In 1973 in the town of Akron, Ohio, DEVO was born. Known today for their crazed antics, unique sense of style, and their staple in New Wave music, DEVO became an icon for those transcending out of Disco Fever and into a new synthetic revolution of music.
Their name is short for their satiric view of society. DEVO is short for de-evolution as the members and devoted fans believe that instead of evolving, society as a whole is de-evolving. If you ask for proof, they’ll tell you to just observe American society as it is today.
One of the most iconic objects in New Wave was created by DEVO, this being the energy dome. Normally red (however recently it’s become blue), this item was worn during their famous music video for their most reputable single, Whip It. Whip It came in at #14 on the Billboard Charts, but through relentless touring and a cult following, DEVO outlasted the rest of the New Wave rockers without adapting their sound to the changing times.
In fact, DEVO still tours today. They’ve recently dropped a new album (where the energy dome is now blue) and just completed a leg of their 2010 tour in San Diego. I just love to download music by Devo and their latest album Something for Everybody is my new personal favorite.
For more information on DEVO, check them out at their website.
Watch the most famous Devo in live action, as the perform Whip It on Jimmy Kimmel:
