The Joseph Caleb Auditorium's Caleb Around Town presents Celebrating the Father of the Blues – W. C. Handy on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 7 PM at the Sandrell Rivers Theater in Miami. Part of the Black Birth of Music Series, the program recognizes the contributions of W. C. Handy and the early development of the blues through live performances by South Florida musicians Mojo Ike and Val Woods, joined by spoken-word artist Rebecca “Phoenix” Vaughns.
Born November 16, 1873, in Florence, Alabama, William Christopher Handy became known as the “Father of the Blues” for his work documenting, composing, arranging, and publishing blues music. His landmark composition The Memphis Blues, published in 1912, helped introduce the genre to a national audience. His subsequent works, including St. Louis Blues (1914) and Beale Street Blues (1916), contributed significantly to the blues becoming a foundation of American popular music. The program also recognizes early blues history, including Antonio Maggio's 1908 publication of I Got the Blues, one of the earliest published compositions incorporating the 12-bar blues form.
Mojo Ike Woods, born Isaac Woods in Miami, began playing guitar at age six under the guidance of his father. At 17, he auditioned for jazz musicians Nat Adderley and Curtis Fuller, who offered him an opportunity to perform professionally in New York. Choosing to complete his education in Florida, Woods went on to develop a career as a guitarist, vocalist, bandleader, and studio musician. His performance credits include work with Florida blues artists Joey Gilmore and Joe Orr, along with Betty Wright, Jimmy Bo Horne, Dr. Lonnie Smith, and jazz musicians associated with the Milton Mustafa Jazz Orchestra. His recording and studio experience includes work with producers and musicians across blues, jazz, R&B, and popular music.
Val Woods, also known professionally as Lady Val, is a South Florida blues vocalist, songwriter, author, and visual artist. She has performed extensively alongside Mojo Ike, appearing as a duo, featured vocalist, and member of his larger band. Her vocal style draws from blues, soul, and gospel traditions. Together, the Woods have developed a repertoire combining original compositions with established blues standards. Their recording Phoenix, featured in Living Blues magazine, showcases the duo's range through blues, gospel-influenced material, and contemporary arrangements. Val is also a published children's book author.
Special guest Rebecca “Phoenix” Vaughns is a Miami-born poet, spoken-word performer, author, and theatrical producer whose career spans more than two decades. Known for her improvisational poetry and rhythmic delivery, Vaughns has released 14 spoken-word albums, published three books of poetry, and produced nine stage presentations. Her performances combine storytelling, cultural expression, and spontaneous composition. She has presented her work throughout South Florida and beyond, including appearances associated with prominent entertainers and cultural figures. Her contribution to this program adds a literary and spoken-word dimension to the musical celebration.
The evening commemorates Handy's November 16 birthday while exploring the lasting influence of the blues on jazz, rhythm and blues, soul, rock, and other American musical traditions. Through classic songs, contemporary interpretations, and spoken-word performance, the program connects the early history of the blues with the artists continuing that tradition today.
Golden Tickets and Culture Shock Tickets are available for this performance.
Presented by the Joseph Caleb Auditorium's Caleb Around Town as part of the Black Birth of Music Series, with support from the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and Florida Arts & Culture.
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