Mark Mothersbaugh, the frontman of Devo, recently spoke about his close relationship with the late comedian Paul Reubens, particularly during their collaboration on the beloved Pee-wee’s Playhouse series and the movie “Pee-wee’s Big Holiday” in 2016. In an interview with Yahoo Music, Mothersbaugh fondly remembers how Reubens provided him with a significant career opportunity by offering him a break on Pee-wee’s Playhouse, a decision that would have a profound impact on his trajectory in the music industry.
Their partnership began with the 1980 film “Pray TV,” where Devo starred as a futuristic band and Reubens played his first film role. Although initially intended for Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, Mothersbaugh’s involvement had to be postponed due to scheduling conflicts, and Danny Elfman took on the music for that film. However, this setback led to Mothersbaugh’s eventual role as the composer for Pee-wee’s Playhouse.
According to Mothersbaugh, Reubens’ instructions for the music were straightforward but powerful: to make it extremely sad for sad scenes, incredibly happy for joyful moments, and intensely shocking for dramatic events. Reubens was adamant about pushing the boundaries and embracing extremes in every aspect of the show.
The collaboration was a perfect match, creating an ideal working environment that encouraged Mothersbaugh to continue working in television. Reubens’ willingness to take a chance on someone new to scoring TV shows showcased their shared willingness to think outside the box. It was an unconventional show that allowed them to explore their artistic freedom fully. Mothersbaugh compares it to the innovative energy and enthusiasm found in “Yo Gabba Gabba!”
Mothersbaugh expresses his shock and sadness over Reubens’ passing, as they had been discussing potential plans for an animated version of Pee-wee’s Playhouse before his death.
In conclusion, Mothersbaugh fondly recalls his time working with Paul Reubens and the impact it had on his career, emphasizing the uniqueness and artistic freedom of their collaboration on Pee-wee’s Playhouse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Collaboration
Question: Who is Mark Mothersbaugh and what is his connection to Paul Reubens?
Answer: Mark Mothersbaugh is the frontman of Devo and a renowned composer. He collaborated with Paul Reubens on the Pee-wee’s Playhouse series and the movie “Pee-wee’s Big Holiday,” which significantly influenced his career.
Question: How did Mark Mothersbaugh get involved in Pee-wee’s Playhouse?
Answer: Mark Mothersbaugh’s collaboration with Paul Reubens began when they worked together on the film “Pray TV.” Although initially intended for Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, scheduling conflicts led to Mothersbaugh providing the music for Pee-wee’s Playhouse instead.
Question: What were Paul Reubens’ instructions to Mark Mothersbaugh for the show’s music?
Answer: Reubens asked Mothersbaugh to make the music extremely sad for sad scenes, incredibly happy for joyful moments, and intensely shocking for dramatic events, emphasizing a preference for extremes.
Question: How did the partnership between Mark Mothersbaugh and Paul Reubens influence the TV show?
Answer: The collaboration created an ideal working environment that encouraged Mothersbaugh to remain in TV. They both thought outside the box, embracing artistic freedom, resulting in a unique show that remains fondly remembered.
Question: How did Mark Mothersbaugh feel about Paul Reubens’ passing?
Answer: Mark Mothersbaugh expressed shock and sadness over Paul Reubens’ death, especially as they had been discussing plans for an animated version of Pee-wee’s Playhouse before his passing.
More about Collaboration
- Yahoo Music Interview with Mark Mothersbaugh
- Wikipedia: Pee-wee’s Playhouse
- Wikipedia: Mark Mothersbaugh
- Wikipedia: Paul Reubens
- IMDb: Pee-wee’s Big Adventure
- IMDb: Pee-wee’s Big Holiday
- IMDb: Pray TV
- IMDb: Wes Anderson
- IMDb: Thor: Ragnarok
- Yo Gabba Gabba!
