Pine Bluff, Arkansas – The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas (ASC) is set to host a soulful evening of music on Friday, September 5, as part of its ongoing Live@5 concert series. From 5 to 7 p.m., guests can enjoy a dynamic performance by the Arkadelics in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater, located at 701 S. Main St. in Pine Bluff.
Known for their energetic fusion of blues, R&B, Americana, roots music, and original songs, the Arkadelics have steadily built a following since their founding in 2022. The group features vocalist Karen Harris, guitarist and vocalist Bob Wagnon, guitarist Dan Sokoloski, bass player Wightman Harris, and drummer Lance Womack.
Entry to the concert is $10 for ARTx3 members and $15 for nonmembers. Admission includes complimentary beer, wine, and nonalcoholic drinks. Guests must be 21 or older. Tickets are available for purchase at the door. Live@5 is presented by MK Distributors, with additional support from Simmons Bank.
Band Born from Blues and Community Spirit
The Arkadelics began as a creative outlet for Wightman and Karen Harris. After years of managing blues legend Michael Burks and immersing himself in the rhythm and soul of the blues scene, Wightman decided to pick up the bass himself. With Karen providing lead vocals, the duo teamed up with Fordyce-native musician Bob Wagnon to solidify their vocal foundation.
Soon after, guitarist Dan Sokoloski — a well-known figure in the Central Arkansas music circuit and former member of the Gil Franklin Band — joined the mix. The final addition came with drummer Lance Womack, whose polished rhythms completed the ensemble.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Arkadelics launched their performance journey by opening for Ray Wylie Hubbard at the Cotton Belt Festival in Fordyce. They have since performed at notable events including the Newport Delta Arts Festival and the Strawberry Jam. They’ve also made appearances at Pine Bluff’s Port City Blues Society showcase and have supported numerous local causes through benefit concerts.
Regular gigs at venues like Hibernia Irish Tavern in Little Rock, River Bottom Winery in Roland, Four Quarter in North Little Rock, and shows in Hot Springs Village have solidified their presence in Arkansas’s live music scene.
For more information about the upcoming concert, contact Shakeelah Rahmaan, programs director at ASC, via email at [email protected] or by calling 870-536-3375. Event details can also be found online at artx3.org/all-events/live-5-sept-2025.
