Sounds of America: The Go-Go's and the Legacy of 'Beauty and the Beat
The Go-Go's, a band formed in Los Angeles in the late 1970s and signed by I.R.S. Records in 1981, holds the historic title of being the most enduring group to emerge from the West Coast new wave scene. Their debut album, "Beauty and the Beat," featured two highly successful singles - "Our Lips are Sealed" and "We Got the Beat" - which sold over 2 million copies. The album topped the charts for six weeks, solidifying The Go-Go's as one of the most successful all-female rock groups in history.
Their groundbreaking success paved the way for future women-led bands such as The Bangles, Sleater-Kinney, Haim, Paramore, and those associated with the Riot Grrrl movement. The impact of The Go-Go's on the music industry is undeniable, and their influence continues to resonate in the music world today.
In this edition of the Sounds of America, we delve into the iconic album "Beauty and the Beat" by The Go-Go's and explore why it deserves a spot in the National Recording Registry. Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of this trailblazing band and their groundbreaking contributions to the music industry.