FRONTMAN Wrote BEST SONG of His LIFE--But LET 2nd Vocalist in Band SING it…Hit #1!-Professor of Rock
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- Опубліковано 8 лют 2025
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Shrouded in mystery, Drive by The Cars is one of the most enigmatic songs of the 80s. Laced with alcoholic implications and featuring a self-destructing object of affection… listening to Drive is like listening to a ticking time bomb. It’s melancholy, hypnotic… and highly addictive. This is one of those songs you can just play on repeat for hours… It’s 80s nostalgia at its best. Written by iconic singer Ric Ocasek who felt it might be the best song he’d ever written, yet he kept it off his solo album because he thought his Cars co-vocalist Ben Orr would perform it better… It became The Cars' biggest hit even though recording it took forever thanks to their perfectionist producer Mutt Lange… But what’s the real story of this song? Did the tragedy portrayed in the song actually happen? Did the hot and heavy relationship between Ocasek and the model in Drive’s music video last? We unravel this song’s enduring mystery, NEXT on the Professor of Rock.
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Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you remember trying to talk your parents into getting you Flinstones cereal or any other sugary cereal at the grocery store You’ll dig this channel of deep musical nostalgia. Make sure to subscribe below right now. We also have a patreon you'll want to check out. There you’ll find an additional catalog of exclusive content and you can even become an honorary producer to help us curate this music history.
So it’s time for another edition of our series The New Standards. This show takes an in-depth look into songs that transcend genre, decade, and fads - songs that are monumental touchstones in our culture and society. Today we’re bringing you The Cars and their classic 80s hit Drive from their 1984 synthesized, power pop masterpiece: Heartbeat City.
The Cars consisted of singer, songwriter, and guitarist Ric Ocasek, lead guitarist Elliot Easton, keyboardist Greg Hawkes, drummer David Robinson, and bassist and co-lead vocalist Benjamin Orr. This iconic outfit had partnered with producer Roy Thomas Baker for their first four records: their self-titled debut in 1978, Candy-O in 1979, Panorama in 1980, and Shake It Up in 1981. For their fifth album, initially titled ‘Who’s Gonna Drive You Home?’ and later changed to Heartbeat City, The Cars joined forces with the talented Robert John “Mutt” Lange. Coming off blockbuster records with AC/DC, Def Leppard, and Foreigner, Lange was on a massive hot streak. And the Cars were about to reap the benefits.
The choice to work with Mutt would prove to be highly profitable for the band. However, as they would discover, there were some serious drawbacks as well. Particularly, when it came to Mutt’s obsessive nature. In the summer of 1983 Ocasek and company convened in London at Battery Studios with the producer. Accustomed to recording albums in the span of a month or two, they signed up for a two-month commitment. Six months later, the band learned firsthand just how meticulous and exacting Lange’s methods were… He would continually refine every detail in every song...
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The Fab Four
REM
Beach Boys for me. Sad about it to this day.
David Lee Roth, leaving Van Halen.
Menudo!
Benjamin Orr's "Stay The Night" is one of the most criminally under-rated and overlooked songs of the '80s!
💯 completely underrated
Benjamin Orr had an amazing voice.
One of my favorites ever. So expressive.
He was so tragically underrated .😢
@@jllucci Amen!
I wish Orr had been allowed to sing more of Ocasek's songs. All my favorite Cars tunes are sung by him.
Ocasek is a genius, but his voice wasn't on Orr's level.
Pete Townsend, on the other hand, knew that Roger was the superior voice for 90% of what he wrote for The Who. What if...
@@carlodave9 Truly. I love almost every Cars song. But I think many would have been even better if Benjamin had sung on them instead of Ric. "Why Can't I Have You", "Magic", "Since You're Gone" and several more would have kicked up a notch with Benjamin on lead vocal.
I don't think that many people realize just how far back Ric and Ben went. Back to when Ben, as the front man for a band called "The Grasshoppers", who were the house band for a local rock show in Cleveland on WEWS-TV. One of my high school friends, growing up in the suburbs of Cleveland, was Ben's nephew, and because he was a big metal fan, he seemed almost embarrassed to admit it. Ben and Ric would later collaborate on a couple of bands in the late 60s in Columbus, playing the bars in the OSU neighborhood (where I live today) before going their own ways for a time, and then crossing paths again in Boston, where they put together The Cars. When you've known someone for 20 years, been in bands with them for most of that time, it's certainly going to create some friction.
I'm glad that they patched up their relationship before Ben passed. That photo you used, with Ben wearing his Cleveland Browns shirt, made me smile because Ben never shied away from his Cleveland roots, even in years when it would have been more of a joke to most. It seemed incredibly fitting to me that the year that The Cars were inducted into the Rock Hall was one of the years when the ceremony was in Cleveland, and it was bittersweet that he wasn't there, in his hometown, to accept the honor, but his family was able to be. And I am glad that Ric was there, just about a mile from the WEWS studios where he and Ben first met, though we did end up losing him not long after.
