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Rare Essence is DC’s most iconic Go-Go band, delivering energetic live shows that capture the heart and soul of Washington’s amazing music scene.
Rare Essence
We're Rare Essence, the go-to Go-Go band in Washington, DC, for over 40 years, and we're proud to be a huge part of the city's musical culture. Our fans come from all generations, drawn to the funky, homegrown sound that started in the mid-'70s with the legendary Chuck Brown, the "Godfather of Go-Go."
We've been around since the beginning and are one of Chuck Brown's earliest bands, sticking around with live performance energy that keeps people coming back. Go-Go is all about live shows, and that's where our reputation has been built. The Washington Post once said after more than 5,000 performances, it still feels like you're seeing our best one every time. We've even earned the title of "The Wickedest Band Alive" from rap legend Doug E. Fresh, who has worked with us, just like so many other artists who've added Go-Go's unique sound to their music.
It all started back in 1976 when a group of us, just elementary school kids at St. Thomas More Catholic School in Southeast DC, got together to play a new style of music that didn't even have a name yet (Chuck Brown's hit "Bustin' Loose" wouldn't drop for another three years!). With the help of some tough moms keeping us focused, we started jamming on popular funk and soul tunes. Back then, we were called the Young Dynamos.
As we grew up, we changed our name to Rare Essence and began playing all over the DMV. By our teens, we were known as one of the top Go-Go bands in the area, going head-to-head with other greats like Chuck Brown, Trouble Funk, Junk Yard, and EU, playing marathon shows that went on until the early hours of the morning. We were on stage almost every night of the week, solidifying our place as the most powerful Go-Go band in DC.
One of our biggest moments was in 1987, performing at the Capital Centre with Chuck Brown, EU, and other Go-Go legends in front of 14,000 fans. Go-Go's live energy is unmatched, and even rap stars quickly learned that sharing the stage with us was no easy feat!
Over the years, many talented musicians have been part of Rare Essence, and some, like Little Benny, went on to form their bands. For our 30th anniversary concert, nearly 30 musicians who've played with us over the years came together to celebrate.
We've shared the stage with some of the biggest names in music, including Run DMC, LL Cool J, Wale, DJ Kool, Ice Cube, Wu Tang Clan, TLC, Erykah Badu, and many more. And no two Rare Essence shows are ever the same! If you're new to Go-Go, you'll quickly find yourself dancing along with our die-hard fans, chanting to our hits like "Lock It," "One on One," "Hey Buddy Buddy," and the crowd favorite, "Overnight Scenario," which Fantasia has even covered across the country.
Whether you call us Rare Essence, RE, the Inner City Groovers, or just Essence (if you're from DC), one thing is for sure. When we're playing, you've got to be there to experience the party truly!
Current Lineup:
- Andre "Whiteboy" Johnson – Guitar, Vocals
- James "Jas.Funk" Thomas – Vocals
- Ade "De-De" Florian – Vocals
- Tabria Lampkin – Vocals
- Roy "RB" Battle – Keyboard
- Michael Baker – Bass
- Calvin "Killa Cal" Henry – Vocals
- Quentin "Shorty Dud" Ivey – Percussion
- Samuel "Smoke" Dews – Congas
- Marcus "Snuggs" Gates – Drums
