Devo’s Snub by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Their Unique Proposal

Devo, the iconic band known for their innovative sound and striking aesthetic, has long been a fixture on the list of acts overlooked by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Hailing from Akron, Ohio, just a stone’s throw from the Cleveland museum, the snub has been particularly disheartening for the group. “We’ve struck out three times, so that’s probably it for us,” remarks Mark Mothersbaugh in an interview with UCR.

A Unique Proposition for Recognition

Despite the repeated snubs, Mothersbaugh has a rather unconventional idea for how Devo could still find a place in the cultural landscape near the Hall of Fame. “They have a parking lot next door,” he explains, “and in Ohio, they have very lax laws about where you can bury people. You can actually bury people in your yard if you file and get the permission and stuff like that. So I was thinking we could just stack all the members of Devo in this one parking space so we could be Rock and Roll Hall of Fame adjacent, even if we weren’t inside.” He humorously adds that the museum features displays of Devo’s iconic suits and hats, making their burial site a quirky attraction for fans. “Yeah, you can charge an extra buck,” he quips.

Remembering the Classic Lineup

Mothersbaugh, along with his brother Bob and Gerald Casale, remains part of Devo’s classic lineup, while the band mourns the losses of Alan Myers, who passed away in 2013, and Bob Casale in 2014.

Reflections on the Rock Hall Induction

During a conversation at the first Cruel World Festival in California in 2022, Mothersbaugh shared a notable exchange with John Lydon, the frontman of the Sex Pistols, who famously rejected the band’s induction into the Hall. Lydon noted, “Ah, I always felt if I got in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame I’d just want to know what I did wrong!” Although Mothersbaugh doesn’t share this sentiment, he found it an amusing perspective on the Hall’s recognition.

Devo’s Ongoing Legacy and New Generations

Having been eligible for induction since 2002, Devo has seen three nominations in 2019, 2021, and 2022 without success. However, the band’s legacy continues to grow as they engage with new audiences. This year, they celebrated their 50th anniversary with a series of shows titled “50 Years of DeEvolution…continued!” and are gearing up for the Cosmic De-Evolution Tour alongside the B-52’s and Lene Lovich, starting September 24 in Toronto.

Connecting with Young Fans

Mothersbaugh expresses his excitement about the influx of young fans attending Devo’s concerts. “I’ve been heartened by how many young people show up to see Devo these days,” he says, sensing that the band’s message about de-evolution resonates even more in today’s world. “Nobody was interested… very few people were interested in what our message was back then,” he recalls. “But now it’s like people are looking for answers, and they’re questioning why we are where we are in the world. De-evolution seems like a possible answer to that.”

Looking Ahead: A Message of Hope

Marking a shift in perspective, Mothersbaugh reflects on his role within the band. “I was the optimist in the band. I was Booji Boy,” he states, envisioning a future where young people can navigate the complexities of today’s world. “I feel like the first 50 years of Devo we were trying to warn people about being the one species out of touch with nature; I think the next 50 years we’re gonna talk about mutating, don’t stagnate, do creative mutations so you can move forward as a planet and as a species.” He humorously adds, “Unless we all want to move to Mars—which looks to me like a pretty bleak space to live.”

Conclusion

Devo remains a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the intersection of music, art, and social commentary. While the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has yet to acknowledge their contributions formally, Mothersbaugh’s imaginative suggestion for a burial site adjacent to the museum highlights the band’s enduring spirit and their ability to inspire both nostalgia and new generations. As the group continues to tour and share their message, their influence on rock music and culture is undeniable, whether or not they ever receive that coveted Hall of Fame induction.

FAQs

Why has Devo not been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Despite being eligible since 2002 and receiving multiple nominations, Devo has not been inducted into the Hall of Fame, which has been a point of disappointment for the band and its fans.

What is Devo’s message about de-evolution?

Devo’s message centers around the concept of “de-evolution,” suggesting that society is regressing rather than progressing. They use this theme to provoke thought about contemporary issues and human disconnection from nature.

How is Devo engaging with new fans today?

Devo is reaching new audiences through their tours and events, such as the “50 Years of DeEvolution…continued!” shows, attracting a younger demographic interested in their unique sound and message.

What are Mark Mothersbaugh’s thoughts on the future?

Mothersbaugh expresses optimism for future generations, believing they will adapt and find creative solutions to the challenges facing the world, emphasizing the importance of innovation and evolution.