The ’Giving Flowers’ Series (episode 5): DEVO (feat. Abby Denson (And A Melodica))

(RECORDED ON AUGUST 30, 2025) Longtime friends Abby and jamilah have been into DEVO for many, many years; however, jamilah has never seen them live.  Given that they are still touring, they decided to do a 'Flowers' episode on the Spuds born in Akron, Ohio.  

jamilah wanted to do an episode as well, particularly due to the misconceptions the band always receives.  While Abby and jamilah's song interpretations may not always be correct (and while some of the things produced have not been side eye inducing), one thing they do know is that the collective was founded as a response to right wing culture and ideologies; so seeing their songs interpreted as 'incel anthems', or seeing statements such as, "This music is what you end up with when you don't allow girls in the band," have always been a curious thing.

While not all-inclusive (obviously), they name some of their favorite songs in the catalog (with some renditions on the melodica, tambourine and cardboard box by jamilah).  While DEVO has been often imitated but never duplicated (except infamously by 'Weird' Al Yankovic (another person who should get a 'Flowers' episode)); there's a reason why their music is celebrated by many.  Interestingly, while they are celebrated (and while they had a brief moment of pop stardom), they are still relatively 'small' in comparison to some of their peers.  Because of this, they were able to maintain artistic freedom (in their various artistic projects/endeavors- which we didn't even get into...  That would be a 10 hour episode).

RIP Robert Mothersbaugh Sr. (aka General Boy), Bob (2) Casale and Alan Myers.

Thanks for listening!!!

Abby's website is https://www.abbydenson.com/

If you want to say hello (or to tell us your favorite DEVO songs), you can contact us at: musicandwepodcast@gmail.com