“You Might Think,” released in 1984, was the infectious lead single from The Cars’ fifth studio album, *Heartbeat City*. Already established as new wave pioneers with hits like “Just What I Needed” and “Shake It Up,” The Cars, comprising Ric Ocasek, Benjamin Orr, Elliot Easton, Greg Hawkes, and David Robinson, further solidified their place in the 80s music scene with this track. The song’s innovative and playful music video, heavily utilizing then-groundbreaking computer animation, played a significant role in its success. It received heavy rotation on MTV, becoming a staple of the burgeoning music television era.
The song itself is a classic example of The Cars’ signature blend of catchy melodies, driving rhythms, and Ocasek’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, “You Might Think” explores the theme of unrequited love, with the narrator humorously exaggerating his persistence despite the object of his affection’s clear disinterest. Lines like, “You might think I’m crazy, but I just don’t care,” perfectly capture the almost delusional optimism of infatuation. This relatable theme, coupled with the song’s energetic, upbeat sound, resonated with a broad audience.
“You Might Think” achieved considerable commercial success. It reached number seven on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the band’s highest-charting singles. Moreover, the groundbreaking music video earned the band a Video of the Year award at the inaugural MTV Video Music Awards in 1984, cementing its legacy as a pivotal moment in music video history. Critics lauded the song’s innovative use of technology, while fans embraced its catchy hook and relatable lyrics. The song’s popularity helped propel *Heartbeat City* to multi-platinum status and remains a quintessential example of 80s new wave, continuing to be enjoyed and recognized for its pioneering spirit and enduring charm.