Just curious. I’ve read Ben’s biography. Ben grew up an only child. Not only that but he had half siblings he wasn’t aware of. The only one he connected with was a half brother Chuck and it was later in life. So when was this?
Ric Ocasek said it best...when a song needed a great voice, Ben sang it. Both guys were great frontmen for The Cars.
He said something like... if it's a good song he (Ric) sings it, if it's a great song, Ben sings it. In the context of this song, he was bigging himself up a bit. It may have been thought Drive would be a moderate hit, but it's unlikely Ric or anyone else thought it would be such a success at the time it was released. It was the third single from Heartbeat City, so if they thought this would be their most popular song, that's a strange thing to do. Also, The Cars were known for quirky pop songs and New Wave stuff, not ballads. There wasn't a great deal of publicity and build up for it in comparison to the first two singles and the international success they weren't expecting either. They certainly couldn't have predicted Live Aid and again there was very little international promotion and no touring. All in all Drive was probably a surprise hit for the Cars.
@@PrintNewsFogey If Bdubbin got the wording right, Ocasek was not "bigging himself up a bit", nor was it any reflection on whether or not it was a "great song" or would be a big hit. It was the simple truth. Some songs call for great voices. Imagine Boston's definitive recording of "More Than a Feeling" without Brad Delpy.
@@serendipityshopnyc It's partly right. Ocasek clearly thought carefully about selecting the appropriate voice for his songs. Great/ emotive song = Ben sings it. But he also had a penchant for twisting his wording, i.e. exaggerating to make himself look good. In this case, to make out he knowingly saved his best song for Ben to sing. He'd do that quite a lot.
@@PrintNewsFogey I don't grudge it to him. RIP to both of these great musicians.
@@PrintNewsFogeyno I don’t agree, he did not big himself up he was just a nice guy, people like that do exists
I absolutely adored Benjamin.
RIP Bejamin Orr and Rik Ocasek Thankyoufor the music!!
Amen!
Amen... ❤💔
* Ric Ocasek
the Cars were my biggest influence as a song writer, bass player and Singer. Ben Orr doesn't get the accolades like other bass player singers, Geddy Lee, Jack Bruce, and Sir Paul! Like you said Ben Orr was the epitome of cool. Man I miss him, and the Cars!
Benjamin Orr had an amazing voice. ♥♥♥
I'm with you. If only we could go back to the '80s. Not only was life simpler but the music was 100 times better.
Amen!
Yes indeed! Let’s go back!
Haha, so great that they had to run commercials to remind parents they had children. Out there. Somewhere. 😆
80's sounding music is still made. In fact I would argue more 70's/80's style music is made now than ever. See, the thing is, Rock music was once on the top but when new genres were created, the children of those who loved rock flocked to those new sounds. Its just the evolution of music. But rock never died. No genre just disappears. it was only pushed to the background where only the real rock nerds have had their fill for decades while the casual fans complain rock is dead in YT comment sections lol. When rock was popular you had Radio/TV shoving it in your face and you didn't really have to work at all to find new rock music. But Rock is not on the top anymore so its not being spoon fed to you. YOU HAVE TO WORK AND FIND NEW ROCK MUSIC! Do some research on smaller labels who deal with the rock genres you enjoy. Most of them have gone to bandcamp which has become the go to for Rock/Metal labels to showcase/sell their bands.
@angelbear_og, and now they run commercials to tell them don't leave kids in their cars!!
For me the song has always been about an inner drive and self-reflection, sung by a man with the voice of an angel in Benjamin Orr.
Benjamin Orr's solo album The Lace is fantastic! It's definitely a forgotten classic to me. His voice is amazing. RIP!
Dude I swear you're one of the, if not THE best storytellers of our generation.
Watching your videos not only reminds me of what it meant to us growing up in the 80's, but it reminds me of what it feels like to be human again.
We are the last generation that lived in a time where society largely still agreed on the meaning of life, and we were free to experience what life has to offer without the worries of today.
The "end" of the world was still an idea meant for the big screen, and to us it seemed like a different timeline - one that we are now living.
Wow. I will cherish this comment for the long haul. Thank you!
It's only the end of the world if we allow it! Keep fighting!
I love and wholeheartedly _love_ what you wrote, BrokePrepper!
I love your name too, as I am myself a "broke prepper". I live off-grid (17 years of no electric bills! I love solar/wind power!!) on a mountain on a meager income, then my car broke down 4 months ago and I have to save up enough cash to get it fixed.
Being a prepper meant I had food for me and my disabled son for those 4 months, but I finally accepted help from a nice lady who didn't even know me. She's giving me a ride to town again on Monday!
