60 Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Drive
Written By: The Planet D
Updated On: March 16, 2023
Our list of the best road trip songs from the classics to today. We do a lot of road trips have rounded up the best driving songs to help you pass the time.
Nothing makes driving better than a good road trip playlist. And we’ve compiled the ultimate road trip playlist for your next overland adventure.
Table of Contents
The Best Road Trip Songs
1. sympathy for the devil by the rolling stones.
If you are looking for a song to drive to with a lot of groove, Sympathy for the Devil is just the ticket. We’ve been lucky enough to see the Rolling Stones in concert three times. Dave even met the band way back in 2003 when he shot a media blitz they did in Toronto.
This is by far our favorite Rolling Stones song for a road trip . Even if we have to get out of the car soon, we’ll leave the engine running until the final chord is played!
Get it on Amazon for just $1.29 / Buy the Rolling Stones Greatest Hits on Amazon
2. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
I didn’t know a lot about Lynyrd Skynyrd until I watched the documentary Muscle Shoals . It’s a music biography about one of the most innovative sound studios of the 60s featuring the Rolling Stones and Lynard Skynyrd.
But I have always known the song Sweet Home Alabama, and there is something about this song’s beat that make it the perfect driving song.
In Sweet Home Alabama, there’s a stanza saying: “ Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers And they’ve been known to pick a song or two “
Watching Muscle Shoals makes us want to get in the car and drive to Alabama to see the famous studio for ourselves!
Purchase Sweet Home Alabama for $1.29
3. Little Red Corvette By Prince
One of the best driving songs ever is Little Red Corvette by Prince. Who wouldn’t want to be driving a red corvette through the streets. The song is filled with metaphors, but when I sing it, I just think about driving.
It is sad to see another legend lost, but his music lives on. Buy Little Red Corvette $1.29
Pick up a copy of Prince’s Greatest Hits , you won’t be disappointed. But there are some tributes happening on Spotify now.
4. Another One Bites the Dust by Queen
Queen is my ultimate favourite band. Metallica is Dave’s. I could have just said, “ buy Queen’s greatest hits and you’ll have the perfect Road Trip playlist”.
However, I can only choose one, and if you want a song that picks you up when you’re feeling a little groggy on the road, Another One Bites the Dust does the trick. Man, I love the bass in this song.
If you watch the Queen Documentary on the BBC , you’ll learn that the Bass Player, John Deacon, actually wrote some of Queen’s biggest anthems, like this one, You’re my Best Friend and I Want to Break Free.
Get Another One Bites the Dust on Amazon just $1.29 / Watch Bohemian Rapsody
- Start Planning our own road trip with National Geographic’s World Atlas available on Amazon
5. Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson Featuring Bruno Mars
While spending a summer in Spain and driving around Costa Brava this Mark Ronson/Bruno Mars tune was was our go-to road trip song. We called it the song of summer and whenever it came on, we’d jive and jam in the car.
Dave and I love to sing during a road trip and this one makes you want to wail at the top of your lungs. “We’re gonna Uptown Funk you Up!”
Download Up Town Funk on Amazon
6. Home for a Rest by Spirit of the West
This roadtrip song by Canada’s Spirit of the West always makes me want to go to London, England, and hang out in the pubs. I think about all the travels we have done, and when we do come home, we really do need a rest.
Travel is exhausting and when you add pub crawling to the mix, it is doubly exhausting. Spirit of the West captured the spirit of travel beautifully with this perfect driving song.
“ You’ll have to excuse me I’m not at my best, I’ve Been Gone for a Month, I’ve Been Drunk Since I left. These so called vacations will soon be my death, I’m so sick from the Drink, I need home for a rest …”
Download now on Amazon
7. Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers
How does one choose a favourite Red Hot Chili Pepper’s song? They have so many great albums. But Californication is the perfect tune for a road trip. Heck, even the video is all about driving.
I used to say, “How can anyone not name Red Hot Chili Peppers as one of the greatest bands of all time?” I mean, everything is perfection. Anthony Kiedis is a poet, Flea is a master on the bass, and John Frusciante creates the most memorable and intricate guitar riffs out there today. Plus, how can you forget Chad Smith on drums. He’s quiet and unassuming in real life, just like his music: Subtle and creative. Plus, he looks exactly like Will Ferrel.
You’ve got to read Scar Tissue by Anthony Kiedis – this book will blow your mind about everything he and the band have gone through. Buy the album Californication . The entire disc is perfection.
8. 500 Miles by The Proclaimers
There’s nothing really amazing musically about this song by the Scottish Band, the Proclaimers, but when it comes to road trip music, it has the perfect beat. When comes up on the playlist, everyone stops to sing along. This song was made to be a song to drive to!
It’s one of those songs that you can’t help but love. Even if you hate it! I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) must be included on your Road Trips Songs playlist, it would be criminal to leave it out. Check out our guide to the North Coast 500
Buy it on Amazon for $1.29 / Rent Benny and Joon where the song was featured
9. Take it Easy by The Eagles
Remember when Elaine’s boyfriend refused to speak to anyone when Desperado came on the radio during a classic Seinfeld episode ? When it comes to the Eagles, Hotel California is our song. But when it comes to road trip songs by The Eagles, Take it Easy is Number one. See a great California Road Trip at 17 Mile Drive in Monterey
“ Well I’m a runnin’ down the road trying to loosen my load I’ve got seven women on my mind”
This song was meant for driving. It’s seriously all a bout driving.
If you happen to be going on an Arizona Road Trip, be sure to stop on the corner of Winslow Arizona like in the lyrics “ Well, I’m a standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona . Such a fine sight to see .”
Don’t speak to me, don’t even look at me when Hotel California comes on because I am going to sing along and play air guitar to that classic solo.
Get it now on Amazon / Get the Hell Freezes Over Tour where the Eagles come together live.
10. Running on Empty by Jackson Browne
I bet you didn’t know that Jackson Browne played a huge role in making the Eagles famous. He was roommates with Glen Frey and Don Henley at one point.
Heck, for the longest time when I was a kid, I thought Running on Empty was performed by the Eagles. They have similar sounds because Jackson Browne actually co-wrote a lot of the Eagles songs. How do we know all this? We watched the Eagles documentary.
Anyway, back to the song. Running on Empty is a road trip song, period. Come on, the album cover has a road on it!
Buy Running on Empty on Amazon / Rent the movie The Eagles History to see the role Jackson Brown played in their success.
11. Paradise by the Dashboard Light by Meatloaf
Who doesn’t love Meatloaf? Paradise by the Dashboard Light was the song of the 70s. There are so many layers to this song and right from that first guitar lick, you can’t help but get ready to start singing along in the car.
Dave and I love it when it breaks into a duet and we sing back and forth. We start screaming until our vocal chords nearly break. After that song, you almost have to pull over for a break. It’s that intense. For us, it’s one of the most fun songs to drive to on our playlist.
Get the album Bat Out of Hell . Every song is great.
A great one day drive that we highly recommend is the Hana Highway on Maui. Make sure you have your road trip songs picked out because radio service in limited.
12. Take the Money and Run by Steve Miller Band
“T his here’s the story ’bout Billy Joe and Bobby Sue “.
The Steve Miller Band’s Songs were made to sing along to. Dave and I love to harmonize to their music. It’s just so easy to hear the thirds and fifths. The reason we chose Take the Money and Run is that ” They’re headed down south and they’re still running today .”
We don’t plan on shooting anyone and taking their money, but we do plan on traveling forever. It’s in our blood and even if we do settle down a bit, something tells me we’ll always be on the move. Dave and I moved to Vancouver in 1992 and we’re still moving today. Maybe not running, but definitely at a steady pace.
Get Steve Miller’s Take the Money and Run
13. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf
It’s probably the first and most cliché road trip song that anyone thinks of. Considering the lyrics start with:
“ Get your motor running Head out on the highway .”
So, really any road trip playlist would be remiss by not including it. It’s a good one to get the energy up when hitting the open road.
Add it to the list from Amazon
14. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash
I love this song by the Man in Black. If you are looking for a song to drive to that is challenging to learn, this is it! It’s all about the places he has been crisscrossing through North America on his tour bus.
I originally only had this song in our travel songs playlist, but I realize that not everyone checks out both articles, so I had to bring it over here. You can’t ever leave out Johnny Cash man.
Get motivated on Amazon
15. On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
On The Road Again is the quintessential song about road tripping. But, his laid back style of singing will make for a relaxed road trip moment and be sure to keep you within the speed limit. It’s a fitting song for this list because after all “I just can’t wait to get on the road again.”
Buy it now $1.29
16. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen
Everybody loves Bruce Springsteen and Baby we were born to run, is one of the great songs to drive to. This entire song is about driving and running. It’s about getting out of the small town trap and getting to the place you want to be.
The Boss is a great lyricist using car metaphors to tell his story. This driving beat will make you want to get behind your engine and run too.
Buy it on Amazon
17. Graceland by Paul Simon
When Paul Simon’s Graceland came out I went nuts for the rhythms inspired by his trip to Africa. When I went to Kenya for the first time , I was totally blown away that I stayed at the same lodge that he and Carrie Fisher stayed at during that exact trip. But that’s another story.
Graceland is an awesome song that fits with driving through America’s southern states. Who wouldn’t want to take a road trip to Elvis’s Graceland?
Get it now to see what I’m talking about
18. Life is a Highway by Tom Cochrane
We always love including Canadians. Tom Cochrane’s rock anthem “Life is a Highway” was playing across radio stations throughout the summer that Dave and I met.
We’d drive down the road belting out “ life is a highway, I wanna drive it all night long .” It has a great driving beat and the lyrics are easy to learn. It’s perfect for a road tripping son.
get it on Amazon
19. Love Shack by the B52s
You can’t have a party without The B52s. I’ll never forget seeing them in concert. I had no idea who they were a friend invited me and I’m glad he did.
We arrived at Massey Hall in Toronto where the crowd was filled with people sporting beehive hairdos and wardrobes straight out of Austin Powers.
Once the music started, we rushed the stage and there I stood at the very front listening to the best party tunes I’ve ever heard. When choosing road trip music, be sure to include Love Shack!
Get Love Shack on Amazon
20. Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys
It was after watching Love and Mercy and The Wrecking Crew that we realised just what a genius Brian Wilson is. We even had the opportunity to see the Beach Boys live (sans Brian Wilson) at a private party in Orlando a few years ago.
They made a lot of good lighthearted songs like California Girls, Surfin’ USA and Kokomo, but it’s Good Vibrations that really shows the depth and musicality of the band’s genius. This song has the vibe that both Dave and I love for a road trip. I’m pickin’ up Good Vibrations.
Listen now on Amazon
21. Back in Black by ACDC
You may be thinking “No way, Highway to Hell is the ACDC song that fits in the road trip play list”. You may be correct, but doesn’t Back in Black have an awesome beat. That guitar at the beginning just rocks.
It’s no wonder Marvel’s Iron Man used it as the song for their opening scene as Robert Downey Jr. was driving with a band of army guys (and gal) from his arms dealing display in Afghanistan .
Ever since then I’ve associated Back in Black with driving. Sure, he was in a Humvee and I’m usually in a mini compact economy car, but hey, I feel tough when that tune is playing.
Start making your own road tripping playlist for just $1.29 / Buy it on Amazon
22. The Way by Fastball
Don’t you ever want to just hit the road without ever knowing the way. That’s what this song is about. One of my favorite lyrics in the song is “an exit to eternal summer slacking, but where were they going without ever knowing the way.” So let’s. go wander the highway while listening to The Way.
23. Lose Yourself by Eminem
I once sang this song in Belize with the local crime lord. I didn’t know it at the time, but after I got off the karaoke stage, where I was joined by a random man who had a big grin on his face, I was told, he was that man. Woah.
The friends you make when you sing Eminem. But this song rocks. Dave and I saw 8 Mile in the theatre and were totally impressed with Mr. Marshall Mathers’ acting ability.
We promptly bought the soundtrack and learned the lyrics to this song.
It’s one of those songs where, once you learn the lyrics, you never forget them because they are so fast and furious, you fall over yourself trying to say them with him!
