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$10 cover at the doorMitch Woods is a seasoned blues and boogie-woogie pianist whose dynamic sound has earned him a place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. For over three decades, Woods and his band, The Rocket 88s, have been torchbearers of a great American musical tradition, mixing early jump blues, rhythm & blues, and New Orleans-inspired rhythms into their unique rock-a-boogie style. Drawing influence from legends like Louis Jordan, Professor Longhair, and Fats Domino, Woods blends raw energy with sophisticated piano playing, creating a sound that feels timeless yet fresh.
Born in Brooklyn in 1951, Mitch’s musical journey began early. By the age of eight, he was introduced to boogie-woogie piano, sparking a lifelong love for the genre. His teenage years in Greenwich Village immersed him in a world of jazz and blues, where he honed his skills as both a pianist and bandleader. Moving to San Francisco in the early ’70s, Mitch formed Mitch Woods and His Rocket 88s, eventually becoming a fixture on the Northern California club scene. The band’s energetic performances and Woods’ piano prowess quickly earned them widespread acclaim.
Woods’ music reflects his deep passion for the roots of American music, and his influence stretches far beyond the blues scene. Over the years, he’s performed at prestigious festivals across the globe, including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Umbria Jazz Festival in Italy, and has shared the stage with some of the genre’s greats. Whether through his powerful piano solos, soulful vocals, or vibrant live shows, Mitch Woods continues to be a driving force in keeping the spirit of classic American music alive and relevant today.
Mitch Woods/ piano, vocals. Rick Reed bass, Dave Kida drums, Michael Brown sax.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Grape, 2733 E. Main Street,Ventura, California, United States
