My Blog

From Left to Right: LaVerne, Ural, Nita, Leena

By Taleena LaVerne · 4/6/2024

Today, I am ecstatic to unveil an exclusive interview with Portland's very own Ural Thomas, a local legend in the realm of soul music and, proudly, my grandfather. This familial rendezvous takes place at my mother's hot dog restaurant, where my mother, grandma, and I engaged in delightful conversation.

Born in Louisiana, Thomas discovered his singing talent within the walls of a local church. The seventh of sixteen children, his family relocated to Portland, Oregon, during his youth. Thomas attended Jefferson High School, where his musical journey continued to unfold.

Ural Thomas, though not flaunting global fame, is leaving an indelible mark on our local music scene, gracing stages worldwide. His passion for soulful tunes transcends generations, resonating deeply with audiences in our very own neighborhoods. Now in his 80s, his journey stands as a testament to the enduring magic of music and its profound influence on a community.

Where did your desire for singing come from?

Well, it has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. I used to sing with my mom, at home and at the church. They had church 6 nights a week. I'd be right under my mom…singing along with her as she sang the songs and preparing music for the choir.

And could you tell us a little about The Monterays?

We were just kids growing up together, but most of the guys were lovers of music so we got together whenever we could, it wasn't a set band—we had no set schedule, like in the summertime we got together in the parks and we sang for hundreds of people. People would come from all around to hear us rehearse. We would be writing and learning songs off of the radio. It was just endless learning, really. We took the time to learn new songs, and make our own arrangement, and share it with the people. That is basically how I got with The Monterays. We were young, but everyone had their own families. And as we grew, everyone kind of went their own ways.

Throughout your journey, you've likely encountered many challenges. Can you share one of the most significant obstacles you have faced and how it ultimately influenced your growth as an artist?

When I was overseas, I went into different places a lot of times they didn't want blacks in there. And it was…an experience.

The room is silent with a shared understanding.

Your performances have a unique ability to evoke powerful emotions in your audience. How do you connect with the emotions of each song during your live shows, and what message do you hope your music conveys to those listening?

Joy. I always hope that my music will help to heal someone. Sometimes a love song will take a person to another dimension in their life, a whole past dimension in their life, or an idea of how they are going to get out of whatever they are experiencing at the moment…You have to put your best foot forward and not look backwards. You've got to get out there and try.

If you were on a desert island, and you could only listen to three musicians for the rest of your life, who would they be?

…The Classics. They aren't very known, but they're one of the best groups I've ever heard. Nina Simone, and one of those Cajun groups, like the Neville Brothers.

Looking back on your journey, is there a particular performance or song that you feel best encapsulates your artistic essence and the legacy you wish to leave behind?

There is one I wrote called "Here Comes That Same Old Hurt", one that Hank Ballard covered.

It was something I experienced with…different girls. Because, I was always looking for love in the wrong places. I told myself, when I say I love you and I do, I want that to be forever. But it didn't work out that way. Life has a way of changing. Love is a two-way street. And you get back to it, and here comes that same hurt again.

In today's digital age, how do you feel about the impact of technology on music consumption and the creative process?

I think that…all of the new technology…is very necessary, and if you don't keep up with it, you'll be shortchanging yourself. Some say "Oh, I like the old stuff better," well, the "old stuff" is the new stuff. I remember when I used to talk in songs, and we didn't call it rap.

Over the years, have you shared the stage with other artists and/or musicians? Can you recall any memorable collaborations that left a lasting impact on your music and career?

Working with Etta James was fine. Yes, she was a very special person. And I worked with her right in Portland. Little Willie John, who wrote Fever. Tony Edwards…Charlie Rich, who was very inspirational to me; he had his life stories in every one of his songs. We are all on this planet together, and his music has a way of saying that. Mick Jagger, we worked together. And I also worked with Otis Redding…there are so many.

As a singer who has experienced much of the music industry, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians seeking to build enduring music careers?

My advice would be never give up, never feel like you're better than anyone else, and never feel like that someone is better than you…never, never feel like you don't have a reason or purpose. Always believe in yourself. The world has a way of…it chooses people. I went to God myself, and I said, "What am I supposed to do, Lord?" He said, "you ain't got nothing to do," he said, "you're just part of the plan that I have for all mankind. You ain't got no special part."