The Cars

In “Heartbeat City,” the Cars create an irresistible fusion of synth-pop and rock that remains just as catchy and memorable today as it did in 1984. (originally posted to my substack at – The Cars: Heartbeat City

Heartbeat City

• Artist: The Cars
• Album: Heartbeat City
• Release date: March 13, 1984
• Genres: New wave, pop rock, synth-pop

In the world of music, some albums become more than just a collection of songs. They become cultural touchstones, capturing the spirit of an era and inspiring a generation. And for me, one such album is The Cars’ “Heartbeat City.”

Released in 1984, “Heartbeat City” arrived when the music world was in a state of flux. The punk and new wave movements had come and gone, leaving a void that was waiting to be filled. With its mix of pop hooks, rock guitars, and electronic flourishes, “Heartbeat City” stepped up to the plate and delivered the goods.

At the time of its release, The Cars were already established as one of the biggest bands in America. Their previous albums, including their self-titled debut and “Candy-O,” had produced hits like “Just What I Needed” and “Let’s Go,” and had helped to define the sound of early new wave. But with “Heartbeat City,” they took things to the next level.

The album was produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, who had worked with some of the biggest names in rock, including AC/DC, Def Leppard, and Foreigner. And his touch is evident from the very first notes of the opening track, “Hello Again.” The song’s electronic pulse, chiming guitars, and catchy chorus set the tone for the rest of the album, which would be a masterclass in pop songwriting and production.

But it wasn’t just the music that made “Heartbeat City” such a standout album. It was the way it captured the spirit of its time. The 1980s were a decade of excess, big hair, bright colors, and even bigger personalities. And with its sleek, polished sound and glossy videos, The Cars were perfectly suited to the times. Songs like “Magic” and “Drive” became anthems for a generation, capturing the feeling of falling in love or chasing your dreams.

But there was more to “Heartbeat City” than just its hits. Deeper cuts like “Stranger Eyes” and “Why Can’t I Have You” showcased The Cars’ versatility as a band, with their mix of rock guitars and electronic textures. And the album’s closing track, “I Refuse,” was a haunting ballad that showed the band at their most vulnerable.

Over the years, “Heartbeat City” has continued to resonate with fans and musicians alike. Its influence can be heard in the synth-pop of the 1980s, the alt-rock of the 1990s, and even in the indie rock of today. Bands like The Strokes, Phoenix, and MGMT have all cited The Cars as an influence, and it’s not hard to see why.

For me, “Heartbeat City” was a transformative album. It was the soundtrack to my teenage years, a time of uncertainty and self-discovery. Its songs helped me to feel less alone and to connect with a world beyond my own small town. And as I’ve grown older and continued to travel the world, those songs have stayed with me, reminding me of where I’ve been and where I’m going.

So here’s to The Cars, and to “Heartbeat City.” Thank you for the memories, the emotions, and the inspiration. Thank you for showing us what music can do, and for reminding us that sometimes, all it takes is a few chords and a catchy chorus to change the world.

The Ranking

Every album I review is added to my official Music Made Me chart. Since this is the first album review, I’d like to congratulate The Cars on hitting number 1 on the chart! How long can they keep the number 1 spot? Only time will tell.