For over 35 years, 1860 Saloon, Game Room & Hardshell Café has hosted talented musicians from around the St. Louis metropolitan region. This is another article in a series highlighting the skilled and gifted singers, players and songwriters that take the stage in the 1860 Saloon room and contribute greatly to St. Louis’ reputable blues, rock and Motown music scene. Links to previous stories on our website are below.
The musicians who perform at 1860s in Historic Soulard are full of personality, passion, and fun.
Curt Copeland is a prime example. The singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist says with a big smile, “I love being at 1860s first and foremost because of it’s vibe. Like barrels of bourbon that have soaked up all that boozy goodness, 1860s has taken in all those years of groovy good musical vibes.” He proves this every time he plays solo, with his wildly fun band, Curt Copeland & The Consequences, or when filling in as open mic host for Tim Perry on Tuesday nights. His style honors his biggest musical influences, The Band, Doug Sahm, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Little Feat, and Dr. Dog to name a few.
His connection to St. Louis is truly a thing of destiny. It begins with the fact he can trace his ancestry back to Antoine and Julia Soulard who donated land to the city that now bears their name. That connection to The Lou was further deepened upon his conception. After his parents were married in Minnesota, they decided to honeymoon in St. Louis. When the newlyweds found themselves stuck in the Gateway Arch tram, they made the most of it by making Curt. After an upbringing which included many years in traveling carnivals, he was sent to prison for selling counterfeit Fender and Gibson guitars. Upon his escape from prison in 2005, he fashioned a raft from tree limbs and made his way down the Mississippi River. When his eyes saw sunshine on the scene of his conception, he knew he was home. After spending over a decade entertaining the bi-state region on St. Louis radio airwaves, he decided to pursue his true passion…music
Curt Copeland loves the affect music has on people. “One of the best things about being a musician is having the ability to use music as medicine. If I’ve had a bad day, playing at 1860s fixes me right up. Same goes for the customers. So many times I’ve seen someone arrive at the bar bummed out and in very little time, I’ll have them cheered them up by playing their favorite song. I love doing that!”
Not only is 1860s one of Curt’s preferred places to play, it’s also one of favorite places to eat. “When it comes to my favorite meal at 1860s, it will also be a tie for first.” So he goes go back and forth between blackened whitefish with rice & vegetables or the Garlic Cheese Bread Roast Beef Sandwich.
As he turned to start another fun-filled open mic night, Curt added, still smiling, “I’m so grateful to be a part of the lineup at 1860s.” And we’re grateful too, Curt.
Live music is performed at 1860 Saloon, Game Room & Hardshell Cafe 365 days a year, every night Monday through Friday and twice on weekends. The daily music schedule is on 1860saloon.com Previously published stories on Nate Lowery & Dan Turner of Natchez Whistle , Michael Thomas , Tim Perry ,Gene Jackson
There are three fun bars and one incredible menu at 1860s. The 1860s Saloon, with its vintage wood back bar, is where the live music is performed. Blues, Classic Rock and Motown performances ensure great entertainment. In the second room, groups converge at the 1860s Game Room bar for sports on the big screen, foosball, video games, shuffleboard and darts. It’s the perfect atmosphere for drinks, St. Louis-style pizza, and listening to TouchTunes. Want traditional restaurant style seating? Then the third room, The Hardshell Café, with a New Orleans courtyard feel and 500-gallon fish tank, is the place to be. During nice weather, relax at a table outside the café. From Cajun and Creole to traditional American fare, our menu items receive rave reviews.
Facebook Instagram Twitter (@1860soulard)
1860saloon.com for menu, live music schedule, etc.
YouTube 1860s videos on our music, food, atmosphere and neighborhood
Complimentary Shuttle to Cardinals, STL CITY Soccer, BattleHawks, & Blues Games and many concerts. Skip the expensive lots and start in Soulard!
Happy Hour Monday – Friday, 3 to 6 p.m., appetizer and drink specials
Live Music in the Saloon, featuring Blues, Classic Rock, and R and B, every night of the year plus weekend afternoons
Parking in lot across the street and along the neighborhood side streets
Ask about Celebrations in the Game Room: Holiday party, Bridal or Baby Shower, Graduation, Reception, Retirement, Team Building or Networking Event, Birthday, Bachelor/Bachelorette Party, Fundraiser, Cocktail Party, Reunion