Shake It Up is the fourth studio album by American new wave band the Cars, released on November 6, 1981, by Elektra Records. It was the last Cars record to be produced by Roy Thomas Baker. A much more pop-oriented album than its predecessor, its title-track became the band's first top ten single on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. Spin magazine included it on their "50 Best Albums of 1981" list.
Critical reception
The Globe and Mail wrote that "Ric Ocasek and the boys have produced an understated and decidedly underwhelming package that makes no attempt to deviate from their patented, semi-robotic pop." The Boston Globe deemed the album "a conservative, cautious work that breaks no new ground." AllMusic critic Tim Sendra said, "Coming after the middling success of Panorama, it's not surprising that they swung back toward something more familiar; it's just too bad they didn't have the songs or production savvy to make it work."
Track listing
Personnel The Cars Ric Ocasek – rhythm guitar, vocals Elliot Easton – lead guitar, backing vocals Benjamin Orr – bass guitar, vocals David Robinson – drums, percussion Greg Hawkes – keyboards, backing vocals
Production The Cars – arrangements Roy Thomas Baker – producer Ian Taylor – recording Thom Moore – assistant engineer Walter Turbitt – assistant engineer George Marino – mastering at Sterling Sound (New York City, New York). David Robinson – cover design Clint Clemens – photography
Charts
Weekly charts + Weekly chart performance for Shake It Up Chart (1981–1982) Peakposition Australian Albums (Kent Music Report) 20
Year-end charts + Year-end chart performance for Shake It Up Chart (1982) Position Australian Albums (Kent Music Report) 86 Canada Top Albums/CDs (RPM) 49 U.S. Billboard 200 34
Certifications
References
Bibliography
External links