Funny thing is, I know we disagree politically and we are both aware of that, so we never mention politics. We are old, and both were raised by parents who taught us that it's rude to force our opinions about religion and politics on others. I just discuss those things online with like-minded individuals whom I don't know. That's where I vent my frustration! 😉
I still say I would love to see you on the #KellyClarksonShow. She "in my opinion" has referenced things you have said so she has to be a fan too. And just to see you get your due on a bigger platform would be awesome. Love ya dude and all your stories especially the ones about your dad. Plz never stop. Much love from a nutty fan ♥️@@ProfessorofRock
Pay phones
The Cars were always one of my favorite bands.
Rick was right to let Ben have this song. His voice was perfect for it. I'm glad he had the insight & humility to do that. The Cars were a perfect power-pop band. I was really saddened when they broke-up.
It was really sad because, when Benjamin Orr passed, we knew it would NEVER be the same.
I agree. Ric's voice wasn't suited for this kind of song. It wouldn't have been tehe same.
His voice was the punch this song needed..
I agree and can't imagine this song with a different voice. Embarrassingly, I always thought that Ric Ocasek was the sole voice of The Cars! I was dumbfounded when I learned that Benjamin Orr sang so many of my favorite Cars songs-after watching a different Professor of Rock video, of course. Having been born in 1968, I know a lot about all the songs explored on this channel, but I know nothing compared to Professor of Rock. I always learn so much here and am grateful.
Benjamin Orr had the only voice that could do this song justice. Rik's voice was quirky and interesting but Benjamin's was the heart and soul. His voice was stunning. I would also question the caption of this video saying the "frontman" let the "second vocalist" sing it. They were co-lead vocalists and I dare say as far as frontmen go, nobody could take their eyes off Benjamin Orr. He was absolutely gorgeous and had more charisma and stage presence by far.
Drive is one of the greatest songs ever written. It's an absolute gem.
I was deeply saddened when I heard Ben had passed. I also thought not enough recognition was given. Well at least everyone on here acknowledges what an amazing voice Ben had and were upset to hear he was gone. RIP Ben.
He was so talented loved his voice and drive has always been one of my favorite songs 😢
Moving in Stereo on a badd ass surround sound needs to be on your bucket list to hear
By most accounts Ben Orr was a kind soul and a gentleman. A typical description of Ben Orr: He never forgot where he came from. Rest in peace Benjamin Orr.
I've heard that so often about him. Super nice and humble. You don't find very many in that business like him.
Ric chose the perfect band mate to sing this song.
Benjamin Orr was definitely an underrated vocalist and both “Drive” and his solo song “Stay The Night” are proof of that.
Amen!
He can really sing.
Geez, I didn’t make that connection until your comment! Sweet!
Rik's voice had about as much warmth as a buzz from an alarm clock. Orr was far better vocally.
I think I know what you mean, but the HUGE success of the single, 'Drive,' in America and abroad; the success of his own single and video, 'Stay The Night,' too, aren't what I think of as being "underrated."
Benjamin Orr got further and further pushed into the background, until he became obscure. He is more under-acknowledged, under-recognized, under appreciated, and the like.
Hard to believe that they never had a #1 hit!!
I was fortunate enough to see The Cars in '79, '84, '87 and 2011(without Ben). I even had tickets for The New Cars, but Elliott broke his arm, a week before. Sometime in the late 80's, I recorded Drive, on cassette in Niagara Falls. My youngest daughter heard me singing the song on it one day, while I was at work. When I walked in the door, she stood there looking at me, with teary eyes, ran towards me and hugged me, telling me everything was going to be okay. She felt so sad for me for singing the song. My baby girl is now 34, with 2 kids. Time flies.
That's my memory.
Totally agree, Benjamin Orr's passing deserved more than the footnote he got. Great singer(s), great band. Miss them so much.
I think so many people don't realize what a force Benjamin Orr was in this band. Incredible and only got to be on Earth until he was 53.
I cannot agree more with your assessment of Benjamin Orr. He had a fantastic voice, yet he never let himself get out of control with it. He knew how to bring life to a song with having to scream, and he sang lead on a lot of my favorite Cars songs (Just What I Needed, Bye Bye Love, Drive, and others).
I remember being in the US Army when this song came out sitting in the bar with a fellow solider and he told me this is the new direction that music is going. I wasn't too sure about that , but I liked the song. Then I went to a friends wedding and the cover band they hired started playing the Cars. That's when I told myself Damn he was right. great music, great times we had playing thier lps.
I love Orr's 'Stay the Night'
Can't imagine anyone but Benjamin Orr singing this song. His voice and intonation are perfect for it.
Drive is a great song, and Ben was meant to sing it. I love the song. But I can't take away from Rik's contribution either. He was so fun. "You might Think" was a favorite of mine as well. Basically, I can't really think of a BAD card song. 80s at its best. Much love to the band and the great times had by me as a child. ❤
Benjamin Orr's voice is absolute perfection
"Music is the closest thing we have to a time machine"... Thats so true & 1 of the best quotes ever!
