Drop-In Session with Eldon T Jones

Portland saxophonist and smooth jazz artist Eldon T Jones joined us for a warm and thoughtful Sounds of PDX Drop-In Session ahead of his third annual show at TOC Concert Hall on May 30.

Eldon’s music blends jazz, gospel, soul, and smooth jazz with a deep connection to the Portland community that helped shape him. We talked about jazz as an American art form, the saxophone as a storytelling instrument, staying rooted in Portland, and what audiences can expect from his upcoming TOC Concert Hall performance — including guest artists, guest musicians, and a live visual art element from his son, EJ, who will create a portrait during the show to be given away that night.

PRP is also giving away tickets to Eldon’s May 30 show at TOC Concert Hall. Listen to the interview for details on how to enter. (we’ll make it easy, email hello@prp.fm with the subject line “jazz”.. we’ve got a couple pairs of tickets we’ve love to give away to a PRP listener)

Eldon also shared that new music is on the way later in 2026, giving listeners something else to look forward to beyond the May 30 show.

With Stephen Colbert’s questionnaire no longer safely contained on late-night television, we decided someone had to pick up the torch. Are we qualified? Absolutely not. Did Eldon kindly play along as the first guest in our brand-new Sounds of PDX Questionnaire? He did. Sandwich opinions were discussed. Turkey on wheat was the decision.

Listen to the full conversation and hear music from Eldon T Jones, including “T’s Jam” and “Rip City.”