The Cars Final Interview 2000 with Benjamin Orr

I uploaded this interview from a DVD I bought to honour the memory to Benjamin Orr and Ric Ocasek and to keep their legacy and the legacy of The Cars alive. For some reason as it was a very large file the first few seconds were cut off.
Because the purpose is to non-commercially educate and offer a critical assessment, this fan made video is being uploaded under the terms of Fair Use. No copyright infringement intended.
This interview was recorded in September for the Rhino release of the DVD of Musikladen 1979 to be included in this . From what I have read Benjamin flew right from this interview in Atlanta, Georgia, to Palmer, Alaska, for his last performance Big People concert in Alaska), playing the August 25th show at the Alaska State Fair. So the date of this interview would either have been the 23rd or 24th of August 2000 . It was first said that the final performance was September 27 but that was actually the only concert Benjamin ever had to cancel and miss. You can read all about this in the wonderful biography by Joe Milliken called Let's Go! Benjamin Orr and The Cars @ www.benorrbook...
This interview fills with so much respect for Benjamin for his strength and courage and I found it difficult to watch and cried at times but because of Benjamin's incredible courage and code of honour and his incredibly modesty is something to marvel at and made me want to share this. Also the way Benjamin replies at 31:17 minutes when asked by Brett Milano whether he thought of himself as the sexy one.
I pondered for a long time whether to upload this interview or not. I cried so much the first times I watched this, but I feel because this interview shows just how courageous he was, his strength when being so close to his death , he could still summon up all his charisma and charm and smile at the camera and what I feel for him was important smile at his fans one more time with his old band mates, well, I felt that needed to be shared. Also the fact that Ric has also passed away and we get to see them all one more time together.
Here are some of the highlights for me from this interview :
I love when Benjamin talks about the band at 6:30 , also another highlight to me is when Benjamin says at 2:14 about David being put on a gurney after performing in Europe for Musikladen 2:32
Also about Benjamin joking about In the good old days at 27:41 and also after this Elliot talking about Live Aid and Benjamin talks about his pedals and bass synthesizer 29:10. I love Benjamin's incredibly modesty , for me it is something to marvel at and one of the many reasons that made me want to share this final interview when Benjamin replies at 31:17 minutes when asked by Brett Milano whether he thought of himself as the sexy one. His reply is so incredible and also so very telling of this very private man.
I loved Benjamin's witty reply to Ric as they joked like old times ( about Candy-O) when Ric says he thinks he never met anyone called Candy 42:25 ( Benjamin saying to Ric " You never told me about it" and how gently Ric touched his shoulder. Also at 45:02 when Benjamin talks about after the band members were talking about what they are proudest of or what the band and time means for them, I love what Benjamin says and how he shows his whole heart in that sentence and in fact this was one of those moments when watching this that I decided I did want to honour him with a channel, Facebook page and website. There are such sweet moments in this and wonderful stories and also so much heartbreak as you can tell his old friends are very much aware this is their final time with Benjamin. Even yesterday I still was unsure about sharing this but I still feel it should be shown and every fan has the option of not to view it. I know it took me years to be able to sit down and watch it and I had to walk away. But now I mainly see how much this pays tribute to Benjamin and the fact he did this interview , he wanted this seen .
I would like to perhaps help a younger audience find out about Benjamin and become new fans :) If you like this please subscribe to this channel and please come and checks out my Facebook page by the same title as this channel @ / 8.9.1947benjaminorrele...

[@veroangrisani]

Still hurts seeing Ben so sick that he barely spoke. But great to saw the five together. Love you always angel Ben 💜

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I pondered for a long time whether to upload this interview or not. I cried so much the first times I watched this, but I feel because this interview shows just how courageous he was, his strength when being so close to his death , he could still summon up all his charisma and charm and smile at the camera and what I feel for him was important smile at his fans one more time with his old band mates, well, I felt that needed to be shared. Also the fact that Ric has also passed away and we get to see them all one more time together. I loved Benjamin's witty reply to Ric as they joked like old times ( about Candy-O) and how gently Ric touched his shoulder. There are such sweet moments in this and wonderful stories and also so much heartbreak as you can tell his old friends are very much aware this is their final time with Benjamin. Even yesterday I still was unsure about sharing this but I still feel it should be shown and every fan has the option of not to view it. I know it took me years to be able to sit down and watch it and I had to walk away. But now I mainly see how much this pays tribute to Benjamin and the fact he did this interview , he wanted this seen . Warmest regards from sunny but windy Tasmania, Tia

[@AnnaluisaSocher]

​@@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493 I'm glad you posted it. Forever grateful ❤️

[@catalinaanyiacuna3496]

Mi tesoro higual eres extrordinario y baliente benja yá estaas en el cielo

[@oscarcisternas1572]

asi es Vero,mucha tristeza ver a Ben enfermito de esa maldita enfermedad,algún día todos nos encontraremos en los cielos saludos desde chile 🇨🇱

[@markfromct2]

I am 69 (2024) Yes. It really hurts to see him like that. I always say to my family and friends: "Do not morn for me, celebrate my life."

