Scary Road Rage ATTACK Spawned This All Time 80s One Hit Wonder | Professor of Rock

This song came hit the top 10 in America in 1980 and sounded like it was 100 years a head of it’s time..It came on pop radio where Kenny Rogers and Christopher Cross and Olivia Newton John were the norm. Gary Numan and his 80s synth pop masterwork sounded like it was from mars. It was the instigator of new wave, of dark wave, of industrial music of Electonica or EDM. GARY NUMAN IS a pioneer of every genre just mentioned , He even looked and sounded like an android. It was awesome. With a song that came from expressing the fear he felt as a victim from a bout of road rage. He wrote the song on a bass guitar in about 15 minutes…Up next he actual pioneer tells us the first hand account of creating a song that defined the 80s and a video that defined MTV up next on professor of rock.
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Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. if you remember creating greeting cards on Print shop back in the day when computer were young you’ll dig this channel. Nostalgia all the time. make sure to, subscribe below right now. the stories from the legends. We also have a patreon you'll want to check out. There you’ll find an additional catalog of exclusive content and you can even become an honorary producer to help us curate this music history.
It’s time for another edition of our series Bottled Lightening where we celebrate a song or album that was king for a day. Here we honor artists and bands and that rocketed up the charts… but for reasons sometimes unknown they never had another big hit. Called by some ‘one hit wonders’, we celebrate them instead as lightening in a bottle. Today we discuss a truly monumental song with a pioneering artist who should’ve had many hits. It’s actually something i’ve contemplated many times. Gary Numan is a genius so why did he only have one hit? It makes no sense. I think it maybe that he was too far ahead of his time and was never into following trends. He was creating the blue print that several genres followed. His stuff is so ethereal so cool. Especially Cars. His #9 hit from 1980. It was released in 1979 and seemed to be from another planet entirely. It was so out of place with the light smooth and easy sounds of 1979 and 1980… Some call a lot of it Yacht rock and if Christopher Cross and Michael McDonalds Doobie Brothers were what some listens to will chilling on their Yachts then Gary Numan seemed like what some might listen to on flying saucer. It was strange and compelling and atmospheric and the song was written and recorded in just a half hour after a incident of road rage! I’ll let Gary tell you the rest in our exclusive interview coming up next now as we go into this interview I want to thank our sponsor Zenni eyewear. At zenni.com you can choose form the latest frames and styles whether you wear perscripitons, non prescription or sunglasses and you can ad amazon features Like blue Blokz to protect your eyes from digital blue light. Take a look today. Heres’ Gary
Leave us a comment about this incredible synth pioneer gary numan and his masterpiece cars what are your memories of the music video and the song the first time you heard it.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for a song that sounded like the future when you heard it in the 60s 70s 80s or 90s?

[@carlwalker1623]

Lots of Pink Floyd and Spacehog

[@IamPondo]

Fly Like an Eagle

[@DC8091]

I heard Head Like A Hole, Theives (Ministry) & Drug Against War (KMFDM) all about the same time, & the future metal got faster & machines became cool!

[@vehicle22]

In the Year 2525--Zager and Evans Distant Early Warning--Rush Comfortably Numb--Pink Floyd

[@RBS_]

....easy peasy.... 1960's - A Day In The Life - Beatles 1970's - I Feel Love - Donna Summer 1980's - Cars - G-Nu 1990's - ALL of "Version 2.0" from Garbage .....I'll leave out the 00's, out of respect! ...HA-HAA!!

[@joehebert789]

I have followed Gary Numan for years on Facebook. He is a strong family man who has remained extremely well grounded through all his success. He's one of the good guys you wish more artists were like.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I love him.

[@headron66]

@Joe Hebert. I’ve been a Numanoid since his first tour that started at the Glasgow Apollo, the Pleasure Principal tour, I’ve followed him all over the world and he has ended up with a home in my town😂. His music has had its ups and downs ( he would say so himself), lost his way at times but he stuck in there and it’s paying off. He’s also an absolute gentleman with a beautiful family. Take care❤️🖤❤️🖤

[@deanruthlessrecords]

Thx for this... he truly seems he’d be this way.

[@dianamgallagher]

I was in 9th grade when this song came out and it was mind blowing! Loved the original pre MTV new wave music...

[@ROB-xm5fv]

Oh yeah. A constant play at my roller rink skating with girls I wanted to know better.

[@lmengshun7874]

You may call Gary Numan a one hit wonder but his new music is still amazing! His last two albums Savage and Intruder are absolutely fantastic! He just had a tour and was electric! One of the top 10 people I've seen live especially for a smaller venue. His energy and connection to the crowd was awesome. Check out his new stuff. You won't be disappointed 👍👍

[@headron66]

@LM Engshun. My Name is Ruin is a personal favourite 👍❤️🖤❤️🖤

[@NemoConsequentae]

I really like Splinter as well. Also great!

[@ouethojlkjn]

You want to go have a listen to Exile (Extended) - another amazing departure from the mainstream.

[@swamisalami3000]

Read Gary's autobiography. Really cool guy. After his big splash which resulted in a string of hits, he called it quits and that derailed his career for a very long time but he recovered because at some point they started to recognize he was an electronic pioneer. Now he a bloody legend who fills up every place he plays

[@f.kieranfinney457]

This song caused an absolute sensation at my Canadian school when it debuted on local radio. The school was almost in hysteria. Teachers couldn’t control any of us. I’ve never experienced anything like it. Gary changed my musical taste forever with this amazing song. Thanks!

