Illustration by Peter Nguyen

For the average person the term “go-go” conjures up images of miniskirts and pole dancing. In Washington, D.C., however, the term immediately brings to mind the striking chords of ’70s funk, heavy percussion, and all the bouncy grooves that laid the groundwork for the city’s hip-hop past and present. Sitting at the forefront of D.C.’s old-school re-evolution is the exuberant Wale (pronounced “wah-lay”), whose dynamic lyricism and confident sound are drenched with the capital’s legendary musical history. After signing a production deal with Mark Ronson’s Allido Records, Wale has become recognized as an innovator in the hip-hop community, his stylish wordplay backed by the signature go-go of godfathers like the Backyard Band and Chuck Brown. “I’m just hoping to bring [go-go music] to the forefront,” he says. His latest effort, 100 Miles and Running, should do just that, with tracks produced by Best Kept Secret, Judah, and, of course, Mr. Ronson himself. Whether he’s discussing his disparate musical influences (“Let’s Ride”), recounting funny drug stories (“Warming Up Cane”), or collaborating with the “other” Parisian duo (“W.A.L.E.D.A.N.C.E.”), Wale finds a way to tie it all together. “I just listen to a lot of music,” he says. “I mean, everyone from Simon and Garfunkel to the Monkees to Bob Marley to the Beatles.” He even has aspirations to work with British wunderkind James Morrison. With one ear for the past and another for the present, Wale — along with the whole go-go revival — seems more ready to step up to the limelight.