Thanks!
@@ProfessorofRock I have an ongoing late night musical conversation this cool, maybe late 20s younger guy who's always behind the counter at the 7-eleven down the street when i pop in and no one else ever comes in while i'm there. The other night i told him that you can watch a movie, you can play a video, but only music has such a really mysterious, singular and primal power. Probably in some way owing to its relation to the human heartbeat. And when you hear the song, its effect can so emotionally powerful that it can actually take you right back to the event, no matter how long ago how distant or how deep within your recesses, and for one little fleeting moment you can step back into YOUR OWN EYES and actually feel the experience again.
RIP Rick and Ben... I drove 16 hours (Fla. to Ky.), listening to The Cars greatest Hits...
These guys were certainly one of the groups who ruled the 80s! Loved them, especially “Drive”.
Such a great song. Perfect really.
I have the same feeling about this song, it evokes such powerful emotions in me, yearning to go back when everything was new, exciting and romantic. Definitely a time machine track. Great job as always!
Hats off to Ocasek for letting Orr take lead vocals on "Drive". It feels like we're hearing a mystery person's autobiography, and we're never meant to know who it is.
Great way of putting it. Who's your favorite of the two singers?
@@ProfessorofRock Oof, hard question to answer, each voice brings something so different. I like each equally.
@@christineml1476 yeah, feels you need both to have things complete.
I gather Rick never said anything about its meaning or basis?
Great way of putting it Christine.
Without question, the 80s radio wouldn’t be the same without the Cars. At the Newport Beach scene, the Cars were blasting on just about every boombox at one time or another throughout the day.
Ben really was one of the great rock voices ever and I'm a little sad he doesn't seem to get the recognition for it. Perhaps it's because Ric sang a slight majority of their songs. But people are often surprised to find out how many of their biggest hits were sung by Ben.
Ric only sang more in the later years, and keep the best songs to himself at that point. In the first 2 Albums songs and potential hits were split fairly equally. He had to give Ben this song because it took a real voice to sing it. Wouldn’t have worked with Ric’s quirky singing style.
That's the whole point: Ric wouldn't give anymore good songs to Ben. Ric would NEVER admit how much he used Ben in order to become a rock star. Ric needed Ben. and for those who think, then write your own songs -- the band members did try to write lyrics, control freak Ric wouldn't let them.
The cars didn't need ric. Ric needed all the cars. And that's why Ric was the resident writer: to keep total control
@@phalangeish Exactly. He reminded me of how Tom Scholz had to stay in control of Boston.
@@phalangeish Absolutely agree with most of what you say for sure, and I think the lack of Ben singing more potential hits started the demise of the band's success. But The Cars needed Ric's quirky weird lyrics-that was part of their unique identity as well as their unique musical sound. And Ben, from all I've read, was not confident writing lyrics, he collaborated with the girlfriend on his solo album, and that worked quite well, which is why he asked Ric if he and the GF could contribute songs. Greg Hawkes was credited with co-writing some of The Cars songs with Ric. I've never heard much about Elliot or David wanting to write songs. I think they all needed each other and that's why in the end, it all went downhill fast when Ric took over.
Remember hearing "Your All I've Got Tonight" for the first time. The Cars sounded completely different than anyone else at the time but they still rocked!
One of the best debut albums ever!
There are so many great bands through time...but there was just something about The Cars. Their sound. Unique. Refreshing. Ahead of our times. Knowing a new Cars album was coming out...was an event. To me, they were one of the largest parts of my 20's and I love their music more today than I did then...and that's almost impossible. I guess it's just because I appreciate them more now, having had some of the best years of my life blessed with their great music, still timeless today.
July of 83 my hi school sweetheart broke up with me, sitting on hood of my car, while Drive was playing on radio. She was off to college several states away in a few weeks and wanted "options." Broke my heart but knew she was right. 25 years later a group of us classmates got together at a bar for our own reunion of sorts. She and I reconnected there and I had Drive played on the karaoke/jukebox. She instantly "apologized" for "that night" and I told her she had no reason to. That was 16 years ago..we've been together ever since. Drive broke us up, Drive brought us back together, and Drive was our wedding dance song. Anytime we're on the road, it gets played. Drive is definitely our song...
Your story makes me smile. How great is it that things worked out?
That's beautiful
What an awesome happy story. Need more like it.
That is an Awesome story..
So glad u were re-united.
That’s a WONDERFUL happy ending. I’m so happy for you both.
"Drive" is great but "It's All I Can Do" from the Candy-O album is the ultimate Benjamin Orr ballad for me.
I agree! One of my favorite songs ever
One of their best. ❤ The whole band shines on that one.
