DC’s Heartbeat Live: A Night with Rare Essence at Ivy City Smokehouse

November 5, 2023

A Night to Recharge

November 4, 2023, was a night I didn’t know I needed. After another intense week as a communications executive, I slipped into something comfortable and headed out to Ivy City Smokehouse in Northeast DC. On the agenda? My all-time favorite go-go band, Rare Essence. If you’re from DC, you know that go-go isn’t just music—it’s a pulse, a history, a sound that wraps you up in community and rhythm.

A DC Classic in the Perfect Spot:

Ivy City Smokehouse may not be a huge venue, but it’s precisely where you want to be for an experience like this. Known for its rustic charm and warm atmosphere, this cozy spot in Northeast DC was packed with a lively 40+ crowd, all go-go devotees ready to vibe. Ivy City isn’t all glamour, but the food...! I ordered a fish and rice dish that was so delicious it felt worthy of a place on the menu at any upscale spot downtown. But it’s the venue’s character that brought out the best in this music—a no-frills, down-to-earth spot that mirrors go-go’s authenticity.

The Vybe & the Music:

The night kicked off with Vybe Band, and I’ll admit, I hadn’t known much about them before. Let’s just say that’s changed—since that night, I’ve gone to see them a few more times! They set the tone beautifully, warming us up for the main event. When Rare Essence finally took the stage, the crowd erupted. This wasn’t a passive concert; this was a dance, a call-and-response exchange that you don’t just listen to but feel in your bones. The audience was one with the band, singing along to each classic, clapping, and moving like one big family.

Rare Essence took me back—way back. As they rolled out hit after hit, I was transported to a time of innocence, high school dreams, and weekend block parties. You could feel DC’s history and resilience in every beat, and in those moments, it was like I was reconnecting with my roots, my city, my community. The band held the room captive with each song, and standing there, I couldn’t help but be reminded of what go-go means to the people of DC.

Why Go-Go Matters:

Go-go music has always been about more than sound. It’s about community, tradition, and an enduring spirit. Born out of the Black community in the late ’70s, go-go grew into something uniquely DC. It’s part of the city’s identity, a genre that has held strong despite changing times and trends. That night with Rare Essence was a beautiful reminder that this music—and the people who create it—will always be here to keep DC’s heartbeat alive.

A Moment I’ll Never Forget:

One unexpected highlight? Between sets, I managed to meet a fellow Rare Essence superfan who had been following them since high school, just like me. We bonded over memories of old shows, shouting lyrics, and those carefree, youthful days. It was a funny moment as we both tried to outdo each other with stories about our favorite songs, but in the end, we were just two strangers connecting over a shared love of go-go.

Ivy City Smokehouse? Yes!

Would I recommend a night with Rare Essence at Ivy City Smokehouse? Without a doubt. This is for anyone who wants a taste of DC that’s raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically soulful. For those unfamiliar with go-go, this is an incredible way to feel its impact. But fair warning: don’t come expecting a quiet night out. This is an experience for the true DC enthusiast or anyone ready to feel the heartbeat of the city.

The Pulse That Stays with You:

If you haven’t experienced go-go, you’re missing out on a piece of DC’s soul. I left Ivy City that night feeling recharged, connected, and proud of the place I call home. So, next time Rare Essence or any go-go legend is in town, don’t miss it. Grab your tickets, bring your energy, and be ready to lose yourself in the beat.

Join the Conversation:

When was your last go-go show in DC? I’d love to hear about your favorite band or go-to spot in the comments! And if you’re curious about more DC music and nightlife, follow me @escapiaodyssey for local recommendations.