The metropolitan area is known for many things; but one of the unique things about this area is go-go. Go-go is a type of music that originated in Washington, D.C. Chuck Brown, the “godfather” of go-go, gets credit for discovering this type of music. Originally go-go is a genre of funk, and consists of lead mic, second mic, vocalist, hype man, rapper and many instruments, the drum set, congos, rototoms, timbales, bass and electric guitars, keyboards, horns, saxophone, synthesizer etc. Old school go-go brings out the groove and jazz aspect. Northeast Groovers, Backyard, Junkyard, Rare Essence, E.U and pump blenders were old school. “Young kids these days don’t know anything about the original go-go back in the day; they don’t know anything about the classic bands and the real sound,” says Liz Braxton.

Today many go-go bands still have the same qualities but have dropped their “pocket,” or their lack of instrumental use, especially horns. “Go-go bands now don’t have the right frame of mind to do it like old bands,” junior Kevin Bower said. Bands today have formed a new revolution of sound called “bounce beat.” Bounce beat brings a more up-beat tempo with a more kick in the drums and timbales than any other instrument. It is also found that bounce beat go-go is more hype than old go-go. Bands such as TOB, ABM, Reaction Band, XIB, True expressions and Creative Minds depict the new sounds of go-go. “Bounce beat is better because people get tired of regular go-go and wanna hear something new and I like the instruments better these days,” junior Lee Bradley said.

Go-go is known for its studio recordings; but is most notorious for live performances. Also, interactions with the crowd is another popular feature in go-go. Back in the day, there was a guarantee to 12-13 shows every weekend rather than now when there is about 3-4. Violence and fights in go-go clubs are more likely now than it was back than. It was not until late 90s and early 2000s when security at the go-go clubs because a major issue. “I wish old school go-go would come back; everyone had a good time, hardly any violence” Adrian McDaniel said. Today, club owners restrict some go-go bands from their clubs because of the fear of violence. Clubs such as the Tunnel, Black Hole, Market lounge, and Thai are popular clubs where go-go is often played.