Honoring Oscar Myers: A San Francisco Music Legend.

From the Organizer — Michael “Spike” Krouse

My name is Michael “Spike” Krouse, and I’m the owner of Madrone Art Bar here in San Francisco. I’ve had the privilege of working with and loving Oscar Myers for over 30 years — not just as a collaborator on stage, but as a friend, a mentor, and a brother in music. Week after week, year after year, Oscar’s presence has defined what live music means in this city: community, joy, and soul that cuts straight to the heart.

Oscar isn’t just a musician — he’s a cultural cornerstone. His Tuesday night residency at Madrone Art Bar has become one of San Francisco’s most enduring traditions, bringing neighbors, students, artists, and lifelong fans together under one roof to celebrate the magic of real, living music. He’s helped countless young musicians find their voice, mentored generations of performers, and created a musical home where everyone belongs.

Today, October 10th, we celebrate Oscar’s 81st birthday — and tomorrow, the City and County of San Francisco will officially proclaim October 11th as “Oscar Myers Day” in recognition of his extraordinary life and contributions. This honor, signed by former Mayor London Breed, reflects what so many of us already know: Oscar is a legend whose impact reaches far beyond the bandstand.

But today, he needs our help. Recently, Oscar suffered a stroke, and he faces a challenging journey of rehabilitation, therapy, and daily care. His dream is simple — to heal, regain his strength, and return to the stage where he belongs.

This fundraiser is about more than medical bills — it’s about love, legacy, and giving back to someone who has given us so much. If Oscar’s music has ever made you smile, dance, cry, or feel connected, please consider contributing. Together, we can help ensure that the next time Oscar picks up his trumpet, he does it surrounded by the love of the city he’s devoted his life to.

✨ Biography: Oscar Myers – A Life in Groove, Community, and Soul

For more than five decades, Oscar Myers has been one of San Francisco’s most beloved and enduring musical voices. A multi-talented trumpet player, percussionist, vocalist, and bandleader, Oscar has carried the spirit of the Fillmore District’s legendary jazz, blues, soul, and funk scenes into the present day — not just preserving their history, but actively expanding them.

From Jamaica to the Bay

Born in Montego Bay, Jamaica and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Oscar discovered the trumpet as a teenager and quickly found his calling in music. After college, he served honorably in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, where he was wounded during the 1968 Tet Offensive. His rehabilitation brought him to San Francisco’s Letterman Army Hospital in the Presidio — and the city’s vibrant music scene convinced him to stay. It was here that he would build a life, a legacy, and a family of fellow artists and fans.

A Musician’s Musician

Oscar’s career has been defined by versatility, soul, and relentless dedication to the craft. Over the decades, he’s shared stages with music legends including Ray Charles, James Brown, Ike Turner, Charles Mingus, John Lee Hooker, Les McCann, Charles Brown, Freddie Roulette, and Jimmy McCracklin. As a performer and arranger, he’s known for his ability to move effortlessly across genres — jazz, R&B, blues, funk, soul — always with a deep groove and joyful presence.

️ A Pillar of the Fillmore Scene

No story of Oscar’s life is complete without the Fillmore District — the historic heart of Black culture and music in San Francisco. Oscar has been a fixture there for decades, headlining nights at the Boom Boom Room, leading his high-energy ensemble STEPPIN’, and bringing the spirit of “Fillmore Nasty Soul” and James Brown-style funk to generations of dancers and music lovers.

The Tuesday Night Tradition

For over 15 years, Oscar has also anchored one of the Bay Area’s most beloved local music traditions: his weekly Tuesday night residency at Madrone Art Bar on Divisadero Street. Week after week, his sets have become a gathering place for neighbors, musicians, students, and visitors — a place where the city’s creative heartbeat is still felt in every horn line and backbeat.

❤️ A Legacy Worth Fighting For

Oscar’s contributions go far beyond the stage. He has mentored countless younger musicians, championed community events, and kept the cultural memory of the Fillmore alive through every note he plays. His work is not just entertainment — it’s preservation, celebration, and love for the music and people who shaped this city.

But now, Oscar needs our help.

Help Fillmore Legend Oscar Myers Recover and Return to the Stage

Now, Oscar faces one of the biggest challenges of his life. Recently, he suffered a stroke. While his spirit remains as strong as ever, he faces a long road of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. Our goal is to support Oscar’s recovery and give him every chance to do what he loves most: stand on stage again and fill the room with music.

This GoFundMe will directly support:

Immediate and long-term rehabilitation therapy

Medical expenses not covered by insurance

In-home care and mobility support during recovery

Transportation to therapy and follow-up appointments

Everyday living costs while Oscar focuses on healing

Oscar has given this city rhythm, resilience, and joy for decades. Let’s come together to give back — and make sure the next chapter of his story includes a triumphant return to the stage.

Thank you for your support, love, and generosity.

With deep gratitude,

Michael “Spike” Krouse

Owner, Madrone Art Bar

Friend & Collaborator of Oscar Myers for 30+ Years