Washington, D.C. based funk and go-go artist Chuck Brown is considered the founder of the genre, which included incessant beats and the use of conga drums, cow bells and call-and-response chants.

Chuck Brown laid the foundation, but Rare Essence — and Benny was part of it during that time — built the house," said Kevin Kato Hammond.

Harley was known for his energetic stage presence, his powerful voice, and the ability to play two trumpets at once.

[1][2] Harley left Rare Essence in the mid-80s to form another group called Little Benny & the Masters.

He later played with the go-go band Proper Utensils and had several reunions with original members of Rare Essence.