How Devo Became David Bowie’s “Band of the Future” and Then an MTV One Hit-Wonder

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Devo garnered significant attention when David Bowie declared them “The Band of the Future.” Bowie’s endorsement was particularly impactful during his peak in the late 1970s and highlighted their unique appeal. Esteemed figures like Mick Jagger and Brian Eno also shared Bowie’s admiration for Devo.

The band’s groundbreaking style captivated television networks and eager record labels, especially after their song “Whip It” became a major hit. Despite this success, debates continue around their legacy. Are they a one-hit wonder, or do their contributions cement them as pioneering artists? This examination aims to explore whether Devo truly lived up to the lofty expectations set by such influential supporters.

Regression of Society

Devo began not as a typical band, but as an art project with a strong ideological foundation. Central to this was the idea of “de-evolution,” a belief that humanity was in decline, reverting to a more primitive state. The group didn’t just play music; they used their songs as a medium to express these ideas.

Members:

• Gerald Casale
• Bob Lewis
• Mark Mothersbaugh
• Bob Casale
• Alan Myers

Gerald Casale and Bob Lewis, the original members, were art students who shared a satirical view of humanity’s regression. Their dark humor, coupled with the tragic events at Kent State University, where they studied, shifted their perspective significantly. They recruited Mark Mothersbaugh, whose skills on the keyboard were crucial to developing their sound.

In constructing their identity, Devo embraced their non-traditional approach to music, combining their conceptual art with their performances. This fusion made Devo a unique and thought-provoking force in the music scene.

Boojy Boy, Mongoloid, and Jocko Homo Turn Real

Devo’s distinct style and philosophy emerged right from their first single. Unlike many bands, they did not need years to find their identity. The single “Mongoloid” from 1977 embodied a unique mix of punk beats, electronic experiments, and comic book humor. It depicted a world where genetic disorders went unnoticed due to societal degeneration.

The flip side of this single, “Jocko Homo,” drew inspiration from anti-evolutionary themes. Devo’s live performances often featured extended versions of this song, stretching over 30 minutes, sometimes stirring up the crowd to the point of near chaos.

The band’s visual presentation also captured attention. They donned matching suits, which created a uniform, clone-like appearance. Mark Mothersbaugh introduced the character Boojy Boy, performing in a childlike persona while wearing a nuclear protection suit. This added a distinct layer to their unique image.

Devo’s music and style could not be pigeonholed into punk or new wave genres despite their elements. They used homemade instruments and toys alongside repetitive and dissonant guitar riffs, further distinguishing their sound. This innovation set them apart, making Devo a memorable and influential band.

David Bowie, Neil Young and Richard Branson Take Notice

Devo quickly became a significant symbol of the evolving music scene. Their 1977 short film, The Truth About De-Evolution, which predated MTV’s music video era, gained underground popularity. This unique approach garnered attention from several influential figures in the music industry.

David Bowie was among the first to recognize Devo’s potential. During his experimental phase, Bowie saw Devo as kindred spirits and convinced Warner Records to offer them a contract. Labeling Devo as “the band of the future” helped spark curiosity and early interest.

Other stars followed Bowie’s lead. Iggy Pop and Neil Young also showed support. Young was so impressed that he invited Devo to contribute to his 1977 comedy film, Human Highway. Richard Branson, head of Virgin Records, attempted to capitalize on Devo’s rising profile by suggesting former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon join the band.

On the literary side, renowned author William S. Burroughs engaged Devo in an interview and even collaborated with them on recording some of his lyrics. This cross-disciplinary interest further cemented Devo’s status as an experimental and influential band.

When they released their debut album in 1978, titled Q: Are We Not Men? A: We are Devo!, the anticipation was high. Produced by frequent Bowie collaborator Brian Eno, the album received mixed reviews but established a strong fan base.

Devo’s upward trajectory continued with a performance on Saturday Night Live, where their energetic cover of “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” managed to win over at least one member of The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger.

Notable Figures Who Supported Devo

Devo’s innovative style and the endorsements from such high-profile figures played a crucial role in their early success and enduring legacy in the music industry.

Crack That Whip!

By the end of 1978, Devo had garnered the admiration of British and American rock stars. Despite their growing popularity, questions remained about their potential for a sustainable career. The band’s continued performances only grew stranger and funnier. In some performances, they appeared under the guise of a Christian rock group as their own opening act. The band began to favor electronic instruments over traditional guitars and drums, adding quirky covers like “Secret Agent Man” to their setlist.

The public’s reaction to “Whip It!” stood out as the most surprising. The song’s music video, created in 1981, became an iconic representation of the era and catapulted Devo to international recognition. Producing the “Whip It!” video cost $15,000, a significant investment that paid off by becoming one of the most popular videos on MTV, a new music channel at the time.

Devo was no stranger to making unusual music videos, an aspect of their creative process since the beginning. With the launch of MTV, the band found a new platform to showcase their bizarre and unique vision. Despite the various rumors surrounding the “Whip It!” video, the band members have clarified that the song is not about inappropriate themes as many have speculated.

New-wave pioneers?

The breakout success of “Whip It!” propelled Devo into the mainstream, catapulting them to fame. This hit single, while showcasing their talent, overshadowed much of their other work. By 1982, Devo had earned the label of a new-wave band. To many, they were seen as just another group among the flood of new-wave acts, characterized by their striking music videos and synthetic soundscapes. Synthesizers and exotic visuals became their trademark, but those familiar with Devo’s early days knew that the band had always been ahead of the curve. MTV and the broader media landscape were merely catching up with what Devo had been pioneering all along.

Significantly, Devo’s intricate concepts and humor, embedded in their music, were often overlooked by mainstream audiences. It was their distinctive aesthetic — the identical yellow suits and energy dome plastic hats — that left a lasting mark on popular culture. Yet, the band appeared unfazed by the superficial reception of their image. In fact, they playfully critiqued their own rise to fame with their 1981 album “Traditionalists,” which featured tracks like “Through Being Cool.”

Devo’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. Internal conflicts and controversies arose, particularly when the band attempted to use lyrics penned by John Hinckley, Jr., known for his attempt to assassinate President Ronald Reagan, who had indirectly inspired the “Whip It!” music video. Such incidents may have impacted their creative output, but Devo’s distinct sound and vision continued to resonate with a loyal fan base. Despite the ups and downs, Devo’s influence and legacy endure, cementing their place as true pioneers of the new-wave movement.

New-wave one-hit wonders or the most influential group of their era?

Some bands manage to produce just one or two albums that leave a lasting impact on the music scene. Devo is such a group, worthy of being called legendary.

Devo started as a complex joke, embracing the concept of “de-evolution.” This idea filtered into their music, style, and reactions to the media.

Their early days were like few others.

Their unique look and sound caught the interest of many famous rockstars who supported them.

The release of “Whip It!” gave Devo the success they deserved but also trapped them in a specific image.

People who saw them on TV often only knew them for this catchy pop tune, missing the depth of their history.

Despite this, Devo earned the genuine respect of their peers and maintained a loyal niche audience. They have continued to tour into the present day, with talents like drummer Josh Freese joining them.

Is their theory of “de-evolution” accurate? One only needs to watch current television to see Devo’s influence everywhere.