[@Keego56]

Not ashamed to say that I cried at the end of this, Ben was a unique modest man a shining example even when he knew what he faced in his battle with cancer.Both Ben and The Cars will always have a special place in some people's hearts forever.Thank you for posting it means a lot to a lot of people.

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I certainly cried , during this and at the end as well. I totally agree with you. I have retired from this channel, originally due to ill health but then started to work on a personal project, a channel etc for a singer who was very well known in England, Europe & loved so much in my birth country, Germany, who passed away a couple of years ago. I am so touched when I read comments even though I have not posted for 2 years or so and that fans of the band and Ben's fans still watch and comment. I hope the music of bands and musicians we love will live on forever. Warmest regards from Tasmania, Tia

[@user-ky5rx1xt8n]

You shouldn't I cried myself it was really really hard to see this beautiful man who loved life knowing he's going to die !!! Man that sucks

[@jimdukeproject]

Elliott Easton one of the underrated guitarists. One of my favorites

[@gregbowden1552]

Lefty

[@AppleOno]

Absolutely. And all of them at the top of their craft. How often do you see a group where every member just kills it? They were a once in a lifetime phenomenon! I hope young people discover this stuff and it sets a standard of excellence for the music they make going forward.

[@thecoolestdad]

I absolutely love The Cars. Their music was and is timeless. I remember back in 1982 I had a 1980 turbo Trans Am. The cassette tape that I played in my T/A all the time was the album Shake It Up. Every time I hear any song from the Shake It Up album my mind goes back to the days when I was single and carefree and when I would cruise because I was a "Cruiser". We associate music with certain times in our lives. The Cars music will live forever. They were one of the best bands to come out of the late 70s and 80s. My respects to the families of Ric Ocasek and Benjamin Orr. Can yall even imagine the awesome songs we would have had if they were still with us? I know I think about it sometimes. The Cars is in my top 5 all time favorite bands. Well done guys, well done. I had to open up another window on my computer on You Tube and play some Cars songs while I typed this out.

[@jamierieger6988]

Same, but with a Camaro. Can't do the Cars tho without Ben.

[@moona7744]

76 Camaro and Candy-O 8-track for me. Miss those days. 🎸

[@overthehilldill3626]

79 Mustang Pace car. Sun roof open and cruising to the lake partying like an animal. Someone please invent a time machine!

[@jackp160]

Volkswagen beetle and a boombox in back playing “Moving in stereo” followed immediately by “all mixed up“. I loved those days!

[@normadailey6219]

What a beautiful soul Benjamin was. I think he looked real good considering how ill he was. The most gorgeous man ever to live with that voice to match.

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@Norma Dailey, I totally agree with you. You said it perfectly. At first I found it so confronting to watch knowing how close he was (less than 2 weeks later I believe he passed away) and seeing how frail he was but then I saw his not only his eyes still sparkled, his beautiful smile, the incredible charisma still shone, his witty reply the question about being the sexy one, his warmth and love for his band members, and also the fact how courageous and strong he was and this made me want to share this on my channel. It is incredible to think he flew cross country after this interview to do his final performance. What an inspiring beautiful man. the charisma still shone. Warmest regards from a hot Tasmania, Tia

[@jacklawer6389]

Im crying through this

[@ckotcher1]

I agree. He was so handsome

[@Kenneth-nVA]

You know… I’ve been fighting bladder cancer for over 3 years and when I look at Ben I see a man who loved his life. He wasn’t seeking sympathy but was proud of his accomplishments. I loved this band. I wore out the first album and even had the 8track… people today have no idea how much they dominated MTV in the beginning and early years. You would turn on the TV and there was Ben and the Cars

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I am so sorry to read about your cancer. I agree with you about Benjamin. I am sorry it takes me a while to reply as I have retired from this channel some time ago but I do come and try and check in when I am able to do so. I wish you the very best and may the Cars music help you through your illness. I know I find music is such a wonderful positive force, Love from Tasmania, Tia

[@TomKennedy-no8om]

God bless you brother. I pray that you get well.

[@cam9130]

Ben actually played with Big People until 2 months before his death.

[@helena20000]

