Willie Phoenix is a Columbus Ohio rock/blues legend. He has been writing and performing music in Central Ohio for fifty years and remains active to this day. Those who are familiar with Willie will undoubtedly agree he is a creative talent unique to our community. For those who wish to learn more, click here for a Willie Phoenix profile by Joel Oliphint for Columbus Monthly. 

From 1975-2015, the buildings at the corner of 16th and N. High St. served as the epicenter of the Columbus rock music scene and Willie himself. Bernie’s Bagels and The Distillery was where Willie could be reached by phone and home to some of his most powerful performances. He also rehearsed and recorded with his bands in a basement studio just across 16th from Bernie's. On the same block, Mole’s Records and Johnny Go’s House of Music sold Willie’s records and later CDs. From 1972 - 1982, 16th Avenue was the home of Columbus’ annual Community Festival. No artist has performed at Comfest more than Willie. In 2005 the festival bestowed him with the prestigious ‘Honored Artist of the Year’ award. 

Speaking for myself, I grew up in Worthington Ohio and when I chose to attend The Ohio State University I didn’t do it for any academic program or to attend football games, I wanted to be part of the music scene. The very first thing I did when arriving on campus was go see Willie Phoenix perform at Bernie’s Bagels. It changed my life. I have had the good fortune to know and occasionally work with Willie over the years and after every encounter I come away feeling better about the world. He has had this positive affect on many, many people.

The buildings may have changed, but I still see a dreadlocked local hero with a huge smile flashing a peace sign as folks driving by would roll down their windows and yell “Hey Willie!” as he stood on the corner of 16th and High taking in a nice spring day. Won’t you please join me in asking for this historic corner to be renamed Willie Phoenix Way. 

- Colin Gawel 5/13/2020