Ben hated singing that song, which is why they never played it live.
I'm not a fan of "Drive." Candy-0 though... wow! 10/10
@@chrisb9577- Not true, but a popular rumor. Benjamin's voice was so layered - I think the term is overdubbed or dubbed over - that he's harmonizing with himself on the studio track of the song. The audio technology to replicate that outside the studio wasn't really available then, and/or it was too unwieldy for touring. The consensus was the song "wouldn't travel well," and it was dropped from set lists. If anything, Benjamin probably tried the most to get the song to work for live performances. I think he was too professional to refuse to sing a Cars song.
Reportedly, Elliot said in an interview that the band as a whole wasn't thrilled about 'It's All I Can Do' being released as a single, for reasons that I think are ironic: Too much of a ballad; not as upbeat or fast as a usual song by the band; as such, lacking the sound/style of a "Cars" song. Flash forward five years, and 'Drive,' an atypical song from The Cars, was a Huge Hit for them.
I lost the love of my life to a drug overdose. This song always reminds me of the frustration I felt, trying to get him to join me in sobriety. His "friends" wouldn't allow him to choose life.
So sorry. I’m in the middle of this right now with my partner. Sometimes I just want to give up fighting.
And sometimes that's all you can do is separate and get yourself to a place of steadiness
@@markglabinski526 I'm so sorry. Watching the man I had loved for 9 years destroy himself is a heartbreak I wish no one had to endure. There's nothing you can say or do when the addiction is that strong, only they can choose to change.
We were both addicted to crack cocaine in the 1980s. I had a terrifying OD, and was sure I was dying but I recovered. It scared me into getting help. I moved in with my brother because I knew if I was around the stuff I'd keep using until my final OD.
Bert had a wonderful boss who paid for him to go to treatment for 30 days as an inpatient at a rehab hospital. I was so happy! Then he was released, and went straight to his dealer before he even went home. I knew he was lost, but I still pleaded with his mother to convince him to go back to the hospital. She assured me, "Oh, he has a handle on it now, he's fine!"
He died 9 months later, he had a lethal dose of heroin so his disease had progressed.
Tragically, he died on Mother's Day. I was celebrating with my mom when I got the call.
That was 1989, and I'm still not "over" it. Just hearing the first notes of this song got me crying.
I sincerely hope that your loved one realizes that they can change before it's too late. I never used drugs again, I didn't even drink for 13 years. I'll have a beer maybe 4 times a year now, but two is my limit. It's been a year since I've even done that.
BTW, I do not recommend AA. IMO it's a cult and I experienced some very bad things during the 3 years I went to those meetings. They are wrong about so many things, and abusive to boot. There are better self-help groups based on actual science, but it all comes down to learning to be responsible for one's own actions. I would have missed so much had I stayed addicted.
As a favorite singer/songwriter Mary Gauthier sang:
"I love life and life itself could use some Mercy now."🥲
@@markglabinski526this is not a fight we were meant to win, but one we MUST persevere.
Do you believe in God? If so, the best thing you can do is pray the one you're fighting for does also. Never stop praying for them.
Faith is the only thing that can overcome this battle, ESPECIALLY when you think you've lost.
I'm so sorry y'all have had to go through this. I've lost too many friends in my 41 years. I've lost count. I can't even remember everybody anymore. Not merely acquaintances, but true relationships. I'm one of the luckiest people alive to have had the opportunity to love so many people, I wish they were still here but I have faith. They were GOOD people, and they believed in God.
The fight isn't over yet, I'm still praying for them.
So sorry. Peace to you.
The older I get the more I love this band. They are now my favorite band of all time.
I read Benjamin's biography and my esteem for Ben increased immensely. The Cars were my favorite group during the 80's and I listen to Candy-O still. (may be Ben's best work on any album). You are correct that it was almost criminal how little fanfare or attention both their deaths received. RIP Ben ad Rick
Ben Orr was a magnificent singer.
The breakup on The Cars is really the only one that registered with me and when Ben passed, that is when the sadness of the end of The Cars was absolutely finalized.
Of all the untimely rock star deaths that have occurred over the years, Benjamin Orr's passing devastated me as much as any of them. An absolutely impeccable voice. This song and video is a performance for the ages.
This song saved my life. I was in the middle of a horrible breakup. I was so depressed I’m not sure how I was getting out of bed and going to work. I lost 50 lbs in a month. I was a mess. I saw the video and heard the song. It brought me to my knees. The next day I found a really good therapist. I know everyone interprets songs and music differently. I took it literally. I knew I was no longer in the drivers seat. I’m 65 now and when I listen to it I thank God, The Cars and Timothy Hutton for making such a large impact on me. God bless Ben and Ric💜
😢I love them both, but I can't imagine anyone but Benjamin singing "Drive." To me, one of the most moving and best vocal performances of all time.
