Why It Matters
The expanded itinerary demonstrates Devo’s enduring draw and the profitability of legacy acts in today’s live‑music market, while the B‑52’s co‑headlining adds cross‑generational appeal and ticket‑sale synergy.
Key Takeaways
- •Devo announces extensive 2026 U.S. and Canada tour dates.
- •West Coast leg named “Mutate, Don’t Stagnate.”
- •Tour precedes co‑headlining shows with B‑52’s in England.
- •Dates span April to June, covering 18 cities.
- •Band highlights 50‑year legacy attracting new fans.
Pulse Analysis
Devo’s decision to extend its touring life reflects a broader resurgence of legacy rock acts capitalizing on nostalgia and streaming‑driven discovery. Since their 1970s debut, the band has cultivated a cult following that now spans five decades, a demographic mix that venues and promoters prize for its reliable ticket sales. In an era where live‑music revenue outpaces recorded‑music earnings, veteran groups like Devo can command premium pricing, especially when they pair classic hits with newer material that resonates with younger listeners discovered through algorithmic playlists.
The 2026 schedule is anchored by the “Mutate, Don’t Stagnate” West Coast leg, a branding move that frames the tour as both a celebration and a reinvention. Starting in early April at Hard Rock Live Sacramento and moving through iconic venues such as The Complex in Salt Lake City and Coachella’s indoor stage, the itinerary then shifts to a June Eastern swing covering major markets from Indianapolis to Buffalo before landing in the UK for co‑headlining shows with the B‑52’s at The O₂ and AO Arena. The selection of midsize theaters and casino venues balances intimacy with capacity, optimizing both fan experience and per‑show revenue.
From a business perspective, the added dates translate into incremental ticket, merchandise, and sponsorship income that can offset the higher production costs of a multi‑city trek. Co‑headlining with the B‑52’s not only broadens the audience pool but also creates bundled marketing opportunities, from joint press releases to cross‑promotional social media campaigns. For promoters, the pairing reduces risk by leveraging two established brands, while for Devo it reinforces relevance in a crowded live‑entertainment landscape, setting a template for other legacy acts seeking sustainable touring models.
Devo Add Yet More Tours to Their 2026 Slate
One for themselves and one with the B‑52’s · By Alex Suskind · February 10, 2026
Devo may be shirking their 2023 farewell plans again but at least they have a sense of humor about it. Fresh off a trek with the B‑52’s late last year, the band announced a West Coast run aptly titled the Mutate, Don’t Stagnate tour, and has now filled out its 2026 schedule with a batch of June dates in Eastern North America. All those shows will take place ahead of Devo’s remaining Cosmic De‑Evolution Tour gigs with the B‑52’s, in England.
“It’s incredible to see our music resonate with fans of all ages,” co‑founder Mark Mothersbaugh said in a statement. “From those who’ve been with us since the beginning more than 50 years ago to a whole new generation discovering Devo for the first time. This tour is a celebration for everyone who’s been part of our journey.”
Devo 2026 Tour Dates
04‑03 Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live Sacramento
04‑04 Reno, NV – Grand Sierra Resort and Casino
04‑07 Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex – Rockwell
04‑10 Indio, CA – Coachella
04‑12 Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre
04‑13 Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren
04‑17 Indio, CA – Coachella
06‑02 Indianapolis, IN – Old National Centre
06‑03 Akron, OH – Akron Civic Theatre
06‑05 Windsor, ON – The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor
06‑06 Buffalo, NY – Buffalo AKG Art Museum
06‑09 Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre
06‑10 Baltimore, MD – Lyric Baltimore
06‑12 Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata Event Center
06‑13 Mashantucket, CT – Premier Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino
06‑20 London, England – The O₂ #
06‑21 Manchester, England – AO Arena #
Co‑headlining with the B‑52’s
About the author
Alex Suskind is the News Director for Pitchfork. Previously, he oversaw music coverage at New York magazine’s Vulture and Entertainment Weekly. He lives in Brooklyn.
0
Comments
Want to join the conversation?
Loading comments...