On this day May 16, 1980, Devo released their third studio album Freedom of Choice, a landmark in new wave music that brought the band mainstream success and defined their quirky futuristic image. The album reached number 22 on the Billboard 200 and featured the breakout hit Whip It which became a staple of early 80s radio and MTV.
Freedom of Choice showcased Devo’s blend of synth heavy production, satirical lyrics and robotic stage presence. The album explored themes of consumerism, conformity and individual freedom through catchy rhythms and tightly structured songwriting. Whip It in particular became an unexpected hit thanks to its absurd music video and infectious hook, catapulting Devo into pop culture fame.
The album remains one of the defining releases of the early new wave era and helped establish Devo as pioneers of alternative music with a distinct visual and sonic identity.
Fun fact: The music video for Whip It became one of the earliest videos to receive heavy rotation on MTV and played a major role in launching the network’s influence on pop music.
Freedom of Choice showcased Devo’s blend of synth heavy production, satirical lyrics and robotic stage presence. The album explored themes of consumerism, conformity and individual freedom through catchy rhythms and tightly structured songwriting. Whip It in particular became an unexpected hit thanks to its absurd music video and infectious hook, catapulting Devo into pop culture fame.
The album remains one of the defining releases of the early new wave era and helped establish Devo as pioneers of alternative music with a distinct visual and sonic identity.
Fun fact: The music video for Whip It became one of the earliest videos to receive heavy rotation on MTV and played a major role in launching the network’s influence on pop music.
