Driving Music - "You Really Got Me"

One thing that I really miss about the current stereo setup in my car is that I don't have iPod connectivity (yet). As a result, I'm still stuck with channel surfing through radio stations, trying to find that great playlist that usually ends up being mediocre with long commercial segments in-between.

Occasionally, though, you get a real gem in the mix. You know it instantly because your pulse unconsciously starts to race, you reach for the volume knob, and no matter the weather outside, the windows get put down and you belt out the lyrics. It turns you back into that wild-eyed 17 year old, doesn't it? Sure it does. No need to deny it, or be ashamed of it.

So what was my song the other night? The old Kinks song, "You Really Got Me", as done by Van Halen. Granted, the original was a great song, but there's something about Eddie Van Halen's feedback-heavy guitar, Alex Van Halen's drumming, Michael Anthony's thundering bass, and the over-the-top vocal ownership that can only come from David Lee Roth that makes the adrenaline rush through me whenever this song comes on the radio.

Back in 1996, Nissan licensed this particular version for a TV commercial featuring their flagship 300ZX twin turbo. By then, the writing was on the wall for the car's demise, but Nissan hired ad firm TBWA Chiat/Day North America, who jumped on the popularity of the "Toy Story" movie (released in November, 1995), and made a farewell commercial for the car. 

The spot featured a G.I. Joe type of toy who speeds across the playroom in a red, remote-control 300ZX turbo. He eventually steals the heart of a Barbie-esque doll, who descends from her Malibu beach house and zips away with Joe in the Z, her boyfriend looking on in horror. "Oh no no NOOOOOO!!" wails David Lee Roth as Eddie hammers away at the neck of his Music Man guitar. 

It's still one of my favorite commercials, and it's one of those pieces of film that I think of whenever I hear that song. Fortunately, it wasn't ruined for me like Cadillac did with "Rock 'n' Roll" by Led Zeppelin. I suppose it's the combination of a really great piece of music, and a car that was truly timeless in its design. To this day, I still stand in awe when I see a 1990-1996 300ZX coupe. 

Should I ever be fortunate enough to drive one, rest assured I plan on popping some Van Halen into the CD player. But sorry, Barbie. I'm already hitched.