While no single mainstream chart-topper was explicitly titled "Love to Mother" in 1984, the theme exploded in two directions that year: the sentimental ballad (which was safe) and the psychological rock anthem (which broke the rules). By 1984, the "Mom & Pop" values of the 1950s had been thoroughly deconstructed. Punk was fading into post-punk, and bands like The Smiths (forming that year) would soon sing about "uncaring mothers." However, the most famous "taboo" mother-song of 1984 came from an unlikely place: The Cars' "Drive" .
By Rock Cellar Magazine Staff
While "Drive" is ostensibly a lover’s plea ("Who’s gonna drive you home tonight?"), music critics at Rolling Stone noted the video’s disturbing undertone: a helpless, child-like figure (model Annette) staring blankly, while the singer (Ric Ocasek) acts as a protective, almost maternal figure. The ? Flipping the script—making the male lover the "mother." It was subtle, but for 1984, it was edgy. The True Taboo: The "Oedipal Hit" The real "love to mother" taboo hit of 1984 wasn't a love song—it was a hate song dressed as love. The Police's "Mother" (from their 1983 album Synchronicity , but a live staple and radio oddity in early 1984) is the definitive article. Love To Mother 1984 Classic Hit Taboo