18B: Devo
Devo was formed in Akron, Ohio, in 1973. It consisted of two sets of brothers, the Mothersbaughs (Mark and Bob), the Casales (Gerald and Bob), along with Alan Myers. They came up with the name “Devo” from the word “de-evolution” — the idea that, instead of progressing, humans will begin regressing.
Like Kraftwerk, their music and stage shows had a robot-like quality. They appeared to be creatures out of a science fiction movie, right down to their funny hats and shiny suits. Devo was a major influence on several bands through the 1980s, including the Talking Heads.
Like their idols, Kraftwerk, the members of Devo often dressed alike while performing.
Their first show was at performing arts festival at Kent State University, where they were students. Here’s a rough video clip. Even then, you could tell they weren’t normal.
In 1976, they got the attention of David Bowie when he saw their short film The Truth About De-Evolution. He became a fan and helped them get a recording contract.
A couple of years later they were invited to perform on the TV show Saturday Night Live. The Rolling Stones had performed the week before, so Devo decided to play one of the Stones’ most famous songs.
That’s not the only hit by another artist that they made their own. Check out a few seconds of this Johnny Rivers song from 1966, “Secret Agent Man.”
Now, check out the song after it’s been Devo-ized.
By 1980, they had mostly scrapped the guitars, and favored synthesizers. That year, they had their biggest hit ever — “Whip It.”
The band still gets together occasionally. But most of the members have moved on to other things. Mark Mothersbaugh has enjoyed a long, successful career writing music for video games, films and TV — especially kids’ shows. Some of his more famous scores include Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, Hotel Transylvania, The LEGO Movie, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, It’s Pat, and Rugrats. Here he is in his studio. Check out all the weird contraptions he uses to make music!
Bonus videos!
Devo influenced several bands from the New Wave era. “New Wave” was characterized by synthesizers, funny hair, and weird videos. Here’s one band they influenced. Can you hear Devo’s inspiration in this song?
Another bonus video! Here’s a cool stop-motion animation video about Mark Mothersbaugh and his film work.