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decades of fun

RIP Ric Ocasek An Amazing Songwriter

Richard Theodore Otcasek was born in 1944, about 20 years earlier than most thought. The rocker better known as Ric Ocasek led his band The Cars to 7 albums, selling millions worldwide. He also released 7 solo albums, produced many artists, dabbled in acting, married a supermodel, and was the owner of many beautiful guitars.

Together with co-lead singer Ben Orr, The Cars defined catchy, quality, rock. They had numerous hits between 1978-1987 and are still a staple on radio. Some of the tightest, catchiest songs ever came out of this group.

Check out this performance from a killer track off their debut album:


Ocasek’s stunning, strange looks weren’t the norm for a rock lead singer, but the songs were so good it all worked. He also dropped one of my favorite lyrics ever:

Let the good times roll
Let them knock you around
Let the good times roll
Let them make you a clown
Let them leave you up in the air
Let them brush your rock and roll hair
Let the good times roll (x3)

Let the stories be told
They can say what they want
Let the photos be old
Let them show what they want
Let them leave you up in the air
Let them brush your rock and roll hair
Let the good times roll (x4)

If the illusion is real
Let them give you a ride
If they got thunder appeal
Let them be on your side
Let them leave you up in the air
Let them brush your rock and roll hair
Let the good times roll

I’ve loved The Cars for a long time. Here’s some other posts celebrating their music: