Mark Mothersbaugh’s journey into the world of music began at a young age, with early influences shaping his unique style and sound. From his formative years spent listening to classical music and experimenting with different instruments, to his eventual founding of the band Devo, Mothersbaugh’s musical journey is a testament to his passion, creativity, and drive. In this article, we’ll explore the early influences that inspired Mothersbaugh’s musical career, the formation of Devo, and the band’s rise to fame. So join us as we take a deep dive into the fascinating story of Mark Mothersbaugh’s musical journey.
Early Life and Musical Influences
Family Background
Father’s Love for Music
Mark Mothersbaugh, the co-founder of the influential new wave band Devo, was born into a family that was deeply influenced by music. His father, Ed Mothersbaugh, was a classical music enthusiast who introduced Mark to the world of classical music at an early age. Ed Mothersbaugh was a pianist himself and had a deep appreciation for the works of classical composers such as Beethoven and Mozart. He would often play their music in the house and take his children to concerts and performances.
Mother’s Piano Lessons
Mark’s mother, Jean, was also musically inclined and gave piano lessons to her children. She encouraged them to learn and appreciate classical music from a young age. Jean Mothersbaugh was a piano teacher and had a great influence on Mark’s musical development. She taught him how to read sheet music and play the piano, which later became a crucial skill for him as a composer and musician.
Brother’s Guitar Playing
Mark’s older brother, Jim Mothersbaugh, was also musically talented and played the guitar. He was a major influence on Mark’s interest in rock music. Jim introduced Mark to the music of popular rock bands of the time, such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Mark was fascinated by the sounds of the electric guitar and the energy of rock music, which inspired him to start his own band with his brothers and friends.
Overall, Mark Mothersbaugh’s family background played a significant role in shaping his musical interests and influences. His parents’ love for classical music and his mother’s piano lessons helped him develop a strong foundation in classical music, while his brother’s interest in rock music sparked his passion for electric guitar and the energy of rock music.
Formative Musical Experiences
First Encounter with the Beatles
Mark Mothersbaugh, the co-founder of the influential new wave band Devo, was introduced to the music of The Beatles at a young age. He recalls his first encounter with the band’s music, which left a lasting impression on him. It was the Beatles’ album “Rubber Soul” that initially sparked his interest in music, specifically the song “Nowhere Man.” Mothersbaugh found the song’s unique structure and melody intriguing, and it became a defining moment in his musical journey.
Influence of the Monkees and The Rolling Stones
Apart from The Beatles, Mothersbaugh also took inspiration from other popular bands of the time, such as The Monkees and The Rolling Stones. He admired the catchy tunes and quirky style of The Monkees, which he believed was a reflection of the era’s pop culture. On the other hand, The Rolling Stones’ raw and rebellious sound resonated with Mothersbaugh’s artistic sensibilities, and he appreciated their ability to convey emotion through their music.
Discovering Art and Experimental Music
In addition to these popular bands, Mothersbaugh’s musical influences also extended to the world of art and experimental music. He was drawn to the works of avant-garde composers such as Igor Stravinsky and John Cage, who challenged traditional notions of music and composition. Mothersbaugh found their innovative approaches to music-making fascinating, and it inspired him to think outside the box when creating his own music.
Overall, Mothersbaugh’s formative musical experiences were shaped by a diverse range of influences, from the catchy pop tunes of The Monkees to the experimental sounds of Stravinsky and Cage. These influences would later inform his work with Devo, helping to shape the band’s unique sound and aesthetic.
Musical Endeavors in High School
Joining the Swingin’ Curs
During his high school years, Mark Mothersbaugh became a member of a band called the Swingin’ Curs. This group was formed by Mothersbaugh and his friends, including future Devo co-founder Jerry Casale. The Swingin’ Curs played covers of popular songs at local high school dances and parties, and their unique style and energy quickly gained them a reputation as one of the most exciting up-and-coming bands in the area.
Writing Songs with Jerry Casale
Mothersbaugh and Casale also began writing their own original songs during this time. They drew inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, including rock, pop, and avant-garde music. These early songs reflected their experimental approach to music-making and their interest in pushing the boundaries of what was possible with sound.
Self-Produced Demo Tape
As the Swingin’ Curs gained more attention, Mothersbaugh and Casale decided to record a demo tape of their original songs. Using a reel-to-reel tape recorder, they recorded the songs in their friend’s basement, using whatever instruments and equipment they could find. The resulting demo tape showcased their songwriting skills and their innovative approach to music production. It also helped to secure them gigs at local venues and further establish their reputation as one of the most exciting up-and-coming bands in the area.
Devo’s Formation and Early Gigs
The Influence of Punk and New Wave
Ramones and The Sex Pistols
The Ramones and The Sex Pistols were two of the most influential punk rock bands of the 1970s. They emerged during a time when rock music was going through a significant transition, and their raw, aggressive sound represented a departure from the polished, commercially-oriented music that had dominated the airwaves in the preceding years. Their music was characterized by simple, repetitive melodies, aggressive lyrics, and a DIY ethos that encouraged fans to create their own music and art.
David Bowie and Brian Eno
David Bowie and Brian Eno were also important influences on the development of punk and new wave music. Bowie, in particular, was a trailblazer who experimented with a wide range of musical styles and visual aesthetics, blurring the boundaries between art and music. His album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” was a seminal work that inspired countless musicians to push the boundaries of what was possible in popular music.
Early New Wave Bands in Ohio
The punk and new wave movement also had a significant impact on the music scene in Ohio, where Devo formed in the mid-1970s. Bands like The Buzzcocks, The Stooges, and The Dead Boys were all influential in shaping the sound and aesthetic of Devo, as were local bands like The Mirrors and The Styrenes. These bands helped to create a vibrant, creative community of musicians and artists who were all working together to push the boundaries of what was possible in popular music.
Devo’s Early Gigs and Local Popularity
Devo’s early gigs were a crucial part of their rise to local popularity in Ohio. They started out by playing at small clubs and parties, often for free or for very little money. These early performances helped the band to hone their sound and develop their unique stage presence.
One of the key early gigs for Devo was at Cleveland’s Agora Ballroom, a historic venue that has hosted many famous acts over the years. The band played there several times in the early 1970s, and it was during these performances that they began to build a local following.
Another important aspect of Devo’s early gigs was their willingness to play anywhere and everywhere. They would play at parties, bars, and clubs, often performing for small crowds of people who had never heard their music before. This relentless touring and promotion helped to build their local popularity and create a buzz around the band.
Hiring Alan Myers as Drummer
In 1976, Devo hired Alan Myers as their drummer. Myers had previously played with the band in a casual capacity, but his official hiring marked a significant turning point for the band. With Myers on board, Devo began to develop a more polished and professional sound, and they started to attract more attention from the music industry.
Myers’ unique drumming style and technical proficiency helped to give Devo’s music a new level of energy and momentum. His addition to the band also helped to create a more cohesive and collaborative atmosphere, as he worked closely with the other members to develop new sounds and ideas.
Performing at Cleveland’s Agora Ballroom
As mentioned earlier, Cleveland’s Agora Ballroom was an important venue for Devo in their early days. The band played there several times, often opening for more established acts and trying to win over skeptical audiences.
Despite the challenges, Devo’s performances at the Agora were always well-received. The band’s unique sound and stage presence caught the attention of many music fans in the area, and they quickly began to build a loyal following.
Playing at Clubs and Parties
In addition to playing at the Agora Ballroom, Devo also played at a variety of other clubs and parties in the Cleveland area. These performances helped to build their local popularity and create a buzz around the band.
Devo’s energetic live shows and unique sound quickly made them a fixture on the local music scene. They played at clubs like the Beachland Ballroom and the Grog Shop, as well as at parties and events all around Ohio.
Overall, Devo’s early gigs and local popularity were crucial to their eventual success. By playing anywhere and everywhere, and by developing a polished and professional sound with the addition of Alan Myers, the band was able to build a loyal following and create a buzz around their music.
The Making of “Q: The Autobiography of Quentin Crisp”
Collaboration with Derek Jarman
During the making of “Q: The Autobiography of Quentin Crisp,” Mark Mothersbaugh and Devo collaborated with acclaimed filmmaker Derek Jarman. Jarman, known for his avant-garde and unconventional approach to filmmaking, brought a unique perspective to the project. He encouraged Mothersbaugh and the band to push the boundaries of their creativity and experiment with different sounds and visuals. This collaboration allowed Devo to further develop their distinctive style, blending art rock, new wave, and synth-pop elements to create a sound that was both innovative and distinctive.
The Film’s Impact on Devo’s Sound and Image
The making of “Q: The Autobiography of Quentin Crisp” had a profound impact on Devo’s sound and image. The film’s experimental nature and focus on the unconventional life of Quentin Crisp inspired the band to explore new sonic territories and challenge traditional notions of pop music. Mothersbaugh’s songwriting, in particular, was influenced by the film’s themes of identity, sexuality, and self-expression. As a result, Devo’s music became more complex and introspective, with lyrics that delved into the human experience and social commentary.
The film’s visual style also influenced Devo’s image and stage presence. The band’s iconic red energy dome hats, for example, were inspired by the film’s futuristic aesthetic and the character of Mr. Jordan, played by Crisp. Additionally, the film’s use of stark contrasts and unconventional imagery inspired Devo’s music videos and live performances, which became known for their visually striking and thought-provoking content.
Working with Producer/Engineer, Steve Lillywhite
During the making of “Q: The Autobiography of Quentin Crisp,” Devo had the opportunity to work with renowned producer and engineer Steve Lillywhite. Lillywhite, who had previously worked with bands such as U2, Peter Gabriel, and The Psychedelic Furs, brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the project. He helped Mothersbaugh and the band refine their sound and craft their songs, ultimately contributing to the unique and polished nature of their music. Lillywhite’s input was invaluable in helping Devo create their breakthrough album, “Freedom of Choice,” which would cement their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the new wave era.
Devo’s Breakthrough and Commercial Success
“Whip It” and the Freedom of Choice Era
Writing “Whip It”
The song “Whip It” was written by Mark Mothersbaugh and Gerald Casale of Devo. The band was inspired by the punk rock movement of the 1970s and sought to create music that was different from the mainstream sound of the time. The lyrics of “Whip It” were inspired by a dance that Mothersbaugh saw in a nightclub. He was fascinated by the way people moved their bodies to the beat of the music and incorporated this into the song.
The Song’s Meaning and Interpretation
“Whip It” has been interpreted in many different ways by listeners and critics. Some have seen it as a sexual song, while others have interpreted it as a metaphor for self-expression and individuality. Mothersbaugh has said that the song is about embracing one’s own uniqueness and not being afraid to show it to the world.
“Whip It” Goes Viral
“Whip It” was released in 1980 as part of Devo’s album “Freedom of Choice.” The song quickly gained popularity and became a hit on the charts. The music video for the song, which featured the band members wearing hissing yellow radiation suits, also became a sensation and helped to cement the song’s status as a classic of the new wave era.
The “Freedom of Choice” Concept
The “Freedom of Choice” concept was a central theme of Devo’s music and art. The band believed that individuals should be free to make their own choices and live their lives as they saw fit. This idea was reflected in the lyrics of “Whip It,” which encouraged listeners to embrace their own unique identities and to let their freak flag fly. The song’s catchy melody and infectious energy helped to make this message accessible to a wide audience, and it remains one of the most beloved and enduring songs of the new wave era.
“Beautiful World” and Devo’s Political Commentary
The Song’s Critique of Consumerism
“Beautiful World” is a song that serves as a critique of consumerism, a central theme in Devo’s music. The song highlights the way that consumer culture shapes individuals’ perceptions of themselves and the world around them. Through lyrics such as “Money’s the only thing that makes us happy” and “I’m learning how to be a consumer,” the song challenges the notion that material possessions can bring true happiness and fulfillment. By calling attention to the negative effects of consumerism, Devo encourages listeners to question the values and priorities of modern society.
The “New Traditionalists” Concept
In “Beautiful World,” Devo introduces the concept of “New Traditionalists,” a term that reflects their critique of both consumer culture and traditional values. The New Traditionalists are depicted as individuals who blindly follow the status quo, embracing consumerism and rejecting any form of change or progress. By creating this fictional group, Devo critiques the conformity and complacency that can plague society, encouraging listeners to question their own beliefs and values.
Devo’s Relationship with MTV
Devo’s relationship with MTV was complex, as the band’s experimental sound and visual style clashed with the network’s focus on commercial pop music. Despite this, “Beautiful World” received significant airplay on MTV, helping to solidify Devo’s commercial success. The song’s music video, which features the band performing in front of a backdrop of consumerist imagery, further emphasizes the song’s critique of consumer culture and the media’s role in perpetuating it. By navigating this relationship, Devo was able to reach a wider audience and further disseminate their unique perspective on the world.
Devo’s Decline and Hiatus
As the 1980s drew to a close, Devo experienced a decline in commercial success and popularity. This period, marked by lineup changes, internal tensions, and disillusionment with the music industry, would eventually lead to a lengthy hiatus for the band.
“Smooth Noodles” and the “Devo Is Dead” Era
The early 1990s saw the release of “Smooth Noodles,” a collection of B-sides and rarities that signaled a departure from the band’s signature new wave sound. Critics and fans alike were divided on the album, with some feeling that it represented a creative rebirth, while others viewed it as a desperate attempt to remain relevant.
Despite the mixed reception, “Smooth Noodles” failed to generate significant commercial success, and the band’s following studio album, “Devo Is Dead,” would be met with even greater disappointment. Released in 1993, the album featured a more introspective and somber tone, reflecting the band’s growing disillusionment with the music industry and their own creative direction.
Internal Tensions and Lineup Changes
As Devo’s commercial fortunes waned, internal tensions within the band began to rise. The creative differences that had long plagued the group grew more pronounced, leading to a series of lineup changes and the departure of several key members.
One of the most significant losses was that of guitarist Bob Mothersbaugh, who left the band in 1991 to pursue a career in visual effects. His departure left a void in the band’s sound and added to the sense of instability and uncertainty surrounding Devo.
Disillusionment with the Music Industry
As the 1990s wore on, Devo’s frustrations with the music industry grew. They felt that their pioneering sound and influential role in shaping the new wave movement had been overlooked and undervalued by both critics and fans.
This disillusionment, coupled with the band’s declining commercial success, led to a decision to take an extended hiatus. In 1999, after a decade of relative silence, Devo announced that they were disbanding, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and influential music that continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans.
Mark Mothersbaugh’s Post-Devo Career
Scoring Films and Television Shows
“The Rugrats Movie” Soundtrack
One of Mothersbaugh’s earliest film scoring projects was the soundtrack for the 1998 animated film “The Rugrats Movie.” The film, which was based on the popular Nickelodeon television show “Rugrats,” followed the adventures of a group of toddlers as they navigated the world in their own unique way. Mothersbaugh’s score for the film incorporated a mix of electronic and orchestral elements, creating a playful and imaginative soundscape that perfectly captured the spirit of the film.
“Pee-wee’s Playhouse” and “The Mighty Boosh”
Mothersbaugh also worked on the music for the popular children’s television show “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” which aired from 1986 to 1990. The show, which was created by Paul Reubens, featured a mix of live-action and puppetry and followed the adventures of the titular character, Pee-wee Herman. Mothersbaugh’s music for the show was a mix of catchy pop songs and quirky instrumental pieces, and it helped to establish the show’s distinct and playful tone.
In addition to “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” Mothersbaugh also worked on the music for the British television show “The Mighty Boosh.” The show, which aired from 2004 to 2007, was a surreal comedy that followed the adventures of two friends, Howard Moon and Vince Noir, as they navigated a bizarre and often hilarious world. Mothersbaugh’s music for the show was a mix of electronic and orchestral elements, and it helped to create a sense of wonder and whimsy that was essential to the show’s unique style.
“The Royal Tenenbaums” and “Thirteen”
Mothersbaugh’s film scoring work also includes the soundtracks for the 2001 film “The Royal Tenenbaums” and the 2003 film “Thirteen.” Both films were directed by Wes Anderson, and both featured Mothersbaugh’s distinctive blend of electronic and orchestral music. In “The Royal Tenenbaums,” Mothersbaugh’s score helped to create a sense of melancholy and nostalgia, while in “Thirteen,” his music helped to establish the film’s dark and unsettling tone.
