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Preserving DC's Musical Legacy with Chip Py | Capturing Go-Go Culture and Energetic Artistry

The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter
The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter
Episode • Sep 21, 2022 • 35m

It's time to explore creativity on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, where Rob Lee takes the lead on this meaningful conversation with Chip Py, a prolific photographer and dedicated chronicler of DC's cultural essence, who takes the spotlight in this captivating episode of The Truth In This Art podcast hosted by Rob Lee. Chip's journey into photography began alongside his father, a reporter, and was further fueled by his passion for live music and history studies at East Carolina University. Upon moving to Washington, DC in 1988, he embarked on a remarkable mission to capture the city's dynamic music scene through his lens. Chip's lens has particularly focused on the Go-Go music scene, and he had the privilege of photographing the legendary Chuck Brown, the Godfather of Go-Go himself. With accolades like having his work featured in Chuck Brown Memorial Park and receiving the Editor's Choice Award from the Washington City Paper, Chip Py's artistic contributions have made a lasting impact. Join the conversation as Chip and Rob delve into the art of photography, Chip's experiences with Chuck Brown, and the stories behind his book "DC Go-Go: Ten Years Backstage."


In this installment:

  • Embark on the podcast episode delving into the vivacious world of go-go, unraveling its signature call-and-response dynamic and immersive live music experience.
  • Dive into the podcast's discussion on audience engagement, as it highlights the pivotal role that the crowd plays in fostering the contagious energy of go-go culture.
  • Immerse yourself in the podcast episode's exploration of go-go's cultural roots, tracing its profound influence on DC's artistic tapestry, from fashion to street art.
  • Join the podcast's discourse on Chip Py's indelible contribution, spotlighting his role as a photographer and documentarian in preserving go-go's legacy and honoring its luminaries.

 
Get ready to be inspired as Chip Py discusses his book "DC Go-Go: Ten Years Backstage" and his experiences capturing the vibrant music scene in Washington, DC. He shares how he got into photography and his journey into the world of live music and specifically go-go music. Chip explains that go-go is a live music event that is characterized by its call-and-response interaction between the lead talker and the audience. He emphasizes the importance of the audience in go-go culture and how it creates an energetic and participatory atmosphere. Chip also discusses the cultural significance of go-go in DC, its connection to graffiti and fashion, and its influence on other forms of art, such as plays and musicals. He shares a touching story about his experience working with the legendary Chuck Brown, the "Godfather of Go-Go," and how Chuck recognized the importance of Chip's work in preserving his legacy.

Mentioned in this episode:

Chip's Website

 


Sponsored by Creative Affairs Office, Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment.


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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

  • Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
  • Edited by Daniel Alexis
  • Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

  • Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
  • Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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