[@ouethojlkjn]

Similarly for me it was "Are Friends Electric?" - I thought "I have heard the future" then Cars arrived

[@mizginavale22]

Gary Numan is not only a genius in his own right, but he also inspired countless other musicians with their own musical work. He has given a lot of advice to other musicians and has helped produced songs for others. This man is the poster child for doing what you love, no matter if you don't get the proper recognition for it.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You completely nailed it.

[@ten3353]

Amen 🎉🙏🏼✨

[@edryba4867]

No one could have said it better!😊

[@OptomPilot]

His song "My Name is Ruin" is fantastic... Such a visionary... He also puts on a great live show..

[@michaelolz]

I remember when I first saw Gary and his band play on Saturday Night Live. They scared me to death (I was just a kid.) Those blank stares. The almost robotic movements. But I got to hear the songs and I couldn’t let them go. They STAYED with you. I tried to pretend I hated it but it was HIS music that planted the seeds in me to make music as well. I loved it. Still do. We love you, Gary.

[@barrysmith8920]

Yeah...his “Praying to the Aliens” was absolutely freaky..🖤

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You just could not help but stare at the screen the whole time.

[@babygerald4645]

Gary Numan is a genius and innovator. So glad he is still with us and got the recognition he deserved. His music is what Trent Reznor would be doing if he wasn't all into movie soundtracks. See him live today if you can, his shows are amazingly good.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s so freaking great.

[@BinaBecker]

Or, if you can't get tickets/don't like crowds, get his live album, The Skin Mechanic. How EVERY song on it wasn't a huge hit all over the airwaves is still a mystery to me.

[@scottmark5345]

I saw him live here in Adelaide Australia, Amazing, 1 of the best gigs I have ever seen and the loudest. His shows are top notch

[@KeithWilsonUK]

Totally agree! Saw him in London uk this year. His sound has really progressed and I love the new darker sound. So cinematic and dubsteppy! Before Skrillex turned it all to wubs and screeches!

[@budrho123]

Gary Numan played Cars on stage with NIN! The video is on youtube.

[@peterwilliams8922]

I can't believe that 'Are Friends Electric' wasn't a hit over there. That's incredible to me as I've always thought that to be his best song. As a guitar player, most people I've met in any musical way denigrate electronic music, but I believe great music is great music, it doesn't matter what genre it is.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a wonderful song indeed. Another one that sounds ageless.

[@juniorjangles7655]

Yeah, Are Friends Electric is arguably better song & it was a hit. I don’t know why the host keeps banging on about not having any more hits: it’s not accurate & insulting to Gary

[@MarleyTravels]

@@juniorjangles7655 Its a US centric perspective. He didn't have any hits besides car in the US. So, not accurate in a sense, but given where the interviewer is from, understandable.

[@5roundsrapid263]

I’m a guitarist, too, but love synth just as much because of artists like Gary. If it rocks, it rocks.

[@TheConservativeinaction]

I’m from the us and I love it. Even better than cars. Though both are great!

[@siriusfun]

Something really magical happened between 1979-1981, where this sound coalesced. Bowie's 'Scary Monsters', The Cars 'Candy-O', Devo, The B-52s - kitschy, quirky, and progressive, all of it. Made for fantastic rollerskating, too!

[@kerrysowards5084]

Great flashback to skating. Thank you ❤

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

And Gary was one of the main drivers of this sound. Listening to the transition from this era is super cool.

[@cheryal2809]

Rock skate. Roll bounce. 🤘

[@carolgebert7833]

The synth came of age.

[@Soundofsilver2007]

That’s because everyone listened to Man Machine dropped whatever they were doing to buy a cheap keyboard like OMD.

[@fairdose]

Numan is one of those Brit artists that actually continued to have hits and songs in the UK and seemed to only have 1 hit in North America. Plenty of artists like him in a similar situation like Level 42, Big Country, a-ha - nonetheless Numan is deeply respected by many musicians for his pioneering musicianship, guys like Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails fame, Alan Wilder formerly of Depeche Mode. Hats off to Gary!

[@roberturibe3150]

Weird that this was written after a road rage. When I hear this song it reminds of running out of gas on the freeway and getting a ride from someone with this song playing on their radio

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Although I feel he should have had more hits here, I still say kudos to him for being the influence of a plethora of legends that came after. You know you’re a legend when even the Take on Me guys love you.

[@bikeboysyd292]

Had 3 hits in Australia’Are Friends Electric’ was a big song that I remember well

[@dcanmore]

Status Quo comes to mind, they had one US hit (#12) with Pictures of Matchstick Men in 1968, but worldwide they sold 120 million records over 40-odd years.

[@BboyFlimsy]

If you aren't already familiar with it, you should check out "One Hit Wonderland" on the channel, "Todd in the Shadows." It really seems like any non-American act will only be known for one song in the U.S., while all over the world they'll have multiple hits and stay relevant. Any music nerd will definitely like his content, especially "One Hit Wonderland." I don't think he ever discussed this song, but still, he's done a lot of fascinating and entertaining videos.

