Chuck Brown, the legendary musician also known as “The Godfather of Go-Go”, died Wednesday following a bout of pneumonia. He was 75.
Brown is often cited as the founding force behind the funky sub-genre and credited with the creation of go-go, which originated in Washington, D.C., during the 1960s and 1970s blending funk, R&B and early hip-hop. One of his earliest hits, “Bustin’ Loose”, is perhaps Brown’s most well-known creation taken from his third album, also titled Bustin’ Loose, which was released in 1979.
A seasoned performer, Brown continued making music and performing until his health wouldn’t allow, having earned his first Grammy Award nomination in 2010 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for “Love” with Jill Scott and Marcus Miller, thirty-eight years after the release of his debut album.
Check out a clip below of the Go-Go Godfather discussing “Bustin’ Loose” as well as performance video from 2011. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fans.
Chuck Brown Speaks on His Hit “Bustin’ Loose”
Video Performance of Chuck Brown from September 2011
Reading about his passing earlier tonight was sad; but thank God we have the legacy of his music to keep us dancing, smiling, and groovin’
RIP Chuck Brown – DC’s TRUEST native son
This happened way too soon…
Man oh man……Chuck baby don’t give a what? Man…..now they crankin’ up in heaven…..Wind me up Chuck……R.I.P..
Wind me up Chuck! That still gets the party going! R.I.P Mr. Brown
MY City will NEVER be the same. RIOP Chuck ~ Wind Me Up Chuck!!!!!!
This show was AWESOME!!!!!! We partied all night that night. White girl Wasted!!!
The DMV area is very sad by this loss. I know back in the day this is what we listen to growing up and on Fri & Sat nights we made sure we had a way to go see Chuck and other GO-GO groups perform like Trouble, Rare Essence, Junk Yard along with others. But now he is one of the angels and him and Lil’Benny are back together grooving in heaven. We all will miss you dearly Chuck. You leagcy will live on.
This is unbelievable. I’m from D.C. and the DMV has lost a major legend. R.I.P
There was nothing like the Black Whole when Chuck was there. I have so many fond memories of this larger than life image showing us young adults how to have fun. He will be truly missed! Show them how to “RUN JOE” Chuck! RIP!
Wow, what a profound humble musical genius he was with a big heart. I remember when he and James Brown performed it was epic, all that creative talent. He was humble and down to earth and yet he transcended through every generation…from the essence of soul his music set the back drop for every family reunion (mine which he often attended) to summers at the park or cook out to a night in the house with friends jamming. His signature voice, his style and swagger will forever be missed. Peace and blessings to the Brown family and may Chuck Baby rest in peace.
R.I.P. Chuck!!!!