Devo

Devo is a band from Ohio, USA formed in 1973. The band currently consists of five members, the Mothersbaughs brothers, Mark, Bob and Jim and the Caselas brothers, Gerald and Bob. Devo is known most for their 1980 hit single “Whip It”. They have also been credited for bringing the short film format to the music video industry. Since the success of “Whip It,” the band has gained a cult following that continues to follow them to this date. They are also known for their unique style in fashion. Their signature looks include the yellow industrial worker type jumpsuits and red flower pot resembling headpieces which they refer to as the “energy hats.” With the band hitting the road once more, the devoted fans are already getting Devo tickets.

 
The name of the band comes from the concept coined by Bob Lewis and Gerald Casale. They jokingly believed that the human race evolves in reverse; “de-evolution.” They played around with this concept throughout college and created a number of art pieces related to it. This idea was then shared with Mark Mothersbaugh who gave this idea more substance, and thus Devo became a serious band and consequently sold thousands of Devo tickets.

 
The original line-up of Devo included the Mothersbaugh brothers, Bob Casale who played guitar, Rod Reisman who played drums and Fred Weber who served as the lead vocalist. This line-up played and recorded a home video of their performance at the Kent State performing arts in 1973. The next recorded Devo line-up included the Mothersbaugh brothers, the Casale brothers, and Bob Lewis. Eventually, Devo started playing as a quartet. The four members then went on to record their first ever music videos, “Jocko Homo” and “Secret Agent Man.” At this time, Devo tickets were sold for musical theater inspired shows where the band members would play different characters such as “Booji Boy.” Alan Myersi came to the band when Jim Mothersbaugh decided to part ways with the band. Along with the Casale brothers, this line-up became the one for which Devo is most known for. Even then, Devo shows would cause controversy because of their unusual performance styles and they were often told to leave the venue mid-performance. Even so, the ever eager fans continually bought Devo tickets to find out what other unique performances were in store.

 
Devo gained some mainstream prominence when in 1977; Neil Young asked them to be a part of his film, “Human Highway.” Along with being featured in the film with the rest of the band, Mark Mothersbaugh wrote the music and the score for the soundtrack. He would go on to record many soundtracks later on in his career. Up until 1978, Devo was producing their music through their own label, “Booji Boy.” Later the year, Devo became noticed by David Bowie and Iggy Pop. With their help, Devo finally signed with their first major label, “Warner Bros. Records.” At this time, their cover of Rolling Stone’s hit single “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” became popular following their appearance on Saturday Night Live. Their single “Jocko Homo” too gained mainstream attention. Devo tickets were now being bought as far as Japan where their songs “Blockhead” and “Secret Agent Man” were very popular.

 
The band actively follows the “Church of the SubGenius,” a church which mocks religion and endorses parody, humor and comedy over organized religions. Interestingly, the opening act for one of their popular tours was a Christian rock band.

 
Throughout their career, their fans have been most mesmerized by their live shows. They are known for taking up alter egos while performing—at one time, they performed as their opening act. They would take these alter egos to television appearances as well, keeping audiences interested. Their quirky sense of fashion continues to excite their cult following with fans showing up at their concerts in yellow jumpsuits and red “Energy Domes.” 

 
Devo performed at the 2010 Winter Olympics at Vancouver at the victory concert where they donated the energy dome and jumpsuit to the Ohio Historical Society.

 
Devo tickets now are being sold to promote their newest album, “Something for Everybody.” The band has continued to make music in the new wave genre, but have also incorporated punk and remix style beats. Neil Taylor, Jeff Friedl and Pete Parada join the band for this live tour. Devo will continue to perform their signature songs along with the remastered versions of their old songs.