The Cars are one of the most iconic and influential bands of the 1970s and 80s, with a unique sound that blended new wave, rock, and pop influences. Formed in Boston in 1976, the band quickly rose to fame with their debut album, which spawned hits like “Just What I Needed” and “My Best Friend’s Girl”. Over the course of their career, The Cars released six studio albums and numerous hit singles, becoming one of the most successful and beloved bands of their era. With their blend of catchy hooks, memorable lyrics, and innovative production, The Cars left an indelible mark on the world of music, inspiring countless artists and shaping the sound of the 80s and beyond. In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best The Cars songs of all time, celebrating the band’s legacy and the enduring appeal of their music. From classic hits like “Drive” and “Shake It Up” to deep cuts like “You Might Think” and “Magic”, these songs showcase the incredible talent and creativity of The Cars, and offer a window into the musical landscape of the 70s and 80s. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a newcomer to the band’s music, this list is sure to have something for everyone.
1. ‘Just What I Needed’
“Just What I Needed” is a classic new wave rock song by The Cars, released in 1978 as the lead single from their debut album. The track features a driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and lead singer Ric Ocasek’s distinctive vocals, which blend a cool detachment with a touch of vulnerability. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who finds the perfect woman to complete his life, but also acknowledges the potential pitfalls of falling in love. “Just What I Needed” is a perfect example of The Cars’ signature sound, which combines elements of rock, pop, and new wave to create something that is both catchy and edgy. The track was a huge hit for the band, reaching number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helping to launch their career. Today, “Just What I Needed” is regarded as a classic of the new wave genre, and is still played on rock radio stations around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Cars or simply appreciate great rock music, “Just What I Needed” is a song that is sure to get your heart racing and your toes tapping.
2. ‘Drive’
“Drive” is a power ballad by The Cars, released in 1984 as the third single from their fifth studio album, “Heartbeat City”. The track features a haunting synth melody, atmospheric production, and lead singer Ric Ocasek’s emotive vocals, which capture the song’s theme of lost love and longing. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to reconcile with a former lover, but is struggling to find the right words to express his feelings. “Drive” is a departure from The Cars’ usual upbeat, new wave sound, and showcases the band’s ability to craft a poignant and memorable ballad. The song was a commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and helping to solidify The Cars’ place in the pantheon of 80s pop rock. Today, “Drive” is remembered as one of the band’s most iconic and enduring hits, and is often used in movies and TV shows as a symbol of emotional resonance. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or simply appreciate a great love song, “Drive” is a track that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
3. ‘Moving In Stereo’
“Moving In Stereo” is a hypnotic rock track by The Cars, released in 1978 as the second single from their self-titled debut album. The song features a driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and atmospheric synths, which create a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere. Lead singer Ric Ocasek’s vocals are delivered with a cool detachment that perfectly captures the song’s theme of restless yearning and a desire for something more. “Moving In Stereo” is a fan favorite, and has been used in several iconic scenes in movies, most notably the pool scene in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”. The song showcases The Cars’ ability to craft a unique and compelling sound, combining elements of rock, pop, and new wave to create something that is both catchy and cutting edge. Today, “Moving In Stereo” remains a beloved track for fans of The Cars and rock music in general, and is an enduring testament to the band’s influence on the genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, “Moving In Stereo” is a song that is sure to captivate and transport you to another world.
4. ‘All Mixed Up’
“All Mixed Up” is a melodic rock song by The Cars, released in 1979 as the fourth single from their debut album. The song features a driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and smooth harmonies, which combine to create a sound that is both polished and edgy. Lead singer Ric Ocasek’s vocals perfectly capture the song’s theme of confusion and disillusionment, with lyrics that explore the feeling of being lost in a world that doesn’t make sense. “All Mixed Up” is a standout track on an album full of hits, and showcases The Cars’ ability to craft memorable and hooky rock songs that resonate with listeners. Today, “All Mixed Up” remains a beloved track for fans of The Cars and rock music in general, and is a testament to the band’s enduring legacy as one of the most influential and innovative groups of the 70s and 80s. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, “All Mixed Up” is a song that is sure to get you moving and singing along.
