Get ready for a musical event that’s turning heads and stirring up nostalgic excitement—two legendary pioneers of alternative rock are teaming up for a tour that fans have only dreamt about. DEVO and The B-52s will be co-headlining the “Cosmic De-Evolution Tour,” launching Wednesday, September 24th. The real twist? Until now, these icons have never embarked on a full tour together, despite shaping the soundtracks of the late ‘70s and ‘80s. And this is where things get especially intriguing: both groups claim this could be their final run, making it a can’t-miss for devotees and first-timers alike.
Kicking things off at the Budweiser Stage in Toronto, these two boundary-breaking acts will crisscross North America through early November, with stops in cities like Clarkston, Michigan; Mansfield, Massachusetts; Los Angeles, California; Charlotte, North Carolina; Alpharetta, Georgia; Austin, Texas, and more. Midway through, DEVO will briefly pause the tour for a one-off festival appearance at Ocean City, Maryland’s Oceans Calling event on September 28th, offering fans an extra dose of synth-pop spectacle.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the “Cosmic De-Evolution Tour” is causing a stir—so much so that it’s featured in several lists highlighting the most unique and anticipated tours of fall 2025. What makes this pairing so special? Each band still boasts a trio of their original members, holding true to their creative roots as they prepare to say their goodbyes on stage.
Now, here’s the backstory most fans never hear: this electrifying collaboration was born during the unforgettable SNL 50th anniversary celebration earlier this year. Both bands performed at the event—Fred Armisen, known for his comedic genius, jumped in on drums for each group. But for the tour, DEVO will be joined by drummer Jeff Friedl. According to The B-52s’ Cindy Wilson, their decision was almost impulsive after the celebration: “It’s incredible—after all these years, we’ve only ever played the same festival once or twice. Never a full tour. When we spoke at SNL’s anniversary, it was obvious: this had to happen. I can’t wait to share the stage with DEVO!”
DEVO’s Mark Mothersbaugh echoed the enthusiasm, reflecting on the historical significance: “The B-52s crafted one of the most original sounds out there in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Whether it was destiny, luck, or just the cosmic pull of the SNL reunion, we’re all coming together to create something unforgettable. Cosmic de-evolution is REAL!” Is this the swan song for both bands—or just another evolution?
Check out the full list of dates below. And, if you’re still hoping to score last-minute tickets, you’re not alone—this is shaping up to be one of the hottest tours of the year.
Looking ahead, DEVO fans can rejoice—following the co-headliner, the band will continue the celebration of their five-decade career with two solo shows, each part of the “DEVO: 50 Years of De-Evolution… Continued!” series, with stops in Denver, Colorado and Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Here’s the full itinerary for the DEVO & The B-52s 2025 Tour:
09/24 – Toronto, ON @ Budweiser Stage
09/25 – Clarkston, MI @ Pine Knob Theatre
10/02 – Mansfield, MA @ Xfinity Center
10/04 – Holmdel, NJ @ PNC Bank Arts Center
10/05 – Wantagh, NJ @ Jones Beach Theater
10/16 – Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheater
10/18 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
10/19 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
10/24 – Charlotte, NC @ PNC Music Pavilion
10/25 – Alpharetta, GA @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
11/01 – Austin, TX @ Germania Insurance Amphitheater
11/02 – The Woodlands, TX @ The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
But here’s a point that might stir debate: Some purist fans question whether a "farewell tour" is ever really the end, since bands often reunite for special occasions. What do you think—will this truly be the last dance for DEVO and The B-52s, or could another encore be lurking just over the horizon? Share your thoughts below! Do you love this tour partnership, or would you have chosen a different pair of genre icons to share the stage? Let’s hear your opinions!
