“Shake It Up,” the title track from The Cars’ 1981 album, perfectly encapsulates the band’s signature blend of new wave, power pop, and a touch of quirky art rock. Released at the height of their popularity, the song cemented The Cars’ status as MTV darlings and radio staples. Formed in Boston in the mid-70s, the band, featuring Ric Ocasek’s distinctive vocals and Elliot Easton’s sharp guitar work, had already achieved considerable success with hits like “Just What I Needed” and “My Best Friend’s Girl.” “Shake It Up,” however, propelled them to even greater heights.
The song reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of their highest-charting singles. While the album itself topped the Billboard 200 for six weeks, “Shake It Up” became its undeniable anthem. Its success wasn’t confined to the US; the song charted internationally, further broadening The Cars’ fanbase. The infectious, driving rhythm and catchy chorus, punctuated by handclaps and punctuated by Easton’s memorable guitar riff, guaranteed its ubiquity on radio and the burgeoning music television scene. The accompanying music video, a vibrant, stylized performance interspersed with quirky visuals, further enhanced the song’s appeal and became a staple on MTV’s early rotation.
While Ric Ocasek, the song’s writer, was notoriously cryptic about the meaning behind his lyrics, “Shake It Up” is generally interpreted as an exhortation to embrace life, take risks, and break free from monotony. This message of empowerment resonated strongly with a generation navigating the complexities of the early 1980s. The repetitive lyrics, while seemingly simple, contribute to the song’s hypnotic quality, encouraging listeners to, quite literally, “shake it up.”
Contemporary reviews praised the song’s infectious energy and undeniable catchiness. Music critics lauded the band’s tight musicianship and Ocasek’s distinctive vocals. Fan reaction was overwhelmingly positive, solidifying “Shake It Up” as a fan favorite and a concert staple throughout The Cars’ career. The song’s enduring popularity is testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to evoke the vibrant energy of the new wave era. Even decades later, “Shake It Up” continues to inspire listeners to embrace change and, of course, to get up and dance.
