Getting an internationally successful rock band to play in Alaska is tough, but when the Alaska State Fair gets underway later this month, one of the performing groups will be playing for a home town crowd. John Gourley and Zach Carothers formed Portugal the Man in 2006. Both were raised in the Mat-Su Valley, and never dreamed they would eventually be signed to a major record label and playing some of the largest stages in the world. But the road wasn’t easy. Carothers, who plays bass in the band says he still remembers their early struggles.
Zach Carothers is the bass player and co-founder of Portugal the Man. The band takes the stage at the State Fair on September 2nd.
Lori Townsend is the chief editor, senior vice president of journalism and senior host for Alaska Public Media. You can send her news tips and program ideas for Talk of Alaska and Alaska Insight at ltownsend@alaskapublic.org or call 907-550-8452. Read more about Lori here.
