Expressing support for the designation of August 22, 2025, as "Chuck Brown Day", and honoring Chuck Brown's contributions to music and to the District of Columbia.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 661
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Arts, Culture, Religion
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-08-22: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
- Last Updated
- 2025-09-19T15:54:18Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 661) expresses support for designating August 22, 2025—Chuck Brown's birthday—as "Chuck Brown Day." It honors Brown's lifelong contributions to music, particularly as the creator of the go-go genre, and his cultural impact on the District of Columbia (DC).
Key Provisions
- Background on Chuck Brown: The resolution outlines Brown's life and achievements through a series of "Whereas" clauses, including:
- His role as the "Godfather of Go-Go," blending funk, soul, and Latin sounds into a genre that defines DC's musical identity.
- Born August 22, 1936, in DC; self-taught guitarist, singer, songwriter, and bandleader; released 22 albums over three decades.
- Hit song "Bustin' Loose" topped Billboard's R&B chart for four weeks in 1979; Grammy nomination in 2010; National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellowship in 2005.
- Influenced generations of musicians in jazz, rap, and go-go (e.g., bands like Trouble Funk and Rare Essence).
- Advocated for DC statehood and voting rights, performing at a 2010 concert on Capitol Grounds.
- Personal story: Overcame humble beginnings and prison time to become a devoted family man.
- Legacy: DC named a street near the Howard Theatre and a park (at 2901 20th Street NE) after him; go-go is DC's official music.
- Core Action: The House of Representatives formally supports the "Chuck Brown Day" designation and honors his contributions to music and DC.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
None. This is a non-binding resolution that does not amend or create any laws. It serves as a symbolic expression of congressional recognition rather than enforceable legislation.
Potential Impacts
- On Citizens: Promotes cultural pride among DC residents by celebrating local music heritage and Brown's story of resilience. It may encourage community events or education about go-go music on August 22, 2025, fostering unity and appreciation for DC's artistic identity.
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact; the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (where it was referred) may discuss it, but no funding or policy changes are required.
- On International Relations: None; the resolution is focused on domestic cultural recognition.
- Overall, the impact is largely symbolic, potentially boosting tourism or local arts initiatives in DC without broader legal effects.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- DC Residents and Community: Primary beneficiaries, as it highlights Brown's ties to the city and its fight for equal rights.
- Music and Arts Community: Go-go musicians, fans, and organizations (e.g., those preserving DC's musical heritage) gain visibility.
- Brown's Family and Legacy Groups: Recognition honors his personal story and ongoing influence.
- Congress and DC Advocates: Indirectly supports broader discussions on DC's statehood and cultural autonomy.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: As a simple resolution, it requires only a House majority vote and has no force of law, avoiding constitutional issues like those in binding legislation.
- Constitutional: Reinforces DC's unique status under the U.S. Constitution (as a federal district without full statehood), subtly nodding to voting rights debates through Brown's advocacy.
- Political: Symbolically elevates DC's cultural contributions, potentially aiding bipartisan support for local issues. It underscores themes of redemption and community, but carries no partisan weight beyond cultural commemoration.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large]
Recent Actions
- 2025-08-22: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
- 2025-08-22: Submitted in House
- 2025-08-22: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of August 22, 2025, as "Chuck Brown Day", and honoring Chuck Brown’s contributions to music and to the District of Columbia. — issued 2025-08-22 — PDF (3 pages)