What makes Be Stiff by Devo notable?

Be Stiff is notable for its role in shaping the early new wave movement and for its critical reception, particularly from influential publications like NME. The song's unique sound led to Devo gaining traction with audiences and critics alike, setting the stage for their later successes. Released in January 1977, Be Stiff marked Devo's debut single, introducing their distinctive sound to a wider audience. This release came just before their influential album Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!, which solidified their position in the emerging new wave scene.

How many songs are on Be Stiff?

Be Stiff has 2 tracks, running approximately 5 minutes.

Be Stiff

Devo · 1977

5 min · 2 tracks · new wave

A frenetic blend of art rock and new wave that channels punk's raw energy through experimental pop structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Be Stiff — This track epitomizes Devo's ethos of disconnection and irony, blending sharp rhythms with a catchy chorus that mocks conformity. Its driving beat and playful lyrics capture the band's avant-garde approach to pop music.
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Social Fools — With its sardonic commentary on societal norms, Social Fools showcases Devo's knack for combining humor with critique, embodying their signature satirical style. The track’s energetic tempo and biting lyrics reflect the band’s early experimentation with sound and theme.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

69 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

Be Stiff showcases Devo's unique sound and biting satire, making it a notable entry in the new wave genre.

What we noticed

The opening track 'Jocko Homo' features a repetitive, chant-like structure that sets a confrontational tone for the EP.
Each song is characterized by sharp, staccato rhythms and distorted guitar riffs, creating a sense of urgency throughout.
The EP's length is just under 20 minutes, with each track averaging around three minutes, maintaining a brisk pace.
Lyrically, the songs employ satirical commentary on societal norms, often delivered in a deadpan vocal style.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Be Stiff 2:33
2 Social Fools 2:48

What to play next

Listen next

Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!

1978

Go back to

DEVO Live: The Mongoloid Years

Full Devo discography Where to start with Devo Artists like Devo

art rock new wave

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata