The three music sensations that made Akron, Ohio famous join together for the first time in the important battleground state.

In the middle of an arts revitalization movement, Akron plays host to the music legends who are coming home to show their support for presidential candidate Barack Obama.

After 30 years away from Ohio, DEVO organized this effort.

The show happens Friday, October 17, 2008 8pm at the Akron Civic Theatre.

Twenty electoral votes are up for grabs in the swing state, and winning Ohio could play a pivotal role in winning the upcoming presidential election. With John McCain’s campaign recently pulling out of Michigan in an effort to place more resources in states such as Ohio, band members have been persuaded to show their support through a dual act.

“Ohio is where we need to be,” said Mark Mothersbaugh, DEVO co-founder and frontman. “We hope to make an impact with this concert, and raise consciousness to what’s happened in Ohio in the past eight years. I think that Barack Obama and Joe Biden are our only hope. That’s why we are here.”

The founding members of DEVO sprang from Akron in the 1970s at a time when the city was in a severe recession and dealing with the after-effects of a failed war.

The Black Keys, a new addition to the ticket, have been a rising sensation in Akron throughout the past decade, also a time of national economic hardships and an on-going war.

All proceeds will benefit the Summit County Democratic Party.

A limited number of tickets are on sale now at the Akron Civic Theatre Box Office by calling 330.253.2488 or visiting akroncivic.com. Reserved seats are available for $25, $35 and $50. A limited number of V.I.P. tickets, which include a post show reception with the bands, are available for $150.