Thousands Gather at Howard Theatre For Chuck Brown Viewing

Respect for a legend.

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Complex Original

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From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. yesterday, thousands of people passed through the newly renovated Howard Theatre to pay their final respects to the Godfather of Go-Go, Chuck Brown. Many braved the overwhelming heat and stood patiently in line on the sidewalk of Northwest T Street in Washington, D.C. to honor the legend who died two weeks ago at the age of 75.

While the entire area is still mourning the loss, people turned the viewing into a party as Brown would’ve wanted. As DCist pointed out, many danced in front of the building, while local businesses blasted Brown’s “Bustin’ Loose” on their speakers.

After standing in front of Brown’s coffin and shaking hands for over an hour and a half, D.C. mayor Vince Gray briefly spoke about Brown, calling the ceremony a “tribute to a great artist.” Gray listed the aforementioned “Bustin’ Loose” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Go-Go Swing)” as his favorite Brown tracks when questioned.

A public memorial will take place Thursday at noon at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center as the celebration of Brown’s life and music continues. (801 Mount Vernon Place NW).

[via DCist]

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