Why do The Cars sound like Boston? Can anyone explain?

Have you ever noticed that The Cars and Boston sound alike? What’s your opinion on which band is better to listen to? It’s a topic that has puzzled music fans for years, trying to discern what makes these two bands sound so strikingly similar. Both bands are iconic representatives of the era of classic rock music, yet they share many musical elements, which has sparked debates among fans and critics about their similarities and level of talent.

While The Cars and Boston emerged in the rock music scene around the same period in the 1970s, with The Cars gaining fame for their upbeat, catchy pop-rock songs, and Boston attracting fans with their guitar-driven, arena rock anthems. Both bands carved out their niche in rock history, drawing huge followings and leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.

One of the key similarities between The Cars and Boston is their production values. Both bands were known for their meticulous attention to detail in the recording studio. The Cars, led by Ric Ocasek and featuring Benjamin Orr on vocals, were known for their innovative use of synthesizers and studio effects to create their signature sound. Similarly, Boston, led by Tom Scholz, a former engineer at Polaroid, was famous for recording multiple guitar tracks and layering intricate harmonies to produce their distinctive sound.

Another similarity between the two bands lies in their songwriting and vocal arrangements. The Cars were known for their quirky and often cryptic lyrics, written by Ric Ocasek, which were delivered in a deadpan style by Benjamin Orr. Boston, on the other hand, was known for their anthemic choruses and powerful vocals, led by Brad Delp, which contributed to their stadium-sized sound and massive record sales.

In terms of musical style, while The Cars were more known for their new wave and power pop influences, blending elements of punk, rock, and pop music, Boston’s sound was firmly rooted in the arena rock tradition, characterized by melodic hooks, soaring guitar solos, and bombastic production values. Despite these differences, both bands achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, securing their place in rock history.

So, when it comes down to it, which band is better to listen to? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Some fans may prefer The Cars’ infectious melodies and quirky lyrics, while others may lean towards Boston’s anthemic rock sound and Steve Perry-esque vocals. Whichever band you choose to listen to, both The Cars and Boston are undeniable forces in the world of classic rock, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and unforgettable hits for generations to come.