The Cars burst onto the music scene in the late 1970s, quickly becoming synonymous with the new wave movement. Blending catchy pop hooks with art-rock sensibilities and Ric Ocasek’s distinctive vocals, they crafted a sound that was both commercially successful and critically acclaimed. For those looking to dive into their discography, or simply revisit some classics, here’s a guide to some of the best Songs By The Cars that cemented their place in music history.
“Just What I Needed” (The Cars, 1978): It’s impossible to talk about The Cars without mentioning their debut single, “Just What I Needed.” From the opening guitar riff to the perfectly crafted power-pop chorus, this song is an instant earworm. It perfectly encapsulates the band’s ability to blend raw energy with polished studio production. “Just What I Needed” wasn’t just a hit; it was a statement of intent, announcing The Cars as a major force in the burgeoning new wave scene. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and infectious enthusiasm. The song’s story is straightforward – wanting someone who isn’t necessarily good for you, but exactly what you desire – a relatable theme that resonates across generations.
“My Best Friend’s Girl” (The Cars, 1978): Also from their self-titled debut, “My Best Friend’s Girl” showcases another facet of The Cars’ musical prowess. While “Just What I Needed” is raw and energetic, “My Best Friend’s Girl” is more nuanced, incorporating elements of 50s rock and roll with a distinctly modern twist. The handclaps, the Buddy Holly-esque guitar solo, and the slightly melancholic undertone create a song that’s both fun and introspective. The narrative, about unrequited love and longing for a friend’s girlfriend, is delivered with a wry sense of humor that is characteristic of Ric Ocasek’s songwriting. This song further solidified The Cars’ reputation for crafting intelligent and engaging pop music.
“Good Times Roll” (The Cars, 1978): Completing the trifecta of hits from their debut album, “Good Times Roll” is a masterclass in new wave cool. The song’s laid-back groove, punctuated by Elliot Easton’s signature guitar licks and Greg Hawkes’ quirky keyboard flourishes, creates an atmosphere of detached irony. Ocasek’s deadpan vocals perfectly complement the song’s cynical yet catchy lyrics, which seem to both celebrate and critique the pursuit of fleeting pleasures. “Good Times Roll” is a song that you can dance to while simultaneously pondering its deeper meaning – a hallmark of The Cars’ best work.
“Candy-O” (Candy-O, 1979): Moving into their sophomore album, Candy-O, the title track is a prime example of The Cars pushing their sound further. “Candy-O” is darker and more angular than their debut hits, with a driving rhythm section and a sense of underlying tension. The song is named after Alberto Vargas’ pin-up illustration featured on the album cover, and the music reflects that visual – sleek, stylish, and slightly dangerous. The lyrics are more abstract and suggestive than their earlier work, contributing to the song’s enigmatic and alluring quality. “Candy-O” showed that The Cars were not content to rest on their laurels, but were constantly evolving their sound.
“Let’s Go” (Candy-O, 1979): Despite the darker tone of the Candy-O album overall, “Let’s Go” is an undeniably upbeat and energetic track. Driven by a powerful bassline and a driving drumbeat, the song is pure new wave energy. The call-and-response vocals between Ocasek and the backing singers add to the song’s infectiousness, making it a perfect singalong anthem. “Let’s Go” is a testament to The Cars’ ability to balance their art-rock inclinations with their pop sensibilities, creating music that was both intellectually stimulating and viscerally exciting.
“Shake It Up” (Shake It Up, 1981): The title track from their fourth album, “Shake It Up,” is another example of The Cars’ knack for crafting irresistible pop hooks. This song is lighter and more overtly pop-oriented than some of their earlier work, showcasing a polished and radio-friendly sound. The breezy melody and upbeat tempo make it perfect for cruising down the highway with the windows down. While perhaps not as deep as some of their other songs, “Shake It Up” is pure fun and exemplifies The Cars’ ability to adapt and evolve their sound while maintaining their core identity.
“Drive” (Heartbeat City, 1984): “Drive” is arguably The Cars’ most iconic and emotionally resonant song. A departure from their typically upbeat and energetic style, “Drive” is a slow, melancholic ballad driven by Greg Hawkes’ haunting synthesizer melody and Ric Ocasek’s vulnerable vocals. The song gained even greater prominence through its use in a memorable MTV video highlighting the Ethiopian famine crisis, further amplifying its emotional impact. “Drive” showcased The Cars’ versatility and their ability to connect with listeners on a deeper emotional level, proving they were more than just a new wave hit machine.
“You Might Think” (Heartbeat City, 1984): In stark contrast to “Drive,” “You Might Think” is a return to The Cars’ more playful and quirky side. This song is characterized by its innovative use of synthesizers, catchy melody, and humorous lyrics. The music video for “You Might Think” was groundbreaking for its early use of computer animation, winning the MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year in 1984. The song itself is a clever and witty take on infatuation and romantic pursuit, delivered with The Cars’ signature blend of irony and charm.
Conclusion:
The Cars left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the late 70s and 80s. Their ability to fuse new wave, pop, and rock elements into a cohesive and innovative sound set them apart from their contemporaries. From the raw energy of “Just What I Needed” to the emotional depth of “Drive,” the best songs by The Cars demonstrate their range, their songwriting prowess, and their enduring appeal. Exploring their catalog is a rewarding journey for any music lover seeking intelligent, catchy, and undeniably cool tunes. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, these songs are the perfect starting point to appreciate the brilliance of The Cars.