Listen to Lose Yourself now / Get the Movie 8 Mile on Amazon Prime
24. Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac
A road trip song playlist wouldn’t be complete without Fleetwood Mac and this song has the groove for driving.
“Let’s all sing it together….You can go your own way, Go your own way You can call it another lonely day You can go your own way”
25. See You Again by Wiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth
Why this song wasn’t nominated for an Academy Award was beyond me. Everyone was shocked when actor Paul Walker was killed in a car crash. He died during the filming of Furious 7.
I never did see the film, but this song played during his final scene in the movie, which I read all about. It seemed to be a beautiful send off to him and whenever I hear it, it still brings a little tear to my eye.
This is a great song for a road trip and is fitting since it’s the title theme for a movie about fast cars.
Buy this song on Amazon $1.29 / Watch all the Fast and the Furious Movies in this Box Set.
26. Jack & Diane by John Mellencamp
John Cougar was the first musician I ever saw live. My brother and now sister in law brought me to a show at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton and I couldn’t get enough of his music after that.
I loved his rockabilly sound and to this day, the minute those first five chords ring out over the car stereo, I start rockin’. Jack and Diane is probably his best song and is all about two American kids living in the heartland .
Check it out on Amazon $1.29
27. Drive My Car by The Beatles
Baby you can drive my car, yes I’m gonna be a star. Have you watch Carpool Karaoke with Paul McCartney and James Corden yet? It is awesome and yes, they do sing the quintessential Beatles road tripping song as they drive around Liverpool checking out Paul’s old haunts.
28. You Oughta Know by Alannis Morisette
The feminism anthem of the 1990s was written and performed by a Canadian. We owned the album Jagged Little Pill and there isn’t a bad song in the bunch.
But it’s You Oughta Know that is one of the best road trip songs on the album. The staccato speech at the beginning gets you hooked for the driving beats ahead making it one of the best driving songs out there.
“I – Want – you – to – know. That – I’m – happy for you. I – wish – nothing – but – the – best – for – you both.”
Was this sone about Joey from Full House? We’ll never know. But you oughta know
Buy the album Jagged Little Pill, it’s a good one!
29. Sweet Child O’Mine by Guns n’ Roses
Okay, Dave and I are huge Guns n’ Roses fans. When choosing road trip songs, GnR is right at the top.
We know every word, and both of us immediately stop talking and start singing and playing air guitar. (Or if Dave’s driving, air drumming on the steering wheel.) Guns n’ Roses’ music holds up after all these years and they have many songs made for passing the time on long drives.
Download Sweet Child O’ Mine on Amazon
30. Coming to America by Neil Diamond
During our cycling road trip through Africa . I had Neil Diamond’s Greatest Hits on my playlist. Whenever I was feeling exhausted or just overwhelmed with the scope of the day’s ride ahead, I’d put on Neil Diamond’s mix of mellow and fun tunes. It was “Coming to America” that picked me up the most. It’s just so motivating.
The driving beat makes you feel that you can do anything. It’s all about traveling far and coming to America. I’m not even American, and it inspires me. This song captures what America used to be to so many people. Let’s hope they get there again.
Buy on Amazon Now
Enjoy reading about our road trip through the Causeway Coast at The Best Things to do in Northern Ireland
31. Carry on Wayward Son by Kansas
If you are a fan of Supernatural , (the TV series) you’ll recognize this song from the recaps they do at the beginning of most seasons. This song by Kansas has stood the test of time, not only because of Supernatural, but it was huge during the Guitar Hero days.
When they belt out their harmonies at the beginning followed by the hard drums and guitar solo, you can’t help but bounce to the beat. It’s no wonder this song is featured on Supernatural, Sam and Dean are always driving from town to town in Dean’s 1967 Chevy Impala
32. Hello by Adele
Who doesn’t love Adele’s velvet voice? Sure, “Hello” isn’t a fast-paced tune, but it is an excellent road trip song. Why? Because you can howl, scream and holler along.
Turn the stereo up to 11 and belt out those notes along with Adele. Don’t worry, everyone in the car will be singing along, so nobody will hear you scream “ Hello from the outside “.
Buy Hello to Add to your Road Trip Songs playlist $1.29
33. The Nights by Avicii
The best road trip songs are upbeat and easy to sing to. If you agree with that definition, The Nights is definitely a perfect tune for your playlist.
It’s easy to learn the lyrics and a lot of fun to sing a long with. The song is by the Swedish DJ Avicii, but it feels more Celtic to me. It was an awesome tune on our playlist for our road trip through Ireland last year.
You can buy the single on Amazon
34. The Distance by Cake
Man, Cake has some great road trip songs. They have a super sense of humour and their music is just simply a lot of fun. I could choose a couple of their songs for our road trip playlist, like Short Skirt Long Jacket or the hilarious Sheep go to Heaven, but Going the Distance is the song that was made for a road trip.
Because that’s in essence what you are doing when driving, right? “You’re going the distance, and you’re going for speed.”
Add Going the Distance to your Road Trip Playlist
35. More Than a Feeling by Boston
Lead Singer Brad Delp had one of the best voices in Rock n’ Roll. Dave and I love great vocalists and Boston’s songs were meant to wail to. He could reach the high notes with such clarity and there’s nothing more satisfying when out for a long day on the road than reaching those notes in the car and pretending to be a rock star. This is the song to do that to.
Buy More than a Feeling on Amazon
36. American Pie by Don McLean
When on a long road trip, there’s nothing better than a really long anthem-like song to come on. The miles seem to just fall away on the road. American Pie is one of those songs. A song that cuts nearly 10 minutes out of your road trip, as you sing along with each verse.
There’s something about knowing all the lyrics of American Pie that makes you feel like you are smart or something. When you know every word, it’s impressive to others. Well, at least Dave and I impress ourselves and that’s all that matters since we’re usually the only two in the car!
Download the ultimate road trip song on Amazon
37. American Woman by The Guess Who
Let’s stay with the American theme and go with this American classic, written by Canadians! When Dave and I got free tickets to see The Guess Who from his friend who ran their lighting, we weren’t sure what to expect. Weren’t these some old guys that sang songs we’ve never heard of? Boy were we wrong.
Burton Cummings’ voice is outstanding and Randy Bachman can make his guitar sing. But you’d also be surprised how many songs you know by the Guess Who. They had hit after hit.
American Woman has been deemed an American Anthem, but what’s funny about it is that the entire song disses on America.
“ I don’t need your war machines, I don’t need your ghetto scenes”. Colored lights may hypnotize Sparkle someone else’s eyes”
Listen closely and you’ll see that they’re telling America to stay away from them!
Get American Woman on Amazon 1.29
38. All About the Bass by Meghan Trainor
When I first heard Meghan Trainor’s voice I was hooked. It’s so clear and fun. Have you seen her sing on Jimmy Fallon with the Roots playing kids school instruments as back up? It’s amazing. That’s how you know someone can sing: When they’ve got nothing backing them up but a kazoo and they sound awesome.
This tune is so much fun. We’re also fans of Your Lips Are Movin’ by her as well. Meghan Trainor’s tunes were made for road tripping.
Get this road trip song on Amazon
39. Africa by Toto
Let’s slow This Road Trip Songs Playlist down a little now. Africa by Toto didn’t mean a lot to me until I went to Africa. They capture it beautifully in the song and it’s so soothing to listen to.
Wild dogs really do cry out in the night and yes, Kilimanjaro does rise like Olympus above the Serengeti. When Africa comes on, it makes me want to book a flight to Tanzania or Kenya.
These countries are two of our favorite places in the world and we could go back again and again. But until we do, there’s always Toto there to remind us of how much we love it.
Download on Amazon
- One of our favorite road trips where we had the tunes cranked was definitely a drive along the Cowboy Route in Southern Alberta.
40. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
Journey may have had a resurgence thanks to Glee, but we have always loved them. Open Arms is actually my favourite by them, but it doesn’t exactly fit the bill as one of the best road trip songs of all time. It’s more of a love ballad. We were both huge fans of Separate Ways, but perhaps the synthesizer is a little dated.
Don’t Stop Belivin’ is definitely the Journey song that was made for driving. Heck it’s even about taking a journey. “Just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit . He took the midnight train going anywhere”.
Buy the song on Amazon / Rent the movie Don’t Stop Believin ‘, it’s so inspiring!
41. I Bet My Life by Imagine Dragons
Imagine Dragons are quickly becoming one of our favourite bands of the 2000s. They are so versatile, with so many hits you don’t even realise they are the same band. They are the same guys that sing Radioactive, Demons and It’s Time. All songs are so different.
But it’s I Bet My Life that makes us want to bop our heads to the beat. We drove a lot through Europe last year and this was one of the big road trip songs for us to listen to.
Buy I Bet My Life for just $1.29
42. Dream On by Aerosmith
This song starts off slow and builds to a screeching point with Steven Tyler wailing “ Dream On, Dream On, Dream On, Dream Until Your Dreams Come True! “
You don’t want to be in the car with Dave and I when this song is on. Both of us are yelling at the top of our lungs and banging our heads to the beat. When Dream on comes on the radio, there’s no talking to either of us until the song is over.
Buy AeroSmith’s Greatest Hits
- You don’t have to be in a car to appreciate good music. We had our playlist going like made in our Bluetooth helmets during our tour around Lake Superior on motorcycles.
43. Rock Star by Nickelback
Hey, don’t hate on Nickelback okay? Everyone loves to hate this band, and yet they still have tons of top hits and sold out shows. Yes, Chad Kroeger’s hair sucks with his long bleach blond locks and dark roots and his goatee does not fit his face, but Nickleback has some pretty memorable tunes.
I remember listening to them sing live from “The Edge Studios” in Toronto for the first time when they belted out How you Remind Me. That song was their breakout hit, but you gotta listen to Rock Star. The lyrics of this song are hilarious and it was made for singing along to in the car.
Give Rock Star a chance now
44. Hey Ya by Outkast
I love the positive beat of this song. Sure it may or may not be a break up song, I can’t be sure about the lyrics – is it about breaking up or staying together? Who cares, it’s gone a cool vibe.
The video is so much fun and when this tune comes on, you instantly feel good. Andre3000 was named one of the best rappers of all time, and yet it’s this little ditty that we love for a road trip. My Baby don’t mess around.
Hey Ya on Amazon
45. Edge of Seventeen by Stevie Nicks
The ultimate female rock voice is Stevie Nicks. This has been one of my favourite songs for years. I could only wish that I had a Rock n Roll voice. Mine was stuck in the pop world, but that didn’t mean that I didn’t daydream about rocking it like Stevie on the big stage one day.
This rock song is great for anyone. Even Dave rocks out to it when I turn it on. It may have never made it to the top 10 when it was released in 1981, but this is the most memorable of all her songs and over time has gained more fame and glory than it had during its original release.
Give it a shot and listen to it!
46. I Wanna Be Sedated by The Ramones
This is the easiest song to sing along to. It repeats and repeats but the beat keeps on going. When we’re on a super long road trip, we agree, Twenty, Twenty, Twenty-Fours hours to go! I wanna be sedated. Get the Ramones on your road trip playlist now. They’ll have you Ba ba baba, baba ba baba along all night long!
Purchase I Wanna Be Sedated
One of our latest road trip adventures took us to Fraser Island in Australia . We spent 3 days driving through the sand dunes and scenery of this amazing destination.
47. Redemption Song by Bob Marley
Bob Marley is another artist where we could just put on his greatest hits and make that a road trip playlist. But the self imposed rules of this article was to choose only one song per artist.
Yes, he has more up-tempo songs that could fit the genre better, but we feel that sometimes you gotta slow down when choosing a road trip song and let the mellow feeling takeover as you drive the open road.
Redemption Song is the perfect song for that occasion. It’s one of those songs where you can put your vocal skills to the test and sing with feeling.
Download Redemption Song for 1.29 on Amazon
48. Follow You Into the Dark by Death Cab for Cutie
Sticking with slow songs, Dave and I love this one by Death Cab for Cutie. It’s a love song and we love a good love song. Hey, we’re both romantics at heart. One of my favourite lines is:
“You and me have seen everything to see From Bangkok to Calgary The soles of your shoes are all worn down “ That’s how Dave and I feel, we’ve seen it all together and we love doing so.
