The Truth Behind Devo's 'Whip It' and Their Misunderstood Legacy

The Unseen Story of Devo

Devo, the band known for their quirky red plastic hats and jumpsuits, is often remembered for their 1980s hit “Whip It.” However, there's much more to this Ohio-born art-rock group than meets the eye. The new Netflix documentary “Devo” delves deep into the band’s origins, exploring how they were not just a musical act but a powerful commentary on society.

Directed by Chris Smith, the film uses archival footage and interviews to trace the band's journey from its inception to its peak and eventual decline. Fans like David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Neil Young contribute their perspectives, offering insight into the band's impact.

A Unique Vision

The band’s name, derived from the concept of “devolution,” reflects their belief that modern society was regressing rather than evolving. This idea stemmed from their experiences at Kent State University, where they witnessed the tragic killing of four unarmed anti-war protesters by the National Guard in 1970. This event deeply influenced their worldview, leading them to embrace an anti-establishment and anti-capitalist stance.

Devo's music was intertwined with art and literature, drawing inspiration from movements like Dadaism and artists such as Andy Warhol. Their visual style, including gray overalls and clear plastic face masks, was inspired by the factory environment of Akron, symbolizing the cogs in a machine as seen in the film “Metropolis.”

The Power of Visuals

One of Devo's strengths was their strong visual component. Their videos were rich with political commentary, addressing issues such as police violence, the KKK, and conformity. For instance, the “Beautiful World” video featured footage of bombings and police brutality, while “Freedom of Choice” warned against the dangers of following the crowd.

The song “Whip It” was inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s novel “Gravity’s Rainbow.” The video, which included cowboys drinking beer and dangerous gunplay, was a subtle critique of President Ronald Reagan's macho conservatism. Despite these efforts, Devo's message often went unnoticed, as their satirical approach didn't resonate with mainstream audiences.

Counterculture Legacy

Devo's influence can be seen in later artists who embraced similar themes. Bands like M.I.A., Rage Against the Machine, and System of a Down have carried on the torch of countercultural expression. While Devo may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success, their impact on music and culture remains significant.

A New Generation

Despite their initial struggles, Devo has found a renewed audience. Members like Mark Mothersbaugh have continued to work in the entertainment industry, scoring films and TV shows. Casale, on the other hand, has directed music videos and commercials.

Mothersbaugh notes that he sees a growing number of young people attending Devo's live performances. These fans, equipped with smartphones, are bypassing traditional media gatekeepers, which gives him hope for the future.

Upcoming Tour

Devo is set to embark on a co-headlining tour with the B-52's, titled the Cosmic De-Evolution Tour. The tour will kick off in Toronto on September 24 and conclude in Houston on November 2. This tour marks a new chapter for the band, showcasing their enduring relevance.

While many might classify Devo as New Wave or synth-pop, the band themselves see themselves as true punk. They believe in questioning illegitimate authority and staying true to their vision. As Casale states, “That’s punk.”