Liner Notes

Will Coppage is a native of the Mississippi Delta. His musical journey began at a young age, sitting side-stage while his father performed regionally. Starting on bass, like his father, Coppage grew his guitar chops and performance ability while service in the USAF in Okinawa, Japan. Performing to both US nationals and locals built confidence on stage. Coppage left the Air Force shortly after 9/11 and found himself exploring the music scene in Wilmington, NC.

In NC, Coppage, along with MS Delta-native Ron Etheridge, found regional success in the newly formed touring group, Willie and Me. The band’s roots oriented rock n’ roll caught the attention of film and music producer Geoffrey Hanson, best known for his work with Widespread Panic (Live at Oak Mountain and The Earth Will Swallow You) and as the writer and producer of the cult film Scrapple. By 2006, W&M had shared the stage and festivals with groups such as Widespread Panic, The Avett Brothers, and Umphrey's Mcgee; been recognized by Honest Tune Magazine as Best New Band along with Best New Album; and even appeared in a major motion picture. However, like many things, W&M’s performance schedule ended as members explored different avenues of creativity.

To strengthen his skills as a lyricist, Coppage completed both a BFA and MFA in Creative Writing/Poetry. Along with crafting songs, Coppage took up and became proficient on a number of instruments. Since then, Coppage has headed the project, My Heart Belongs to Buffalo. With a rotating cast of musicians, MHBTB blends soulful songwriting with raw power. Coppage also performs with his wife, Missy, in the duo, Gasoline Letters. Over the years, other performers have utilized of Coppage’s experience and musical dexterity, hiring him for a session musician for the stage or studio. Coppage performed on banjo and square-neck resonator with the Delta String Band, a Mississippi Delta roots ensemble up until Summer 2023. 

2024 has opened new doors, as Coppage has focused on performing his music solo. He stays on the road to reach new fans and audiences. Between playing shows and spending time with his family, Coppage is in and out of studios crafting his first solo album, which he hope will be released in Fall of 2024.