1. "The Passenger" -- Iggy Pop. Detroit’s native son unsuspectingly offered up one of the most-covered songs by the "alternative" set. Without trying too hard, I know Bauhaus, REM, Pearl Jam and Siouxsie have all trotted out this chestnut live. And why not? The chorus is pretty easy for a crowd sing-along. The narrator doesn’t have control of the wheel, just enjoying the ride. Don’t forget the sensory lyrics taking in the beauty of the stars and light at night. Oh, and the "city’s ripped backsides." Protected under glass, it all looks pretty good to me, too. Lalalalalalala.

2. "Road" -- The House of Love. The Brits may drive on the wrong side of it, but their motorways criss-cross that blessed plot in a spaghetti of "M’s" and "A’s." Alt.90s stalwarts, the House of Love couldn’t figure out what to call their records but know the aphrodisiac that is chrome, rubber and speed. Their debut also contains "Love in a Car," but we’re not there quite yet, "Road’s" overdrive beckons:

Steal a car, the highway calls
Stick some pins in your toes
Suck your cheeks,
Dance, boy, down the road

3. "Brand New Cadillac" -- the Clash. You’re right. Vince Taylor wrote it, but have you ever heard his version? Me neither. If I was really bright, I probably could have done an all-Caddy list ("Pink Cadillac," "Twin Cadillac Valentine," etc.). What is it about these four-cornered boats on wheels that inspire three chords and girls. OK, don’t answer that. Cars still mean freedom and the protagonist here is shocked at his baby’s comeuppance. The original lyrics have the narrator lamenting his poor Ford when he sees his girl’s new ride. Strummer winningly ad-libs, "Jesus Christ, where’d you get that Cadillac?" and knows with a car like that she ain’t never coming back.

4. "Drive That Fast" -- Kitchens of Distinction.

I would never wish this much on you
When what you have might be enough.
I would never want to drive that fast
Unless you’re ready, willing, able