Download this now for your Road Trip Song Playlist on Amazon
49. Life’s Been Good by Joe Walsh
Another very long tune. Life’s Been Good is a great road trip sing-a-long song. It goes on for a whopping 8 minutes. Do you know how many km you can cover when driving at 100km (or if you’re like most people, 120km) per hour?
That’s right, 15km will fly right by! How does Life’s Been Good fit with a road trip? Well, he does sing, “ My Maserati does 185, I lost my license, now I don’t drive. ” Best lyrics ever!
50. Shelter from the Storm by Bob Dylan
Well, since we’re in the vein of 1960s music icons. We must include a little Bob Dylan. You see, you want your road trip playlist to be versatile. You can’t stick with one genre or one decade. It needs to span many years and cover all music types.
That way you never get bored. Shelter from the Storm is one of Bob’s greatest hits and he’s had many.
You may choose one of his more famous songs like Blowin’ in the Wind, Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door or Mr. Tambourine Man, But listen to Shelter from the Storm. This is a great song.
Purchase Shelter From the Storm Now
51. Piano Man by Billy Joel
I’ll never forget locking up Sherry Ott’s phone (of Ottsworld’s ) during the Mongol Rally. She and Rick had to listen to our playlist the rest of the 10,000 km and she mentioned, if only we had some Billy Joel. I love Billy Joel, so I felt the same way!
We didn’t have Spotify then, so we couldn’t just magically download Billy Joel in the Gobi desert, but I do agree, he makes for some great road trip music. Yes, he has a lot of hits, but Dave and I both love Piano Man.
It’s another long anthem type song that lets you sing along forever. With verse after verse our voices grow stronger and more powerful in the car until we’re both belting out “Sing us a Song You’re the Piano Man!” no you’re the piano man!
Get it on Amazon
52. Old Man by Neil Young
From Piano Man to Old Man. Niel Young is another iconic Canadian in our list. I could do a Canadian version of Road Trip Songs, but I am afraid half of you wouldn’t know the songs I am talking about.
Anyone else out there know of The Tragically Hip’s Fireworks ? Our Lady Peace’s Starseed or Blue Rodeo’s Bad Timing ? Didn’t think so.
But we the world knows Neil Young. Even the younger generation knows him thanks to Jimmy Fallon. Old Man is our favourite. What’s yours?
Listen to Old Man Now
Watch Jimmy Fallon and Neil Young on YouTube
53. Lust for Life by Iggy Pop
In the 1990s, I didn’t know a lot about punk rock. Dave and I were into Grunge at the time. But when we went to go see Trainspotters at the theatre, we were introduced to Lust for Life by Iggy Pop.
If this doesn’t get you rocking in the car, nothing will. It is the perfect way to end our road trip songs playlist with an upbeat tune that was made for road tripping.
Lust for Life is on Amazon for just $1.29
54. Radar Love by Golden Earring
Whenever the popular rock and roll radio station in Toronto does a traffic update, they play this song. They also play “I’m a highway star” but Radar Love has the much better groove. I love adding grooving songs to drive to on my playlist.
55. Route 66 by Nat King Cole
It’s a classic and an oldie but goodie. All kinds of people have covered Route 66 but nothing compares to the velvet voice of Nat King Cole. So add this classic road song to your playlist and get your kicks on Route 66.
56. Mustang Sally in the Commitments
When I was younger I was in a band that had the feel of the movie The Commitments. I loved singing back up vocals to Mustang Sally, “Ride Sally Ride. This song has a cool groove that gets you in the mood to drive. (Among other things)
57. The Air Tonight by Phil Collins
Who doesn’t love that drum solo by Phil Collins in the Air Tonight. I’ll never forget hearing it for the first tim eon Miami Vice when Crocket and Tubs were driving down the strip of Miami. Man, this is the best grooving driving song out there.
58. Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran is awesome. There isn’t a song of his I don’t like. But when it comes to songs about driving, this is it. I love the lyrics:
“I’m on my way Driving at ninety down those country lanes Singing to “Tiny Dancer” And I miss the way you make me feel, and it’s real We watched the sunset over the castle on the hill.”
Dave and I totally sing to Tiny Dancer when driving and we always think about driving those back roads in Ireland. How can the locals possibly go 90 on narrow winding roads, and yet they do. they really do! Get Castle on a Hill now
59. Boys of Summer by Don Henley
I admit, I bought a pair of RayBans just because of these lyrics… “Driving in your car with those Wayfarers on baby.”
When I listen to the Boys of Summer, I envision beautiful people driving up and down the sunset strip in Los Angeles. I always have and still do. Check out our guide to the Ultimate California Road Trip
60. Where the Streets have No Name by U2
And let’s end with a song that actually has a street in the name. Well, the Streets have no name here. U2s anthem is the perfect ending to our road tripping song. From the Joshua Tree, that takes us through the California desert, the Streets Have No Name, is a song that will hypnotize you as you get lost in Bono’s dreamy vocals. Just make sure to keep your eyes on the road!
So there you have it. This is our list of our favorite road trip songs. So are you ready to hit the road with the best playlist ever?
We have this on our playlist, what’s on yours? Have you ever taken a road trip going anywhere?
Do you have a song that needs to be included when you go traveling? We’d love to hear in the comments below.
- Best Travel Songs Playlist – It’s different from this!
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- Best Travel Tips from 20 Years of Traveling
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81 thoughts on “60 Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Drive”
Where Chris Rea? There should be at least one song if not 3
Interesting list you have here. I have some recommendations here if you don’t mind.
Raspberries – Go All the Way Jason Isbell – Super 8 Big Star – In the Street Crack the Sky, the best band to come out of Baltimore – Nuclear Apathy Wishbone Ash – (In All My Dreams) You Rescue Me The Bottle Rockets – Radar Gun Danny O’Keefe – Good Time Charlie’s Got the Blues Cross Canadian Ragweed – Fightin’ For
Thanks for the nice collection, will definitely try this!!
Thank you so much for sharing this playlist. I really loved it.
Very nice collection thanks for sharing!!
Blatantly missing: “Roll on Down the Highway” – Bachman-Turner Overdrive
Great selection. Along with ‘Go Your own Way’ and ‘Life is a Highway’, I’d add ‘Peaches’ by Justin Bieber
Nice One! Amazing Playlist! Really love This, thank you for sharing this lovely playlist.
Awesome Playlist !! Love It
Thanks for the song list now it will be very easy for me to go on a road trip.
thanks for the list of songs. I loved the ‘boys of summer’ song so much. Every time when I drive I always play this song.
Superb Collection..i definitely tryy all songs..i am planning to go out . i hope it helps for me. Thank you
Thank you very much for this playlist. I really loved it.
Superb Collection.. Thanks for the lovely post
fantastic article thanks for sharing, I appereciate your work
Thanks so much! Do you have a favourite song to add?
Most of these songs and genres that aren’t rock should be left off the list completely. The best road songs are real rock hands down. The best road song ever is Judas Priest’s “Heading Out To The Highway”. The live version of the Priest Live album from 1987.
You reminded me of songs that I love but forgot about. Thanks for making this playlist, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as some ones you’ve recommended…Old is gold
Thanks for this article but there are many tracks apart from these to make the highway journey a perfect experience.
You reminded me some of the songs that I love but forgotten about it. Thanks for reminding me again, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as someones you’ve recommended. 🙂
Great collections thank you so much for sharing this article.
Really a great collection of songs thanks for sharing hopefully it will help me next time i go out.
Thank you for this wonderful list. It really helped me a lot during my road trip.
Amazing article I really loved it. Thanks for sharing this amazing content.
Hey there Thanks for the Wonderful Playlist.
This is an excellent list. I have a trip to plan here shortly. Hopefully everyone can agree on this playlist.
Yes.. This is an excellent list of songs for road trip
Superb Collection. Thanks for sharing it.
Superb Collection..i definitely tryy all songs..i am planning to go out . i hope it helps for me.
You reminded me of songs that I love but forgot about. Thanks for making this playlist, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as some ones you’ve recommended…Old is gold
Awesome and ‘d add Big Sugar’s “Please Let Me Sleep In Late or My Heart Refuses To Pound”.
The requirement for any good road trip is, as everyone knows, a killer soundtrack. And summer is the optimal time to hit the road and go on an adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a solo trip or gathering with friends and family, you’re going to need some tunes to keep you company along the way. We’ve collated classic driving songs from throughout the eras and assembled the best road trip songs to fire up as you head out on the open road.
Hey, nice post loved it.
You reminded me of songs that I love but forgot about! Thanks for making this playlist, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as some ones you’ve recommended!
Awesome playlist! Added some of these for my next road trip, thankyou so much sir ??
Awesome playlist! Added some of these for my next road trip 🙂 Thanks for the post!
really nyc playlist
awesome..amazing man..!!
Thank you so much!! You don’t know how you helped me. But you helped me a lot. Usually, I get bored while going for a long ride but now it is gonna Amazing. Thank you again.
Hi, You have put together a great collection of songs. It’s true music and travel if combined together can make any trip a great one. I have although written a similar article on my blog but being an Indian I love Bollywood songs. Lately, I have added some modern International songs too on my playlist and I am loving those. I have noticed that you have added many classic old songs, I have listened to a few of them on YouTube and I found them pretty great. Thanks for sharing your list of songs with us. You can check out mine too. It’s a bit different from yours.
Great collection. There is so much good music out there, old and new, the challenge always seems to be keeping the list to a manageable number. Quite a few caught me by surprise. I was a long haul truck driver for many years, and a big music fan, but you learn something new every day. A running joke in my house is that I have been more places with Melissa Etheridge than I have with my wife of 36 years. Submitted for your consideration: You can sleep while I drive-Melissa Etheridge. Radar Love-Golden Earring Roll Me Away- Bob Seger In The Air Tonight- Phil Collins Uneasy Rider-Charlie Daniels Here I go Again-Whitesnake Eastbound and Down-Jerry Reeves This Flight Tonight-Nazareth Fly At Night-Chilliwack The Load Out-Jackson Browne Several dozen more than you will have space for.
Superb Collection..i definitely try all songs..i am planning to go out . i hope it helps for me.
Thank You So Much For The Playlist. Now I Am Gonna Rock The Long Drive.
What an Amazing Wonderful Collection Realy I Love IT 🙂
Great collection man..Enjoy
Nice playlist. I’d include America’s Ventura Highway.
was going to put I’ve Been Everywhere Man on the list and then I decided against it because I have it on another music list on this site. I linked to it in this article and I thought, uh oh, I can’t repeat songs too muc
wonderful collection
Thank you so much for the playlist. I loved all of them. Now am ready to hit the long roads.
I can’t argue with most of the selections on the list, but there are a few blatant omissions:
Born To Be Wild Radar Love Twilight Zone
I don’t know how any music list (regardless of theme) can be complete without a single song by Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Rush, or the Boss, let alone missing all of them???
I love music so much.this is the best article ever about road trip songs playlists. Thank you for nice article.
Excellent collection of songs! I truly needed to recommend this to these amazing people who have done great road trips I’m in touch with and will do in future. One of their trips was 20,000 Kms. Will share it ahead!
Thank you for the great road trip list. It was great.
Thanks Dev & Deb !! You made my day…!! By reading your article I found so much happiness because in coming days I’ll go on long tour with my new car & these road trip songs will rock it all the way … !! 🙂
– Jenny Diana
Jessica by the Allman Brothers is one of the best for me. In the movie of my life, it’s the music that would playduring the scenewhen I take a long road trip or move cross-country. 😛
Great addition, I’ll have to add it to my Spotify.
Ooooooh, so many. Led Zep’s Dazed and Confused (26 minute version), Hendrix’ Voodoo Chile, a lot of Buddy Guy. Yesterday I heard B-52s “Planet Claire”–that is a serious jam.
I am so happy to spend my time here, i am always search exactly like this blog. Thanks for sharing us.
Great choices and I love that you included a Canadian. Life is a Highway. Woot!
Awesome and ‘d add Big Sugar’s “Please Let Me Sleep In Late or My Heart Refuses To Pound”.
Great selection. Along with ‘Go Your own Way’ and ‘Life is a Highway’, I’d add ‘Dance the Night Away’ by Van Halen
Superb!! Never gonna to forget this one!!