[@antonhoward9027]

Cars was the first record I ever bought aged 12 in '79 in the UK. Saw him live twice in the eighties and again recently, he still rocks big time, well worth a ticket. He, along with early Human League is the reason I have 12 synths in my studio and can't bloody move in there. About time he got the recognition he fully deserves as a musical pioneer.

[@peetyw8851]

Professor, please keep doing what you are doing. The interviews reflect the obvious regard for music that was such a big part of our lives. You and this artist, as with all you talk with, were clearly so clearly genuine. That’s a gift to us.

[@RBS_]

....aaaaaaaaaaaand, HOW!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you! I will indeed.

[@69voxbeetle]

^^^ Truth. ^^^

[@johnspecht72]

@@ProfessorofRock This changed my opinion about Gary Numan!! I am gaining a lot of Knowledge about music and the artists that make it from your highly professional and revelatory interviews!!

[@Leavemealone-]

@@ProfessorofRock man what a dope job

[@JamesJones-zt2yx]

Love that you have _Telekon_ in the background. It's my very favorite Gary Numan album, and if you want a song that sounds like the future, "I Dream of Wires" is it. I really liked it, and also "Please Push No More", which built on that sense of alienation and just wanting to be left alone from "Cars". It was good to know someone else understood.

[@michaelwilson2340]

Right. People over here in the U.S. never had a chance to hear Telekon or Replicas back then. Also big albums in Britain.

[@evakatrinaa]

Right?? As soon I had the house to myself I would either blast Telekon or bang out "I Die, You Die" on the piano, or both lol Numan is a genius and still does brilliant work while being a very real guy, good for him

[@evakatrinaa]

and I'm still frightened by the telephone

[@joejackson9172]

Loved this song in 1980. Still love it today. Thanks for this!

[@lisaheisey6168]

In 1979, I was 14. Hearing Cars, for the first time, totally changed my perspective on music. Kids in my junior high school were all big into Led Zeppelin, Heart, & Toto, etc. I was, too. Cars was truly electrifying to me, though. Other kids were so dismissive of it at first, saying it was "weird". But, me and 2 boys in my science class were true believers in Gary Numan and kept telling everyone how incredible he was. The 3 of us were also into Devo, which the other kids also saw as "weird". Gary may be best known for Cars, but he has a lot of great songs. I was just listening to his incredible song A Prayer For The Unborn earlier today. So, how perfect that today's video is on Gary.

[@glenndavidtorres]

My oh my, the synth sound alone has set countless new wave bands to sprung up. They owe this guy a bow, he paved the way for the music, and videos we all followed and loved. Love the Nine Inch Nails version with this genius, totally rock hard.

[@ChornyiKot]

One of the best interviews yet. I had almost forgotten Gary Numan. This video brought back a flood of pleasant memories and getting to know Gary personally, listening to him describe his growth over time, his appreciation of Cars and Are 'Friends' Electric.... His humility was refreshing. I respect him far more now and from this point forward, when I hear his music, I will appreciate it even more.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He is so underrated and needs more love.

[@jestestuman]

There is a version of are friends electric that was released recently I think, it is more vocal less synth and it is fantastic.

[@TheChapel-ee4yh]

Check out his recent albums....they are amazing. I saw him this year and he is better and stronger than ever!

[@dhh488]

Sadly, a lot of great artists are not recognized in their own time. Gary is one of them. Massive talent.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You’re so right. He’s a class act.

[@carolgebert7833]

There is an Appalachian version, too. They should have called it Carts.

[@powerdavid6235]

Numan was absolutely huge in Europe at the time. Music doesn't just revolve about what happens in America. "Are friends Electric", released in 1979 went straight to No 1 in most European countries, In the UK it stayed at No 1 for 4 weeks.

[@carolgebert7833]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZ2Xo3mphbeFgrc

[@NextWorldVR]

Fortunately, it is still his time!

[@sonic909band5]

Gary has a huge body of work and his life story is fascinating. He reinvented himself after hearing Songs Of Faith And Devotion by Depeche Mode and his work took a turn for the better. Savage is an incredible album and I was fortunate to see him live just a few years ago. He has transformed from a detached, robotic like figure to a emotional, mesmerising sage who moves and feels the music. He has been a large influence on our band and we often perform Are Friends Electric? In honour of his work. It is also worth watching his interviews about his aspergers as he talks openly about the condition including the issues and benefits.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s a role model for us folks on the spectrum. His music made such a huge impact. He’s amazing.

[@loripond1839]

First time I heard this song was on SNL.. I must have only been 12 or 13 and I was astonished at the sound and vibe of it. It will continue to enrall generations of musicians and music lovers to come! Thank you, Gary!!...Happy Accident or not, you are brilliant to my ears!..🙏❤️😊🎶

[@charlessalzman4377]

You mention Gary being ahead of his time, after listening to his newer stuff, I came to the conclusion that technology is trying to catch up to him. Savage is top notch. And the guy has like 22 studio albums. That's not counting collections or live albums. He's a pioneer who can't stop creating.

[@pariahpokemonwesbragg2904]

Always felt he deserved more credit for groundbreaking art/music. Gary is amazing. Time to go listen to all his stuff again.

[@tnrodgers]

Numan was caught in music transition from pop and guitar rock to synthesizer rock and disco . Maybe a bit ahead of his time and not a self promoter. He’s talented and underrated in the US, but we’re a nation of musical excess. It’s a catchy tune with relatable lyrics. Another strong lesson and interview Adam. Thank you

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He was a pivotal figure in the disco transition era.

