(March 22, 2018) There are not too many bands or individual artists that can rightfully claim to have been present at the genesis of a musical movement. Rare Essence can make such a claim. The DC based band was perhaps the first band drawn to that special brand of percussive, bouncy funk pioneered by Chuck Brown called go-go.
(March 22, 2018) There are not too many bands or individual artists that can rightfully claim to have been present at the genesis of a musical movement. Rare Essence can make such a claim. The DC based band was perhaps the first band drawn to that special brand of percussive, bouncy funk pioneered by Chuck Brown called go-go.
The band formed in 1976 – three years before Brown dropped “Bustin’ Loose,” the song that put go-go on the world’s map – while students at a DC Catholic school. They performed under the name the Young Dynamos as a much in-demand cover band. Eventually, the group adopted the name Rare Essence, and they would go on to become mainstays on the go-go scene in the D-M-V area. And while Rare Essence never scored a national hit like Brown did with “Bustin’ Loose,” or Trouble Funk with “Drop the Bomb” or EU did with “Da’ Butt,” the group earned legendary status for their live stage shows that includes collaboration with a host of hip-hop and R&B stars and their longevity.
Now, Rare Essence comes with their new record that is a ballad in a genre best known for its up-tempo numbers. “How I Wish You Could Love Me,” is a funky and rocking ballad propelled by the powerful voice of Black Alley lead vocalist Kacey Williams. Check out the video here.
By Howard Dukes
Rare Essence feat. Kacey Williams
“How I Wish You Could Love Me”