Overall, Mothersbaugh’s work as a film and television score composer has been an important part of his musical journey. His ability to blend electronic and orchestral elements has helped to create some of the most memorable and distinctive scores in recent film and television history.
Collaborations with Other Artists
“The Bottle” with Danny Elfman and Dave Grohl
- Released in 1997 as a part of the soundtrack for the film “A Bug’s Life.”
- Features Mothersbaugh on vocals and guitar, Elfman on guitar and vocals, and Grohl on drums.
- The song has a playful and upbeat tone, with lyrics that revolve around the theme of a party.
- The collaboration was well-received by critics and fans alike, who praised the song’s catchy melody and energetic performance.
“Your Love (Remix)” with Hatebreed
- Released in 2003 as a part of the compilation album “Underworld: Evolution (Music from the Motion Picture).”
- The original song was performed by Canadian rock band Our Lady Peace.
- Mothersbaugh’s remix of the track features a harder, more aggressive sound, with distorted guitars and pounding drums.
- The remix was praised by fans of both Our Lady Peace and Hatebreed, who appreciated the new take on the original song.
“Fly Stuff” with The Neptunes
- Released in 2003 as a part of the soundtrack for the film “Hollywood Homicide.”
- Features Mothersbaugh on vocals and keyboards, alongside The Neptunes’ Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo on production and instruments.
- The song has a smooth and laid-back groove, with Mothersbaugh’s vocals gliding over the top of the track.
- The collaboration was well-received by critics and fans, who appreciated the song’s relaxed vibe and catchy melody.
Recent Projects and Devo Reunion
“Human Highway” Reunion Show
In 2017, Mark Mothersbaugh reunited with his former Devo bandmates for a special performance of their unreleased 1978 album, “Human Highway.” The show took place at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles and was part of the “Dangerous Minds” festival. Fans were thrilled to see the band perform tracks from the album, which had been largely unheard by the public until its official release in 2018. The “Human Highway” reunion show marked a significant moment in Devo’s history and served as a reminder of the band’s enduring influence on the music industry.
“Devo’s Ordinary Boyz” Cartoon Series
In 2018, Mark Mothersbaugh announced the development of a new animated series called “Devo’s Ordinary Boyz.” The show, which was set to air on Cartoon Network, would have followed the adventures of a group of teenage boys who form a band called “Devo.” While the series was never produced, it represented a creative outlet for Mothersbaugh and a way to keep the Devo legacy alive.
“Devo 2.0” and “Fresh”
In 2019, Mark Mothersbaugh revealed that he had been working on new Devo material with his bandmates. The resulting album, “Fresh,” was released in 2020 and marked the band’s first new music in over two decades. The album received positive reviews from fans and critics alike, who praised the band’s ability to maintain their unique sound while pushing their music in new directions. “Fresh” represented a fresh start for Devo and demonstrated that the band was still capable of producing innovative and engaging music.
Legacy and Impact
Devo’s Influence on the Music Industry
New Wave and Alternative Rock
Devo’s unique blend of new wave and alternative rock music influenced a generation of musicians and music lovers. Their distinct sound, characterized by the use of synthesizers, and the incorporation of unusual time signatures and chord progressions, helped to define the new wave genre. Many new wave bands, such as Blondie and Talking Heads, were inspired by Devo’s sound and incorporated similar elements into their own music.
Fashion and Style
Devo’s fashion and style choices also had a significant impact on the music industry. The band’s distinctive red energy dome hats, black suits, and white shirts became their signature look, and their style influenced many other musicians and fashion designers. The band’s fashion choices were not only visually striking, but they also served a practical purpose, as the energy dome hats were designed to amplify the sound of the band’s instruments.
Conceptual Art and Performance
Devo’s performances were also heavily influenced by conceptual art, and their use of multimedia elements, such as video projections and pyrotechnics, helped to revolutionize the way that live music was presented. Their conceptual approach to performance art influenced many other musicians, including David Bowie and Madonna, and helped to push the boundaries of what was possible in the world of live music.
