My Gen X Playlist: Whip It – Devo

In an alternate universe, I’d like to have a few “super powers” that I definitely lack today. Let’s see. I’d love to be able to sing karaoke in front of a room full of strangers. I wouldn’t have two left feet and would be able to cut a rug with the best of them. My culinary skills would be significantly more than BBQ or cooking breakfast for dinner. I would be a better conversationalist, comfortable conversing on any topic. These may not be the most powerful super powers, but they would be a definite leg up for me. This alternate universe would be an interesting experience!

Speaking of another world…

Back in 1980, Devo came out with Whip It and the world didn’t know what to make of it. The first time I saw the music video, I thought they were from another planet. Nerdy guys in plastic red hats, synthesizers keeping the beat and of course, the cracking of the whip. Devo was nothing that anyone had ever imagined. This probably marked the beginning of the new wave era and gave permission for others to be a little strange. Ready. Set. Go! If you haven’t heard or seen the music video, I encourage you to give it a peek. The only danger is you may have that synthesizer tune stuck in your head for the rest of the day. But don’t be afraid. They come in peace. I dare you to give them a try.

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For a complete playlist, please click here.

For the Spotify playlist, please click here.

Crack that whip
Give the past the slip
Step on a crack
Break your momma's back

When a problem comes along (You must whip it)
Before the cream sits out too long (You must whip it)
When something's going wrong (You must whip it)

Now whip it
Into shape
Shape it up
Get straight
Go forward
Move ahead
Try to detect it
It's not too late
To whip it
Whip it good!

When a good time turns around (You must whip it)
You will never live it down (Unless you whip it)
No one gets away (Until they whip it)

I say whip it
Whip it good!
I say whip it
Whip it good!

Crack that whip
Give the past the slip
Step on a crack
Break your momma's back

When a problem comes along (You must whip it)
Before the cream sits out too long (You must whip it)
When something's going wrong (You must whip it)

Now whip it
Into shape
Shape it up
Get straight
Go forward
Move ahead
Try to detect it
It's not too late
To whip it

Into shape
Shape it up
Get straight
Go forward
Move ahead
Try to detect it
It's not too late
To whip it
Whip it good!