The origin story of Devo: “A long line of insane, cannibalistic apes”
A 50-year pop art project built around one increasingly plausible premise.
Devo
Credits: Far Out / DEVO
Devo are an American rock band formed in Akron, Ohio, in 1973 by Mark Mothersbaugh, Bob Mothersbaugh, Gerald Casale, Bob Casale and Alan Myers. Fusing new wave, punk rock, art rock and electronic music, the band became one of the most innovative and influential acts of the late 1970s and 1980s. Built around the satirical concept of “de-evolution”—the idea that society is regressing rather than progressing—Devo combined angular musicianship, synthesisers, multimedia performances and striking visual aesthetics to create a unique artistic identity. Their breakthrough came with the hit ‘Whip It’, while albums including ‘Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!’, ‘Duty Now for the Future’ and ‘Freedom of Choice’ cemented their reputation as pioneers of new wave. Devo’s influence extends across alternative rock, electronic music, fashion and music video culture.
Devo News
The 1982 movie premiere Dennis Hopper missed because he was “in the insane asylum”
He couldn’t make it.
The new wave band David Bowie was desperate to work with: “They’re extraordinary”
Getting a little bit weirder.
Mutant mécanique: The 50 greatest synthpunk songs of all time
“I heard a link between the Ramones and Kraftwerk.”
The Story Behind The Song: Devo’s big idea for ‘Freedom of Choice’
It’s not about empowerment, but a flaw in human nature.
“It was unbelievable”: When Devo dismantled The Rolling Stones in front of Mick Jagger
A match made in heaven
‘Ghoulardi’: How Paul Thomas Anderson’s dad inspired the weirdness of Devo, Jim Jarmusch, and the Cramps
Ernie Anderson was an icon of late night TV in Cleveland, Ohio.
More About Devo
Devo are an American new wave band formed in 1973, best known for pioneering the concept of "de-evolution" and for songs including 'Whip It', 'Girl U Want' and 'Beautiful World'.
Devo is short for "de-evolution", the band's satirical philosophy that human society is regressing rather than evolving.
'Whip It' is Devo's signature song, although tracks such as 'Girl U Want', 'Beautiful World', 'Uncontrollable Urge' and 'Gut Feeling' are also among their best-known works.