IVOX RADIO Presents ● The Music of Ric Ocasek & the Cars

Ric Ocasek ● Reprise Records 1993 / IVOX MEDIA collection

Ric Ocasek was a visionary musician, songwriter, and producer, best known as the frontman and primary creative force behind The Cars, one of the most influential bands of the late 1970s and 1980s. Formed in Boston in 1976, The Cars blended rock, new wave, and pop into a sound that was both innovative and accessible, leaving a lasting impact on popular music.

Ric Ocasek (1944–2019), born Richard Theodore Ocasek in Baltimore, Maryland, Ocasek met future bandmate Benjamin Orr in Cleveland, Ohio, in the mid-1960s. The two shared a passion for music and began collaborating in various bands before relocating to Boston, where they joined forces with Elliot Easton (guitar), Greg Hawkes (keyboards), and David Robinson (drums) to form The Cars. Ocasek’s distinctive voice, coupled with Orr’s smooth vocals, Easton’s sharp guitar work, and Hawkes’ synth melodies, created a unique sound that bridged rock’s raw energy and new wave’s futuristic aesthetic.

The Cars’ self-titled debut album, released in 1978, was a groundbreaking achievement that catapulted the band to fame. Produced by Roy Thomas Baker, the album blended infectious hooks, sleek production, and a touch of cool detachment. Hits like “Just What I Needed,” “My Best Friend’s Girl,” and “Good Times Roll” became instant classics, defining the sound of the era. The album’s crisp production and innovative use of synthesizers paved the way for the rise of new wave and influenced countless bands in the decades that followed.

The album was both a critical and commercial success, peaking at No. 18 on the Billboard 200 and eventually selling over six million copies in the U.S. It is often cited as one of the greatest debut albums in rock history and remains a cornerstone of late-1970s and early-1980s music.

The Cars ● The Cars

The Cars is the debut studio album by American rock band the Cars, released on June 6, 1978, by Elektra Records. The album was produced by longtime collaborator Roy Thomas Baker, and spawned several hit singles, including "Just What I Needed", "My Best Friend's Girl", and "Good Times Roll", as well as other radio and film hits such as "Bye Bye Love" and "Moving in Stereo".

The Cars followed up with a string of successful albums, including Candy-O (1979), Panorama (1980), and Heartbeat City (1984). The latter, featuring hits like “Drive” and “You Might Think,” cemented their status as MTV icons. Ocasek’s ability to blend quirky lyricism with radio-friendly melodies made him a master of crafting timeless pop-rock songs.

Beyond his work with The Cars, Ocasek was a respected producer, collaborating with artists such as Weezer, Bad Brains, and No Doubt. His production work showcased his ability to bring out the best in diverse musical acts while maintaining his signature sound.

After The Cars disbanded in 1988, Ocasek pursued a solo career, releasing seven albums that highlighted his creative range. The band briefly reunited in 2011 for their final album, Move Like This, which was well-received by fans and critics alike.

The Cars were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, solidifying their place in music history. Ocasek passed away in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, artistry, and enduring influence. His contributions to music, both with The Cars and as a producer, continue to inspire artists and resonate with fans worldwide.

IVOX RADIO Presents ● “The Music of Ric Ocasek and the Cars” today at 5pm hosted by Louie Comella, on ● KWXY Music Radio ● 92.3FM 1340AM ● streaming at kwxy.com and ivoxradio.com