🤗

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I pondered for a long time whether to upload this interview or not. I cried so much the first times I watched this, but I feel because this interview shows just how courageous he was, his strength when being so close to his death , he could still summon up all his charisma and charm and smile at the camera and what I feel for him was important smile at his fans one more time with his old band mates, well, I felt that needed to be shared. Also the fact that Ric has also passed away and we get to see them all one more time together. To try and pin point the date has been difficult but from what has now come to light and I have read Benjamin flew right from this interview in Atlanta, Georgia, to Palmer, Alaska, for his last performance Big People concert in Alaska), playing the August 25th show at the Alaska State Fair. So the date of this interview would either have been the 23rd or 24th of August 2000 . PS it has recently been stated this was recorded in September 2000. It was first said that the final performance was September 27 but that was actually the only concert Benjamin ever had to cancel and miss. This interview and DVD was released on October 24th just 3 weeks after Benjamin passed away. Here are some of the highlights for me from this interview : I love when Benjamin talks about the band at 6:30 , also another highlight to me is when Benjamin says at 2:14 about David being put on a gurney after performing in Europe for Musikladen 2:32 Also about Benjamin joking about In the good old days at 27:41 and also after this Elliot talking about Live Aid and Benjamin talks about his pedals and bass synthesizer 29:10. I love Benjamin's incredibly modesty , for me it is something to marvel at and one of the many reasons that made me want to share this final interview when Benjamin replies at 31:17 minutes when asked by Brett Milano whether he thought of himself as the sexy one. His reply is so incredible and also so very telling of this very private man. I loved Benjamin's witty reply to Ric as they joked like old times ( about Candy-O) when Ric says he thinks he never met anyone called Candy 42:25 ( Benjamin saying to Ric " You never told me about it" and how gently Ric touched his shoulder. Also at 45:02 when Benjamin talks about after the band members were talking about what they are proudest of or what the band and time means for them, I love what Benjamin says and how he shows his whole heart in that sentence and in fact this was one of those moments when watching this that I decided I did want to honour him with a channel, Facebook page and website. There are such sweet moments in this and wonderful stories and also so much heartbreak as you can tell his old friends are very much aware this is their final time with Benjamin. Even yesterday I still was unsure about sharing this but I still feel it should be shown and every fan has the option of not to view it. I know it took me years to be able to sit down and watch it and I had to walk away. But now I mainly see how much this pays tribute to Benjamin and the fact he did this interview , he wanted this seen .

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@@suttonmaple7444 I am unsure as to what you mean. This interview was done in 2000 and he did perform after he did this interview one more time at least with his band Big People , he sadly passed away in October 2000.

[@suttonmaple7444]

@@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493 sorry bout that..guess I read what you were saying. Wrong..as I am aware he passed in 2000.

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@@suttonmaple7444 I am still not sure what you mean, what I posted and wrote is all correct, he did do this interview in 2000 and yes , Benjamin did pass away October 3rd ( I believe the death certificate says 4th as he passed away close to midnight) , this interview was done around August or no later than July 2000. His final performance I think was in Atlanta in late August, I believe. He was such a strong man, such an inspiration, performed as per his wishes. His band brothers supported him in this, he had to have oxygen but he performed until he no longer could. He missed one show or concert, the only one ever in his whole career due to his cancer's final days. The fact that he performed ~Drive~ until the second last performance shows what an incredible singer he was. On the final performance he was too weak to sing this :( . He is remains an inspiration to so many and loved by his fans over 2 decades later.

[@suttonmaple7444]

@@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493 Gotcha..as I said I read part of what you said wrong ..my bad.

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@@suttonmaple7444 OK, no problem. I just feel very strongly about the facts in regards to Benjamin's strength and how he still inspires fans and I feel in part it has to do with his incredible courage, dignity, the way he dealt with his cancer. He was an incredible modest guy and by all accounts, generous and very kind. Besides the fact he was so talented, has oodles of charisma and style and of course women watch his videos and fans are still are blown away by his performances :) Warmest regards from Tasmania, (Monday dinner time Down Under ) Tia :)

[@jeffg592]

The music of my coming of age, the Cars…. Never been any better. RIP Benjamin and Ric you guys mattered to an entire generation

[@helena20000]

❤#TheCars❣️

[@angelavining356]

Sitting here, in Jan 2024..still feeling the loss of Benjamin….gotta confess…would have run away with the guy….even still…the music that didn’t happen because we lost him…us Big time Cars dans…we love, miss and honor them…

[@mandystewart8613]

My brother got me into The Cars. He passed away last year. Whenever I hear their songs, it brings him back to me. Such a sad, yet interesting, interview. A great band, with a unique sound. Two awesome vocals, but Bens voice was just something special. Thank you for sharing.

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I am so sorry to read about your brother's passing. My much older brother was born the same year as Benjamin, he was a wonderful big brother and sadly passed away even younger than Benjamin, at age 44. I feel for you and it is lovely to read that you are able to enjoy the music of The Cars and feel close to your brother. Warmest regards from Tasmania, Tia

[@lindabeesley7729]

Ben had a beautiful voice. So talented and so very handsome. He is truly missed. Rip Ben. 😢❤

[@sda6691]

I still love the Cars...still have all their songs on my playlist and sing right along to..still one of my most favorite concerts .. Houston 1984. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@debbiepayne40]

Mixed emotions when I watch this interview. So much sadness and Ben really was so poorly by then. He did well to be part of that. He clearly enjoyed parts of it. The bit that gets me every time is when he’s sitting there quietly, not even listening and you can only imagine what he may have been thinking about. I hope he knew how much he was loved and respected and we will all ensure his legacy will live on 😔🎸💫

