About the song
“Drive,” released in 1984, is a poignant and melancholic track by the American new wave band, The Cars. Unlike many of their more upbeat songs, “Drive,” written by Ric Ocasek, is a tender ballad that explores themes of vulnerability, loss, and the desire for connection. It’s a deeply emotional and introspective song that showcases the band’s ability to move beyond their signature new wave sound and create a truly moving and timeless piece. “Drive” is a testament to The Cars’ versatility and their talent for crafting songs that resonate with audiences on a deeply personal level.
The song is characterized by its gentle synthesizer melodies, subtle drum machine beats, and Benjamin Orr’s heartfelt and emotive vocals. The lyrics speak of the pain of seeing someone you care about in distress and the desire to offer support. The song’s slow tempo and sparse instrumentation create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, allowing the raw emotion of the lyrics to shine through. The simplicity of the arrangement, combined with the power of Orr’s vocal performance, makes it an incredibly moving and memorable listening experience.
“Drive” was a significant commercial success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of The Cars’ most beloved and enduring hits. Although the song itself didn’t receive any specific music awards, its impact on popular culture is undeniable. The accompanying music video, which featured a young model and scenes of emotional turmoil, further enhanced the song’s impact and helped propel it to the top of the charts. It became a staple on MTV and helped define the look and feel of 80s music videos.
The lasting appeal of “Drive” lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Its themes of loss, vulnerability, and the need for support are universally relatable, and its timeless melody and heartfelt vocals make it a song that continues to move audiences across generations. “Drive” is more than just a pop ballad; it’s a testament to The Cars’ artistic range and their ability to create music that is both commercially successful and deeply meaningful.
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?