him.
His legacy continues through his music and the memories shared by his family and friends.
khalid
khalid
khalid
al-hassan was an original founder & Chief Technology Officer @ Pretty Dope Xperience, LLC, and early web developer of getpdxradio.com although he wasn't a hip hop creator, he was invaluable to the creation and foundation of pdx radio. we would not be where we are today without his willingness to volunteer his time and skills. |
he had an extensive professional background in technology, marketing, cybersecurity, and real estate.
he had been working as a real estate investor with Avondbloem LLC in Vancouver, Washington.
he also held various senior roles, including Senior IT Security Consultant and Marketing Director
for companies like NetProtect, Inc., and Intrinsic Marketing.
Khalid held a Bachelor’s in Computer & Information Sciences
with a focus on internet marketing & web design.
from Washington State University Global Campus
Khalid lived in Vancouver, Wa. with his longtime
girlfriend Lindsey Melchert and her brother, Logan melchert.
some time late july 2023, khalid suddenly went silent.
Concerned, his mother reported him missing in early August, after weeks without contact.
as AUTHORITIES began to investigate they made A series of troubling discoveries.
Logan Melchert was arrested on unrelated charges and later implicated in Khalid’s death when
Investigators found human remains in Logan’s deceased father’s burnt Kia Soul
parked behind the Melchert residence.
The car, which according to logan, had caught fire on August 19, was reportedly moved and covered.
Evidence of advanced human decomposition led investigators to conclude that
Khalid’s remains had been present long before the fire OCCURRED.
Searching thru logan's phone and belongings revealed that
he had researched decomposition and fire’s effect on odors.
later that August, authorities uncovered additional human remains on another rural property,
(a 45 minute drive from the vancouver home), also owned by the melchert’s recently deceased father.
Interviews with logans fellow inmates soon revealed Logan’s alleged motives,
including fears that Khalid would inherit the family business if Lindsey’s health continued to declined.
One inmate described how Logan reportedly tried to dispose of Khalid’s body in an incinerator
but failed due to an accidental fire he caused in the process,
ultimately moving the remains back into the car.
This tragic series of events eventually uncovered Khalid’s murder,
leaving deep scars on those close to him.
melchert is due in court later this month for sentencing.
khalid will be remembered as a multi-talented individual who wore many hats in his career.
As a founder and creator of getpdxradio.com, he made a lasting impact on the Portland music and digital community.
Friends and family valued his intellect, creativity, and commitment to his passions, including his contributions to Pretty Dope Xperience.
His legacy reflects a life driven by curiosity, expertise, and dedication to building innovative digital spaces.
he had been working as a real estate investor with Avondbloem LLC in Vancouver, Washington.
he also held various senior roles, including Senior IT Security Consultant and Marketing Director
for companies like NetProtect, Inc., and Intrinsic Marketing.
Khalid held a Bachelor’s in Computer & Information Sciences
with a focus on internet marketing & web design.
from Washington State University Global Campus
Khalid lived in Vancouver, Wa. with his longtime
girlfriend Lindsey Melchert and her brother, Logan melchert.
some time late july 2023, khalid suddenly went silent.
Concerned, his mother reported him missing in early August, after weeks without contact.
as AUTHORITIES began to investigate they made A series of troubling discoveries.
Logan Melchert was arrested on unrelated charges and later implicated in Khalid’s death when
Investigators found human remains in Logan’s deceased father’s burnt Kia Soul
parked behind the Melchert residence.
The car, which according to logan, had caught fire on August 19, was reportedly moved and covered.
Evidence of advanced human decomposition led investigators to conclude that
Khalid’s remains had been present long before the fire OCCURRED.
Searching thru logan's phone and belongings revealed that
he had researched decomposition and fire’s effect on odors.
later that August, authorities uncovered additional human remains on another rural property,
(a 45 minute drive from the vancouver home), also owned by the melchert’s recently deceased father.
Interviews with logans fellow inmates soon revealed Logan’s alleged motives,
including fears that Khalid would inherit the family business if Lindsey’s health continued to declined.
