Chuck Brown performs at the African American Heritage Festival in Baltimore, MD on Sunday, June 30, 2008.
Chuck Brown, the Godfather of Go-go, passed away today. If you meet someone who says that they were born and raised in D.C., and they say that they have never heard of or seen Chuck Brown, they were not born and raised in D.C.
I have a confession to make. Even though I was born in Baltimore and like Baltimore Club music, Chuck Brown is the reason why I found and like Go-go music more than I like Baltimore Club music. For those you not familiar, if you grew up in and around Baltimore, you lived and breathed B-more club music, and if you grew up in and around D.C., you lived and breathed Go-go music. For me, it was different. The first time I heard Go-go music, I was hooked and that was because of Chuck Brown. From that point on, B-more club music took a back seat.
Chuck Brown was not only a great musician with a killer band, but he was also a positive influence and a mentor to many kids in and around D.C. He used Go-go music to inspire and educate many.
I think I have said enough. Chuck Brown was all about making everyone have a good time. With that said, turn up your speakers and click on the play button below. Wind Me Up, Chuck!
Chuck Brown at the 9:30 Club
NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert: Chuck Brown
