The Cars Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a The Cars band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
The Cars were an American rock band acclaimed for their innovative fusion of rock, pop, and new wave. Formed in Boston in 1976, the group comprised Ric Ocasek (guitar, vocals), Benjamin Orr (bass, vocals), Elliot Easton (lead guitar), Greg Hawkes (keyboards), and David Robinson (drums). The Cars quickly rose to fame with their sleek, polished sound that bridged the gap between the raw energy of rock and the synthesized polish of new wave. Their music is characterized by catchy hooks, snappy rhythms, and a blend of rock & roll attitude with art rock influences, drawing from acts like Roxy Music and the Velvet Underground.
How to Sound Like The Cars
To emulate The Cars' sound, musicians should focus on creating a blend of clean, polished guitar tones paired with synth-rich textures. The guitars often lean towards a crisp, rhythmic style, achieved with instruments like a Gibson Les Paul Custom or Fender Telecaster. The use of solid-state amplifiers and effects like the MI Audio Crunch Box helps to add a subtle overdrive, maintaining clarity while adding punch. The keyboards provide lush, layered synth lines, essential for capturing their new wave vibe. The rhythm section is tight and driving, with bass lines that are both melodic and propulsive, typically using a Fender Precision Bass for its punchy, well-defined sound. The Cars' music thrives on a balanced interplay of these elements, creating a sound that's both energetic and meticulously crafted.
Discography
Get the The Cars Sound
Want to sound like The Cars? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
