Ric Ocasek of the band The Cars, talks about his career beyond the band—from writing and performing solo work, publishing poetry in Granta and elsewhere, and producing albums for musical artists such as Weezer, Hole, Guided By Voices, and Jonathan Richman. In Lyrics & Prose, Ocasek collects his lyrics together for the first time—from his work with The Cars’ 1978 self titled debut album to his six solo albums.
Guests:
Ric Ocasek
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Host Leonard Lopate lets you in on the best conversations with writers, actors, ex-presidents, dancers, scientists, comedians, historians, grammarians, curators, filmmakers, and do-it-yourself experts.
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Comments [8]
saw u in denver awsome show . waited since early eighties to see you guys [ could not afford to go to the cars shoe in edmonton] dream come true for two 49 year olds from red deer alberta. look forward to more live shows if possible . dont care where we will travel any where to see you guys again . thanks
O-kass-ick is how Ric pronounces his own name. Has been my favorite since I was introduced to The Cars back in 1980 (When I was 12). Great talent who always seems polite and respectful.
"O-kass-ick" or "O-kay-sik?"
Being in radio, how to properly pronounce a name is paramount... so why are there TWO pronunciations for Ric's last name? Which is correct?
(asking a question to which NOBODY has an answer).
Ric Ocasek is by far the most intelligent, prolific writer of songs and poetry. Between his Cars albums, his solo work and his producing, noone even comes close to this musical genius.
RIP Benjamin Orr. GREAT TO HEAR RIC.
Please do let Ric Ocasek know that New York City's own Main Squeeze Orchestra (the Western world's only all-female 14 piece accordion orchestra) did a lovely job covering "Drive".
(But no, not as good as his.)
I've been a huge fan of the Cars since I first heard "Best Friend's Girl." Thanks for having Ric on the show.
One of my former girlfriends was in love with Ric Ocasek - a grown woman with a big poster of Ric on the ceiling over her bed. In 1987 the Cars were on Saturday Night Live on Halloween and I pulled every favor to get us into the show and the after party. I went over to Ric and successfully got his autograph for this woman, who proceeded to dump me two months later on New Years Day. Thanks Ric
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