Monday, June 18, 2007

Chuck Brown at Amos' Southend

When Chuck Brown comes to town for the CIAA tournament, he always draws enough people to fill two hotel ballrooms.

But it wasn't clear whether the go-go legend could draw a large crowd without the CIAA -- until Saturday. That night, the crowd in Amos’ Southend danced and grooved to classics like “Bustin’ Loose,” “Moody’s Mood for Love” and “Run Joe,” and new cuts such as “Chuck Baby” and “Block Party.”

Go-go builds on a constant percussion groove while an artist sings. Artists make go-go versions of hit songs, as well as original tunes.

One of the best parts of Saturday’s show was when Brown stepped to the back and played guitar while Lil’ Benny took over. I was standing upstairs watching from the balcony as Benny led the crowd through the motorcycle dance. He’d point, and the sea of bodies would lean to the right, then to the left. I usually loathe group dances, but watching all the bodies moving together on this night was cool.

Anyway, I want to know: Do you think Charlotte can support go-go on a consistent basis? Do y’all want more go-go? Post your replies below.