You might recognize Doug Hoffman, beanie-clad, riding his bicycle through town, or from his red mane of hair swirling in the air as he delivers hard-hitting drum beats with one of his local bands. Doug has been a fixture in Salem’s music scene for years and part of Salem all of his life.
After graduating from Sprague High School, Doug went to Florida and earned his degree from Full Sail University in Live Show Production and Touring—skills that form the backbone of his contributions to Salem’s music scene.
Now, he is preparing for the 10th anniversary of Make Music Day on June 21. Doug will be providing technical services and you might also catch him performing with his band, City of Pieces, or with groups from RiverCity Rockstar Academy, where Doug has been teaching drums, live sound, and stagecraft since 2016.
Doug has brought music to Salem through many avenues. He was involved in the creation and ownership of music venues such as The Space and Infinity Room. In addition to Make Music Day, he helped produce festivals at Enchanted Forest and brought live bands to Salem through various venues.
Every Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m., you can tune into 105.5 FM The Moon, Salem’s own radio station, to hear Doug DJ his radio show, Sons of Salem, which highlights vinyl records, usually around a theme. Recent themes have included signed records from his personal collection, full album sides, and genre spotlights like heavy rock, oldies, and ’90s hits. (Get hints on the weekly theme through his Instagram)
Whether you recognize Doug or not, you’ve almost certainly benefited from his dedication to making Salem a more vibrant and fun place to live. Let’s stop and tune in to what Doug has to share about himself.
Ben Mah
Doug Hoffman
What is your favorite thing about Salem?
I believe Salem inhabits the front in the war for art and self-expression. It is a fertile and challenging place to create change. The social and geographic landscape here provides opportunity for people dreaming of small business enterprise, a place to make their way. Also for those seeking rich family experiences, Salem has much to offer in activities and local outings. Make Music Day has been a focal point of this dynamic.
No community is without its challenges so improving street level connectivity with our people from all walks of life in Salem and maintaining mindful local government representation and spending is key.
What is your favorite thing to do in Salem?
Riding my bicycle around town and through Minto Brown or Keizer Rapids is my favorite. It’s quite an accessible little city. I also love record hunting, our restaurants, and eating out here in Salem!
What bands do you currently play with?
City of Pieces, Young Rockers RiverCity Rockstar Academy Program, plus a third or fourth in the works. I also have a solo recording project called Dirty Numbers.
Favorite drummer (famous)?
Bryan St. Pere of the space rock band Hum.
Something you have always wanted to learn?
I love architecture/space craft, and I’ve always contemplated a timeline where I have an education in design and building. Additionally, I have become a huge fan of theoretical physics and see that as a pathway informing my daily life.
What is something about you people might never guess by looking at you?
I’ve been a multi-business entrepreneur, I love music without drums, and I’m a DJ (astronaut!) on 105.5 FM The Moon!
Ben Mah
Doug Hoffman
Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
My mother and father, for worse and better, have been my biggest influences. It is also important to highlight all the bands I’ve worked with from around the globe over the years, and all the people in musical projects I’ve been a part of as having a major influence on my perspectives.
What songs hit you with a wave of nostalgia every time you hear them?
Any song by Hum, Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin, The Widgets, Spacehog, and The Pixies.
Who's your go-to band/musician when you can't decide what to listen to?
It’s currently a tie between M83, Air, The Supremes, The Strokes, and Dirty Numbers.
Favorite book?
Hotel Andromeda (by Gabriel Josipovici), The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (by Douglas Adams), and Carey Elwes’ memoir, As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride.
Crunchy or creamy peanut butter?
Creamy
Camping or Hotel?
Camping
This story originally ran in Press Play Salem issue 24 ( Summer 2025)
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