IAH – Episode 77 – Mark Mothersbaugh

We are all DEVO! This episode stops by the famous Mutato Studios on the Sunset Strip to sit down with the legendary Mark Mothersbaugh. For over an hour I took part in one of the most brilliant, though provoking, inspiring and wacky conversations that I’ve ever been a part of. First and foremost, I’m a fan of Mark’s and of DEVO. They were one of the most influential bands of my youth through their ahead of their time use of multi media and music. Mark was so generous with his telling of the story behind the de-evolutionary roots of the band as well as his journey into being a soundtrack composer. Mark’s view of how technology, media, culture and music fits into one cohesive narrative is unparalleled. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

Midi-Controlled Bird Sound Contraption (as heard at the end of the show):

Mark Mothersbaugh is an American singer, songwriter, composer, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, author and visual artist.

Mothersbaugh’s music career spans more than 40 years. He came to prominence in the late 1970s as co-founder, lead singer and keyboardist of the new wave band Devo, which released a Top 20 hit in 1980 with the single “Whip It”. The band has maintained a cult following throughout its existence. Mothersbaugh is one of the main composers of Devo’s music and made major lyrical contributions to the band’s songs. He is one of only two members (along with bass player Gerald Casale) who have been with Devo throughout its entire history.

In addition to his work with Devo, Mothersbaugh has made music for television series, films and video games via his production company, Mutato Muzika, most notably as the composer for the popular long-running animated series Rugrats for its entire 13-year run, as well as all three theatrical films. He also has had a solo career which has included four studio albums: Muzik for Insomniaks, Muzik for the Gallery, Joyeux Mutato and The Most Powerful Healing Muzik in the Entire World. In 2004, he was honored with the Richard Kirk award at the BMI Film and TV Awards for his significant contributions to film and television music. Additionally, Mothersbaugh was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Kent State University in 2008.