Talk Show with Harper Simon
Episode 40
Composer Mark Mothersbaugh Talks Devo, Brian Eno, David Bowie, and Saturday Night Live
Mark Mothersbaugh recounts the beginnings of Devo, finding a sound through some of the band’s early influences, working with Brian Eno and hanging out with David Bowie, in this uncensored interview. From early shows at punk clubs, to performing on Saturday Night Live to eventually composing for film and television, we explore the lasting impact of Mark Mothersbaugh’s art, in this episode of Harper Simon’s TALK SHOW.
Episode Breakdown
00:01 Welcoming Mark Mothersbaugh to Talk Show.
00:45 Forming the band and performance art.
04:38 Early influences.
05:55 Kent state, finding an electronic sound and name.
09:49 Time in a cultural wasteland.
11:37 Finding the synth sound.
14:25 New York, yellow suits and Brian Eno.
17:24 Nights with David Bowie.
18:15 Making the final mix and the unheard tracks by Brian Eno.
23:59 Record stores and early singles.
28:58 Shows at punk clubs.
31:22 Finding an audience in the US and Saturday Night Live.
35:00 Developing music for children.
36:02 “Whip It” and becoming commercial.
40:56 The highs and lows of being in a band.
43:13 Composing for film and television.
45:46 Artwork and art shows.
47:45 Harper discusses how Devo influenced him.
49:11 Saturday Night Live, Lorne Michaels and Roy.
49:50 Thank you and goodbye.
Guest Bio
Mark Mothersbaugh is an American musician, composer, singer and painter. He is a co-founder of the new wave band Devo and has been its lead singer since 1972. His other musical projects include work for television series, films and video games.
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