I Wanna Be Sedated BY The Ramones
Amazing this post, thanks for share it.
Amazing this one thanks for share it.
Fantastic list, thank you! One addition comes to mind right away: “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane. I mean, it actually has the word highway in it. Classic.
That’s a great addition. I was actually thinking about that song. I love him because he’s also Canadian and I like adding Canadians to the list. But I then decided to leave him out because for me, he was oversaturated (in our neck of the woods anyway) and that song was totally overplayed and now I just can’t listen to it anymore. But most people love it!
I would add “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac.
Great choice! How could I forget that one!
thank you! One addition comes to mind right away: “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane.
LOVE THESE!! Couldn’t agree more about Paradise by the Dashboard Light. I love Meat Loaf, LOL. He was my first concert at age 8 😀 and we played “I Would Do Anything For Love” at our wedding hahaha. Great pics. I love any Bob Dylan or Johnny Cash as well—perfect for an All-American road trip. Also 80’s rock.
Road trips are the best!!
I loved that I would do Anything for Love. It was a great comeback song for him. So what wouldn’t you do? Haha, He says, I would do anything for love, but I won’t do that. HAha. I always think about what is that? 🙂 I was going to put I’ve Been Everywhere Man on the list and then I decided against it because I have it on another music list on this site. I linked to it in this article and I thought, uh oh, I can’t repeat songs too much.
Very good article…this is a very unique article for me. I have never seen this kinda article on any sites… REALLY VERY NICE..CHEERS
Thanks Jessica. We love music so much we decided that we had to put together a list of our playlists. So there you go!
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The 20 Of The Best Road trip Rock Songs
via AC/DC / Youtube
Nothing could beat the joyous feeling of road trips together with your friends. The adventures on the path, the stories, the laughter, and the rushing feeling of excitement shared are beyond priceless. To make things better, it’s always great to be pumped up for the long drive with classic rock tunes to suit your mood. Below, we’ll take you on a tour with these 20 rock songs guaranteed to make you sing your lungs out. Have fun!
“It’s My Life” — Bon Jovi
This Bon Jovi classic will definitely swing your mood to the fullest. “It’s My Life” is the lead single from their Crush album.
“Brown Sugar” — The Rolling Stones
This Rolling Stones’ hit will find your heart wanting for more Jagger vibes albeit with its controversial lyrics. The song serves as the opening track to their popular Sticky Fingers album.
“Sweet Home Alabama”— Lynyrd Skynyrd
If you want a more refined, country-rock song, then your heart is in the right place if you listen to this. A Lynyrd Skynyrd classic that catapulted the legends to popularity, this belongs to their album Second Helping.
“Back in Black”— AC/DC
These Aussie rockers made the greatest song as a tribute to one of the greatest frontmen in the history of rock, Bon Scott. It belongs to their album with the same name and is the first one to feature newly-recruited vocalist, Brian Johnson.
“Roadhouse Blues”— The Doors
This lovely Doors’ gem is a concert staple from the group, and also features Jim Morrison’s vocal prowess. It can be found in their Morrison Hotel LP.
“Whole Lotta Love”— Led Zeppelin
This opening rocker to LZ’s 2 nd album, Led Zeppelin II is guaranteed to make you crank up your energy. The song’s insane riffs are considered to be one of the best of any rock song in comparison.
“Smoke on the Water”— Deep Purple
Deep Purple came up with this defining rocker when they firsthand witnessed a catastrophic event on the Montreux Casino located in Switzerland. This is the lead single from their Machine Head LP.
“Sweet Child O’ Mine”— Guns N’ Roses
Who couldn’t resist rocking with this classic gem from Guns N’ Roses? Their album Appetite for Destruction basically turns them into rockstars overnight.
“Sultans of Swing”— Dire Straits
The highlight of Dire Strait’s debut album would definitely want you to dance for a little while. “Sultans of Swing” is a song worth listening to.
“Take It Easy”— The Eagles
The Eagles went solid for their debut album, especially for the opening track. Aside from “Hotel California,” “Take It Easy” is one of the band’s most recognizable songs.
“I Want to Break Free”— Queen
This John Deacon-penned song would make you want to reflect on the life you’re living at this point. It appears on their album The Works.
“Hardwired”— Metallica
This heavy metal song from the legends of the metal arena is worth every means of appreciation. It’s definitely worth listening on the long, drowsy trips to keep the spirits high.
“Listen to the Music”— The Doobie Brothers
The Doobie Brothers became popular all thanks to their first big hit, “Listen to the Music.” If this will not want you to sing for more, we don’t know what will.
“Run to the Hills”— Iron Maiden
Another heavy metal classic, only this time it’s from the one and only, Iron Maiden. This should keep the heart racing and ache for more metal songs. The song is a part of The Number of the Beast LP.
“Ace of Spades”— Motorhead
Motörhead hit the jackpot when they created “Ace of Spades,” which became a quintessential metal anthem. It belongs to their album of the same name.
“I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing”— Aerosmith
This power ballad deserves to be a part of the classic road trip list because almost everyone in your circle wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to sing it! This belongs to Aerosmith’s album of the same name.
“Life is a Highway” — Tom Cochrane
“Life is a highway, I want to ride it all night long,” because who wouldn’t? This rockin’ road trip anthem is a must for any long trips that you’ll take.
“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll”— Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
This Joan Jett classic is a go-to when you want to prove your admiration for the beloved genre. Jett’s version is only a cover, but it’s a well-known version compared to its original singers. It’s the lead single from her album of the same name.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” — Foreigner
Depending on your mood on the road, cheesy love songs are still worth a listen. If you ever want to jump on that ship, “I Want To Know What Love Is” by Foreigner has got you covered. It’s the band’s most successful single from their Agent Provocateur LP.
“Jump”— Van Halen
Van Halen’s most successful single, “Jump” is a song worthy to be listened with a full-fledged rocking mood, and will keep your adrenaline going. It’s a part of Van Halen’s 1984 album.
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100+ Best Road Trip songs (to sing along with as you drive!)
Looking for good road trip songs? Honestly, the right driving songs in the right playlist can make or break a road trip! Here are 100+ best road trip songs to sing along with as you drive!
And don’t forget to download your FREE road trip planner below , to help you plan your road trip.
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Best Road Trip Songs
Planning a road trip or long drive is tough. There are a million things to think about. And one of the things often overlooked is a road trip playlist!
Whether you’re travelling by car, RV, camper or bike, this list of the 100 best road trip driving songs is guaranteed to make the miles fly past!
We’ve got a mix of great driving songs to sing along too: songs for girly summer road trips, classic rock, all-American, a bit of country and some modern 2020 tunes- all designed to create the PERFECT playlist for your journey. And with over 100 road trip songs to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone to sing along with on the road.
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How to create a great road trip playlist with sing-along songs!
The window wound down, the stereo cranked up and some awesome tunes you can sing along to; perfection, right? But if you’re anything like us, your phone/iPod is a random mix of all sorts of music- including a Christmas album or 7.
That’s why a road trip playlist is so important- you don’t have to worry if the next tune will be great, you already know it will be!
- Make sure the songs are downloaded onto your phone/ ipod. Otherwise, you’re going to use up a lot of data and/ or run the risk of being in an area with bad signal and no music!
- Like listening to things as you drive? Check out Audible – you can get podcasts, audiobooks and more- it’s a perfect way to pass the time on a long drive.
You might be able to get 3 MONTHS FREE music at Amazon. Click HERE to take advantage
I’ll be honest- there was some…. let’s call it “discussion”… over the best travel songs to include on this list. My husband prefers classic rock for driving songs. I like songs you can sing along with in the car and songs to drive fast too (NEVER above the speed limit though… right?!)
We compromised on creating a road trip playlist with song choices from all of us, so we hope there’s something in here for you!
So, let’s get to the best road trip songs.
(Update: This post started off as 100 of the best road trip songs… it’s growing as we add more in, so no idea how many are here now!! )
20 Rock Classics- the BEST Road trip Rock songs
- Danger Zone – Kenny Loggins
- Nutbush City Limits – Ike & Tina Turner
- Dude Looks like a Lady – Aerosmith
- American Pie – Don Mclean
- Whole Lotta Rosie – AC/ DC
- Don’t Stop Believing – Journey
- Paradise City – Guns N’ Roses
- All Night Long – Rainbow
- Cats in the Cradle – Ugly Kid Joe
- Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
- Jump – Van Halen
- We Built This City – Starship
- Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams
- Hell ain’t a Bad Place to Be – AC/DC
- The Boys are Back in Town – Thin Lizzy
- Rio – Duran Duran
- Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting – Elton John
- Who are You – The Who
- Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac
- Love Walked In – Thunder
Best Driving Songs- All-American road trip songs
- Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen
- Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Walk This Way – Aerosmith & Run DMC
- My Life – Billy Joel
- Living on a Prayer – Bon Jovi
- Footloose – Kenny Loggins
- One of these Nights – The Eagles
- Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf
- Nothing but a Good Time- Poison
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25 Modern road trip songs to sing along with (2020 update)
Our favourite modern (ish!) driving songs, all of which are perfect to sing along to in the car and belt it out- especially in a traffic jam with people staring at you!! Add any (or all!) of these to your perfect summer road trip playlist.
- Physical- Dua Lipa
- Stupid Love – Lady Gaga
- Dance Monkey – Tones & I (you know you love it…)
- Take Me Back to London – Ed Sheeran
- All the Good Girls go to Hell – Billie Eilish
- What a Man Gotta Do – Jonas Brothers
- Castle on the Hill – Ed Sheeran
- Uptown Funk – Mark Robson & Bruno Mars
- Rockstar – Nickelback
- Looking for a Good Time – Lady Antebellum
- It’s My Life – Bon Jovi
- Take me to Church – Hozier
- Hold Back the River – James Bay
- Shut Up & Dance – Walk the Moon
- Happy – Pharell Williams
- The Pretender – Foo Fighters
- Hall of Fame – The Script
- Centuries – Fall Out Boy
- Sex on Fire – Kings of Leon
- The Kill – 30 Seconds to Mars
- Mr Brightside – The Killers
- My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark – Fall Out Boy
- Don’t Threaten Me with a Good Time – Panic at the Disco
- Knights of Cydonia – Muse
- If I had you – Adam Lambert
- All the Small Things – Blink 182
The ultimate girl’s road trip playlist- perfect songs to sing along with in the car!
Ah- I LOVE girly road trips, especially in the summer. There’s nothing better than some sunshine, good friends and some GREAT songs on the stereo. Here are some of our favourite road trip songs for girls (although we don’t mind if you boys listen to them too! 😉 )
20 Modern road trip sing-along songs for girls
- Rolling in the Deep – Adele
- Waking Up in Vegas – Katy Perry
- Trouble – Pink
- Everytime We Touch – Cascada
- According to You – Orianthi
- Bang Bang – Jessie J, Ariana Grande & Nicki Menaj
- Black Magic – Little Mix
- Heartbeat Song – Kelly Clarkson
- Sax – Fleur East
- Can’t Be Tame d- Miley Cyrus
- Fight Song – Rachel Platten
- The Best Damn Thing – Avril Lavigne
- Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen
- U and Ur Hand – Pink!
- Part of Me – Katy Perry
- Shake it Off – Taylor Swift
- This is Me – Greatest Showman Soundtrack
- Raise Your Glass – Pink
- Living la Vida Loca – Ricky Martin
- Baby one more time – Brittany Spears
20 Classic road trip songs for girls to sing along to in the car!
- Walking on Sunshine – Katrina & the Waves
- Bitch – Meredith Brooks
- Everything I do, I do it for you – Bryan Adams
- Holding Out for a Hero – Bonnie Tyler
- Wake Me up before you Go-Go – Wham
- It’s Raining Men – Weather Girls
- Love Shack – B52s
- I’m so Excited – Pointer Sisters
- Dancing in the Moonlight – Toploader
- 9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
- Uptown Girl – Billy Joel
- Heaven is a Place on Earth – Belinda Carlisle
- Man! I Feel like a woman – Shania Twain
- Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
- Poker Face – Lady Gaga
- Burning Love – Wynonna (I much prefer this version- sorry Elvis!!)