I had a boyfriend who played the Cars debut album for me. I bought it the next day. Been a fan for so long. I’m almost 60 and still think they are one of the best bands ever. So lucky to have seen them live back in the day.
I've always loved The Cars. From what I understand we were very lucky to have Ben Orr perform as he was a very shy, humble and private person. He did not feel comfortable singing in front of anyone in the beginning. I wonder if he ever overcame that, or simply learned to tolerate feeling uncomfortable and exposed during the live performances. His private life was to remain out of the spotlight by choice, this leads me to believe he never overcame his shyness and remained humble until the end. Either way, I'm certainly thankful he left us his work. Thanks for this video, food for thought about one of my favorite bands.
For me, Drive has morphed into a memorial song for Ben. I'm still bummed by his death back in 2000. The Cars is the only band I've ever considered my absolute favorite band.
The Cars were cool........to everyone. New Wavers, Punks, Metal fans, Pop fans....... EVERYONE loved/loves The Cars. That in and of itself speaks volumes.
I can't think of anyone who disliked The Cars.
great band, with so many great songs. like the who. had a huge influence on so many. like an "american beatles".
Sooooo TRUE!👍🏻
Just like Van Halen, Cheap Trick and other rock acts that became popular in the late 70's during the age when Disco ruled the airwaves they were a breath of fresh air for us "Death before Disco" kind of music fans.
I do! And I was raised on EWF.
My favorite live performance of Orr's is All Mixed Up (1978). You can find it on UA-cam. He hits some difficult notes and it's almost like he's relieved when he does, like he doesn't want to disappoint Ric. You also see an angelic energy of joy in his eyes. Just beautiful.
Awesome!
Wow. I can’t wait to watch it.
I've watched that one many times over. Benjamin was truly a gifted singer.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Let us know what you think!
All Mixed Up is their best song, don't understand why it was never realesed as a single?
The Cars were one of my favorite bands back in those days. I'd say the most devastating breakup was CCR.
Every now and then a Rock and Roll passing is met with surprisingly little fanfare.
Benjamin Orr along with Rick Wright (Pink Floyd) and Carl Wilson (The Beach Boys) deserved a lot more mention when they passed.
Bennie Elevenletters has been gone a long time now.
Like Dan Fogelberg.
one of the most underrated bands around. mutt, what an amazing producer
And as stated at this time everything he was doing was a big hit
Unfortunately, he ‘overproduced’. It’s a sound I don’t care for, but lots of people do.
Elliot - top tier guitarist
He never gets named in the greatest conversation, but he should.
He was originally a right hand player, but he wanted to learn how to play left because he could. One of the greatest players EVER!
He was a master of the 10 second solo! Gave the songs just what they needed without self promotion. Just got in and got out!
@@MrFirstonraceday Yet, the oddest thing about his solos is the fact that the Cars signature song, "Drive", DIDN'T feature Elliot's solo. I've always wondered about that one but I agree that song was probably better performed with more melodies involved. I'm a huge fan of Elliot Easton. The man is flat out brilliant. He stated that he finished the guitar solos for their debut album in around an hour.
Yeah, I wish he was on this song. I probably would find it much less boring.
I will always be sad I never got to see The Cars in concert.
Same here.
Me too. I'm near Dallas Texas and there's a couple of djs who have been on air for decades, Beau and Jim. Jim once said that he liked the music from The Cars but that all they did on stage was stand there and sing, no visual entertainment. That bothered me and still I would have loved to see them. Benjamin Orr had such a beautiful voice. Sad that he and Rick Ocasik are both gone.
I had tickets when they broke up
@lynnestamey7272 I saw the Cars in the early 80s and you are absolutely correct. Awesome music, no stage performance.
@@garynorred4643 I'm good with that. I don't need dancers or theatrics.
Benjamin Orr not only had a beautiful voice to listen to, his gorgeous looks were quite easy on many ladies eyes, lol
Thanks for stating the obvious. 😅
I agree ❤
Not simply a lifelong fan of the Cars - the Cars are my favorite band where I have repeatedly listened the Cars songs and all solo albums for decades, been to every concert I could attend and read everything my eyes can find on the Cars. I bought an extra copy of Lyrics and Prose and Live at the Agora that have never been opened from the original packaging. My basement has all of the vinyl Cars albums in a frame encased with the vinyl album covers. The thoughtfulness of the lyrics married with the precision of the Cars instrumental performances are truly Hall of Fame material. Ric and Ben have served as a lifelong inspiration to me as they certainly had charecter flaws but those flaws actually served as a catalyst for their brilliance, which ultimately was a benefit to me. In turn this serves as inspiration as if we are honest with ourselves, each of us are flawed individuals. I was also was a professor. With all this being said for what my opinion is worth - this video confirms my belief you have earned the title Professor of Rock. I will be watching this video repeatedly - it is that good.
