Was (Not Was) Members, Gear & Sound

Members

Select a Was (Not Was) band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

Wayne Kramer

Roles:

Guitarist

Groups:

MC5 Pere Ubu The Motorcity Badboys MC50 Mad for the Racket Tino G's Dumpster Machine Orquestra Was L.A.M.F. Dodge Main Gang War

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Randy Jacobs

Roles:

Guitarist Music Producer

Groups:

General Public Death Row Players Orquestra Was

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Don Was

Roles:

Bassist

Groups:

The Detroit Wasmopolitan Mixing Squad Bob Weir and Wolf Bros. Peace Choir The All Star Band Orquestra Was Detroit Panthers

Needs more gear

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David McMurray

Roles:

Saxophonist

Groups:

Bob James Quintet The Twisted Brown Trucker Tino G's Dumpster Machine BJMcSwift Orquestra Was

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David Was

Roles:

Singer Music Producer

Groups:

Detroit Panthers

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Rayse Biggs

Roles:

Trumpeter

Groups:

The Twisted Brown Trucker

No gear added

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Harry Bowens

Roles:

Singer

Groups:

Orquestra Was

No gear added

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Sweet Pea Atkinson

Roles:

Singer

Groups:

Orquestra Was

No gear added

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Buster Marbury

Roles:

Drummer

No gear added

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Tony Patler

Roles:

Keyboardist

No gear added

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Anthony Was

Roles:

Singer

Groups:

Orquestra Was

No gear added

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About

Was (Not Was) is a genre-defying musical group formed in the late 1970s by Don Was (bass, production) and David Was (flute, lyrics) in Detroit, Michigan. Known for their eclectic blend of funk, dance, and rock, the band frequently featured a revolving door of talented musicians, including vocalists Sweet Pea Atkinson and Sir Harry Bowens. Their offbeat and often surreal songwriting, combined with infectious grooves, set them apart in the music world. While their lineup has varied over the years, the core duo of Don and David Was remained the creative force behind hits like "Walk the Dinosaur" and "Spy in the House of Love."

How to Sound Like Was (Not Was)

Was (Not Was) is celebrated for its quirky yet groove-laden sound, characterized by a seamless fusion of tight funk rhythms and eccentric lyrical themes. Their music often features a blend of clean, rhythmic guitar work with elements of brass and synthesizers, creating a rich, layered texture. The Fender '62 Stratocaster Reissue used by guitarist Randy Jacobs contributes to the band’s crisp, punchy guitar tones. Meanwhile, the use of the Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone adds a vibrant, soulful touch to their compositions. For those aiming to emulate Was (Not Was)'s lively and unpredictable soundscape, experimenting with funk-driven guitar riffs and dynamic horn sections can capture the essence of their distinct musical identity.

Discography

Was (Not Was) [Expanded Edition]

1981

Born To Laugh At Tornadoes

1983

What Up, Dog?

1988

Are You Okay?

1990

Boo! (Expanded Edition)

2008

Get the Was (Not Was) Sound

Want to sound like Was (Not Was)? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.