- Love My Life – Robbie Williams
- Torn – Natalie Imbruglia
- Proud Mary – Tina Turner
- Summer Nights- Grease
14 Driving Songs with ‘road in the title’- perfect for a road trip playlist!
- Hit the Road Jack – Ray Charles
- Every Day is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow
- Take me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
- The Long and Winding Road – The Beatles
- Bright Side of the Road – Van Morrison
- Long Road To Ruin – Foo Fighters
- Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chilli Peppers
- Back on the Road Again – REO Speedwagon
- Thunder Road – Bruce Springsteen
- Road to Hell – Chris Rea
- Road to Nowhere – Talking Heads
- Old Town Road – Lil Nas X
- Roadhouse Blues – The Doors
- Road Less Traveled – Lauren Alaina
15 best songs about driving and cars
Some of the best songs about driving (and cars!) – all perfect for a road trip playlist!
- Mustang Sally – The Commitments
- Bat out of Hell – Meatloaf
- I Drove all night – Roy Orbison
- Rhythm Made Me Do It – Shania Twain
- Drive By – Train
- Greased Lightnin’ – Grease Soundtrack
- Paradise by the Dashboard Light – Meatloaf
- Bad Habit – The Offspring
- Car Wash – Rose Royce
- 2,4,6,8 Motorway – Tom Robinson Band
- Little Red Corvette – Prince
- Pink Cadillac – Bruce Springsteen
- Route 66 – Chuck Berry
- Drive – The Cars
- Drive My Car – The Beatles
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Best Driving songs to drive faster to (and sing along with!!)
Yes, we’ve already had some AMAZING road trip songs for the playlist, but here are some more to crank it up and sing along with (just watch that speed limit!!)
- Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
- Monkey Wrench – Foo Fighters
- Eye of the Tiger – Survivor
- Beat It – Michael Jackson
- 50 Ways to say Goodbye – Train
- River Deep, Mountain High – Tina Turner
- Cherry Pie – Warrant
- I would do anything for love – Meatloaf
- Addicted to Love – Robert Palmer
- Pour Some Sugar on Me – Def Leppard (one of the best songs about sugar ever 😉 )
- Any Way you Want it – Journey (or the Rock of Ages version!)
- DOA – Foo Fighters
- Lowlife – Theory of a Deadman
- Making it Hard – Hinder
- Oblivion – Terrorvision
- Haven’t Had Enough – Marianas Trench
- Angel with a Shotgun – The Cab
- Silent Majority – Nickelback
- Run to You – Bryan Adams
- Thanks for the Mmrs – Fall Out Boy
- The Anthem – Good Charlotte
- Teenagers – My Chemical Romance
- High School Never Ends – Bowling for Soup
- Seven Nation Army – White Stripes
- Kung Fu Fighting – Carl Douglas
- Build Me up Buttercup – The Foundations
- Johnny B Goode – Chuck Berry
- Come As You Are – Nirvana
- Teenage Dirtbag – Wheatus
20 Quieter Road trip songs- for when the kids are sleeping!
These songs are perfect when you want to turn it down a little bit. Admittedly, we tend to turn them up, but then we don’t have young kids anymore!
(Top tip for parents- these children’s car games won’t drive you crazy. Promise!)
- Livin’ Thing – Electric Light Orchestra
- All I Need is a Miracle – Mike and the Mechanics
- Everybody wants to Rule the World – Tears for Fears
- Money for Nothing – Dire Straits
- In the Air Tonight – Phil Collins (just remember to air drum quietly!!)
- I don’t want a lover – Texas
- The Chain – Fleetwood Mac
- The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
- Stay with Me – Rod Stewart
- All Night Long- Lionel Richie
- No Son of Mine – Genesis
- Easy Lover – Phil Collins & Philip Bailey
- Every Little Thing She Does – The Police
- It’s a Beautiful Day – Michael Buble
- Jesus, He knows me – Genesis
- The Day We Caught the Train – Ocean Colour Scene
- All Right Now – Free
- Another Brick in the Wall – Pink Floyd
- Mama Told Me not to Come – Tom Jones
- Boys of Summer – Don Henley
Classic road trip driving songs for EVERY trip
These are some of our favourite driving tunes- but they didn’t really fit anywhere else (or they did, but my OCD with the numbers wouldn’t allow it!) Still, don’t forget to put these onto your ultimate driving playlist!!
- Africa – Toto
- Waterloo – Abba
- Like I Roll – Black Stone Cherry
- Sharp Dressed Man – ZZ Top
- I Love Rock n Roll – Joan Jet
- Counting Stars – OneRepublic
- Song 2 – Blur
- Only The Good Die Young – Billy Joel
- Dreadlock Holiday – 10cc
- Englishman in New York – Sting
- Stacy’s Mom – Bowling for Soup or Fountains of Wayne
- The Power of Love – Huey Lewis and The News
- One of Us – Joan Osborne
- Won’t Get Fooled Again – The Who
- When the Going gets tough – Billy Ocean
- I Can’t Dance – Genesis
- Losing My Religion – R.E.M
- We Are Family – Sister Sledge
- Video Killed the Radiostar – The Buggles
- Hit Me with your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
- I Got You (I Feel Good) – James Brown
- Graceland – Paul Simon
- Since You Been Gone – Rainbow
- Total Eclipse of the Heart – Bonnie Tyler
- Are You Gonna Go My Way – Lenny Kravitz
- I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – U2
Spotify Link for this road trip playlist
If you’d like to download this playlist on Spotify, you can do so here.
And if you found it helpful and like our playlist, feel free to buy us a coffee 😉
Best Road Trip Songs- how did you like our Playlist?
Every single one of these songs makes us turn the volume up and sing along like crazy people- much to the amusement of anyone around us!
These are driving songs to embarrass yourselves to and enjoy every second. I hope it’s given you some great ideas for your own road trip playlist- let me know what you include on yours!!
How else can I help you today?
- Record your trip in one of these beautiful road trip logbooks
- How to plan an epic RV trip for beginners
- The BEST gifts for road trippers
- Essential road trip kit
- Best Children’s car Games
Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.
Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.
If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.
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15 comments.
Wow that is a great list. You have a few I had forgotten. Very complete list of all music genre. That is the only problem I have with things like Sirrus and XM you have to select only one type. I love Pandora but as you mentioned DATA, DATA, so Ipod it is for roadtrips.
Thank you! We had a lot of fun writing it and listening to old songs 🙂 Yeah, Data is definitely something worth considering- it can get expensive quickly otherwise!
You missed out poison alive Cooper got to be on
thanks for the information
You’re welcome!
What an awesome song list. Thanks for sharing this list. take care…
You are very welcome- glad you enjoyed it. Happy Road trip!
Great lists. I made playlists on Spotify that can be accessed by anybody. Makes it easy if you have Spotify.
How do I access the playlist that you made
Rockin’ down the highway by The Doobie Brothers
Is there a way to automatically click a link or something so my Apple Music will automatically take and start playing the 150 song list
Wow. Now I have something to do while waiting for lockdown to end. I’ve never heard of some of yours! You won’t have heard of some of mine! Each to his own. I will start with Stones, Clapton, John Mayalls Bluesbreakers, Sonny Boy Williams……….Can’t stop, I’ve got to get my iPod.?
This is a really lovely list. I would also recommend Dead American Presidents’ Peaches for trips through farm country.
I miss the golden Earring with Radar love.
Can’t believe you don’t have and Go-Go’s songs listed!! I can think of a few that are awesome road trip songs !!
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Who were the wrecking crew behind the most recorded band in music, the singers behind the best disney songs, the women of stax: five unheralded pioneers, ‘hello’: it was lionel richie we were looking for, ‘dirty work’: the rolling stones fight their corner in the 80s, ‘feeling strangely fine’: semisonic’s classic album, remi wolf announces new album ‘big ideas,’ shares ‘cinderella’, shabaka recruits andré 3000, floating points, and esperanza spalding for ‘i’ll do whatever you want’, city high’s debut album has been remastered & expanded, aerosmith announce ‘get your wings’ 50th anniversary limited edition vinyl, dierks bentley borrows tom petty’s guitar for ‘american girl’ video, drive-by truckers announce ‘southern rock opera re-visited’ tour, quavo announces $100k ‘spark grants’ program to support minimizing gun violence, head out on the highway: the 25 best road trip songs.
From backseat singalongs to nomadic anthems, the best road trip songs capture the feeling of freedom that’s sometimes just a car ride away.
Published on
The requirement for any good road trip is great songs. Whether you’re embarking on a solo trip down the highway or gathering for a vacation with friends and family, you’re going to need some tunes to keep you company along the way. We’ve collated classic driving songs from throughout the eras and assembled the best road trip songs to fire up as you head out on the open road.
Listen to some of the best road trip songs for your next vacation on Apple Music and Spotify .
25: Youngblood Hawke: We Come Running
With its driving beat and epic build up, this indie-pop song from LA pop-rockers Youngblood Hawke will get you revving down the highway. They spell it out directly, inviting the listener to head “for the open door, tell me what you’re waiting for”.
‘I Just Fall In Love Again’: Anne Murray Channels Carpenters And Dusty
24: blink-182: what’s my age again.
In just under two and a half minutes, blink-182 ’s ‘What My Age Again’ is pop-punk perfection. This song cooks and there’s nary a second wasted, which is exactly what you want in the best road trip songs.
23: The Killers: Mr Brightside
Pomp, bombast, killer riffs and melodies is one way to set you free, even when stuck in traffic. “Mr. Brightside” from The Killers ’ debut album, Hot Fuss , is the rare road trip song that can get you through the traffic blues and out of the “cage” that is the daily grind.
22: Nirvana: Breed
Just like Appetite For Destruction , Nirvana’s Nevermind features an endless array of road trip songs, but there’s one standout track that sounds like burning rubber. With its blast of feedback and machine-gun intensity, “Breed” will get everybody headbanging in the backseat.
21: Sammy Hagar: I Can’t Drive 55
This is a classic highway vacation song. If the Red Rocker can’t you get to go past the speed limit (which we’re not officially condoning), nothing else will. Sammy Hagar’s breakout solo single has been blasting out of every car stereo since 1984, and has never stopped.
20: Katy Perry: Teenage Dream
When there’s a long stretch of road ahead, sometimes you want psychedelic acid rock where you can put cruise control on and zone out, but when you’re traveling on vacation with a crew, singalong pop anthems are the best road trip songs. Katy Perry ’s ode to the endless possibilities of adolescence will have you sticking your head out the sunroof like a drunk teen on prom night.
19: Warren G (featuring Nate Dogg): Regulate
Few songs encapsulate an entire era better than this 1994 G-funk classic. Between Warren G’s storytelling and Nate Dogg’s smooth vocals, this is the song you can blast whether you’re cruising in your drop top or mid-sized sedan.
18: John Mellencamp: Pink Houses
This slice of heartland rock isn’t all that it seems. John Mellencamp seems to paint the perfect picture of the American dream, but if you keep listening, it’s really the indictment of a broken system. On one hand it remains a misunderstood political song but on the other, it’s a great road trip song.
17: The Rolling Stones: (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
Tapping into that feeling of wanderlust, The Rolling Stones ’ search for satisfaction landed them their first No.1 hit . From Charlie Watts’ propulsive drumming to Mick Jagger’s cracking vocals and Keith Richards’ fuzz-box riff, “Satisfaction” beckons you to the road and the dancefloor.
16: U2: Where The Streets Have No Name
Like the morning’s first light coming over the desert highway, this U2 anthem begins with the sound of heavenly organs that quickly build to a driving rhythm led by The Edge’s arpeggiated guitar lines. Political origins aside, the song conjures images of the American West and the open road. It’s hard not to feel nostalgia when you glide in and out of traffic.
15: Guns N’ Roses: Appetite For Destruction
Forget road trip songs, this is a road trip album. From the menacing “Welcome To The Jungle” to the soaring “Rocket Queen” that closes Guns N’ Roses ’ Appetite For Destruction , you won’t find an album of songs better suited to a road trip vacation than this.
14: Dr. Dre: Let Me Ride
Any G-funk track is made for driving, but this cut from The Chronic is the ultimate road trip song. Between the Parliament-sampling chorus and Dre ’s evocative verses, “Let Me Ride” was tailor-made for summer driving… and is even better if you’re cruising around in a drop top.