I was at Live Aide in Philly. The Cars sound was excellent in spite of the huge crowd. I was dead center about 50 feet from stage. A real treat by real talent!
I was there too....but off to the right of the stage and about 200 feet back. That was one of the best days of my youth(18). I grew up across the river bin Audubon, NJ
“Since you’re gone” is one of my other favorite Cars songs. Especially that opening riff. It in itself almost has this statement like an anthem type quality. Like a victory march. IMO.
Elliot Easton was one of the best and least heralded guitarists of the late 70s/early 80s.
Stay the Night is SUCH an underrated song.
There’ll never be another Ben Orr! He was truly special…. A lesser know tune from Heartbreak City, “It’s Not The Night” showcases his vocal range & passion…💙🎶
Yes, totally agree! It's hard to believe that song didn't become a hit as well. There's a great live performance of it on UA-cam. Ben kills it.
That live version is my favorite…. Should’ve been a hit, definitely!
@@chrisbodi6470 I read somewhere that it actually charted on its own without even being released as a single.
Stranger Eyes
The Cars first record is so good! It has such a flow from song to song, and they are all bangers.
For a song with no peaks & valleys, it was definitely a banger! This is my favorite song by the Cars, although "Why Can't I Have You" is right up there. It's sad that you don't hear that song on the radio.
That's exactly right. It stays where it's at. Thanks Bill!
Both songs are gems.
The Cars were part of the soundtrack of my teenage years. Every song evokes a memory. Making out with my girl in her car, partying with my boys & playing these same songs in my first highschool cover band. The Cars were there to provide the most-awesome background music. I still have my copy of "The Cars" on vinyl which I introduced to my daughter when she was little. Someone once said, "good art never dies". So it is with the mighty Cars.
Your ending comments on this one struck a chord with this old hippie that "music is the closest thing to a time machine we have" is spot on. Certain tunes can create (or recreate) lasting impressions of beginning eras (Beatles) or ending times (Disco). This song 'Drive' definitely dedicated the end of the '80s with a funeralistic dirge of memories of what was and where do we go musically from here going forward.
Keep the soul in harmony by keeping the needle sharp on the vinyl... Peace ✌️ ❤
Thanks!
Yes indeed! Music is so powerful.
I used to sing this song in an '80s band I was in. My top three Cars songs are "Dangerous Type, and "Moving in Stereo/All Mixed Up." I love the Cars, but I'm from Boston.
My absolute favorite Boston band. Ocasek had no problem saying Benjamin was the band's natural lead singer -- looks; sex appeal; great voice. Just What I Needed; Let's Go; Bye Bye Love; Moving in Stereo as stellar examples.
Thanks for sharing.
I forgot they were from Boston lol
Bye Bye Love is my absolute favorite. Ben is an icon.
A masterpiece that was beautifully performed by Ben. I had always wished this song would have hit #1 on the album charts. One of my all time favorite Cars tunes that remains timeless.
This song is absolutely incredible!
I remember watching the video on MTV and having such empathetic feelings for the girl in the video.
She did such a great job!
It’s Ric’s girlfriend.
Wife
The video was directed by Timothy Hutton.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980@gracewolf16 - In a way, you're both right. Paulina Porizkova later became Ric Ocasek's third wife. At the time of the 'Drive' video, tbh, Ric was still married to his second wife.
Former wife, they divorced years later.
'Drive" definitely captured the depth of depression that only teenagers feel over someone they love and are crushed over not being in a relationship with.....or the isolation a teenager feels in this universe that is overwhelming to them!! The band had a deep love and respect for Benjamin as demonstrated in their induction into the rock n roll hall of fame.
Lol not just teenagers...
Can’t put it better than your closing words Professor; “music is the closest thing we have to a time machine…”. This song puts me right back at that place and time…
So much great music from the Cars, and Drive is one of my all-time favorites!
I agree about Benjamin Orr. He had such a beautiful voice and such stage presence not to mention a dreamy look. We lost him way too soon.
One of those 80a songs that instantly transport me back to the mid 80s … it’s beyond good
I love The Cars. Drive is one that I put my headphones on and crank it up. Benjamin Orr’s voice is amazing. My favorite Cars song 🎶.
One of my favorite bands they were awesome
I was able to see The Cars twice. Those were the days.
Where at and when> What year?
@@ProfessorofRock Philadelphia Spectrum - 1979
Definitely one of the best songs of the 80’s, all time even.
One of the greatest bands of all time !!
Drive is my absolute favourite song, has been for about 20 years. It is the only song to truly make me cry. I was tearing up every time a clip of the song played in this video. And the music video is particularly poignant for me in my own experience with mental illness. Ben Orr's vocals are just... *deep breath*. I gotta go listen to Drive on vinyl now.