One inmate described how Logan reportedly tried to dispose of Khalid’s body in an incinerator
but failed due to an accidental fire he caused in the process,
ultimately moving the remains back into the car.
This tragic series of events eventually uncovered Khalid’s murder,
leaving deep scars on those close to him.
melchert is due in court later this month for sentencing.
khalid will be remembered as a multi-talented individual who wore many hats in his career.
As a founder and creator of getpdxradio.com, he made a lasting impact on the Portland music and digital community.
Friends and family valued his intellect, creativity, and commitment to his passions, including his contributions to Pretty Dope Xperience.
His legacy reflects a life driven by curiosity, expertise, and dedication to building innovative digital spaces.
learn more:
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king l.a.z.
king l.a.z.
Born in Brazil in 1992, he developed a love for music early on,
surrounded by the lively rhythms of Brazilian percussion.
His family recognized his musical gift,
encouraging him with a drum set when he was just two.
This early start in music led him to formal training and
eventually a successful career as a jazz drummer,
earning national awards before his transition into hip hop.
He was raised with a deep sense of cultural pride and resilience,
which informed his life philosophy:
to respect others and take pride in one’s identity.
King L.A.Z. emphasized this ethos in his music and interactions,
showing unwavering loyalty to friends and family.
His magnetic personality and infectious smile made him a central figure at gatherings,
and his music carried a strong, positive message that resonated with his community.
In Portland’s hip hop scene, King L.A.Z. gained recognition
not only for his music but for his dedication to authenticity and resilience.
His work often reflected a philosophy of respect and pride in personal growth,
inspiring those around him. He was celebrated for his magnetic personality
and his infectious smile, which made him the life of any gathering.
Beyond music, he was a skilled athlete in soccer, track, and basketball,
passions he shared with his three children.
King L.A.Z. left a lasting impact on his community,
remembered as a talented musician & someone who valued family & loyalty.
His legacy continues to live on in the Portland music scene and
through the lives of his children & loved ones.
surrounded by the lively rhythms of Brazilian percussion.
His family recognized his musical gift,
encouraging him with a drum set when he was just two.
This early start in music led him to formal training and
eventually a successful career as a jazz drummer,
earning national awards before his transition into hip hop.
He was raised with a deep sense of cultural pride and resilience,
which informed his life philosophy:
to respect others and take pride in one’s identity.
King L.A.Z. emphasized this ethos in his music and interactions,
showing unwavering loyalty to friends and family.
His magnetic personality and infectious smile made him a central figure at gatherings,
and his music carried a strong, positive message that resonated with his community.
In Portland’s hip hop scene, King L.A.Z. gained recognition
not only for his music but for his dedication to authenticity and resilience.
His work often reflected a philosophy of respect and pride in personal growth,
inspiring those around him. He was celebrated for his magnetic personality
and his infectious smile, which made him the life of any gathering.
Beyond music, he was a skilled athlete in soccer, track, and basketball,
passions he shared with his three children.
King L.A.Z. left a lasting impact on his community,
remembered as a talented musician & someone who valued family & loyalty.
His legacy continues to live on in the Portland music scene and
through the lives of his children & loved ones.
lil'face
lil'face
born in Dallas, Texas, he moved to Oregon at a young age.
He developed a passion for performing early on,
modeling and acting during his childhood,
which helped him gain confidence in front of the camera.
After graduating from Benson Polytechnic High School in 2005,
he pursued music, focusing on rap.
Lil'Face performed at various events, including sharing the stage
with more well-known artists at many local shows around or. & wa.
His tracks, like "U Fine," showcase his style
and connection to the Portland music scene.
He developed a passion for performing early on,
modeling and acting during his childhood,
which helped him gain confidence in front of the camera.
After graduating from Benson Polytechnic High School in 2005,
he pursued music, focusing on rap.
Lil'Face performed at various events, including sharing the stage
with more well-known artists at many local shows around or. & wa.
His tracks, like "U Fine," showcase his style
and connection to the Portland music scene.
sadly, on January 21, 2018, lil'face was shot in downtown Portland, Oregon.
Despite being transported to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
He was 30 years old when he died.
