Chuck Brown’s Public Viewing and Memorial Scheduled



by DAVID COPPINI

Chuck Brown’s Public Viewing and Memorial Scheduled
Chuck Brown’s Public Viewing and Memorial Scheduled

Charles Louis Brown (August 22, 1936 – May 16, 2012) was an American guitarist, bandleader and singer known as "The Godfather of Go-Go". Go-go is a subgenre of funk music developed around the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area in the mid-1970s.

While its musical classification, influences, and origins are debated, Brown is regarded as the fundamental force behind the creation of go-go music.

Brown died on May 16, 2012, at Baltimore's Johns Hopkins Hospital of multiple organ failure, including heart failure, at the age of 75.

Several weeks prior to his death, he had postponed and cancelled shows due to hospitalization for pneumonia. His interment was at Trinity Memorial Gardens in Waldorf, Maryland.

Chuck Brown’s body will go on public display next Tuesday at the Howard Theatre, with a public memorial service to follow next Thursday at the Walter E.

Washington Convention Center, the District and Brown’s family announced. On Tuesday, Brown, who died last week at age 75, will lie in state at the Howard from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. No photography will be permitted during the viewing.

The public memorial service will begin at noon Thursday at the convention center, which at its largest configuration can hold tens of thousands of people. There is no word yet on any speakers or performers at the memorial.

Tom Goldfogle, Brown’s longtime manager, writes in an email that there are still many details to be finalized. Walter E. Washington Convention Center From international policy conferences and industry conventions to pop culture festivals, black-tie fundraisers, and even presidential inaugural balls, the Walter E.

Washington Convention Center unites locals and visitors from around the world to experience the best of the nation’s capital. With a prime location in the heart of downtown’s convention and entertainment district, visitors will find plenty to do with access to the hottest restaurants & bars, shopping, hotels and live sports.