5. ‘Good Times Roll’
“Good Times Roll” is a lively and upbeat track by The Cars, released in 1978 as the opening song from their self-titled debut album. The song features a catchy guitar riff, driving drums, and a pulsing bassline, which combine to create a sound that is both energetic and infectious. Lead singer Ric Ocasek’s vocals are delivered with a cool detachment, adding a sense of attitude and swagger to the song. “Good Times Roll” is a perfect introduction to the album, setting the tone for the rest of the tracks and showcasing The Cars’ unique blend of rock, pop, and new wave influences. Today, “Good Times Roll” remains a fan favorite and a classic rock radio staple, thanks to its memorable hook and undeniable groove. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, “Good Times Roll” is a song that is sure to put a smile on your face and get you moving to the beat.
6. ‘Let’s Go’
“Let’s Go” is an upbeat and energetic track by The Cars, released in 1979 as the lead single from their second album, Candy-O. The song features a catchy guitar riff, driving drums, and a pulsing bassline, which combine to create a sound that is both infectious and danceable. Lead singer Ric Ocasek’s vocals are delivered with a sense of urgency and excitement, adding to the song’s high-energy vibe. “Let’s Go” is a quintessential rock anthem, with a chorus that is impossible not to sing along to. Today, the song remains a beloved classic rock track, and is a testament to The Cars’ ability to craft irresistible hooks and melodies. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, “Let’s Go” is a song that is sure to get your blood pumping and your feet moving.
7. ‘My Best Friend’s Girl’
“My Best Friend’s Girl” is a classic rock track by The Cars, released in 1978 as the second single from their self-titled debut album. The song features a catchy guitar riff, driving drums, and a memorable synthesizer melody, which combine to create a sound that is both catchy and melodic. Lead singer Ric Ocasek’s vocals are delivered with a sense of longing and heartbreak, adding an emotional depth to the song. “My Best Friend’s Girl” is a perfect example of The Cars’ ability to blend rock, pop, and new wave influences into a seamless and infectious sound. The song’s chorus is instantly recognizable and has become a classic rock staple, still regularly played on the radio to this day. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, “My Best Friend’s Girl” is a song that is sure to get stuck in your head and leave you humming its infectious melody for hours.
8. ‘Dangerous Type’
“Dangerous Type” is a dynamic and energetic song by The Cars, featured on their 1979 album “Candy-O”. The track showcases the band’s ability to blend rock and pop elements with their distinctive new wave sound, featuring a driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and infectious synthesizer lines. Ric Ocasek’s vocals are confident and powerful, delivering lyrics that are both mysterious and alluring. The song builds to an intense climax, featuring a searing guitar solo by Elliot Easton that perfectly captures the song’s sense of danger and excitement. “Dangerous Type” is a standout track on “Candy-O”, demonstrating The Cars’ ability to create memorable, genre-bending music that stands the test of time. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, new wave, or pop music, “Dangerous Type” is a song that is sure to get your heart racing and your feet tapping.
9. ‘You’re All I’ve Got Tonight’
“You’re All I’ve Got Tonight” is a standout track on The Cars’ self-titled debut album, released in 1978. The song is a perfect blend of rock and new wave influences, featuring a propulsive beat, driving bassline, and catchy guitar riffs. Ric Ocasek’s vocals are emotive and passionate, expressing a sense of urgency and longing that perfectly matches the song’s lyrical themes. The chorus is a sing-along anthem, with an infectious melody that will stay stuck in your head long after the song is over. “You’re All I’ve Got Tonight” is a testament to The Cars’ ability to write memorable and enduring songs that transcend genre boundaries. It’s a classic track that still sounds fresh and exciting today, and remains a favorite among fans of the band and fans of rock and pop music alike.
10. ‘Bye Bye Love’
“Bye Bye Love” is one of The Cars’ most popular and beloved songs, featuring a bouncy, upbeat melody and a catchy chorus that is impossible not to sing along to. The track was released in 1978 on the band’s debut album and was a hit single, reaching the Top 20 on the charts. The song is a perfect showcase for The Cars’ signature sound, blending elements of rock, pop, and new wave into a cohesive and irresistibly catchy package. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a broken relationship and the pain of saying goodbye, are relatable and universal, making the song a favorite among listeners of all ages and backgrounds. “Bye Bye Love” is a timeless classic that remains as popular today as it was when it was first released, and it’s a testament to The Cars’ enduring influence and popularity in the world of rock music.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