Overall, Devo’s influence on the music industry was significant and far-reaching. Their unique sound, distinctive fashion choices, and innovative approach to live performance helped to shape the course of popular music, and their legacy continues to be felt today.
Mark Mothersbaugh’s Legacy Beyond Music
Collaborations with Artists and Designers
Mark Mothersbaugh’s influence extends beyond the realm of music, as he has collaborated with numerous artists and designers throughout his career. One notable collaboration was with artist and filmmaker Wes Anderson for the soundtracks of several of his films, including “The Royal Tenenbaums,” “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou,” and “Moonrise Kingdom.” These collaborations showcase Mothersbaugh’s ability to create unique and evocative soundscapes that complement the visual storytelling of the films.
Additionally, Mothersbaugh has worked with various fashion designers, such as Jean-Paul Gaultier and Alexander McQueen, to create runway soundtracks and fashion shows. His ability to create atmospheric and innovative music has made him a sought-after collaborator in the world of fashion and film.
Teaching and Educational Work
Mothersbaugh has also made a significant impact in the world of education. He has taught courses at several universities, including the Rhode Island School of Design and the University of California, Los Angeles. His courses have focused on various aspects of music production, songwriting, and visual storytelling, and have inspired countless students to pursue careers in the arts.
Furthermore, Mothersbaugh has been involved in several educational projects, such as the “Devo’s School of Rock” series, which teaches young people about the history of rock and roll and the creative process behind songwriting. Through these projects, Mothersbaugh has helped to educate and inspire future generations of musicians and artists.
Humanitarian Efforts and Philanthropy
In addition to his work in the arts, Mothersbaugh has been involved in several humanitarian efforts and philanthropic endeavors. He has supported various charitable organizations, including the Environmental Defense Fund and the Natural Resources Defense Council, and has used his platform to raise awareness about important social and environmental issues.
Mothersbaugh has also been involved in several art-based charitable initiatives, such as the “Music Rising” project, which raised funds for music education programs in schools affected by Hurricane Katrina. Through his involvement in these projects, Mothersbaugh has demonstrated a commitment to using his talents and resources to make a positive impact on the world.
FAQs
1. How did Mark Mothersbaugh get into music?
Answer:
Mark Mothersbaugh’s interest in music began at a young age. He grew up in Akron, Ohio, and was exposed to a variety of musical influences, including classical music, rock and roll, and experimental music. In the 1960s, Mothersbaugh became involved in the underground music scene in Akron, playing in various garage bands and experimenting with unconventional instruments and sounds. He also attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied art and music, and became involved in the local music scene.
2. What was the significance of the band Devo?
Devo was a highly influential band that emerged from the underground music scene in Akron, Ohio in the late 1970s. The band was formed by Mothersbaugh and his brother Jim, along with several other musicians. Devo’s music was characterized by its innovative use of synthesizers, and its quirky, offbeat lyrics that often dealt with themes of technology, consumerism, and social alienation. The band’s visual style, which featured bizarre costumes and quirky stage shows, was also highly influential. Devo’s music was widely influential, and the band has been cited as an influence by many later artists.
3. What was the significance of Devo’s album ‘Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!’?
Devo’s album ‘Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!’ was the band’s debut album, released in 1978. The album was widely acclaimed for its innovative sound and unique visual style. The album’s standout tracks, such as ‘Mongoloid’ and ‘Jocko Homo,’ showcased the band’s quirky, offbeat lyrics and their innovative use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments. The album’s visual style, which featured bizarre costumes and quirky stage shows, was also highly influential. ‘Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!’ was a landmark album in the history of alternative rock, and it helped to establish Devo as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the era.
4. How did Mark Mothersbaugh’s music influence popular culture?
Mark Mothersbaugh’s music has had a significant impact on popular culture. Devo’s innovative sound and visual style helped to define the look and sound of the early alternative rock movement, and the band’s influence can be heard in the music of many later artists. Mothersbaugh has also had a successful career as a composer for film and television, creating the music for a wide range of films and TV shows, including ‘The Royal Tenenbaums,’ ‘Pee-Wee’s Playhouse,’ and ‘The Ren & Stimpy Show.’ His music has also been used in numerous commercials and advertisements, making him one of the most recognizable and influential figures in popular music.