13: Bob Seger: Hollywood Nights
While Bob Seger sings about “looking down at the lights of LA” in this 1978 hit, the anticipation of a night on the town is universal. Seger’s frantic vocals and epic storytelling, combined with the uptempo music, is the perfect formula to speed towards the horizon.
12: Cyndi Lauper: I Drove All Night
Some people escape the “sticky and cruel” city by seeking solace in the great outdoors. Not Ms. Lauper. Her vocal calisthenics are just the motivation to drive all night to see your lover.
11: Snoop Dogg: Gin And Juice
Another slice of G-funk heaven. You don’t need hydraulics to roll with the melodic flow of “D-O-double-G.” Released during the heyday of gangsta rap, Snoop took the wild antics of his hometown, Long Beach, and turned them into an idyllic summer jam.
10: Jackson Browne: Running On Empty
Few artists embodied the late 70s Laurel Canyon sound quite like Jackson Browne. “Running On Empty” isn’t a hard road rocker, but Browne could turn the most mundane experiences (like running out of gas) into a metaphor for missing out on the connections in life.
9: The Beatles: Day Tripper
The Beatles have an endless catalogue of travel tunes, from “Ticket To Ride” to “Drive My Car,” but “Day Tripper” is the real road trip song. Featuring one of the best guitar riffs of all time , “Day Tripper” is not so much about a quick getaway but about trying on the hippie lifestyle for a day or two.
8: Stevie Wonder: Master Blaster (Jammin’)
This could be included among the best vacation road trip songs for the intro alone, but the whole thing swings with a swagger that won’t (hopefully) have you swerving from side-to-side. Stevie Wonder ’s tribute to Bob Marley saw Stevie moving away from his typical one-man show and inviting a whole crew to boogie down.
7: Willie Nelson: On The Road Again
Country music is littered with dirt-road anthems, but one of the true classics is Willie Nelson ’s ode to the nomadic life, “On The Road Again.” Nelson was tasked with creating an original song for the aging rocker character he played in the film Honeysuckle Rose . Willie delivered and nabbed an Oscar nomination in the process.
6: Tom Cochrane: Life Is A Highway
Canadian treasure Tom Cochrane is a household name up north, but in rest of the world he’s best known for this highway song anthem that’s become the perfect pep talk for hitting tarmac.
5: Prince: Little Red Corvette
Prince seemingly never suffered from either writer’s block or a shortage of sexual metaphors, as evidenced on his 1983 classic, “Little Red Corvette.” This tale of an ill-fated one-night stand was supposedly inspired by his bandmate Lisa Coleman’s pink Edsel, but “little red Edsel” just isn’t as catchy a refrain.
4: The Beach Boys: Fun, Fun, Fun, I Get Around
Both of these Beach Boys tunes helped define the 60s driving culture, particularly in the winding highways of Southern California. Tight harmonies and terrific rhythms, these songs will transport you to the windswept cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway, driving along with the top down.
3: Tom Petty: Runnin’ Down A Dream
“Free Fallin’” is a great singalong, but when it comes to essential Tom Petty road trip tunes, “Runnin’ Down A Dream” takes the cake. Thanks to the highway imagery and scuzzy guitar riffs, this hard-charging song is best listened to with the windows down and your foot on the gas.
2: Bruce Springsteen: Born To Run
No survey of the best road trip songs would be complete without The Boss. Bruce Springsteen ’s entire body of work unpacks the experience of small-town living and the feeling that escape is just a car ride away.
1: Steppenwolf: Born To Be Wild
You don’t need a bike or road leather to blare this Steppenwolf classic. Most famously featured in the film Easy Rider , Jon Kay’s invitation to “head out on the highway” is a song that became an American anthem and a call for rebellion.
Honorable Mentions
Looking for more great road trip playlist songs for your next vacation? With compulsively sing-along lyrics, these tunes are perfect for lonely highways where you just want to shout out your open car window.
John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) Tracy Chapman – Fast Car Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama The Eagles – Take It Easy Fleetwood Mac – Go Your Own Way Sheryl Crow – Everyday Is A Winding Road The Grateful Dead – Truckin’ Toto – Africa Arcade Fire – Keep The Car Running Ray Charles – Hit The Road Jack Bon Jovi – Living on a Prayer Ike & Tina Turner – Nutbush City Limits Don McLean – American Pie The Allman Brothers – Midnight Rider Outkast – Hey Ya Rascal Flatts – Life Is A Highway Van Morrison – Bright Side of the Road Sufjan Stevens – Chicago Rihanna – Shut Up And Drive The Eagles – Hotel California The Allman Brothers Band – Ramblin’ Man Elton John – Tiny Dancer Simon & Garfunkel – America Pointer Sisters – I’m So Excited ABBA – Waterloo Dolly Parton – 9 to 5 Billy Joel – Piano Man Paul Simon – Graceland
Looking for more options? Check out our list of the best songs about cars and driving .
11 Comments
June 26, 2019 at 7:37 pm
Golden Earring – Radar Love
June 27, 2019 at 5:16 pm
Mountain Jam, The Allman Brothers Band
August 2, 2019 at 8:34 am
Neil Young : White Line, DriveBy, Albuquerque, Trans Am
September 21, 2019 at 4:00 pm
Joanne Nagen
September 25, 2019 at 5:02 pm
John Hartford Steam Powered Aeroplane; Joe Bonamassa Drive; Govt Mule Travellin Tune; Greatful Dead Truckin;Jerry Reed’s Eastbound and Down …..as Roy Rogers said Happy Trails to you Thanks
September 25, 2019 at 6:29 pm
“It’s a Car!” by Sean Morin is a little-known but extremely fitting, perfect vibe, catchy little road trip song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3piktwUcP0
Mike Einhorn
May 28, 2020 at 5:24 am
Bruce Springfield?
September 18, 2021 at 7:27 am
Rolling Down the Highway – BTO Rockin’ Down the Highway – DOOBIE BROTHERS Highway Star – DEEP PURPLE
How’s these NOT make the list?
Belvin Sweatt
January 7, 2022 at 1:08 am
You left out the best one— Sniff and The Tears—Drivers Seat.
January 7, 2022 at 12:01 pm
Here is my Road Trip playlist: Windows are Rolled Down – Amos Lee Call Me The Breeze – Lynyrd Skynyrd Florabama – JJ Grey & Mofro Mustang Sally – Buddy Guy f. Jeff Beck Going to California – Led Zeppelin Hotel California – Eagles Road to Nowhere – Talking Heads Tangled Up in Blue – Bob Dylan Me and Bobby McGee – Janis Joplin Joy – Lucinda Williams Breakdown – Jack Johnson Comin’ Home – Lynyrd Skynyrd Take the Long Way Home – Supertramp Till the Sun Comes Up – Jack & Weatherman
June 3, 2023 at 5:42 am
The triffids – Wide Open Road
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55 Best Road Trip Songs (Sing Along While Driving)
There’s almost no better feeling than hitting the open road and the wind whipping through your hair. Every great road trip needs a great soundtrack. Here we take a look at 55 of the greatest road trip songs to sing along to on your next interstate adventure.
1. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen
No song captures the thrill of hitting the open road better than Bruce Springsteen’s classic hit, Born To Run . The epic love song captures all the passion of young lovers trying to find a place to call their own in this world. This is to be sung at full volume on the highway with the windows rolled down!
Next: Greatest rock genre albums of all time (our ultimate list)
2. Mr. Brightside – The Killers
An anthem for a generation, The Killers’ first hit, Mr. Brightside , turns the lead singer’s pain of being cheated on into one of the greatest sing-along songs of all time. With a driving tempo, the track taps into feelings of jealousy and heartbreak that many of us, unfortunately, know too well.
Next: Ultimate list of the best 2000s rock songs
3. All Star – Smash Mouth
It is basically impossible not to sing along to Smash Mouth’s biggest hit, All Star . Following the story of a, perhaps delusional, wannabe rock star, the song features top-notch wordplay and an addicting melody that demands to be sung, even when we’ve heard it far too many times.
Next: The best songs from movies (top film songs ever)
4. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
Queen’s epic masterpiece, Bohemian Rhapsody , is one of the greatest songs ever written . Clocking in at almost six minutes, their record company balked at the idea of such a long song. Lucky for all of us, Wayne and Garth included, the band persisted and gave us one of the greatest driving songs of all time.
5. Hotel California – The Eagles
The Eagles epic about a haunted hotel is an essential road trip track. With spooky imagery, a catchy melody, and a killer guitar solo, Hotel California is one of their very best tunes.
Next: The full meaning behind “Hotel California” song lyrics
6. A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton
First heard in the 2001 film Legally Blonde , Vanessa Carlton’s track, A Thousand Miles , is one of the greatest karaoke songs of all time . With its upbeat piano and themes of traveling, this is a perfect song for singing on the road.
Next: Ultimate travel & adventure songs playlist
7. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) is one of the catchiest proclamations of love that has ever been sung. The Proclaimers’ most well-known hit is the perfect song for singing on the highway, especially if you find yourself on your way back home to the one you love.
8. TiK ToK – Kesha
Ke$ha’s party anthem, TiK ToK , is the ultimate car-ride sing-along. With fun verses, a catchy chorus, and a heavy dose of rebellious energy, this song will make sure your road trip party “don’t stop” anytime soon.
9. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
Everyone knows the words to the song about a small-town girl and a city boy. Journey’s greatest hit is the ultimate track for your road trip journey playlist—with that catchy piano, killer guitar solo , and a chorus that will push you to your vocal limits.
Next: Story and meaning of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'”
10. Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
One thing the 80s got right was hair metal power ballads. With big hair, bigger guitar, and even bigger vocals, this catchy tune will have you speeding down the highway. The real question is whether or not you can hit that high note !
Next: Our list of favorite power ballads ever
11. Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra
Electric Light Orchestra’s most iconic hit, the cheery tune Mr. Blue Sky , is impossible not to sing along to. While the actual meaning of the song is open for interpretation, the optimistic tone of the music and fun-to-sing lyrics make it a necessary addition to your road trip playlist.
12. Highway to Hell – AC/DC
AC/DC’s rock anthem is sure to have you rolling down the highway. Highway To Hell is an all-time classic rock ‘n’ roll anthem. Put this on the radio, and you’ll have everyone in the car doing their best Bon Scott impression.
13. Life is a Highway – Rascal Flatts
Originally by Tom Cochrane , Rascal Flatts hit track, Life Is A Highway , is perfect for cruising down the interstate. With that catchy guitar riff and infectious lyrics, this one is great for singing with the windows down and the wind in your hair.
14. Bat Out of Hell – Meat Loaf
Meat Loaf ‘s greatest song is his epic masterpiece, Bat Out Of Hell . The eight-minute track about a motorcycle out of control is a defining rock opera track and perfect for testing out your vocal chops.
15. What I Got – Sublime
Sublime’s 1997 hit What I Got is a perfect addition to any road trip playlist. Trying to figure out “why my money’s all gone,” the lyrics tell a story that is both relatable and fantastic. Bringing ska and rap together, this track just demands to be sung along to while you roll down the road.
16. Valerie – Amy Winehouse
Originally by The Zutons, Amy Winehouse made the iconic track, Valerie , all her own. The song lets us all tap into our desire to love and to be loved. It’s a perfect track to put on in a car full of friends and to try and match the intensity of Winehouse’s vocal delivery.
17. Hey Ya! – Outkast
Atlanta-based rap duo Outkast is one of the greatest hip hop acts of all time, and fewer tracks are more iconic than Hey Ya! It’s impossible to hear this song and not be filled with joy. This will have you feeling “ice cold” while you roll down the highway.
Next: Greatest Atlanta rappers of all time
18. Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty
Everyone knows the words to Tom Petty’s defining ballad about a small-town girl who’s “crazy ’bout Elvis.” Even if you don’t know all the words to each verse, the chorus demands to be sung (or screamed, depending on your vocal range). This tune will have everyone singing along.
19. Drops of Jupiter – Train
Train’s iconic cosmic hit Drops Of Jupiter is a quintessential karaoke track. With epic lyrics, a catchy melody, and a chorus that just demands to be belted, this is a perfect song for testing your vocal chops while you coast down the highway.
