Synopsis

There does not appear to be a standalone Devo music video for "Be Stiff." Instead, the song serves as the soundtrack to promotional footage for Stiff Records' 1978 Be Stiff Tour. The film follows the label's performers as they gather at London's Olympia station and board a special train, presenting the tour as a traveling pop spectacle. Brief documentary-style glimpses of the artists, railway journey, publicity activity, and tour preparations capture the deliberately eccentric spirit of Stiff Records.

Factoids & Trivia

• "Be Stiff" was released as a single by Stiff Records on August 4, 1978, and was also included on Devo's B Stiff EP.

• The song originated during sessions associated with Devo's debut album, Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!, and its single version was produced by Brian Eno.

• Stiff Records named its 1978 package tour after the song. The Be Stiff Tour featured Wreckless Eric, Lene Lovich, Jona Lewie, Mickey Jupp, and Rachel Sweet.

• The British leg ran from October 10 through November 19, 1978. The performers traveled between mainland dates by a specially arranged train, turning the journey itself into part of the promotion.

• The tour's artists recorded their own versions of "Be Stiff" for a promotional EP. The recordings were made during a soundcheck using the Stiff mobile studio.

• The song became an unofficial Stiff Records anthem. The complete touring ensemble performed it as a finale, while Lene Lovich's version reportedly remained close enough to Devo's original to be used as the concert encore.

• Toni Basil later recorded "Be Stiff" with Devo members contributing the backing track and chorus.