About the song
“Drive” by the Cars stands as a timeless ballad that encapsulates both melancholy and beauty, resonating deeply with listeners since its release in 1984. Penned by the band’s frontman Ric Ocasek and sung by the velvety voice of bassist Benjamin Orr, the song found its place as the third single from their acclaimed album, *Heartbeat City*. With production overseen by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the track’s emotive potency was underscored by its rich, electronic soundscape.
Upon its debut, “Drive” soared to new heights for the Cars, becoming their highest-charting single in many countries. In the United States, it peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and claimed the top spot on the Adult Contemporary chart, cementing its status as a crossover hit that appealed to a wide audience. Internationally, it achieved similar success, reaching the top five in the UK and West Germany, and the top ten in Canada and Ireland.
However, “Drive” transcended its initial commercial success to become a poignant cultural touchstone, particularly highlighted during the historic Live Aid concert in July 1985. Benjamin Orr’s rendition of the song at the Philadelphia event became a defining moment, stirring hearts amidst a global audience united in the cause of famine relief. In London, the track provided the backdrop to a montage depicting the Ethiopian famine, introduced by David Bowie, further solidifying its association with humanitarian efforts.
The song’s impact extended beyond music charts and performances. Its music video, directed by actor Timothy Hutton, wove a narrative of loneliness and heartbreak, featuring model Paulina Porizkova alongside Ocasek himself. Shot in a hauntingly vacant nightclub setting, the video mirrored the song’s themes of longing and separation, adding visual depth to its already evocative lyrics.
Critically acclaimed for its sincerity and atmospheric allure, “Drive” has left an indelible mark on pop culture. AllMusic’s Donald A. Guarisco hailed it as “a gorgeous ballad that matches heartfelt songwriting to an alluring electronic soundscape,” praising its ability to evoke both sadness and serenity. Its influence stretched even to fellow musicians like Paul McCartney, who acknowledged its impact on his own creative journey.
In retrospect, “Drive” remains a testament to the Cars’ ability to craft enduring music that resonates beyond its time, capturing the essence of human emotion in its purest form. Whether through its chart-topping success, iconic performances, or cinematic visuals, the song continues to hold sway over audiences, ensuring its place among the classics of rock and pop history.
Video
Lyrics
Who’s gonna tell you when
It’s too late?
Who’s gonna tell you things
Aren’t so great?You can’t go on thinking
Nothing’s wrong, oh oh
Who’s gonna drive you home
Tonight?Who’s gonna pick you up
When you fall?
Who’s gonna hang it up
When you call?
Who’s gonna pay attention
To your dreams?
Yeah, who’s gonna plug their ears
When you scream?You can’t go on thinking
Nothing’s wrong, oh oh
Who’s gonna drive you home
Tonight?Who’s gonna hold you down
When you shake?
Who’s gonna come around
When you break?You can’t go on thinking
Nothing’s wrong, oh oh
Who’s gonna drive you home
Tonight?You know you can’t go on thinking
Nothing’s wrong
Who’s gonna drive you home
Tonight?