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

Debbie Hammond, I feel the same. I pondered for a long time whether to upload this interview or not. I cried so much the first times I watched this, but I feel because this interview shows just how courageous he was, his strength when being so close to his death , he could still summon up all his charisma and charm and smile at the camera and what I feel for him was important smile at his fans one more time with his old band mates, well, I felt that needed to be shared. Also the fact that Ric has also passed away and we get to see them all one more time together. I loved Benjamin's witty reply to Ric as they joked like old times ( about Candy-O) and how gently Ric touched his shoulder. There are such sweet moments in this and wonderful stories and also so much heartbreak as you can tell his old friends are very much aware this is their final time with Benjamin. Even yesterday I still was unsure about sharing this but I still feel it should be shown and every fan has the option of not to view it. I know it took me years to be able to sit down and watch it and I had to walk away. But now I mainly see how much this pays tribute to Benjamin and the fact he did this interview , he wanted this seen . Warmest regards from sunny but windy Tasmania, Tia

[@markfromct2]

Yes Debbie. I thought the same.

[@jujumulligan43]

I thought the same thing. His mind was definitely elsewhere. I've survived cancer now going on 9 years, but during chemo at age 58 I wasn't so sure I had another day. I was looking back into my past and lots of reflection. I'm sure Ben was listening while being 1,000 miles away.

[@bobbydraper4499]

Thanks for sharing your story. I hope you are doing well. I love the cars and still listening at 65 ​@@jujumulligan43

[@JF-NYC-NJ-Girl]

I never Saw this before and there’s absolutely breaking my heart. I love Benjamin Orr and I was born in 63 so the cars were such a huge part of my life and introduced me to new wave music… Thank you for uploading this even though my heart is breaking.

[@jimdukeproject]

The Cars had a unique sound and fabulous hooks. One of my favorites

[@timemusic3600]

Love this band. Class of their own. I Can’t stop listening to their music, 💙🧡💚

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I feel the same way ! I subscribed to your channel :) . Thank you Time Music , with warmest regards, from Tasmania, Tia 💙🧡💚

[@tracyjacoby2382]

Bless Ben Orr, he was the best looking in this band and a great voice too. I always loved the Cars. Candy-O is my favorite LP.💕💕

[@Shikta-poobah67]

Nice stumbling on to this. I was 11 years old when that first Cars album came out, and it made a big impression. That was a time in my life when I was really turning on to music that would form the cornerstones for my future tastes. A lot of the early new wave stuff… these guys, Elvis Costello, DEVO, Blondie, and a tiny bit later bands like B-52’s, Madness, and Joy Division. I used to listen to those first two Cars albums constantly in the late seventies. Those songs are permanently etched into my brain, and always take me back to that period of my life. Anyway this is great. Just watching them sit back and reflecting on their past experiences. Obviously the end was drawing near for Ben, and I’m sure he must have known it at this point, which is really sad, but he still had a great attitude and seemed to be enjoying the discussion.

[@mjp96]

Ben in a Browns jersey RIP, the best of the Cars. And thanks so much for sharing this and your transcript!!

[@johnr1348]

My big brother brought that 1st Cars album home and I rattled the windows when nobody was home! I was 10 then and I still love it!

[@usmc6157]

@@johnr1348 I was 11 in ‘78 and did the same…helluva band and one of the best ever!

[@switch625.]

Ben looks so sick here, rest in peace Ben and now Ric.

[@MSDOGS1976]

It's really a shame. Both great singers and musicians. You can tell Ben really was zapped at this point.

[@mrbill9248]

​@@MSDOGS1976this was filmed in late August and he died in September. Really cruel way to go and way too soon .

[@LarsRyeJeppesen]

@@mrbill9248 He died October 3

[@mrbill9248]

@@LarsRyeJeppesen yeah he looks very frail here poor guy . I will be the age he passed next month . Cancer sucks RIP Ben n Rick

[@tpmckibb]

You were truly awesome at singing Benjamin & Ric! You two were pretty much the only reason I loved watching the Cars on KZbin & listening to them on the radio. God bless both of you & if I could have 1 wish that would definitely be to see both of you in heaven when I die! 😔

[@johngorman6798]

This guy was a total rock star.Just watched them on the midnight special video,wow still blew me away!

[@cemetarygates2800]

A warrior... with a warrior attitude. RIP Ben

[@brettgowder]

I still listen to The Cars all the time. It’s strange that this interview was nearly 22 years ago.

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I still listen to them all the time as well and it is alarming to see how fast time flies. I cannot believe it has been so many years. But what an incredible achievement that the music is still loved so much by the fans. Warmest regards from Tasmania , Tia 🙂

[@markfromct2]

Tell me about it Brett

[@magneto7930]

I seriously miss these guys! RIP Ric and Ben. I watched this whole thing and it was just amazing to listen to these guys.

