"Whip It" by Devo

Crack that whip! Get devolved with Devo's iconic 1980 new wave anthem, "Whip It." Instantly recognizable by its quirky synthesizer riff and deadpan vocals, this track became a massive, unexpected international hit, defining the band's unique synth-pop sound.

Released as the breakthrough single from their album Freedom of Choice, this song propelled the art-rock band Devo into the mainstream consciousness. Its blend of catchy synth-pop hooks, angular synth-punk energy, and new wave sensibility, aided by a famously bizarre music video, captivated audiences worldwide.

This quintessential 1980 track remains a staple of new wave playlists and 80s nostalgia. Despite being their only major US pop hit, solidifying their one-hit wonder status for many, "Whip It" endures as a testament to Devo's innovative and eccentric musical vision.

SONG MEANING: Despite frequent misinterpretations, the band intended the song as a satirical commentary on American optimism and simplistic problem-solving, inspired by self-help slogans and Thomas Pynchon novels. The repeated instruction to "whip it" when facing problems is meant as an absurd, slightly nonsensical pep talk rather than literal advice or having S&M connotations.