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Tyvek Suit Formerly Worn by Devo
Associated name
Devo
Datec. 1977
MediumTyvek
Credit LineMoPOP permanent collection
Object number2001.375.2.A,.B
Text EntriesThis Tyvek yellow suit consisting of top and pants, was worn by members of the American rock band Devo. The suit would first make an appearance in the band’s debut album Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!. The five members of the band would often wear these suits with their famous red energy domes, which appeared in their 1980 award-winning album Freedom of Choice.
The combination of the yellow suit and red hat has been replicated, honored and parodied throughout pop culture, including Pearl Jam covering the band’s hit “Whip It” in full Devo attire at one of their 2009 sold-out shows and Weird Al Yankovic’s song “Dare to Be Stupid.”
Devo, which comes from “de-evolution,” was formed in 1973 by Gerald Casale, Bob Lewis and Mark Mothersbaugh and has had various member lineups over the years. In 1980 the band included Mark Mothersbaugh (b. 1950, vocals; keyboards; guitar), Gerald Casale (b. 1948, vocals; bass guitar; keyboards), Bob Casale (1952-2014, guitar; keyboards), Bob Mothersbaugh (b.1952, guitar) and Alan Myers (b. 1954, drums). Known for their unique, punk and new wave sounds and performance art style, the band used electronic instrumentation, motoric rhythms and vocalizations and spoken word.
Yellow long-sleeved shirt with white square buttons up the front, yellow pants with elastic waist band.
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