The shooting was ruled a homicide, and investigators identified
the suspect as aaron birt, who was charged shortly after.
lil'face is remembered for his energetic performances,
creative collaborations & commitment to his craft.
Despite being transported to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
He was 30 years old when he died.
The shooting was ruled a homicide, and investigators identified
the suspect as aaron birt, who was charged shortly after.
lil'face is remembered for his energetic performances,
creative collaborations & commitment to his craft.
starchile
starchile
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idris oferrall
a prominent figure in Portland's hip hop scene, a talented artist, a well-known radio personality, event host, and advocate for the local music community, He was especially influential in promoting local hip hop culture in Portland and played a key role in elevating the visibility of local artists. |
Starchile gained recognition through his work on the radio, where he hosted shows highlighting underground hip hop, providing a platform for emerging talent. He was deeply passionate about the music and consistently supported artists by spinning their tracks on air and giving them performance opportunities.
His contributions went far beyond the music;
he was also known for his positive energy, infectious personality,
and tireless efforts to build a sense of community
within Portland's hip hop scene.
Starchile, alongside DJ O.G.ONE, co-founded PDX Hip Hop Week,
which began in 2015 as an initiative to address issues faced by the local hip-hop community, such as the systematic shutdown of venues and events.
The idea started with Portland's first Hip Hop Day and eventually expanded into a week-long celebration. The event aims to unify, amplify, educate, and elevate Portland's hip-hop culture through various activities like workshops,
rap battles, live performances, and artist showcases.
Starchile's involvement went beyond just organizing;
he played a key role in building bridges
between the hip-hop community, city officials, and other local agencies.
After his passing in 2018, the week continued in his honor,
ensuring his legacy as a community advocate
and cultural leader remains alive.
PDX Hip Hop Week continues to recognize his contributions annually,
including events such as The STAR Awards,
which celebrates those who have significantly impacted the hip-hop scene in Portland
Unfortunately, in Febrary of 2018
Starchile was diagnosed with brain cancer.
he passed away a short time later that following april.
His legacy lives on through the deep impact he made on Portland's music culture and the artists he inspired throughout his career.
while His death was a significant loss to so many in our city,
his influence continues to be felt in the heart of portland's hip hop community and beyond.
His contributions went far beyond the music;
he was also known for his positive energy, infectious personality,
and tireless efforts to build a sense of community
within Portland's hip hop scene.
Starchile, alongside DJ O.G.ONE, co-founded PDX Hip Hop Week,
which began in 2015 as an initiative to address issues faced by the local hip-hop community, such as the systematic shutdown of venues and events.
The idea started with Portland's first Hip Hop Day and eventually expanded into a week-long celebration. The event aims to unify, amplify, educate, and elevate Portland's hip-hop culture through various activities like workshops,
rap battles, live performances, and artist showcases.
Starchile's involvement went beyond just organizing;
he played a key role in building bridges
between the hip-hop community, city officials, and other local agencies.
After his passing in 2018, the week continued in his honor,
ensuring his legacy as a community advocate
and cultural leader remains alive.
PDX Hip Hop Week continues to recognize his contributions annually,
including events such as The STAR Awards,
which celebrates those who have significantly impacted the hip-hop scene in Portland
Unfortunately, in Febrary of 2018
Starchile was diagnosed with brain cancer.
he passed away a short time later that following april.
His legacy lives on through the deep impact he made on Portland's music culture and the artists he inspired throughout his career.
while His death was a significant loss to so many in our city,
his influence continues to be felt in the heart of portland's hip hop community and beyond.
every effort has been made to ensure the information presented here
is accurate and relevant to honoring the legacy of these hip hop creators.
Any inaccuracies are unintentional, and this content is intended
solely to memorialize their contributions to the culture.
For corrections or updates, please feel free to email a100 @ prettydopexperience@gmailcom subject = "legacy info".
is accurate and relevant to honoring the legacy of these hip hop creators.
Any inaccuracies are unintentional, and this content is intended
solely to memorialize their contributions to the culture.
For corrections or updates, please feel free to email a100 @ prettydopexperience@gmailcom subject = "legacy info".
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