Was (Not Was)

Was (Not Was) is an eccentric pop group originating from Detroit, Michigan, known for its melding of funk and absurdity. Founded in 1979 by David Weiss and Don Fagenson, the band achieved recognition for its unique sound and incorporation of diverse musical elements, including rock, disco, and beat poetry. Their nearly three decades of activity, with a period of hiatus and subsequent reunion, cemented their place as a distinctive force in American music.

History

David Weiss (David Was) and Don Fagenson (Don Was) formed Was (Not Was) in 1979, a decision partially influenced by Fagenson’s financial circumstances. The band’s name itself originated from a playful contradiction employed by Fagenson’s son, who enjoyed negating simple statements with “not.” Their initial foray into recording resulted in "Wheel Me Out," a 12-inch dance single released on the avant-garde Ze Records label. This early work established a foundation for their experimental approach to music, blending diverse genres and incorporating unconventional lyrical content. The group’s formation was a collaborative effort, drawing on the existing musical connections and shared experiences of Weiss and Fagenson, who had been childhood friends growing up in the Detroit suburbs.

The band’s debut album, *Was (Not Was)*, released in 1981, further solidified their distinctive style. It was a complex amalgamation of rock, disco, Weiss’s spoken-word poetry, commentary on the political climate of the Reagan era, and jazz influences. Crucially, the album featured vocal contributions from Harry Bowens and "Sweet Pea" Atkinson, who became integral to the band’s sound with their soulful vocals and ability to deliver both absurd and heartfelt performances. Guest musicians included Wayne Kramer of the MC5 on guitar and Doug Feiger of The Knack on vocals, demonstrating the band’s willingness to collaborate with established artists from the Detroit music scene. Was (Not Was) was active from 1979 to 1992, then again from 2004 to the present.

Geography

Was (Not Was) is fundamentally a Detroit-based musical project. The band’s origins lie in the suburban areas of the city, where David Weiss and Don Fagenson developed their friendship and musical partnership. While their influence extended beyond the geographical boundaries of Detroit through touring and recording, the city’s musical landscape played a significant role in shaping their artistic identity. The diverse musical traditions of Detroit, encompassing Motown, jazz, and rock, provided a fertile ground for the band’s experimentation and genre-bending approach.

The specific neighborhoods within Detroit that influenced the band are not explicitly detailed in available sources, but the broader context of the city’s cultural and musical history is relevant. Detroit’s post-industrial environment in the late 1970s and early 1980s, marked by economic decline and social change, likely informed the band’s lyrical content and artistic sensibility. The city’s vibrant underground music scene, characterized by a spirit of innovation and collaboration, provided a supportive environment for Was (Not Was) to develop their unique sound. The band’s connection to Detroit is further emphasized by the involvement of other prominent Detroit musicians in their recordings and performances.

Culture

Was (Not Was) distinguished itself through a deliberate embrace of absurdity and a playful subversion of musical conventions. Their music often juxtaposed soulful vocals with surreal and unconventional lyrics, creating a unique and often humorous listening experience. This approach reflected a broader cultural trend of postmodernism, which challenged traditional notions of artistic expression and embraced irony and self-awareness. The band’s willingness to experiment with different genres and incorporate elements of beat poetry and spoken word further contributed to their distinctive cultural identity.

The band's cultural impact extends beyond their musical output. Don Was, in particular, gained recognition as a producer, working with notable artists such as The B-52's and The Rolling Stones. This work broadened his influence within the music industry and helped to shape the sound of popular music in the 1990s and beyond. Was (Not Was)’s embrace of eclecticism and their willingness to challenge genre boundaries resonated with audiences who were seeking alternative and innovative musical experiences. Their music often served as a commentary on contemporary society, addressing themes of politics, consumerism, and social alienation.

Notable Residents

While Was (Not Was) is a collective entity, the contributions of David Weiss and Don Fagenson are central to the band’s identity. David Weiss, also known as David Was, is a key figure in the band’s songwriting and lyrical content. Don Fagenson, known as Don Was, is recognized not only for his role in the band but also for his successful career as a record producer. Both Weiss and Fagenson grew up in the Detroit metropolitan area, establishing a lifelong connection to the city and its musical community.

Other notable individuals associated with Was (Not Was) include Harry Bowens and "Sweet Pea" Atkinson, who served as the band’s primary vocalists. Their distinctive vocal styles and stage presence were crucial to the band’s success. Wayne Kramer, a member of the influential Detroit proto-punk band the MC5, contributed his guitar skills to the band’s early recordings. Doug Feiger, from the power pop band The Knack, also lent his vocal talents to the band’s debut album. James Gadson, a highly respected session drummer, was also a member of the band. These collaborations highlight the band’s connections to other prominent figures in the Detroit music scene.

See Also

• Motown – The influential record label that shaped the sound of Detroit music.
• MC5 – A Detroit-based proto-punk band that influenced the city’s musical landscape.
• The Knack – A power pop band with ties to the Detroit music scene.
• Ze Records – The avant-garde record label that released Was (Not Was)’s early work.