One of the best voices to ever grace the Portland airwaves has gone silent.
Our brilliant friend and colleague Inessa Anderson passed away on March 9, 2022.
Inessa had a long standing career in the Portland radio scene but her real talent was her deep connection to our local musicians. Through her blog and “Conversations at Robin Road” series, Inessa cultivated a huge network of Portland area artists who looked to her as a mentor, guide and musical touch stone.
We at Portland Radio Project were fortunate enough to have Inessa share her love of music as our Music Director since the inception of PRP. As a Co-Founder of the station, she helped set the tone for our sonic vibe and embraced the connection between community radio and local music.
A tribute from fellow PRP Co-Founder and Executive Director Rebecca Webb – “For decades in local radio, working for a number of stations, Inessa cultivated an extraordinarily deep and wide network of local musicians. That’s why we were so fortunate to have her as a cofounder and music director at PRP. She also had one of the best voices ever to hit Portland airwaves – so smooth and luscious. She will be greatly missed. Considering the shock of her husband dying just days ago, I believe she simply didn’t want to live without him.”
Inessa’s passing comes just three short weeks after the loss of her partner in life, Wayne Anderson. We hope they are together again.
Our hearts go out to their daughter Marika and all who were touched by Inessa’s light.
A private celebration of Inessa’s life has been organized for friends and family.
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- Drop-In Session with Oregon Music Hall of Fame - October 1, 2024
I’m so sad to hear of Inessa’s passing. Truly one of the best voices. She was the first Music Director to break my single, Nite Run, in the states. She believed in the artists she played on her show. A wonderful person who will be deeply missed. Thank you for your belief in me & my work. I owe you so much. My deepest condolences to her family & friends. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thank you Michael for your heart-felt comment.