Classic bands rock out the Bluff on Saturday

Monday, March 27, 2023

DAR/Misty DeJournett

Two iconic bands, the Atlanta Rhythm Section and Pure Prairie League, brought their southern and country rock stylings to Poplar Bluff’s Black River Coliseum on Saturday evening. Atlanta Rhythm Section is well-known for songs like “Imaginary Lover,” “So into You” and “Spooky," while Pure Prairie League is well-known for hits like, “Aime,” “Falling In And Out Of Love” and “Two Lane Highway.”

Atlanta Rhythm Section brought back some classic tunes Saturday for the crowd at the Black River Coliseum. Original lead singer Rodney Justo (center) left the band for almost 30 years to work and raise his family, then rejoined after retiring from his sales position 12 years ago.
Dave Anderston and Rodney Justo sing a duet at Saturday's concert.
The Atlanta Rhythm Section's Dave Anderson (left), Rodney Justo (center) and Steve Stone rocked the crowd Saturday evening with original tunes like "Spooky" and "So in to You."
Pure Prairie League works the crowd during their concert in Poplar Bluff.

Vocalist and guitarist Jeff Zona of Pure Prairie League did not disappoint Saturday during the band's performance at the Black River Coliseum.
The iconic band Pure Prairie League closed the show with the fan favorite "Amie" during a performance at the Black River Coliseum, where they opened for the Atlanta Rhythm Section. Bassist and singer Mike Reilly (second from right) told the Daily American Republic in a pre-concert interview that he bought his first bass guitar at age 14.