The Rise and Rise of Go-Go: A Genre That Got the Party Started

Go-go music, a vibrant and energetic genre born in Washington, D.C., is more than just a beat—it’s a cultural phenomenon.

From Funk to Go-Go: A Birth in the 70s

The seeds of go-go were sown in the funky soil of the 1970s, drawing inspiration from the likes of James Brown and Parliament Funkadelic. The genre officially sprouted in the mid-70s with bands like the “Trouble Funk” and “Experience Unlimited (E.U.)” pioneering the sound. These early pioneers laid the groundwork for go-go’s signature elements:

• The driving, repetitive bassline: Think “Funky Drummer” meets a relentless groove.
• The call-and-response vocals: The crowd becomes part of the show, chanting and responding to the lyrics.
• The “go-go” drum solo: A key element, the drum solo isn’t just about technical skill, it’s about getting the crowd hyped.

The “Go-Go” Scene: A Cultural Hub

Go-go became more than just music in D.C., it became a cultural movement. Clubs like the “Howard Theatre” became hubs for go-go bands and their dedicated fans, with performances often drawing crowds into the thousands. The music became the soundtrack of the city, weaving itself into the fabric of D.C. life.

Funny Facts about Go-Go Musicians:

• Chuck Brown: The Godfather of go-go, Brown was known for his flamboyant stage presence and his signature dance move, the “Chuck Brown shuffle.” He was also known for his off-beat humor, often incorporating funny stories and jokes into his performances.
• The “Go-Go Wars”: In the 1980s, a rivalry erupted between two rival go-go bands, “Experience Unlimited (E.U.)” and “Trouble Funk”, leading to several altercations and even a few arrests.
• “The Go-Go Act”: The genre’s impact was so profound that in 2017, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser signed into law the “Go-Go Preservation and Sustainability Act,” making the genre a protected part of the city’s cultural heritage.

Go-Go: A Lasting Legacy

Go-go continues to evolve, with new generations of musicians bringing their own twists to the classic sound. While the genre is rooted in D.C., it has spread its infectious energy across the globe, captivating audiences from the streets of Washington to the stages of international festivals. Its influence is felt not just in music but in culture, fashion, and community.