Ep. 249: Legends Amplified: Ric Ocasek

Chris DeMakes A Podcast

Chris DeMakes

Music History, Music Commentary, Music, Music Interviews

4.9 • 923 Ratings

🗓️ 17 March 2025

⏱️ 65 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

In the first episode of Legends Amplified, Chris DeMakes is joined by co-host and producer Chris Fafalios for an in-depth exploration of Ric Ocasek, the legendary frontman of The Cars. The duo explores Ocasek's early life, the formation of The Cars, and the band's meteoric rise to fame, fueled by their innovative sound and the massive impact of MTV. From their groundbreaking debut album to the chart-topping success of Heartbeat City, they discuss the evolution of The Cars’ music, Ocasek’s unique songwriting, and his influential production work with other iconic artists. They also reflect on the band’s dynamic, the eventual breakup, and Ocasek’s lasting legacy in rock music. Through personal insights and a wealth of musical knowledge, this episode celebrates Ric Ocasek's enduring influence on both the music industry and future generations of musicians. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcript

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0:00.0	This episode is brought to you by Distro Kid.
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0:27.2	Sign up for your $1 a month trial at Shopify.com slash setup.
0:44.5	Hey everybody. Welcome to this week's installment of what we're calling Legends Amplified,
0:49.1	with this week's featured artists being none other than the late great Rick O'Kasic,
0:55.9	legendary singer, songwriter, and guitarist for the Boston, Massachusetts New Wave rock band, The Cars,
1:02.2	as well as solo artist and multi-platinan producer. My trusted co-host, Chris Fafalius and I dive deep into the origins of Rick's career, from his humble early 70s Midwest beginnings,
1:08.0	kicking around the club circuit, to forming the cars, releasing
1:12.1	solo albums, and learning the best production tricks you can't put a price on, working
1:17.0	alongside such notable greats as Roy Thomas Baker and Mutt Lang.
1:21.5	And did you know Rick's last name is really pronounced O'CASIC?
1:25.2	Well, it is.
1:27.2	Sadly, we lost Rick in 2019. He would have been 81 this year.
1:31.7	And as Chris Fathlius mentioned, we both think Rick would still be rocking on stage if he were
1:36.7	still here with us. So kick back and join us for Legends Amplified, Rick O'Kasik.
1:44.6	Hey, hey, have you heard, Krista makes a podcast?
1:49.8	Hey, hey, have you heard, Krista makes a podcast?
	...

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