[@RayBecker]

one of my All-Time favorite bands. My cousin Angie saw them in Upper Darby, PA right before they broke big. The Cars have it all; great melodies, catchy lyrics, one of the best lead guitarists, great rhythm section with David and Ben and the X-Factor, Greg. Ric and Ben out front. So sad over losing those two guys, especially Ben. That dude just totally looked like a Rock Star but after reading about him, he was not what you think; he was a great person. I was still in High School when the Cars broke big. Hell we had Disco vs Burnout fights in my school. It was a tough time for us rockers. We would get by on Jethro Tull, Boston, Foreigner, Heart until....The Cars. I believe that they finally nailed down Rock and made Disco go to sleep. My favorite album is Candy-O. It has everything. Thanks Elliot, Ben, Ric, Greg and David for giving us rockers something we could use as a shield. Love you guys!

[@jessiek5683]

So sad to see Benjamin like this but then that smile at 42:22 as well as the reply to Ric's comment "I dont think I ever knew a Candy-O" "Never told me about it" 😊 Genuine, cute exchange of friends reminiscing. His Cleveland shirt shows his love for his town that would (too many) years later induct him into the R&R HoF🎸but with his heart being in Cleveland U know he was there for it😇

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@Jessie Kanzenbach, that smile is indeed bright as sunshine and warms the heart, this interview showed what incredible strength he had, how brave he was, he did this interview I feel, for his fans, as well as his former band members and he summoned all his charisma once again, the cheekiness appeared at times @31.10 as well as his incredible wit. Missed forever

[@helena20000]

❤

[@helena20000]

​@@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493🕯️🤍🕊️

[@cthulholmhastur5317]

😊 ...and wearing a Cleveland Browns shirt. Even though I'm a Steelers fan, I can still respect. RIP, Benjamin Orr. I really enjoy your music.

[@Jandelynlee]

Miss Ben so much. He was such a gift with his musical talent and vocals. Such an amazing man.

[@Firehorse40]

My favorite band for more than 40 years.

[@ChristopherF-xj4em]

There are few bands that are irreplaceable this was one of them, but what stood out to me the most besides there talent and great music was class. I am so glad that I was a part of their era . Their music was my jr high school years back in 76 , the memories are priceless. We miss you guys.

[@FLNYgirl1980]

Ben - missed. So odf to see him and Ric sitting there - poor Ben was so ill- he was/is still beautiful!

[@kristopherdetar4346]

My life is greatly enhanced with the music made by these guys. I never lived anywhere close enough to see them live. Very chill interview. Hard to believe anyone would not love this truly original band. Thanks for posting.

[@mikeberg5003]

Saw them twice right when they came out. First one was they opened for Styx and we left as soon as The Cars were done lol. That was 1978. In 79 we saw them again and Ric was promoting some weird techno band that was getting booed. When The Cars came on stage he was pissed and scolded the audience but they played and were great. The first album is literally like a greatest hits record. RIP Ben and Ric

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@@kristopherdetar4346 Thank you 😊. I am 'retired ' from this channel and work on a more personal channel nowadays for a musician that I knew but I am always touched to read fans comments. Warmest regards from Tasmania, Tia

[@kristopherdetar4346]

@@mikeberg5003 what a great experience to have. I was always a bit jealous of people living in big towns that had access to the greatest band performances of the last century. My crazy career was way too restrictive for getting time off. We had to put our vacation requests in 3 months in advance for the following fiscal year. Seriously, I’m not making it up.

[@robinshepard4571]

I ❤ Benjamin Orr 🌹🙏⭐💪🌹

[@monickalynn4365]

I am so sorry Mr. Benjamin. So talented individually and the other members as well of course.

[@jeffwade9052]

Ben was such a humble, genuinely good guy. The last words he said were so touching. Sad that he left us too soon. 😢

[@usmc6157]

I’m the youngest of 11, and 57 now…one of my older brothers, who unfortunately passed away from cancer in April of 2000, got me into The Cars in ‘78 and been a lifelong fan. Still crank and jam their tunes often. One of the best bands that ever graced this planet. RIP brother Blair, Ben, and Ric…jam on!

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@@usmc6157 So sorry for your loss. I retired from this channel a while back. Warmest regards from Tasmania, Tia

[@mrsimpleesarcastik3494]

grew up with the cars,,,took a few riffs from those great songs over the years and play em on my tele or strat from time to time,,that music is timeless,, when I wanna feel good, I put on a classic cars record or cd! Thank you to the whole group and hopefully Ben and Ric are rocking in heaven

[@mikehertz6507]

One thing you'll find is that Clevelanders are very true to their city. Ben still representing!

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

Hi and thank you, yes I have heard this about your city and I live very far away in Tasmania. I originally am from Berlin , Germany and we have a saying there, that when you leave Berlin ( ich hab' noch einen Koffer in Berlin) which translates to I still have a suitcase in Berlin meaning you cannot take that bond for your home city ever away and I have heard from many people the same thing about Cleveland. Warmest regards from sunny Tasmania, Tia

[@peterdeo9204]

One of the Best Rock Bands ❤ Ever

[@todoubled7970]

Though The Cars were popular, still to this day, one of the most underrated bands ever. They were a huge part of a new wave and sound in music history.