20. Girls Just Want To Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
There’s no better track for a girls’ road trip than Cyndi Lauper’s classic hit Girls Just Want To Have Fun . All about rejecting societal expectations for women, not only is this song an absolute banger, but it is dripping with 80s nostalgia that will lift everyone’s spirit in the car.
Next: Our playlist of ultimate women empowerment songs and anthems
21. Mr. Jones – Counting Crows
One of the Counting Crows’ most beloved tracks, Mr. Jones has an infectious melody and is full of relatable imagery. The song is all about the dream of being famous and believing how much better life will be when it does finally happen. While it leaves out some of the pitfalls of becoming a superstar, this is a perfect sing-along for long car drives with friends.
22. Chasing Pavements – Adele
Before Adele was the Queen of Pop, she put out her first big hit , Chasing Pavements . The ballad is about the difficult decision to leave a relationship leading nowhere, and its epic chorus is impossible to not belt along to, especially if you are struggling with a similar situation in your own life.
Next: The meaning behind Adele’s song “Easy On Me”
23. Landslide – Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac’s iconic track Landslide has everything the perfect sing-along song needs: a beautiful melody, great lyrics, and a powerful chorus. The right song for a road trip, especially if you are traveling alone on a rainy day.
Next: Full meaning of “Landslide” song lyrics explained
24. Psycho Killer – Talking Heads
With driving drums and bass, Psycho Killer is the perfect excuse to shout in faux-French as you roll down the highway. Whether you are out on a drive around town or you are trying to “run, run, run away,” this is a perfect tune to give your road trip a weird edge.
25. Love on Top – Beyo ncé
While Queen B has got plenty of great tunes for a road trip, Love On Top is perfect for anyone whose heart is full of love. With catchy music giving major 80s throwback vibes, this is perfect for channeling all the love in your heart. And it’s also perfect for testing your vocal chops, especially after that key change !
26. Africa – Toto
Few songs capture that 80s vibe like Toto’s big hit, Africa . The quirky track full of vibey synths is a love song to the entire continent or at least a love song to the idea of it. The chorus is perfect for belting as you roll down the highway.
27. Complicated – Avril Lavigne
Avril Lavigne’s pop-punk ballad, Complicated, is one of the genre’s best tracks, especially for everyone growing up in the early 2000s. The tune brings together country and punk aesthetics to create one of the best sing-along songs of all time.
28. Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
No song romanticizes a scenic getaway like John Denver’s Take Me Home, Country Roads . All about the beautiful roads that lead back home, the chorus of this classic is perfect for singing while enjoying the scenic highways of America.
29. Since U Been Gone – Kelly Clarkson
One of Kelly Clarkson’s first big hits, Since U Been Gone is a powerful and cathartic song. We’ve all been in relationships where we weren’t treated like we should’ve been, and this track fully captures the feeling of getting free from a toxic relationship.
30. Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi
Nothing screams 80s rock ‘n’ roll like Bon Jovi’s Livin’ On A Prayer . The story of the down-on-their-luck couple, Tommy and Gina, reminds us that anything is possible when you’ve got love and a dream. The epic tune is perfect for singing while rolling down a city street or open highway.
31. Crazy – Patsy Cline
For anyone who has dreamed of being a country diva, Patsy Cline’s Crazy is one of the standards you’ve got to know. The country ballad showcases her signature soaring voice and is perfect for singing along in the car, especially if your love life is currently in shambles.
32. Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin
One of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll songs of all time, Led Zeppelin’s Stairway To Heaven is one of the ultimate road trip tunes to blast on full volume. With an exciting story and a song that builds to an epic solo and chorus, heads will be banging in the car.
33. Say It Ain’t So – Weezer
One of Weezer’s most iconic tracks, this entire song is a vibe. Capturing teenage angst and anger in a four-minute capsule, this takes you from chill to screaming and back again, a perfect song to belt with buddies on the road.
34. In the Air Tonight – Phil Collins
The song that made air-drumming cool , Phil Collins’ In The Air Tonight is one of the most epic radio hits of all time. Building up from a soft synth, the track demands to be sung. Just make sure you hold onto the steering wheel when the big drum solo hits.
Next: The most iconic drum solos of all time
35. Tainted Love – Soft Cell
Do you ever feel like you’ve got to run away? Soft Cell’s Tainted Love is the perfect song to blast while you make your way out of town and get away from all that is haunting you.
36. Your Song – Elton John
Every road trip needs a ballad, and Elton John is the king of radio ballads. Perhaps none more romantic or recognizable than his hit, Your Song , which represents the gift of his love.
37. Put Your Records On – Corinne Bailey Rae
Coming in with that funky guitar, Corinne Bailey Rae’s Put Your Records On is one of the best jazz-pop tunes to ever hit the airwaves. It’s best to turn the radio up and roll the windows down and let go of all your worries and sing as loud as you can when the chorus comes around.
38. Friday I’m In Love – The Cure
The Cure’s Friday I’m In Love captures the energy and aesthetic of every John Hughes movie. If you want to feel like the protagonist of everyone’s new favorite coming-of-age film, throw this one on and belt it out while you head down the highway.
39. More Than a Feeling – Boston
Few classic rock bands have captured a sound as epic as Boston’s. Their hit song, More Than A Feeling , will get you rolling down the highway with its epic guitar solos and huge vocals that you can try your best to match.
40. F*ck You – CeeLo Green
CeeLo Green’s tune F*ck You is the perfect sing-along song for all of us who have been dissed, dumped, or hurt. Few songs are more cathartic to sing and, given the vulgarity, the car is the perfect place to let it blast.
41. I Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys
If you are ready for them to bring our favorite boy bands back then Backstreet Boys’ I Want It That Way needs to be on top of your road trip playlist. Few songs have ever been more fun to sing along to.
42. How You Remind Me – Nickelback
Before Nickelback was a meme about a photograph , they were a hit machine. Embodying the post-grunge energy of the 2000s, How You Remind Me is a great song to blast while you’re on the road.
Next: Ultimate list of meme songs for you to enjoy
43. Stacy’s Mom – Fountains of Wayne
There are only two kinds of people in this world: those who want to get with Stacy’s mom, and those who want to be Stacy’s mom. Whichever camp you fall in, you’ve got to blast Fountains Of Wayne hit, Stacy’s Mom , on your next road trip.
44. I Try – Macy Gray
With that smokey voice, Macy Gray gave us a masterpiece with her hit, I Try . The song captures how all of us awkward folks feel when we are around the person that we have a crush on and is a cathartic tune to blast in the car.
45. I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
One of the most well-known love songs of the 2000s, Jason Mraz gave us a track full of wordplay and tongue twisters to sing along to. I’m Yours is a perfect way to pass four minutes in the car, singing the catchy tune.
46. What’s Up – 4 Non Blondes
4 Non Blondes iconic hit What’s Up is a perfect soundtrack for a solo ride down country backroads. With an epic chorus, the tune is perfect for screaming at the top of your lungs.
47. Jessie’s Girl – Rick Springfield
This lusty pop hit is all about the singer’s friend’s girlfriend and his unhealthy obsession with her. The build-up to the chorus is perfect singing material for your next road trip, especially if there is someone you can’t have on your mind.
48. Hey There Delilah – Plain White T’s
If you are trying to get into your feelings during your long drive, then the Plain White T’s Hey There Delilah is the perfect tune for you. All about the hardships of chasing your dreams while being in a long-term relationship. The beautiful song is perfect for a rainy stretch of highway.
49. Don’t Speak – No Doubt
This break-up song about No Doubt singer Gwen Stefani and the band’s guitar player is an absolute classic. This is one of the greatest sing-along tunes for anyone suffering from a broken heart and is a perfect tune to add to your next driving playlist, especially if you’re trying to get away from lost love.
50. White Flag – Dido
Dido’s anthem White Flag is a song for women all across the world. This is about standing strong, being true to yourself, and never giving up on what you believe in. This is the perfect track to sing at full volume while you roll down a sunset highway.
51. Lose Yourself – Eminem
Eminem’s classic hit Lose Yourself is one of hip hop’s most fun songs to rap along to. A big hit from his film 8 Mile , the guitar comes in and sets the mood for the track all about having the courage to live up to your potential.
52. Every Morning – Sugar Ray
With a chill guitar lick, Sugar Ray’s Every Morning is a four-minute dose of dopamine. It is a perfect tune to throw on and sing along with friends as you roll down the highway.
53. Wagon Wheel – Old Crow Medicine Show
Old Crow Medicine Show reached out to Bob Dylan and asked if they could finish writing a demo he recorded decades earlier. Thank goodness for all of us, because it gave us one of the best party tunes, Wagon Wheel .
54. She’s So High – Tal Bachman
Tal Bachman’s big hit, She’s So High , remains an iconic ballad. The build-up to the chorus just demands that we all hit that big falsetto note with him. It’s a perfect track for any road trip playlist.
55. Waterfalls – TLC
It doesn’t get much better than TLC’s Waterfalls . With a funky backbeat and catchy chorus, this tune just asks to be sung along to. It is one of the trio’s best tracks and a perfect road trip tune.
As the Head Editor and Writer at Music Grotto, Liam helps write and edit content produced from professional music/media journalists and other contributing writers. He works closely with journalists and other staff to format and publish music content for the Music Grotto website. Liam is also the founding member of Music Grotto and is passionate in disseminating editorial content to its readers.
Liam’s lifelong love for music makes his role at Music Grotto such a rewarding one. He loves researching, writing and editing music content for Music Grotto.
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Home > Blog > The Ultimate Classic Rock Road Trip Playlist
The Ultimate Classic Rock Road Trip Playlist
- By Josh Guerrero
- May 24, 2017
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The United States, my home country and a spectacular place for travel and adventure. Roughly the size of Europe, this country has things that can appeal to any traveler; beautiful beaches, bustling cities, glorious mountains, scorching deserts, dense forests, and much more. However, Europe has one thing that America doesn’t, and that is an expansive rail network. This leaves two primary means to get around the country; either fly or take to the road.
I was inspired to write this post because I’m about to do the latter. I recently accepted a new job and will be leaving my home state of Michigan to head out west to Arizona. My employer had told me that they would fly me in and out as we conduct and finish projects. However, I opted to drive there instead. Now why would I choose to drive myself when I have someone willing to pay for my flight? The answer is simple really, I associate a road trip with one thing… freedom.
On the open (or sometimes traffic-congested!) road, I’m able to go and stop wherever I want. Take in the sights and experience the amazing things that the country has to offer. Rather than skip over them by flying on an airplane. To me, there’s just something special about hopping in my car, rolling down the windows, cranking up the tunes, and enjoying the journey. It’s something that I’ve down several times already, and I’m looking forward to doing it yet again.
Out of the things that I just mentioned, I find cranking up the tunes to be a critical component to a successful road trip. Music is a great companion on the open road, especially if you’re going solo. And my genre of choice is classic rock! And to prepare for my trip, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite songs. If you’re a rocker like me, then these songs are sure to get you singing along, drumming on the steering wheel, and banging your head as you enjoy the freedom of the open road. For this list, I’ve chosen 30 songs from 30 different artists and put together what I feel is the ultimate classic rock road trip playlist! Enjoy!
The Playlist
1. Led Zeppelin – Rock and Roll 2. Def Leppard – Rock of Ages 3. W.A.S.P. – I Wanna Be Somebody 4. Scorpions – No One Like You 5. Motley Crue – Same Old Situation 6. Quiet Riot – The Wild and the Young 7. Judas Priest – Heading Out to the Highway 8. Stryper – To Hell With The Devil 9. Boston – Don’t Look Back 10.Black Sabbath – Paranoid 11.Metallica – One 12.Guns n’ Roses – You Could Be Mine 13.Blue Oyster Cult – Burnin’ For You 14.Kansas – Carry On Wayward Son 15.Bon Jovi – Livin’ on a Prayer (You’re halfway there!) 16.Van Halen – Eruption/You Really Got Me 17.Kenny Loggins – Danger Zone 18.Whitesnake – Here I Go Again 19.Bad Company – Rock & Roll Fantasy 20.Twisted Sister – The Kids Are Back 21.Journey – Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) 22.AC/DC – Shoot To Thrill 23.Kiss – Heaven’s on Fire 24.Poison – Nothin’ But A Good Time 25.Skid Row – Youth Gone Wild 26.Sammy Hagar – There’s Only One Way to Rock 27.David Lee Roth – Yankee Rose 28.Aerosmith – Love In An Elevator 29.Cinderella – Shake Me 30.Warrant – Cherry Pie
Well, there you have it, the ultimate classic rock road trip playlist! Get the whole playlist now on Spotify ! And remember to buckle up, drive safe, crank the tunes, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!
