​June is a historically significant month for intended changes in the American way when it comes to the African American community.  Including Loving Day and Juneteenth, it is also celebrated as the month of Black Music History.  

June 2020 has been a completely different chapter in a new, revolutionary book, to say the least.   For years, we have seen protests in many forms supporting the Black Lives Matter Movement and pushing to recognize the social injustices that continue to plague our black brothers and sisters.   The killing of George Floyd and far too many incidents since, have exponentially elevated the movement and enraged a community and world that seeks a new kind of equality - one that actually defines the word.  Regionally, we have used what we know best to help amplify the voices that need to be heard even more with music, specifically the music of the city - Go-Go. 

To mark the historical time, TV One has announced the premier of the original documentary 'The Beat Don't Stop - The True Story Of DC Culture and Go Go' on June 21 at 8PM ET/7C to educate, entertain and pay homage to the African roots and the social impact that Go-Go music has had on Washington DC and the lives of African Americans. Black Music Month is the perfect opportunity to support this movement by giving credit where it's due; as much of black culture continues to be misappropriated by society at large. 

DC Music Review got to speak with some of the key players that brought this film to life and we're honored to have the opportunity, to learn more about and share what the film and music means to the DMV and its residents.  

​What we, as locals, consider the sound of the city, is something that has played a huge part in black culture, DC culture and now, is helping the voices of the BLM movement to be heard in a way which has been used in countries and communities since the beginning of time - through music.

Go-Go music is the indigenous sound of Washington, D.C., which emerged out of underprivileged neighborhoods during the height of the crack cocaine epidemic in the 1980s. It was largely blamed for the rise in crime and violence that paralyzed D.C.  THE BEAT DON'T STOP takes viewers through that history and addresses how the music served as a platform for African Americans to elevate and address issues such as class struggles, gentrification and the music's impact on black culture.

The long-awaited documentary was a year in the making and highlights the history and legacy of Go-Go music. It features trailblazers, legends and stars who have championed the sound throughout the decades. The film also delves into the evolution of the Go-Go culture, celebrating the legacy of the Godfather of Go-Go music, Chuck Brown, and the pivotal role Radio One played as the original broadcast platform for the music genre. Additionally, it examines the passion that fueled social movements, including the internationally recognized Don't Mute DC, which emphasized the music's power and influence amid a rapidly changing cultural landscape.

​THE BEAT DON'T STOP pays homage to the unique contribution of Go-go music to the musical landscape. It features a host of celebrities, artists, music historians, and community leaders including rapper Doug E. Fresh; band members from Junk Yard Band, Trouble Funk, E.U., Backyard Band, TOB, TCB and Maiesha and the Hip Huggers; the dance crew Beat Ya Feet Finest; music historians Dr. Natalie Hopkinson and Kato Hammond; music journalists Ericka Blount and Alona Wartofsky; Don't Mute DC organizer Ron Moten; Moechella organizer Justin "Yaddiya" Johnson; talent promoter and former MCA Records executive Bo Sampson; music producer Tone P; Radio One Personality Angie Ange; DJ Flexx; hip hop artist DJ Kool; and many others.

For more information about TV One's THE BEAT DON'T STOP, please use the following resources!