For Josh Hager, the guitarist who has brought fresh energy to Devo, his musical journey is like a vibrant tapestry, intricately woven from a diverse array of influences and transformative experiences.
After joining Devo as a full-time member in 2014 following the death of Bob Casale, Josh has embraced the dual challenge and honor of continuing the artistic legacy of a band known for its groundbreaking sound.
A Life-Changing Encounter
Reflecting on this significant transition, Josh acknowledges the weight of the role he has assumed.
Each performance serves as a reminder of the incredible legacy he’s part of, and there are moments when he finds it hard to believe he’s sharing the stage with Devo.
This incredible opportunity has not only enhanced his musicianship but has also pushed him to adopt a more dynamic and precise approach to guitar playing.
The spark that ignited Josh’s passion for music took place at the tender age of 11.
A friend introduced him to Jimi Hendrix’s *Smash Hits*, and that experience catapulted him and his brother, Paul David Hager, into the world of music, setting them on a path that would define their lives.
Josh’s musical journey included an iconic instrument—his first significant guitar, a 1981 Fender USA Bullet.
Though he sold it in 1984, fate smiled upon him years later when he reunited with the guitar through a chance Facebook connection.
It was stolen but later recovered, and this beloved piece of his history eventually found its way back to him.
In a touching gesture, Josh passed it on to his son, symbolizing the continuation of a family legacy.
Breaking Through Professionally
The late 1980s marked a turning point in Josh’s career.
He delved into heavy metal, experimenting with guitars boasting pointy headstocks while honing his craft.
A pivotal moment came when he joined an alternative band right after finishing high school, pushing him to refine his guitar techniques with a Hamer Phantom A5 GT, a ProCo Rat pedal, and a selection of amplifiers.
A fortuitous meeting with Rivers Cuomo opened the door to a collaboration with Matt Sharp, the former bassist of Weezer.
Although they missed the chance to connect during a tour with The Rentals, several years later, they reunited in Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee.
Over the course of two years, they worked together on crafting Matt’s solo album, marking a critical milestone in Josh’s career.
During his time with Sharp, Josh encountered a unique challenge; he found himself wearing multiple hats as the production opportunities expanded.
With fewer chances to focus solely on guitar, he showcased his versatility by stepping into roles on keyboards and percussion, contributing to a project where his primary instrument wasn’t at the forefront.
The Birth of a Devo Connection
Josh’s journey with Devo began while he was working as a studio producer alongside Gerald Casale.
This collaboration blossomed into an invitation for Josh to help capture the essence of Devo’s distinctive sound for their 2010 album, *Something for Everybody*.
This experience proved invaluable, providing Jamie with insights that paved the way for his future within the band.
As Josh delved deeper into Devo’s unique musical landscape, he began to develop a profound understanding of their artistic vision.
Inspired by his experiences, he sought to implement innovative production techniques similar to those he had admired in mike elizondo’s collaboration with dr. dre.
This newfound perspective not only enriched his work with Devo but also opened up new avenues for creative expression within the band, solidifying his role as a pivotal force in their musical evolution.
After Bob’s passing, Josh realized the depth of skill required to replicate his parts authentically.
Committed to honoring Bob’s legacy while infusing his own nuance into the music, he focused on maintaining precision and capturing the iconic Fender amplifier sound that defined their style.
At the heart of Josh’s sound with Devo lies his guitar.
Initially, he utilized a Gibson L6-S to stay true to the band’s sonic roots.
However, he soon transitioned to the striking yellow J2V2 crafted by Ron Thorn, an instrument that resonates with the legacy of Bob’s iconic Les Paul Custom and adds authenticity to their performances.
With an extensive tour set to launch in May, Josh is filled with anticipation for what lies ahead.
He envisions collaborations with Gerry in the studio for solo projects and hopes to explore his artistic expression, whether under the name Garvy J or his own, continuing to share his evolving musical journey with the world.
Through each chapter of his life, Josh Hager stands as a testament to resilience, creativity, and respect for musical heritage.
His dedication and passion inspire those around him, making his story one of true artistic evolution.