Rare Essence in Washington

Rare Essence is an American go-go band formed in Washington, D.C., in 1976. A central act in the city’s homegrown funk tradition, the group is known for percussion-led songs such as “Body Moves,” “Work the Walls” and “Overnight Scenario.” Rare Essence built its early following through performances at recreation centers and clubs around Washington, developing the continuous groove and call-and-response structure that define its concerts. The band later brought that format to hometown theaters including the Howard Theatre. In 2023, it performed a career-spanning set for NPR Music’s Tiny Desk in Washington.