[@bartondrums6606]

Best band ever..😢 I used to see Ric on the street in NYC a lot.. I mean, more than any other celebrity. It started back in my 20s, and we would pass each other in Greenwich Village. He'd always give me the cool nod, like I was cool. Years later in my 30s he had this little house he lived in that was street level. I'd walk by and look in the window and I'd see him and his wife sitting on the couch watching TV. It was weird, even then looking right into somebody's main room from the sidewalk, and it was even stranger that it was him. This band has a very special place in my heart. They were so good they made it look easy and people really took that for granted. I feel like they were our band. I feel this more than I do for most other bands. They were absolutely perfect. Benjamin Orr is officially the best looking dude in all of R&R.

[@Pat-RickSmith]

Poor Ben cancer sucks Such a great player and all around musician 😢 RIP Benny. 🙏 Thank you for your gift to us . RIP Rick 🙏 🪦 Too

[@ckotcher1]

He was beautiful ❤ And the song “Drive” is my favorite song of all time.

[@javiervalenzuela4484]

I tell you what the cars were one of the best bands I ever seen and heard they were very talented than many bands out there they established their mark in rock these guys we’re great in my opinion one of the greatest bands ever to play in rock very unique sound.

[@user-ex1tp6fj9r]

I'm back again. August 2024. The Hall of Fame sucks because I feel The Cars deserved the induction in 1999 or sooner. The same for Todd Rundgren.

[@mrs8792]

Breaks my heart to be Ben so ill.

[@clicketysplit1817]

One of the greatest American rock bands. 🌟

[@kathyfinnegan7152]

Go Browns! Thank you for the music Ben 🙏🏻

[@stuartewoldt1513]

I remember the 1st song I heard was You Might Think but the song that got me was Who's gonna drive Home.

[@helena20000]

❤

[@whalenmedia2623]

Ben…his voice. what a gift to all of us.

[@dmlevitt]

love the Cars. what a bunch of cool guys. thanks for all the music. "I'm in touch with your world"

[@joeb6245]

There would be no Cars without Benjamin Orr. Ocasek was great but he wasn’t as good as Orr. Orr had a stage presence. He embodied what a rock star looked like in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Oh yes he also had the better voice.

[@vf5126]

..told my daughters long ago.. if they ever wonder/ed who my favorite band is/was, just look at what CD is in my headboard player.. As usual, it’s ‘The Cars Greatest Hits’

[@ryaneverett8375]

Thanks for uploading this. This was really nice to see all them together. 👍 all memebers are great, but there was always something "cool" about Ric. His mannerisms, personality, way he dressed. Also, I can relate to him when he mentions about being nocturnal and the songs having that mysterious, dark element to them. And Ben was a beautiful man.

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

Thank you so much, you are very welcome. I 'retired' from this channel around 2 years ago but am still moved by the lovely fans who comment. The music of the Cars will live on. Warmest regards from Tasmania, Tia ☺

[@v-town1980]

06:55 Makes me so happy to see Ben smile so brightly❤

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

I uploaded this interview from a DVD I bought to honour the memory to Benjamin Orr and Ric Ocasek and to keep their legacy and the legacy of The Cars alive. For some reason as it was a very large file the first few seconds were cut off. Because the purpose is to non-commercially educate and offer a critical assessment, this fan made video is being uploaded under the terms of Fair Use. No copyright infringement intended. This interview was recorded in September for the Rhino release of the DVD of Musikladen 1979 to be included in this . To try and pin point the date has been difficult but from what has now come to light and I have read Benjamin flew right from this interview in Atlanta, Georgia, to Palmer, Alaska, for his last performance Big People concert in Alaska), playing the August 25th show at the Alaska State Fair. So the date of this interview would either have been the 23rd or 24th of August 2020 . It was first said that the final performance was September 27 but that was actually the only concert Benjamin ever had to cancel and miss. This interview and DVD was released on October 24th just 3 weeks after Benjamin passed away. You can read all about this in the wonderful biography by Joe Milliken called Let's Go! Benjamin Orr and The Cars @ www.benorrbook.com/ This interview fills with so much respect for Benjamin for his strength and courage and I found it difficult to watch and cried at times but because of Benjamin's incredible courage and code of honour and his incredibly modesty is something to marvel at and made me want to share this. Also the way Benjamin replies at 31.10 minutes when asked by Brett Milano whether he thought of himself as the sexy one. Also interesting is the bit about Live Aid and Benjamin's bass synthesizer @ around 29. 10 and so much more. I pondered for a long time whether to upload this interview or not. I cried so much the first times I watched this, but I feel because this interview shows just how courageous he was, his strength when being so close to his death , he could still summon up all his charisma and charm and smile at the camera and what I feel for him was important smile at his fans one more time with his old band mates, well, I felt that needed to be shared. Also the fact that Ric has also passed away and we get to see them all one more time together. I loved Benjamin's witty reply to Ric as they joked like old times ( about Candy-O) and how gently Ric touched his shoulder. There are such sweet moments in this and wonderful stories and also so much heartbreak as you can tell his old friends are very much aware this is their final time with Benjamin. Even yesterday I still was unsure about sharing this but I still feel it should be shown and every fan has the option of not to view it. I know it took me years to be able to sit down and watch it and I had to walk away. But now I mainly see how much this pays tribute to Benjamin and the fact he did this interview , he wanted this seen . I would like to perhaps help a younger audience find out about Benjamin and become new fans :) If you like this please subscribe to this channel and please come and checks out my Facebook page by the same title as this channel @ facebook.com/8.9.1947BenjaminOrrElectricAngelRockandRoller

