Columbus is now honoring the legendary rock god Willie Phoenix by renaming 16th and High Street “Willie Phoenix Way” in Columbus.

Willie has been a legend in the local rock scene. His band was the very entertaining featured act at the 2018 Free Press Annual Awards Event at Woodlands.

“Willie Phoenix has burned brighter than anyone in the history of Columbus rock music,” said Free Press Editor, Bob Fitrakis. “Not only is his own work stunningly brilliant he has fostered innumerable artists and groups that have shaped the music scene in the capitol.”

Long-time activist and local musician Brian Clash stated: “I celebrate the life force that is Willie Phoenix. I have enjoyed knowing him over 40 years; first as an awestruck fan and later as my musical mentor, songwriting partner, and most of all dear friend. This exciting honor being given to him is only a reflection on what he has given to all of us. Congratulations Willie!!!”

“In many ways, Willie Phoenix is the voice and sound of Columbus rock and roll. And we’ve been blessed because he was able to fill the void after the death of Jimi Hendrix. We had our own indigenous version and guitar monster that gets us through good and bad times,” Fitrakis said.

Willie Phoenix Way Dedication
Thursday, October 15 - 1pm
Columbus City Council and the Columbus Music Commission will conduct a virtual event at 1pm to dedicate Willie Phoenix Way and celebrate the guitar-shredding Columbus rocker.
The dedication will air on Council's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ColsCouncil and WOSU's Broad and High page at www.facebook.com/broadandhigh.