[@BD_MEDIA.]

My memory of Gary Neuman's Cars was that one of my classmates lived in the house right behind my house back in '80, and her older brother played Cars for hours and hours in a constant loop. But you know what, I NEVER was tired of it!!! And I still have the album in my collection today, with fond memories!!!

[@willwetherell7265]

Gary is as cool as cool can be. His music is timeless. I wish him all the best.

[@duromusabc]

What I like about these interviews is the opportunity to see the artists in how they look like today after so many decades ! And their views as a music artist and the music industry both past and today , and the motivation and circumstances behind making their hit song- Thanks Professor!

[@RBS_]

...I agree....but it IS a bit unnerving to look at an LP cover & 7" picture sleeve of your favorite artist for DECADES, and see what they look like NOW.....sometimes I wonder if I'M ready for a Rocking Chair! ....CRIKES!! ...ha-HAAA!!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I always enjoy watching Revelations. As an individual on the spectrum I resonate with Gary Numan a lot and look up to him as an inspiration.

[@jamesbullock9209]

@@RBS_ You’ll probably look absolutely amazing. Besides, you’re old enough to remember it, so it’ll be a fair trade off.

[@RBS_]

@@jamesbullock9209 ....well, I finally put away my "Just For Men" hair dye, but this 61 year Old still turns heads.....outta FEAR! ...HA-HAAA!! ...thanks for the talk-up, Sir James!

[@jamesbullock9209]

@@RBS_ You’re welcome! You’re always a trip to reply to!

[@victorxblackthorne]

Thank you so much for this episode, Gary Numan is my favorite musician and you interviewing him was absolutely awesome.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Victor! Glad you liked it.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’m a HUGE fan of him.

[@xzonia1]

I also thoroughly enjoyed this interview. Numan is mesmerizing to listen to! Loved hearing what he had to say.

[@floatthecreek]

Other than Gary Numan's music ability is he was also one hell of a pilot. He had fixed wing and helicopter ratings. He was also an aerobatic instructor. It's said that so many of his friends got killed flying aerobatic aircraft that he quit flying. The only way I'll quit flying is either I die in an aircraft or of old age. I hope it's old age.

[@jamesbullock9209]

The first time I heard this song, my mind was blown! Even as a child, I knew this was the future of music and it solidified my love of electronic music. Gary Numan is a genius, but American audiences weren’t ready for his vision…but I sure was!

[@deltatango5765]

Exactly the same with me. I had to run out and get the album as soon as I could, and loved it! Nothing at the time compared, and I was convinced that popular music was going in that direction, and that Gary Numann just beat everyone there.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I just love how futuristic it sounds. This and Pop Muzik by M, another song I love released in the same year.

[@bluegreenglue6565]

Same. I was ten years old, and saw him on Saturday Night Live and it was love. As a child who at times honestly believed I was an alien changeling I was instantly taken by his aloof alien persona. My friend and I would listen to Cars, then flip the single over and dance to Metal over and over. He really is an incredible composer, and I only just saw him perform live for the first time in September (brought my teenaged son, and he and I both had a remarkable time).

[@oldschoolman1444]

Love the song Cars and the whole new wave thing! =) sometimes the best thing happen without trying!

[@bryanwilliams2450]

This and heart of glass are why I picked up an instrument.

[@bels4116]

it was 1979 , I can still remember with perfect clarity when I saw and heard 'are friends electric '. And all these years later I still get goosebumps when I play it, it resonated with me like nothing else had. Gary Numan was my first concert in 1980 and my last concert in 2017. Brilliant!

[@wesl8787]

Wow!!! I have always loved Cars. Now I am also a huge Gary Numan fan. He was so humble, and transparent. Absolutely loved this interview. Awesome job!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’m one of his biggest fans.

[@stephenhanft1226]

I remember 1980 very well. It was my first year in high school. That year had so much diversity on the charts. You had a lot of disco, yacht rock, and country pop. Gary Numan's "Cars" really stood out on the charts because it was completely different. I was blown away by this song when I first heard it. This song really was the blueprint for what was to come during the 80's. While I can think of so many great one-hit-wonders of the 80's, I think Gary Numan's "Cars" was the most important because of its influence, While he may have only had this one hit, it definitely made its mark and left a legacy.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure. Such a GREAT song.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So much diversity! I showed this song to two teachers at my school who were born just days apart in 1980 at the same time Cars was in the top 10. Their reaction: “Oh my gosh, who can make a song sound so cool like this? This makes me feel every last bit of 42 years old.” My aunt, the oldest one, was completing her freshman year in high school with some of the sweetest nuns of all time. She remembers reading To Kill a Mockingbird that year and was also taught by a centenarian!

[@Gobtik]

Numan had over 20 hits, just not in the US

[@alondathomas293]

I remember when this came out, I was a kid----and liked it because it was strange, weird, and catchy as hell. Numan only had one hit in the U.S., but he continued to make music, stopped for years, had a family, then returned to make music in the '00s. He made more than that one good song, though. His having Asburgers, he said, was part of what made him shy and not put himself out there like a rock star, and what inspired his initial look. I've rarely seen him do interviews, so it's cool to not only see what he looks like today, but to see him actually talk about his music, too.

[@dreamweaver1603]

When did people start calling music “Yacht Rock”? I never heard that term until last year. Was it a regional saying or something people call it now?