[@janetaldrich7747]

Greg looks really unhappy. I've read elsewhere that he wasn't aware of how ill Ben really was and it was a shock to see him.

[@jamescreek1319]

Very cool interview and very enlightening about the personal experience and thought processing of the band I like that Rick said that many of the songs were fantasy stories that he would incorporate into the songs a particular lyric comes to my mind… in your Headlock on the Floor Who could ever ask for more. Great interview one of the best I have seen with the cars 🚗 🚗. we Love the cars. They were the soundtrack of my youth in the 1980s still listening to them almost daily. Rip Rick and Ben. Thanks for the memories my friends

[@kevinoshea4134]

Wooooooooow poor Ben he looks real sick. I seen his band at Boston city hall before he died. Great show

[@beebob7772]

The first "real" band that I played in (there wasn't a bass player... so I did a Sir Paul and switched to bass)! As I recall ('82 or '83) we were a "Semi-post punk/new wave" band. I'm so sorry that I didn't listen to this EXCEPTIONALLY talented band (the Cars) more! One of out Best Cover songs was JUST WHAT I NEEDED! We had no keyboards ... 2 guitars, bass and drums BUT...we attempted songs by KEYBOARD BANDS! Our Excellent lead guitarist learned both the Lead Guitar parts and the keyboard parts which I supplemented on bass. Our Front man passed away in 2019...Our drummer in (I believe) 2022. Much Thanks For This Post!! (Benjamin's Vocals have made the song DRIVE.. an absolute favorite of mine!) 😥😢 I

[@bryanaustin8362]

12:19 is so sad. Rest in peace Ben.

[@amberborrego5660]

Seeing Ben so sick makes me cry 😢 I love the cars.

[@hillsmith]

Ben was a talent with such a rich voice. The Cars say they're not punk, but it's most punk for a band to diss the modern (then) record companies. Bravo. Do your own thing, don't follow orders.

[@carolinegillett303]

Sorry to not hear more than Ben as he was so clearly dieing so sorory bless him x

[@randyschaub5452]

This is so great. RIP Ben and Rick.

[@BlackMan614]

I remember seeing them in late '78 as an opening act for Utopia (imagine that) and the crowd was so offended because they said nothing between songs and breaks between songs was brief - they just played. And didn't MOVE. It was like Kraftwerk or something. F'n awesome.

[@mxosixxth]

Heartbreaking to see Ben look so thin : ( He had an amazing voice and was a great player. Also, he was shockingly handsome during the heyday of the Cars.

[@tracyjacoby2382]

Yes indeed!🥺💕💕

[@beverlymiller525]

Me too I still love them, I wore everything out that I had albums 8 tracks cassettes my 8-track player in my Camaro I used to have to put a match pack in the player under the 8-track tape so that it would play, but yeah I don't think a lot of people understood how good they really were❤

[@DJ-bj8ku]

Good guys. Didn’t realize they were that tight.

[@helena20000]

❤The Cars #TheCars❣️

[@sonjaarentsen3402]

They are all so great.

[@saraheart2804]

So talented.

[@teamskeet2006]

We saw them live in Atlanta in 1987, Icehouse was the opening act. They were actually kind of boring on stage, there was no dialogue with the audience. The only time they spoke was announcing the next song. The performance, though, that was absolutely fantastic. It was the first time we'd ever seen a band perform live...sounding so much like a polished piece of work. Icehouse was also a great live band.

[@getmeouttatennessee4473]

I was wondering when someone would say this. I saw them somewhere around 1980 and was so excited. Adored them, still do. I was so disappointed in the show, though. As you said, zero interaction with the crowd, barely uttered a word. Fantastic music, sold out crowd but I could have stayed home and listened to the album and saved travel and money. If you go on Twitter, the question often comes up about best and worst concerts seen. Far and away, The Cars showed up as the worst for that same reason. In the Rolling Stone article, you hear that Ric didn't like touring. So, I suppose it was his rebellion in a sense...give fans the music, nothing more. Still so glad I got to see them.❤

[@kevingamble8861]

I have this interview as part of a performance video of them on Muzikladen. I always thought that Ben and Ric sang in the same range. Very similar in timbre. Made their harmonies more cohesive.

