Ric Ocasek 1944-2019

Word is circulating that The Cars‘ lead singer Ric Ocasek passed away on Sunday at the age of 75 (though some records suggest he was 70). The Cars, of course, are known for their string of hits from the late 1970s to the late 1980s, with thirteen songs hitting the Top 40 and four reaching the Top 10. Ocasek also made three appearances on Billboard‘s Hot 100 chart as a solo artist, with one song — “Emotion in Motion” — reaching the Top 40. Also, by way of a personal connection, I feel compelled to mention that Ocasek also briefly attended Bowling Green State University.

In honor of Ocasek, let us know your fondest memory involving one of his songs. My own most poignant memory goes back to 1987 when I was finding my love for following pop music charts after getting hooked watching Dial MTV’s daily Top 10 countdown that summer. The Cars’ last Top 40 hit, “You Are the Girl,” hit the Top 20 that fall, and listening to that song and watching the video will always have a place a special place in my heart because of the time period.