[@marksims3904]

Been a Numanoid since 1978 when he was in Tubeway Army and have to say the man is a living legend, seen him live countless times and he gets better and better with age. Cars is an absolute classic and a song that if I hear it I have to listen to it all the way through, loudly. Gary deserves the recognition he is getting now after years in the doldrums, his last two albums Savage and Intruder are phenomenal and I can't wait to see what he comes up with next. If you can go and see him live, you will not regret it. Wembley Arena in May this year was one of the best nights of my life, even though he did mess up the intro to M.E. (If you were there you'll know..........)

[@RedCyanPhotos]

But it wasn’t him that messed it up really, it was interference in his in ear monitors, twice

[@micmac1121]

Love Gary Numan. Do not miss him live! He is an unbelievable performer and his new music is BRILLIANT! Nothing but love. He is one of the most influential musicians. He took Electronics and kept it with live drums and bass. study his music. He only has over 20 albums

[@IamPondo]

I think Gary as well as Art of Noise are both underrated in terms of what they brought to the listening public.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I think you're exactly right.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Love Art of Noise.

[@silicon212]

Agree ... Art of Noise was so damned good.

[@Thomasmemoryscentral]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Itonically features another one hit wonder member that is Trevor Horn of The Buggles

[@DanielNewhoff]

Cars is one of those 80s songs that's just classic. Way before its time and so addictive. When it's on, just have to listen to the whole thing. Genius!

[@GygaxGirl]

Love this song, one of many cool sounding songs of the 80s ❤ The first time i heard it, i was in a car with my older sister's friend from the city. She was cool and beautiful and drove REALLY fast. I was scared $?(/less by her driving. Cars came on the radio, she turned it all the way up as we pulled up to a stoplight in my hometown, and sang every word with gusto. She told me to sing along but I'd never heard it before. I was dazzled by the sound and fright of her driving. I'll never forget it.

[@southpawdj]

I am a 46 year old DJ of electronic music. Artists like Gary shaped so much of my musical understanding, it can't be overstated. Songs like Buffalo Gals, Pass the Dutchie, White Lines, and EVERYTHING by Michael Jackson swirled in my head. I feel so blessed to be alive during the remix era. I hope they keep on coming.

[@DC8091]

Oh shit you got Numan!! 🍻 Hybrid, Down in The Park, This Wreckage, Halo are all club/industrial staples & influenced everyone in the genre. He still puts out great albums & does awesome shows

[@beatingobesity2410]

I appreciate the interview with the artist. First time I ever heard him speak. Cars is a song that doesn't age for me. I enjoy it every time I hear it even after all these decades. It's on my permanent lifetime playlist.

[@barrysmith8920]

“Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” actually blew WAY more doors open for Numan before “Cars”. It and the album Replicas immediately went to #1 in UK 🇬🇧

[@NVeeThatsMe]

To me, this song will always represent the kick off of the massive 80s synth music revolution. One my all-time favorites. I also absolutely love the direction Gary has taken his music in the last 20 years. I met him on his recent tour for his latest album "Intruder" and he was the most charming, humble and gracious guy. They say "never meet your heroes"....such cannot be said about Gary Numan.

[@D-Fens_1632]

Mesmerizing song. I've always loved how he changes his mind at the end of the tune.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Me too. I still remember my jaw being on the floor at the end of the song on first listen. It stayed like that for a while.

[@bluegreenglue6565]

Literally changed my life, hearing Cars for the first time, and seeing him perform on Saturday Night Live. As I've gotten older I've learned to appreciate more and more his ability as a composer. I have never cared about whether or not a song was a "hit." Or that an artist "charted." Good music speaks for itself and draws people who are open to it. Decades after falling in love with Gary Numan, I still listen to his albums (in my car, where there is no "maximum volume"), and I still credit him with opening my mind to all the brilliant electronic music artists that followed: Japan, Ultravox, Kraftwerk, even Roxy Music (who came before, but whom I did not discover until Mtv [and I just saw them perform for the first time in September as well -- absolutely perfect]). I believe the best music is written by those who perform it - not by professional song writers whose job is to pander to the masses so money is made. Thank you so much for sharing this interview with us. Now I have to decide which album I want to listen to when I go to the grocery today...

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So many great new wave musicians and bands out there. However, Gary Numan might be one of the best.

[@MrTimothypjr]

So we’ll said. That was very much my journey with Cars and Newman’s work in general.

[@coreybray9834]

I first heard Cars late at night while listening to Rock over London on an old radio I found in my garage in Florida. I still remember that moment and how the song just grabbed me. And then I was a life long Numan and Tubeway Army fan. Fortunately, Criminal Records in Atlanta had a lot of Numan CDs on hand when I was in college. But, I can’t understand why only Cars and Are Friends Electric got so much coverage and not a number of other key songs in Numan’s catalog. We are Glass, Me I Disconnect From You and Down in the Park were all part of that hypnotic new wave sound that Gary brought to the table and so much more. A super underrated musical genius in my book. Cheers to the lonely little robot boy and his Moog synth.

[@Tumbleweed_Tx]

the first time I heard this song was during a school club's year-end party. We were at a roller rink, I had a two girls by the hands out there skating... The DJ played Cars, and we stopped in the middle of all the people skating and listened to what I was hearing... The two girls and I stood there in amazement at what we were hearing (and I was amazed I didn't fall over since I couldn't skate very well...lol) (and nerdy chicks are the best... they're probably both doctors now)

[@jjecilop8655]

If you don’t love to listen to this song while you are driving, you are really missing out. Thank you Gary for this song!

[@rickhicks302]

One of my All-time Top 10 songs of my teenage years. I had a couple of New Wave friends who introduced me to the song in late '79 and I was blown away. THEN I saw the video, bought the album and sang "Cars" nearly every time I was in mine. Absolute GENIUS. And I am still puzzled by the lack of hits... Thank you Prof. Adam and Gary. Great way to spend 20 minutes.

[@floridalivingisthebest]

I was 12 when Cars came out and I had the single but didn't listen to it much. Now as an adult I've listened to it hundreds of times and it's even the ringtone on my cell! Before Duran Duran or the Human League there was this fabulous song by Gary Numan. I will always love it.

[@RFXLR]

Gary was from the future and I think that why he never had another hit. He was on that time machine with Devo. It is an incredible song, and it is very much a bridge between musical as it was known then and the new wave and digital age. You’ve had the synthesizers along with acoustic drums. It sort of emphasized those two genres of music. Fear Factory’s version is the evolution of that age. One of my other favorite songs off that album is Metal.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Good call.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It is just such a phenomenal song.

[@RFXLR]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 have you listened to the rest of the album?

[@user-Dave67]

Holy cow, DEVO man did I ever. Must have gone through three tapes and I got this off the radio and all ways had it on mixed tapes. It made a good song to close the restaurant, moving to the beat while cleaning up.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@RFXLR I have, but the last time I did it was August 2020. Gonna have to go back and hear it again. It was pure sublime bliss.

[@snorpenbass4196]

Gary Numan and Talking Heads basically created New Wave by accident, which is just so awesome.

[@kins749]

A true pioneer, The Pleasure Principle is one of the best LPs ever and still sounds fresh today

[@ncapone87]

I listened to it again yesterday, so amazing

[@napoleonsolo1298]

Love Gary! His newer stuff is still pushing the envelope. Probably my favorite is My Name Is Ruin, with his daughter on backing vocals. And a fantastic, futuristic video!

[@RhymesWithCarbon]

The album “replicas“ is light years ahead of its time. Who would’ve considered a “new wave concept album“? That’s what it is, and it’s probably one of the most seminal recordings that spawned, as you mentioned, darkwave, synthwave and new wave.

[@bobdavis4848]

Yes that entire great "Replicas" album was before the "The Pleasure Principle" album with "Cars," but The Professor seemed to think it didn't exist. It was the later "Cars" that he claimed started everything.

[@RhymesWithCarbon]

@@bobdavis4848 you’re right, Cars is on The Pleasure Principle but I would argue Replicas was truly the seminal album though it’s successor got the airplay.

[@bobdavis4848]

@@RhymesWithCarbon You and I were already in agreement on that about the "Replicas" album. (Too bad it didn't get commercial US airplay like in the UK and some other places.) The Professor was the one who acted like "Cars" started it all off.

[@petergreenwald9639]

I never saw an interview of this fellow before and I must say I am impressed by his humble and kind attitude. I, honestly, often avoid your long presentations. But I am delighted I saw this one.

[@NXSProductions]

He may technically be a "one-hit wonder," but the fact that, not only has he endured for nearly 6 decades, but was a true pioneer of synth pop / new wave, that was able to reinvent himself several times over while continuing to innovate and elevate the genre is nothing short of masterful. To me, he has far more than one hit... his newer material is simply fantastic. His voice sounds as fresh as ever and the way he uses synths and samples is godly. Bless Sir Gary Numan!

[@duanevp]

Back in those days when I was far younger it was certainly the synth sounds that grabbed me the quickest and this was definitely my favorite tune for the better part of a year. I still love it and the vibe it gives me, the memories it brings back. It's a key song in the soundtrack of my life.

[@Montyhugo]

This is my first time ever hearing a Gary Numan interview. What a great interview it is! I was more into "hard rock" and "heavy funk" growing up in the 70s! Always liked this song for probably that reason? The Trent Reznor/ NIN part gave me chills! I'm going to have to give Gary a good listening to this weekend.👍

[@MobiusBandwidth]

you like funk listen to his albums I assassin and Warriors, and the several that followed, incredible bassists given lots of freedom.

[@headron66]

What I find surprising is that most people think Gary Numan was all mini moogs and keyboards. He always had a a band in his backup. Don’t people listen when they hear music? I was taught at school to recognise what instruments were in a piece of music. As the saying goes “ they are hearing Gary but they are not listening to Gary”😂. Thanks for this, he’s real gent with a lovely family, rare in the music business. ❤️🖤❤️🖤I’ve edited this to say that an interesting fact about Cars is that Gary said it cannot be played live exactly like the track on the LP or 45.

[@duromusabc]

Love his song CARS! (1979-1980) - one of my favs as a little boy Wow great interview with Gary Numan! He looks good today !

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s in his 60s and looks amazing.

[@TheRetroManRandySavage]

"Are friends Electric" is my favourite of his.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great song. Coming soon.

[@TheRetroManRandySavage]

@@ProfessorofRock awesome! Can't wait for that one.👊

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Such a cool song.

[@wclark3196]

Saw him on the Telekon tour. Great show. I'm glad he's come to understand and appreciate what he's done.

[@cento13]

He is STILL making great music! I saw him play live - recent material - this year, and it was just a fantastic show. His music just keeps getting better and better.

[@J1W5M7]

One of my all time favorite songs was an eighties song until today. I saw it on MTV and assumed it was a new. Unbelievable to write a song in thirty minutes and complete it in a day by accident. An enigma that really wasn't. This one stays on my playlist.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s hard to believe, right?!

[@RC32Smiths01]

Music is the result of so many factors and events, never knew about how this classic came about. 80s truly had some of the most powerful music on all fronts.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

For sure, man. Coolest decade ever!

[@80ssynthfan48]

Being picky, it's from 1979. Though maybe didn't reach US until 1980.

[@fivestring65ify]

79 was a great year for music.

[@avi8r66]

Gary Numan is still putting out amazing stuff. The man just keep producing and performing and it's wonderful.

[@Wonderhussy]

Loved this interview! Gary Numan was great, but I specially enjoy how unabashedly nerdy the Professor is in these interviews...no pretense, no trying to be cool, just rank enthusiasm and genuine awe in the presence of these musicians. It's refreshing to see someone be so genuine in the presence of these rock stars!

[@teethhuller8275]

I just saw Gary in concert a few weeks ago. He was absolutely amazing 🤩

[@captainwhoopass]

Loved this song the first time I heard it and still do. Back then, I was strictly a Rock & Roll guy (it's called Classic Rock now). But, this song sounded so perfect to me in every way. Simple, straight-forward and direct with an incredible groove all the way thru. I think it's incredible that someone can write such a terrific song in 1/2 hour and record it in a day's session. ... didn't realize it was a road rage incident that inspired it. Great interview btw.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s amazing how quickly this song was made. What a classic!

[@jmfloyd23]

Great interview! One of my favorites of all time! I remember when this came out in ‘80 It was nothing like what was on the radio at the time. It’s cool that this song has stood the test of time.

[@phoenixjim0527]

16:06 Hearing Numan talk about the NIN live video - which I regularly watch cause it’s true goosebumps - was like finding gold. What a great backstory.

[@TheAnticorporatist]

His story about having Trent Reznor say how important “Cars” and “The Pleasure Principle” influenced his musical direction reminds me of the story of Tyler Joseph changing the lyrics to “Stressed Out” to reflect his feelings as to how played out he thought that it had become and the backlash that he had gotten from fans, saying, “No, that song brought me to y’all, and saved my life.” And how he’s been appreciative of it ever since.

[@MF-le7fp]

I've always loved this song. And this is the first (and only), interview I've ever seen in regard to it. Gary is awesome. He seemed to be a really cool guy. Loved the video today, PoF! Thank you! 👍

[@dcjr1053]

I remember when Cars first came out. I was ten and I was hooked. A totally unique sound. Spacey and sort of ominous. It was all I wanted to listen to. Thank you Gary Numan!

[@MrTimothypjr]

You got to talk to Gary Numan!!! Fantastic. Cars was the start of all New Wave for me. Now I’m still all new wave to this day.

[@MPWEST83]

I think Gary WAS and IS a genius, whether it was by accident or not that he created "Cars". I agree with you Professor, when you said it sounded like it was from outer space. Not too many people at that point in time were using synths like that (Kraftwerk being one of the few), and it was like nothing anybody had heard before. He's definitely a pioneer for New Wave, Synthwave, etc. Pure genius!

[@jasoncampbell3955]

Gary Numan was a breath of fresh air growing up... The sound, the melody... It was alien, it was atmospheric, it was futuristic, it was innovative... The video, to me, introduced me to what would become MTV and "Cars" was innovative both visually and musically. I personally found it odd that Numan never attracted more of an American audience when listening to Tubeway Army or his solo discography in general... He wrote so many catchy tunes from "Are Friends Electric" to "Down in the Park" to "M.E." I also find the same to be true about the band, T. Rex, a band that never got the recognition they deserved in the States.

[@MobiusBandwidth]

Gary was a big T Rex fan!

[@vitalucas9452]

Love at first listen. It was a great song to crank to 10 while driving! Canadians appreciated him!

[@marchi.fleming]

This song HARDCORE blew my little robot-obsessed kid mind. It still to this day stops me in my tracks anytime I organically encounter it in the world & transports me right back to that moment. (And yes, the held high note is EVERYTHING, & it IS genius. You're not the boss of what's genius or not, GARY NUMAN. 😠😂)

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Same!!! Not a single song I can think of that could leave my jaw on the floor for 30 minutes like that.

[@vinsgraphics]

I was 13 (starting high school in Australia) when this came out. The album was the first cassette I ever bought… I still have it. I was transfixed by the song, and all the more transfixed by synthesizers in general. I’m not sure Gary could be called a “one-hit wonder,” as “We Are Glass” did well in Australia. There was also “Are Friends Electric?” by Numan’s earlier band Tubeway Army. Numan brought the synthesizer into mainstream rock by making it the focus, although it’d obviously been around for some time already. There were other big names that made it the focus albeit not in the “Top 40” spotlight: Vangelis in particular. (Imagine if these two had met and collaborated.) I got to see Gary Numan in concert at The Observatory in Santa Ana a few years back. Fantastic show, high energy! He is no slouch on stage!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Jon and Vangelis!

[@Lostie2010]

Fab interview 👍 thanks for this 😁 I have not only loved Gary Numan's music since 1979 but also as a human being he is a treasure 😀 I always enjoy hearing him speak 🤓 he is intelligent modest and funny.

[@Tevi...]

I love this channel so much, it truly showcases the music of my life. I was 15 yrs old in 1980, and remember when I first started driving a couple of years later, 'Cars' was one of the first songs that popped up on the radio during my very first solo drive. Of course I knew all the words, and the pure joy I felt while singing along is something I will always remember. Great song!

[@haolekoa737]

Hey Professor, this is easily my favorite interview you've had on here. Speaking as both a longtime fan of Gary Numan (and a lot of the dark, weird stuff he helped inspire) and a longtime bass player, it was great to hear him talk about how this song came together, as well as their bass-forward approach. Would love to get more of these interviews with artists that were ahead of their time (Killing Joke, Front 242, the Monks) but ended up influencing entire genres.

[@Bacchus69]

I just love the futuristic simplicity of the synth on this song, it definetely was an influence and a foreshadow of the New Wave and synth sounds to come. This is definetely one of my favorite songs and it has aged very well. The bass playing on this song is also phenomenal.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Like Adam said, on first listen in April 2020 I was like, “Was this made in Mars?” It is just hard to believe that this song, Donna Summer, and The Bee Gees were all popular in the same year.

[@thomasmartin7425]

What a strange paradox: your dream comes true by writing an iconic song then you spend your entire career to to move on from, only to finally embrace it at the end of your career. To do something so well and to have it be a part of you life every day, yet it becomes a constant annoyance. I guess that is success.....and life.

[@natevart4156]

Gary needs to realize the pleasure principal is one of the greatest albums of all time. All bangers, no bad sounding songs it’s a true classic. Ik he likes to evolve and change but like it’s so fucking good. I’m only 20 and I love it

[@FelixCheam1]

He was one of my favourite artists when I was 13 or 14. I've always considered him to be the Godfather of Electronica.

[@ProfessorofRock]

He is indeed!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

For sure.

[@DarkSideofSynth]

An absolute banger, as they'd say nowadays. Numan is great.

[@DCN2010]

I couldn’t wait to get down to Music+Plus to get my copy of The Pleasure Principle when it came out. I wore out both my LP and my cassette.

[@musclecarmitch908]

Great episode Professor! I got my first car in 1979 and loved this song when it came out! Awesome interview! Great to hear the story behind the song after all these years! Thanks for keeping the music alive Professor!

[@polmorgan3533]

A moment of greatness.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Agreed!

[@georgemathie8123]

Gary Numan is such an innovative genius and he is the new wave synth pop master and not only that he's still continuing to create amazing music today

[@ProfessorofRock]

Love his new stuff.

[@georgemathie8123]

@@ProfessorofRock he just keeps getting better I'm more a fan of his mid 80s work especially beserker and the Fury just amazing stuff

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

And inspiring so many in the process, including me, a young girl on the spectrum who always follows him.

[@georgemathie8123]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 from his tubeway army days to today Gary is such an inspiration to music fans such as us he never followed trends or commercial success such as his influences David Bowie and John Foxx from Ultravox by the ways if you love the early Gary Numan albums check out early Ultravox especially systems of romance and John Foxx's solo work and you'll see were Gary got his inspiration from

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@georgemathie8123 Tubeway Army and Gary Numan deviated from the normal music scene at the time, and it’s what I admire the most about these trailblazers. Plus I love Ultravox! Vienna is my favorite song from them.

[@jlperez1234]

I was 12 yrs old when this song came out. I could not get enough of this song during that time. We didn't have I pods or I phones back then. So when you heard it on the radio, it was turned up full blast so our neighbors could rock out with us!!!!! Thank you for the great interview!!!

[@teethhuller8275]

“Cars” is one of the few songs I NEVER tire of. I would happily listen to a 20 minute remix…

[@2Nu]

Gary is a truly a gifted and unique (Aspi) musical talent (and well respected in the aviation community as an aviator). I remember Cars coming out the same year that I had my 1st automobile and was blown away by its haunting and ethereal melody. I absolutely LOVE his live rendition with NIN. The reaction of the audience to his performance spoke VOLUMES. That said, his work with The Tubeway Army is worth exploring as well.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Agreed!

[@amandabyrd9349]

While I love yacht rock, I have adored Cars since I first heard it-probably at the same time as the video, most likely on NightTracks. It is so amazing! I know his feeling of being stuck in the past against his will is actually fairly common, but this song was so far ahead of its time, influenced so many other artists, I feel like he’s among the Gods of Rock. I’m glad he’s come to accept and maybe even celebrate this gift to the music world.

[@philipleckburg8443]

I love this song. It brings me back to when I was a six year old boy in the basement in Ohio. Just a whole ambiance to the time. I'm glad he's finally able to embrace the fact that he's influenced music so heavily through an happy accident. It really shaped more than he thinks. Thanks Adam. Glad you interviewed him. He is deserving of more than he gives himself credit for. That's humility at its purest. My hat is off to both of you for this video. Thanks Professor. 3 chords and the truth my friend!

[@clhollow1]

Great interview. I've heard him speak before but just in small snippets. I didn't realize I would like him as much as I did.