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Chuck Brown, born Charles Louis Brown was a singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He is often referred to as the “Godfather of Go-Go” for his significant contributions to the development and popularization of the Go-Go music genre in Washington, D.C.
Chuck Brown began his musical career in the 1960s, initially performing as a guitarist in various bands. In the 1970s, he formed the group “The Soul Searchers,” and together they created a combo of funk, soul, and Latin music that would become the signature sound of Go-Go.
Chuck Brown’s breakthrough came in 1978 with the release of the hit song “Bustin’ Loose,” which became a Go-Go anthem and achieved mainstream success. He continued to release numerous albums and singles throughout his career, consistently incorporating the Go-Go sound into his music. Some of his other well-known songs include “We Need Some Money,” “Run Joe,” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Don’t Got the Go-Go Swing).”
Brown’s influence on the music scene extended beyond his own recordings. His energetic live performances and engaging stage presence made him a beloved figure in the Washington, D.C. community and earned him a dedicated fan base.
Chuck Brown passed away on May 16, 2012, but his musical legacy and contributions to Go-Go music continue to be celebrated and remembered.
Check out the gallery we have of Chuck Brown below!
Honoring Chuck Brown, RIP
was originally published on
wtlcfm.com
1. Chuck Brown Portrait
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NEW YORK – JULY 1997: Singer and guitarist Chuck Brown aka “The Godfather of Go-Go” poses for a portrait in July 1997 in New York, New York.
2. Chuck Brown And The Soul Searchers
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CIRCA 1973: Singer and guitarist Chuck Brown aka “The Godfather of Go-Go” poses for a portrait with his band “Chuck Brown and the Soul Searchers” which includes (L-R) John Buchanan, Richardo Wellman, Jerry Wilder, Chuck Brown (seated), LeRoy Fleming, Gregory Gerran, Curtis Johnson, and Donald Tillery in circa 1973. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
3. Chuck Brown Musician
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The singer and guitarist musician, Chuck Brown of the Soul Searchers also regarded as the Godfather of Go go music, 1978. (Photo by Afro American Newspapers/Gado/Getty Images)
4. Chuck Brown Musician
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The singer and guitarist musician, Chuck Brown of the Soul Searchers also regarded as the Godfather of Go go music, shaking hands with fans, 1985. (Photo by Afro American Newspapers/Gado/Getty Images)
5. Chuck Brown
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AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – 19th OCTOBER: American guitarist Chuck Brown (1936-2012) performs live on stage at the Paradiso in Amsterdam, Netherlands on 19th October 1987. (photo by Frans Schellekens/Redferns)
6. Soul Searchers Portrait
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CIRCA 1974: Go-go music group “Soul Searchers” including leader Chuck Brown (left with jacket, glasses and collared shirt) pose for a portrait in circa 1974. Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
7. Chuck Brown On Soul Train
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Chuck Brown and the Soul Searchers, a band led by a singer who is called the Godfather of Go Go and Funk, on stage on the Soul Train television show, 1988. (Photo by Afro-American Newspapers/Gado/Getty Images) people
