Pine Bluff, Arkansas – The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas is gearing up for an electrifying evening as the Port City Blues Players take the stage for the March edition of Live@5. The event, scheduled for Friday, March 7, from 5-7 p.m., will be held at 701 S. Main St. in Pine Bluff, promising an unforgettable night of blues music, camaraderie, and entertainment.
Entry to the concert is $10 for ARTx3 members and $15 for nonmembers, payable at the door. Attendees will enjoy complimentary beer, wine, and nonalcoholic beverages, making for a relaxed and lively atmosphere. This event is strictly for guests aged 21 and older. Live@5 is proudly presented by MK Distributors, with additional support from Simmons Bank.
For further details, attendees can reach out to Programs Director Shakeelah Rahmaan via email at [email protected] or by phone at 870-536-3375. More information is also available at artx3.org/all-events/live-5-march-2025.
About the Port City Blues Players
The Port City Blues Players are deeply committed to the preservation and promotion of blues music, performing frequently at concerts, festivals, clubs, and charity events. The band actively supports the Port City Blues Society, an organization affiliated with The Blues Foundation. Their performances are a staple at the Port City Blues Society’s weekly blues jam at RJ’s Grill & Bar in historic downtown Pine Bluff.
Comprising talented and seasoned musicians, the group includes Jerry McCoy (guitar, vocals), Dave Sadler (guitar, vocals), Mark Morgan (guitar, vocals), Roscoe Willis (bass), Gene Cooper (keyboards), and Lex Capraitalia (drums). The band’s versatility and deep-rooted passion for blues have led them to play at major festivals such as the Big Steam Music Festival, Smoke on the Water Barbeque Championship, Blues/Balloons and BBQ in Russellville, Hot Springs Blues Fest, KASU Monster Grooves in Newport, Fordyce on the Cotton Belt Festival, and the Bradley County Reunion Festival. Their 21-week feature at Saracen Casino Resort’s Legends Bar stage solidified their reputation as a powerhouse blues act.
Meet the Band
Jerry McCoy (Guitar, Vocals)
A lifelong musician, Jerry McCoy’s journey began after seeing The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show. From that moment, he knew music was his calling. Over the years, he has toured and recorded with legendary acts such as The Allman Brothers Band, Dickey Betts, and Ronnie Milsap. Returning to his roots in Star City, he now records original music in his home studio while playing with The Groove Diggers and Port City Blues Players. Jerry was inducted into the Mississippi Blues Hall of Fame in 2011 and is affiliated with BMI as a songwriter and composer.
Dave Sadler (Guitar, Vocals)
Growing up on the edge of the Arkansas Delta, Dave Sadler developed an appreciation for blues, jazz, and funk at an early age. A self-taught guitarist, he has played since he was 11. Dave has graced stages at clubs, festivals, and private events, earning recognition in Blues Blast Magazine, Blues Magazine, and Mary4Music. He is a dedicated member of the Port City Blues Society and The Blues Foundation, serving as a board member while continuing to create and perform blues music.
Mark Morgan (Guitar, Vocals)
Mark Morgan’s love for music started young, inspired by the sounds of the radio. After receiving a guitar and amp for Christmas, he spent hours refining his skills. A passionate blues musician, Mark is known for his exceptional lead and slide guitar work. He regularly contributes new music to the band and also plays with the Spa City Blues Band.
C. Roscoe Willis (Bass)
A Pine Bluff native, Roscoe Willis holds a Bachelor of Science degree in music education from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and the Music Business Institute of Atlanta. A former U.S. Marine Corps Band audio technician, he is the founder of DTO Records. Roscoe plays brass, keyboard, and bass instruments, collaborating with the Chad Marshall Band, Detroit Johnny, and other accomplished blues musicians. He currently serves as the president of the Port City Blues Society and is affiliated with BMI as a songwriter and composer.
Gene Cooper (Keyboards)
Born into a musical family in Prattsville, Arkansas, Gene “Pops” Cooper has been playing music since age 14. With experience performing alongside greats like Jackie Wilson, Patti LaBelle, and Tyrone Davis, his blues roots run deep. Gene has played in clubs, military bases, and with numerous bands, making him a treasured member of the Port City Blues Players. Alongside his wife Nancy, he is an active member of the Port City Blues Society.
Lex Capraitalia (Drums)
Originally from Boston, Lex “Capraitalia” Arenella was introduced to blues through vinyl records of traditional and blues-influenced rock. He pursued music in Portland and Hollywood before settling in Little Rock in 2019, where he found his passion for blues fully realized. As a sought-after percussionist, he performs regularly at local blues jams and with Barbeque Bob & The Spare Ribs and The Spa City Blues Band.
A Night Not to Be Missed
With their rich history, immense talent, and unwavering passion for blues, the Port City Blues Players are set to deliver a dynamic performance at Live@5. Whether you’re a blues enthusiast or just looking for an incredible live music experience, this event is one you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets, sip on a drink, and let the soulful sounds of the blues take over the evening.
Live@5 – March 7, 2025 | 5-7 p.m. | The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas | 701 S. Main St., Pine Bluff
Don’t miss out on a night of outstanding music and great vibes!
