Go-go music is a rhythm-heavy blend of funk, soul, and blues that is at the very heart of Washington, D.C.'s Black community. And while the style has been influencing Top 40 hits for decades, it's little known outside the District. In this episode of Craftsmanship Quarterly's Artisan Interviews, two key artists in the go-go scene, Shorty Corleone and Roy Battle, discuss go-go's distinctive sound, growing up in the scene, and why a live show is not to be missed.

For a more in-depth look at go-go music, check out "Washington, D.C.’s Homegrown Funk: Go-Go Music", written by Alona Wartofsky. Craftsmanship Quarterly is a multimedia online magazine about artisans, innovators, and the architecture of excellence. You'll find many more stories, videos, audio recordings, and other resources on our site — all free of charge and free of advertising.

Introduction by: Chris Egusa

Produced by: Chris Egusa

Music by: Shorty Corleone, Roy Battle, Rare Essence, Chuck Brown, Grover Washington, Jr., Killa Cal, Hot Cold Sweat, The Pure Elegance Band, TOB