Go-Go 101

By Allie Martin

As an undergraduate in American University’s Audio Production program, I was able to invite a go-go band into the university's recording studio to do a session. Go-go is Washington, DC’s local subgenre of funk music, characterized by high energy live performances, audience interaction, repetition, and a beat that keeps people going on the dance floor. That beat is driven by a large ensemble that includes a variety of acoustic and electric instruments, but is always centered on an extended and driving percussion section.