'Mr. Blues' Is 78-W. C. Handy, often called "father of the blues" relaxes in his publishing office here on the eve of his 78th birthday. The composer of such hits as "St. Louis Blues," Memphis Blues," and others will be feted tonight by friends at the Waldorf Astoria. Now partially blind, the famed cornetist now spends most of his time promoting the W. C. Handy foundation for the Blind. W. C. Handy, acknowledged "father of the blues," composed such jazz hits as "St. Louis Blues" and "Memphis Blues." His life story has been filmed.November 16, 1951. (Photo by AP Wirephoto).