Get ready to cast off for an unforgettable voyage of HBCU & D.C. culture on the high seas! Westside Go-Go is setting sail in celebration of founder Martin “Marty Mar” Proctor’s 50th birthday, and the night promises seafaring fun and adventure.
On Saturday, July 26th, Martin and the Westside Go-Go crew will cruise into the sunset aboard a chartered yacht. The “Love Boat” promises three hours of pure, unadulterated fun, surrounded by the community. Like other events Martin has meticulously built, his “Worth-Day” will be a true “crank at sea” for all Westside Go-Go family and friends. Mermaids, sailors, and deck hands will unite under the moonlight to experience the infectious rhythms amidst the cool sea breeze.
Martin Proctor, a native Washingtonian, founded Westside Go-Go to fill a void for D.C. HBCU transplants in Los Angeles. Since then, he’s created a vibrant space where the energetic rhythms and unique style of Go-Go music could thrive here in LA. As one of LA’s top live music entertainment event planners, he’s produced dozens of themed events like Go-Go De Mayo, Go-Go Ween, comedy lineups, and live music concerts, all dedicated to bringing the authentic sounds of D.C. Go-Go to the West Coast.
The influence of Go-Go, now officially recognized as D.C.’s official music, has spread far beyond its roots. It’s been featured in Spike Lee’s cult classic “School Daze,” and Westside Go-Go has achieved milestones like sharing the stage with Anderson .Paak at the Long Beach Juneteenth Festival. Anchors away!
With his extensive background in television and film production (including Emmy nominations!), Martin Proctor has leveraged his expertise to not only introduce Go-Go to new audiences but to elevate the entire experience. Guests will enjoy two levels of non-stop groove, with the main deck offering comfortable booth seating and an upper level perfect for high-top mingling and dancing the night away.
INation – Photo courtesy Westside GoGo
At the heart of Westside Go-Go’s mission is the distinctive “pocket” of Go-Go music. This syncopated beat was pioneered by the “Godfather of Go-Go” Chuck Brown in the mid-1970s with his groundbreaking track “Bustin’ Loose.” On board for the entire adventure are the incredible sounds of LA’s premier Go-Go band, iNation, headed by percussionist Tommy Guns, along with DJ Braxx, promising to rock the boat, not tip the boat over. As the moon rises, guests can enjoy Caribbean themed food plates and a FULL BAR
This exclusive yacht party, with tickets priced at $80-$135 and a 125-person capacity, is a testament to Martin’s vision. It’s a breakout summer event that brings the vibrant energy of the capital’s musical legacy to a unique maritime setting, celebrating not just a birthday, but the thriving community Martin has so passionately built. Martin’s “Worth-Day” celebration offers more than just music; it’s a chance to connect with a community that shares a love for D.C. culture and vibrant live music.
The vessel departs promptly at 7:00 PM PDT, so plan to arrive by 6:30 PM for check-in and to secure your free parking spot. For more information and to purchase tickets visit: www.westsidegogo.us
