
Akron's Own
Devo
Returns To
The Civic

Fans attending Devo’s upcoming show at the Akron Civic Theatre can expect an evening that is equal parts concert, performance art and hometown celebration. Formed in Akron in the early 1970s, the pioneering new wave group helped redefine alternative music with their robotic stage presence, satirical social commentary and instantly recognizable visual style. Decades after breaking into the mainstream with the MTV-era smash “Whip It,” the band continues to deliver energetic performances packed with quirky humor, synchronized movements and the unmistakable sound that made them one of Ohio’s most influential musical exports.
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The setlist is expected to feature many of the songs longtime fans have waited years to hear live, including “Whip It,” “Girl U Want,” “Freedom of Choice,” “Beautiful World” and “Uncontrollable Urge.” Concertgoers can also expect elaborate costume changes, vintage video projections and the signature red energy dome hats that have become synonymous with the band’s identity. With the historic Akron venue serving as the backdrop, the performance should feel less like a routine tour stop and more like a triumphant homecoming for one of the city’s most iconic bands.
