Whip It

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.