The Ben Rice Band
The New Blues Generation
Ben Rice - Guitar and Vocals
Ben is currently working on his degree in Jazz Studies at the University of Oregon, under instruction of Mike Denny and Don Latarski. He formed the band in the 7th grade with a couple of friends from his band class. Today, he writes most of the group's material and has
produced three CDs of original music with the band. Ben has a profound
and uncommon love for the blues not normally seen among his age group.
He listens to players such as Muddy Waters and B.B. King but is also
influenced by modern artists such as John Mayer and Jack Johnson. Ben
Rice is a dedicated musician who gives guitar lessons to give others a
chance to enjoy music as he does. In 2005 and 2007 the Portland Cascade Blues
Association nominated Ben for "Best Male Vocalist" and "Best Electric
Guitar." With his incredible talent and killer smile, Ben is emerging
as a capable guitarist and leader. Mac Potts - Keys, Saxophone, Harp
At 17 years old Mac Potts is the youngest member in the band. Mac has a natural gift that allows him to play just about any instrument he can get his hands on. Mac has been with the band since early 2005 and is thrilling to watch perform. Mac has played in New Orleans with Harry Connick jr., Henry Butler, and many other New Orleans natives. Blind since birth and perfect pitch has enhanced and enabled Mac to memorize hundreds of songs on the keyboard from Black Sabbath to Elton John. Mac often plays solo and has his own Jazz CD where he played drums ,bass, piano,organ,and saxophone.
Alex McEntee - Bass
Alex's debut gig with the band was the Winthrop Rhythm and Blues festival in 2004. Alex McEntee since then has matured as bassist and musician. McEntee is also an acomplished guitar player and has recently also played for The Gunnar Roads Band. He is currently a student at PSU pursuing a degree in Economics. 