[@bluemoon-20]

Ben and Ric's singing voices did have many similarities. While I was aware that Ben sang lead, it wasn't until years later that I discovered just how many songs- and hits- Ben had the lead vocal. Many people back in the day thought Ric was the sole lead singer. Sadly, it took Benjamin's death to bring attention to all the songs he sang. The Cars were blessed to have two great singers like Ben and Ric.

[@helena20000]

❤Benjamin Orr #BenjaminOrr ❤️The Cars ❤️#TheCars❣️

[@socorromauriciosanchez6312]

Entre a ver el vídeo solo por ben, te recuerdo siempre, nos dejaste tu música y talento para jamas olvidarte, en paz descanses.

[@robinshepard4571]

I ❤ Cars 🎸🌹 Forever 🌹🎸✌️🙏☝️♥️🕶️⭐👁️

[@GennyMarchy]

Não reconheci Benjamin Orr , não quero chorar, mas ao mesmo tempo sei o quanto ele queria demonstrar naturalidade sou fã hj e sempre🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@michbar6383]

Representing THE LAND!

[@PJmusica]

Really enjoyed the interview ❤️

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

Thank you so much, Warmest regards from Tasmania, Tia

[@j.jester7821]

i notice the word "time" and "sick" are mentioned a lot. all subliminally they were expressing something deep without being able to say it. RIP Ben RIP Ric.

[@bluemoon-20]

Since Eliot Easton doesn't like the Cars being lumped into the "New Wave" category, I'll just say that the late '70s and early '70s are the greatest periods in rock and roll history. The early '70s saw the 1960s artists refine their craft and produce theiir greatest music. The late '70s with new bands like the Cars, Talking Heads, Elvis Costello, the Pretenders, Police, etc saw this incredible explosion of exciting new directions in music.

[@JanBestwick-yz2jy]

I will always love you Ben

[@markscott3372]

These guys were and still are the best.

[@billydeewilliams9104]

Ben is skinnier than Ric here! All BS aside, notice the somber atmosphere. Been there, done that. I watched my best bud wither away to pancreatic cancer. It's the worst of the worst cancers. I miss the 80s and the Cars!! RIP Ric and Ben!!!! (hate to make the comment section about cancer, but it is the elephant in that room...)

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

@@billydeewilliams9104 I am sorry for your loss. Lost too many loved ones to cancer. I have retired from this channel but wanted to reply. Warmest regards from Tasmania, Tia

[@AcmePotatoPackingPocatello]

The cars on vinyl and a TOP -O-LINE marantz turntable, JBL huge bookshelf speakers that are worth more today than in 1977. Additionally a Pioneer tube Amp...$1900 now. My god the CARS .. ' living in stereo ' was so -deliciously shroomy. Underrated studio music for stoners .with beautiful wives...imagination rules.

[@Nigel-ry1po]

Nigel in Canada🇨🇦 great band "Drive" was intense 'who's gonna drive you home, tonight'

[@andresfv6490]

Duele ver así a Ben 😢Tus canciones con The Cars y en solitario fueron increíbles.

[@user-re9ck2vl3b]

Бени Орр! Лучший! Голос Божественный! Сколько силы и воли в человеке!😢😢😢🌹🌹

[@stonz82]

great post

[@shawnweaver7797]

going up with the Cars was good radio. todays music makes me cry

[@benjaminorrelectricangelro5493]

Yes, I hear you. I have retired from this channel and gone on to a more personal project , a channel, website, facebook page for a singer musician that I knew who passed away a few years ago. Once again it is the music from yesterday and some from the late 60s. Music was so fresh , we were lucky we got to hear and see all these wonderful bands. Warmest regards, Tia

[@sixerfreak03]

Love the style!

[@LuciferMornStar]

We haven't made it yet! Hahahahahahaha! I really didn't appreciate these guys in the day. I'm trying to learn guitar now and im seeing how good these fellas were! Breaks my heart and brings back memories of a good friend to see Ben as close to dying as he was!

[@Craigke1964]

I always wondered why Elliot laughs at the mention of Nick Gilder. This evening I read an interview with NG where he was asked about his worst show. He talks about opening for the Cars in Vancouver. They had left their drinks on top of the amps. The drinks spilled and their amps died, so they were down to one amp for everything. Not sure if they asked the Cars if they could use theirs. NG doesn't say, just says back then nobody did that. I wonder if this is why Elliot laughs.

[@cbotten106]

Ten months of continuous touring, surprised these guys lived long enough to film this. At least these guys shared vocals that has to help a lot.

[@user-zl6nl5ul3m]

Ben Orr was a great inspiration

[@zebravo2842]

Great Band. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@pb12661]

poor guy. you can tell he's deathly ill. But he's a strong midwestern type who is just sucking it up for the good of the team.

[@Robert-fv3vn]

Champagne Jam 79 Atlanta

[@user-ew9uf6us8n]

Ben ❤❤❤