In the Pocket: Martin Proctor Brings Westside Go-Go to Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, but for D.C. HBCU transplants, there can be a sense of something missing. Enter Martin Proctor, a native Washingtonian who saw an opportunity to share a taste of home with his adopted city.

Inspired by his own experiences, Proctor founded Westside Go-Go an entertainment company bringing the energy, music, and style of D.C. culture to Los Angeles, and creating a space for the local HBCU community and anyone who loves great music to come together.

“The goal is to establish Westside Go-Go as the go-to source for authentic D.C. culture and live music experiences in Los Angeles.” – Martin Proctor, founder of Westside Go-Go.

Proctor holds the position of Director of Development and Production of The Africa Channel and has received high accolades for his projects from a variety of networks (NBC, CBS, PBS, BET and E! TV) and has received a number of media awards, including three Emmy nominations.

Keep it in “the pocket.”

At the heart of Go-Go music lies the rhythm, a syncopated beat known as the “pocket.” Separating beginning drummers from the masters, it’s the foundation where everything funky must flow. Once in the pocket; bass, drums, horns, and melodies have no choice but to lock in. Audiences will know when a band is in the pocket when the lead singer can be heard singing the word, “Ouwww”.

The genre is a mix of dance and celebration, many times beckoning the audience to participate with a certain dance move or chant.

Today, just as Zydeco represents New Orleans and Hip Hop emerged from New York, Go-Go is officially recognized as D.C.’s official music, solidifying its position as a vital element of D.C.’s cultural tapestry.

Bustin’ Loose

It was the mid-1970s when the genre truly took shape. Chuck Brown, often referred to as the “Godfather of Go-Go,” played a pivotal role in its formation. In 1975, Brown and his band, The Soul Searchers, released the groundbreaking track “Bustin’ Loose,” which became a local anthem and laid the foundation for the Go-Go sound.

Scene from Spike Lee’s 1988 Film, School Daze – courtesy Sony Pictures

In 1988, legendary filmmaker Spike Lee showcased the sound by featuring Experience Unlimited, fronted by lead singer/bassist Gregory “Sugar Bear” Elliot, in his second film, School Daze. Now a cult classic, the film was loosely based on Lee’s experiences at Morehouse, one of America’s historic Black colleges.

EU’s hit song “Doing the butt” is still beating in the back of everyone’s mind and easily brings crowds to the dance floor every time it’s played. 

Ain’t nothing wrong if you wanna do the butt all night long. 

[Westside] Go-Go has become synonymous with the capital’s energetic spirit, captivating audiences and creating a musical legacy that continues to thrive. – National Black Association

Proctor’s educational foundation lies in a Bachelor of Communications from The George Washington University with a focus on television and film. He states, “It is an immense privilege to contribute to the building and connection of a community while simultaneously sharing the laughter, dance, and cultural richness of my hometown. The passion and purpose driving Westside Go-Go are deeply fulfilling.”

There’s still more room on the dance floor


“Our primary challenge currently lies in effectively reaching and engaging our core audience. We are actively investing in a targeted marketing campaign to raise awareness among D.C. transplants, HBCU alumni, and local music enthusiasts.” 

Last year, Westside Go-Go gained significant media attention at the annual Long Beach Juneteenth Festival, sharing the stage with renowned artist Anderson Paak. 

On Saturday, February 1st, Westside Go-Go has an exciting lineup including a highly anticipated performance the newly launched, minority-owned venue Prospect Park in Downtown Los Angeles. The show producers are gearing up for their annual HBCU bonfire, featuring a dynamic blend of local Go-Go and R&B bands alongside captivating DJ sets.

Author: Keri Freeman

Military mom and proud parent, artist, writer, musician and film maker. Cocktail connoisseur. Publisher of DTLA Weekly.