The D.C. Council is looking to formalize what many believe is already the case: that go-go is the official music of the city.
Lawmakers heard testimony this week from numerous backers of a bill that would give go-go the official designation. The measure would also require the mayor “to implement a program to support, preserve and archive go-go music and its history,鈥� said Council Chairman Phil Mendelson.
Council member Kenyan McDuffie said go-go is more than just a style of music: “It is a lifestyle; it is the sound of the city,鈥� he said. 鈥淚n my opinion, D.C. doesn鈥檛 have culture without go-go music.鈥�
Numerous musicians were among those who testified in support of the bill.
鈥淭o say that go-go music is D.C. is an understatement,鈥� said artist Michelle Blackwell. 鈥淭he godfather of go-go, Chuck Brown, gifted our beloved city with more than just music. He gave us culture. He gave us camaraderie.鈥�
鈥淲e need to do everything in our power to 鈥� not only preserve but advance the culture,鈥� added Cam Poles, manager of the Black Alley Band.
The bill was introduced in June.