The Cars one of the greatest bands of all time
Masterpiece is a proper word for this song obviously. Thanks.
Cars are one of my favorite bands of the 80’s
'84 was a great year for albums for me. Rush - Grace Under Pressure, Talking Heads - Stop Making Sense, Stevie Ray Vaughan - Couldn't Stand the Weather, King Crimson - Three of a Perfect Pair, Van Halen - 1984 and The Cars - Heartbeat City.
I have to ask. With radio as we knew it, will there be any classics ever again? I’m 51 right now and I feel like the 90’s were the last era ever. I am saddened by the thought of where we are today. The 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s were amazing and I believe a lot of people felt that way. But the 2000’s have been dookie. I love what you’re doing please keep it up.
Who knows what the indiepop scene might bring out? It’s still new.
Rick Beato has a good video or two about what happened in the 90s to popular music on the radio.
I think the music sharing sites did as much to ruin music as anything. If record companies can’t make money. They’re not gonna promote bands. They’re not gonna have an A&R person that’s my opinion.
I appreciate you, crazy how similar our thoughts seem to be 😁. So thankful growing up in a time of such greatness as the 70s & 80s. My heart hurts for Paulina & how things evolved for her, she is awesome!
I met Ric Ocasek in NYC near Union Sq. and Irving Place. I walked by him on the street...."Hi Ric!" That was all. He never said a word but waved and smiled at me. That's how celebrities liked it New York City.
Drive will always be a timeless song. RIP Ben, and Rick.
The cars are one of those bands that were awesome, people knew they were awesome, but were somehow still underrated.
I know! They are one of the best bands of the era, no question.
Good way of putting it!
How is the Cars underrated ?? They were all over the Radio & MTV. Bands that are truly underrated would be :
Trapeze
UFO
Nazareth
Robin Trower
Fastway
I get tired of people always claiming bands that have been showered with Fame & Money as others that in many cases, blows other bands out of the water, get hardly any. Not talking Cars, love the band.
They were never underrated. I always find it amusing when people talk about such a great band or musician that everyone knows and says they were underrated. Like they have some secret knowledge and are an expert. Or maybe you were from a very small town that only played country? Cause most of the rest of America thought they were always great.
You can't be underrated if you're in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (although many overrated acts are).
I was/is a Big "Cars" fan. Still at 68, I love listening to all, their albums❤
Agree 100% with you Professor, Benjamin Orr was perfect for this song, this is one of my favorite Cars songs.
This song is interesting for me because my favorite CARS Songs are, “Candy-O”, “Bye Bye Love”, “Moving in Stereo” (Inject Fast Times Visual) & “Night Spots”…. But when, “Drive” comes on the radio, The Whole World Seems to Stand Still &, as you inferred, I get Enveloped in this Hypnotically Sad and Poignant Song…Benjamin’s vocals put you Right in the Room with the Heartbreaking Chaos That’s Going On…I was in my early 20’s when Drive came out and had a few intense breakup's of my own incorporated with the Excess of the ‘80’s and you have some Extremely High Highs combined with Gut Wrenching Lows….. and I Wholeheartedly agree with you about the Lack of Press Mr. Orr received…it was Criminal.
Orr's best stuff was with John Kalishes, and it never was marketed. Both musicians died of cancer within a couple years of each other. I went to a number of the Car's concerts and their last album, Door to Door, a great album - and a horrible tour. Their concerts never lasted more than an hour because they never got along nor did they even record the last album together as a band. For a phoned in album, (unlike their previous albums) it was pretty good! On their Live Aid performance of Drive, Orr said their sound system (the synthesizers were triggered) was misfunctioning because of the heat in Philly (it was close to 100 F, I was there for part of it). Orr was a very nice guy and a very private person. He, actually was the shy one in the group, and the others were more outgoing. H e liked his privacy, his Golden Retrievers and his freedom. I'm 61 now, I have always been a big fan of the Cars.
"The closest thing we have to a time machine..." Amen, Brother ❤
Ric let Ben sing Drive because Ric couldn't sing. Ric then regretted it because Drive went to number 3.
Notice, any and all hits on all albums after that... Ric wouldn't let Ben sing them. Also, Ric convinced the band none of them could write - they all wrote nonsense lyrics (the irony). This was control to be the resident writer... And to collect all the money/ royalties. Ric also hid Ben in almost all the MTV videos.
In the end, Ben, "friend" of Ric's for 20 years figured out that Ric had used Ben. Ben left the band and never spoke to Ric again (until 5 days before he died of cancer).
Ric was a narcissist. 4/6 of Ric's kids never spoke to him, his 3 wives all left him. Ric had fans and acquaintances, no friends. Ben, on the other hand, no one ever had a bad word to say about him his whole life... Except for Ric.
Ben was loaded up with genuine friends, all the way back to high school. Ric was dead jealous of Ben.
Never meet your heros.