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“Drive” is a song by American rock band The Cars, released in March 1984 as the third single from their fifth studio album, Heartbeat City (1984). Written by Ric Ocasek and produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange and The Cars, the song became one of the band’s biggest international hits and is widely regarded as a classic of 1980s pop and soft rock.
Background
Unlike most of The Cars’ songs, which featured Ric Ocasek on lead vocals, “Drive” is sung by bassist Benjamin Orr, whose smooth and emotive delivery became a hallmark of the track’s appeal. The song marked a departure from the band’s typical new wave style, embracing a more polished, synth-driven ballad sound.
The song’s haunting melody and understated production gave it broad crossover appeal, resonating with both pop and adult contemporary audiences.
Musical style
“Drive” is a mid-tempo ballad that blends new wave and synth-pop elements with a soft rock sensibility. Its arrangement features lush synthesizers, a steady electronic drumbeat, and subtle guitar work, creating a dreamy, melancholic atmosphere. Benjamin Orr’s gentle, emotive vocals are the centerpiece of the song, conveying a sense of quiet sadness and introspection.
Lyrical analysis
The lyrics of “Drive” are reflective and cautionary, addressing someone who appears to be self-destructive or lost. The central question—“Who's gonna drive you home tonight?”—serves as both a literal and metaphorical inquiry about responsibility and care. The song touches on themes of loneliness, vulnerability, and concern for someone heading down a difficult path.
Its simplicity and emotional clarity have helped it endure as a timeless ballad.
Chart performance
“Drive” was a commercial success worldwide:
In the United States, it reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became The Cars’ highest-charting single in the US.
In the UK, the song peaked at No. 5 on the Singles Chart, marking the band’s biggest UK hit.
The song also charted highly in numerous countries, including Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe.
Music video
Directed by actor Timothy Hutton, the music video features model and actress Paulina Porizkova (who later married Ric Ocasek) portraying a troubled woman grappling with emotional turmoil. The video’s poignant narrative, combined with striking visuals, helped propel the song’s popularity on MTV and cemented its place in 1980s pop culture.
Live performances
Although “Drive” was a staple in The Cars’ live shows, its introspective nature provided a quieter moment in their typically high-energy sets. The song’s emotional resonance and strong vocal delivery by Benjamin Orr made it a highlight of their concerts.
Personnel
Benjamin Orr – lead vocals, bass guitar
Ric Ocasek – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
Elliot Easton – lead guitar
Greg Hawkes – keyboards, synthesizers
David Robinson – drums, percussion
Produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange and The Cars
Reception
“Drive” received critical acclaim for its production, lyrical depth, and Orr’s memorable vocal performance. The song is widely recognized as one of The Cars’ greatest achievements and has appeared on numerous “best of the 1980s” lists and retrospectives.
In 2021, Rolling Stone listed “Drive” among its “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
Trivia
The song took on additional significance when it was used during the 1985 Live Aid concert, accompanying footage of the famine in Ethiopia, which deeply moved global audiences.
“Drive” helped solidify The Cars’ place as one of the key bands of the 1980s, balancing mainstream appeal with their signature new wave sound.
The song’s video was nominated for several MTV Video Music Awards, further boosting its visibility and cultural impact.
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