The Washington, D.C. offices of NPR have become a must-stop destination for many artists. From popular headliners to burgeoning indie acts, no matter the genre, all are welcome to perform for the Tiny Desk Concert series. While some travel quite a distance for the quirky gig, the folks at NPR didn't have to look further than their own backyard for the latest installment, which features go-go band Rare Essence.
The hometown legends have been crankin' for almost four decades. And though only one original member (Andre "Whiteboy" Johnson) remains in the current lineup, the band has no intention of calling it quits anytime soon. Packed tightly into the small performance nook, the 10-member ensemble seemed as if they had all the space in the world as they rocked the crowd with an energetic show. Most Tiny Desk sessions feature three to four songs, but Rare Essence managed to cram seven songs into a 16-minute set without missing a beat.
After commanding the audience to "Get yo hands in the air!" with a snippet of "Down For My N*****s," RE proceeded to get the crowd hyped with "Rock This Party." Throughout the performance, the gracious musicians showed love to the office workers and also paid respects to the Godfather of Go-Go, Chuck Brown, before closing with perennial favorite "Overnight Scenario." The roar of the people in response to being asked "Everybody feeling good?" is all the proof we need to know that NPR offices were lit that day. Watch the clip below, connect with Rare Essence via their website and keep the party going by purchasing a copy of their latest album Live PA#19: Live @ Fast Eddies 4-28-17.