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The best road trip songs of all time
These road trip songs will make your next excursion a memorable one, whether you’re driving for few hours or a few days
Don’t get us wrong—we really love city life. But sometimes day-tripping to a nearby summer music festival doesn’t quite satiate our need for escape, and that’s where these classic road trip songs come in. When the urge strikes, it’s time to hit the highway/motorway/ whatever for a good, old-fashioned road trip. Of course, you can’t drive in complete silence—well, you can, but the very thought is giving us a flat tyre—so we’ve compiled our list of the best road trip songs to get your motors running and propel your journey into fifth gear. Crank up classics from the Boss, the Dead and Prince, and even some Whitesnake, as you cruise along the open road, forgetting every care in the world.
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Best road trip songs, ranked
1. ‘Born to Run’ by Bruce Springsteen
Like Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Born in the U.S.A.,’ ‘Born to Run’ is darker than it may seem. Embedded in the scuffed poetry of the lyrics is a potent combination of rebellion, sex, disgust and determination—brought to life by the throaty passion of Springsteen’s voice, the liberating wail of Clarence Clemons’s sax and the sheer propulsive force of the E Street Band’s backup. “Someday girl, I don’t know when/We’re gonna get to that place where we really wanna go,” Springsteen promises. ‘Born to Run’, for all its spikes, takes you there. It’s a love song, an urban-jungle cry and a perfect anthem of pedal-to-the-metal escape.
2. ‘Little Red Corvette’ by Prince
It doesn’t take a B.A. in poetry to figure this ditty’s got nothing to do with cars. In the world of Prince, coupés are women, horsepower is a pack of Trojan condoms, and gas is stamina in the sheets. The beat takes its time, synthetic drums echoing into the distance, just as the Purple One implores his one-night stand to take it slow, to make it two, three or more nights. Dez Dickerson peels out in the guitar solo, but she’s the one driving here. Perfect choice of car model—elusive, American, curvy, risky. It wouldn’t work as a Ferrari or Rolls.
3. ‘Here I Go Again’ by Whitesnake
Been dumped recently? You need to go for a drive (preferably in a Jaguar XJ). You’ve made up your mind. You ain’t wasting no more time. So tease your hair, don your pleather, and crank up the volume on this 1982 hit—just try not to get stuck in traffic. This power ballad works better on the open road (with no adjacent drivers to judge your Coverdale cover moves).
4. ‘Where the Streets Have No Name’ by U2
This anthemic opening track from U2’s landmark 1987 LP, The Joshua Tree, is an ideal kick-starter for any road trip (particularly if you're wandering about the California desert where the titular yucca plant is commonly found). From a whisper, the sound of an organ builds up like a spiritual beacon being unveiled. It’s well over a minute before the Edge’s churning guitar and Adam Clayton’s propulsive bassline kick in, and another 40 seconds before Bono’s vocals touch down. By then, you’re ready to hit top gear and wail along: ‘I want to run/I want to hide/I want to tear down the walls that hold me inside.’ Though this road trip song is about Bono’s vision of an Ireland free from class boundaries, it has inspired countless highway warriors to venture out to those places that maybe aren’t on the map.
5. ‘Love Shack’ by the B-52s
‘Hop in my Chrysler! It’s as big as a whale, and it’s about to set sail!’ booms Fred Schneider on this all-time great party song . Admittedly, it’s hard to dance like no one’s watching when you’re behind the wheel of a Chrysler (or a Fiat Punto, for that matter), but ‘Love Shack’ will liven up any road trip. If your bum’s getting numb, just whack it on and have yourself a little front or backseat disco.
6. ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ by Lynyrd Skynyrd
American football possibly killed off Southern boogie rock. Hear us out. Because of college pigskin rivalries, this song could not be made today. College football is a matter of life and death down there, literally. Iconic trees and people have been murdered over games. Skynyrd was born deep in SEC country: The boogie-rock brothers were from Jacksonville, not Alabama, and cut the track in Georgia. Could you imagine a bunch of Gators fans cutting a tune that could in any way be construed as ‘Roll Tide’? Yankees and rivals love to mock and loathe the Crimson Tide, but when this ditty plays, every human in the room, no matter the allegiance, becomes a temporary, gen-u-wine Mobile redneck.
7. ‘I Drove All Night’ by Cyndi Lauper
The irreverent thrift-shop spunk that defined Cyndi Lauper’s persona in the 1980s sometimes overshadowed her killer range and sensitivity as a vocalist, but ‘I Drove All Night’—from her third album, 1989’s ‘A Time to Remember’—finds her in a different mode. Driven by a feverish desire, she takes the wheel and makes her own way to her lover’s bed. (She may coyly ask, ‘Is that all right?’ but by that time she’s already done it.) And Lauper’s impressively sustained last note is a perfect expression of the song’s sense of undeterrable yearning.
8. ‘Fast Car’ by Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman’s beautifully direct 1988 hit, from her eponymous debut album, gives escapism an especially poignant twist. The speeding car and its romantic freedom (‘City lights stretched out before us/Your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder’) can’t be separated from what it’s speeding from: a life of urban poverty, trapped taking care of deadbeats—first a drunk father and then, at the end, the very driver that she had dreamed might carry her to rescue.
9. ‘Keep the Car Running’ by Arcade Fire
If there’s one quality that characterizes Arcade Fire’s sound, it’s urgency—and nowhere is that more evident than on ‘Keep the Car Running’ from the band’s super noir, grandiose 2007 ‘Neon Bible’ album. Based on singer Win Butler’s childhood nightmares (‘Men are coming to take me away!’ he pines), ‘Keep the Car Running’ expands these fears into a sense of global anxiety, and the certainty that there must be something better down the road (‘Don’t know why, but I know I can’t stay’). On its release, the song was likened to prime-era Bruce Springsteen; imagine fans’ joy when Butler and Régine Chassagne made a surprise showing at the Boss’s stadium gig to bust out the song with him. Warning: You will need to be super-careful not to break the speed limit if you play this song while driving.
10. ‘Truckin’’ by Grateful Dead
Let us pause, and acknowledge the fact that this road trip song has been recognised by the U.S. Library of Congress as a national treasure. Mmmm. Written and performed communally by Jerry Garcia, Phil Lesh, Bob Weir and lyricist Robert Hunter, the catchy, bluesy shuffle turns the band’s misfortunes on the road into a metaphor for getting through life’s constant changes. And really, what’s a good trip—or a good life—if you can’t exclaim at the end, ‘What a long, strange trip it’s been’?
11. ‘Road to Nowhere’ by Talking Heads
The gospel-choir intro to this upbeat single, off 1985’s ‘Little Creatures’ LP , makes for a great start to any road-trip mix. The song celebrates the journey over the destination—as frontman David Byrne puts it, ‘I wanted to write a song that presented a resigned, even joyful look at doom.’ (Typical of him.) Not every end point is a good one, but we’ll be damned if this march doesn’t have us enjoying the ride.
12. ‘Graceland’ by Paul Simon
Road trips are a time for contemplation, whether we expect it (or like it) or not. Paul Simon’s 1986 single is a perfect, toe-tapping example—we’re treated to what’s basically his stream of consciousness on a drive to Graceland with his son after the failure of his marriage to the late, great Carrie Fisher. At turns both nostalgic and hopeful, it runs the gamut of emotions we always seem to experience a little more profoundly on the road.
13. ‘Take It Easy’ by the Eagles
The Eagles took flight in 1972 with their debut single: a quick but mellow paean to the romance of the road, where a world of troubles—romantic and otherwise—can be shucked at the mere sight of a girl (my lord!) in a flatbed Ford. Cowritten by frontman Glenn Frey and his friend Jackson Browne, the song’s rejection of worry and release into insouciant adventure are perfect for relieving tension on a drive. As the lyrics gently urge: ‘Don’t let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy.’
14. ‘America’ by Simon and Garfunkel
Add this one to your bucket list: Everyone should be required (at least once) to listen to their restless side, hitchhike, board a bus and go to another city/state/country to find something better—as described in Simon and Garfunkel’s 1968 classic, which follows two young lovers on a Greyhound in search for America. Take your sweetie along for the ride, smoke cigarettes on the side of the road, chat with the weirdos you meet on your journey, and by all means, indulge in a few slices of all-American pie.
15. ‘Route 66’ by Chuck Berry
This R&B standard, written in 1946 by Bobby Troup, has been covered by everyone from the Rolling Stones to John Mayer and Depeche Mode. We’re partial to Chuck Berry’s 1961 rendition, which matches the 2,400-mile pilgrimage on the L.A.–Chicago-connecting titular highway to a T. Who better than the father of rock & roll to accompany a trip past greasy-spoon diners, tiny towns frozen in time and striking Americana landscapes?
16. ‘Home’ by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
First and foremost a love song, the L.A. troupe’s jingly-jangly 2010 smash single is also, obviously, about coming home – making it the perfect road trip song. Naturally, the feel-good tune should be played at the end of your voyage, when you’re speeding a bit because you just can’t wait to get home to your significant other/parents/puppy/comfy bed.
17. ‘Going Up the Country’ by Canned Heat
Released in 1968 and adapted from a 1920s blues song, Canned Heat’s highest-charting single was the unofficial anthem of Woodstock—and even after all this time, it’s the perfect track to kick off a road trip, a steering-wheel-tapping, grin-inducing song that makes you immediately pine for sun-drenched fields: “I’m going where the water tastes like wine, we can jump in the water, stay drunk all the time.” Those dudes had their priorities straight…just so long as they had a designated driver.
18. ‘I’ve Been Everywhere’ by Johnny Cash
Music has always had the power to educate. Billy Joel’s ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ taught us more 20th-century American history than a year’s worth of school hisoty lessons. For a CliffsNotes anatomy lesson, we turned to Professor Sir Mix-a-Lot. And when it comes to geography, there is no better musical resource than this name-dropping country ditty, first released with North American locales in 1962 by Canadian crooner Hank Snow. In four verses, 91 places are rattled off in rapid-fire succession—destinations both big (Chicago and Nashville) and small (Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Haverstraw, New York). This road trip song has been covered many times and adapted for different regions of the globe, but we’re partial to the Man in Black’s 1996 rendition, simply because his weathered, gravelly bass-baritone suggests a man who has indeed been everywhere.
19. ‘Hit the Road Jack’ by Ray Charles
Fiendishly simple with its descending piano chords, ‘Hit the Road Jack’ is sung from the perspective of a philanderer being ejected by his lady. By all rights this 1961 R&B classic should win a prize for being impossible not to sing along to: ‘What you say?!’ screams soul hero Charles to his velvet-voiced Raelettes. Later he complains, ‘You can’t mean that,’ about as convincingly as a cat picking bird feathers from between its teeth. The track's most memorable use in a road trip appears in the 1989 comedy movie The Dream Team .
20. ‘Holiday Road’ by Lindsey Buckingham
Hard to hear this seemingly happy little sock hop without thinking of the Griswold family station wagon zooming to Walley World. As its dark video helps to underline, the lyrics speak more of feeling trapped than free. The Fleetwood Mac man was an ace at hiding his boyish ache behind melodic smiles. Which is why this road trip song is such simple genius: It works the same whether you’re chained to a desk and longing for a vacation or finally on the highway, shooting to God knows where with no deadlines.
21. ‘Mr. Blue Sky’ by Electric Light Orchestra
The sweet spot is 176 beats per minute. That’s a giddy run, the pace of your footsteps hitting the pavement as you jog home after a first kiss. Though we haven’t tested this, we theorise it is the precise cadence of fence posts whipping past your window as you motor down a highway just above the speed limit. ‘Mr. Blue Sky’ is 176 beats per minute, which is why, whenever it plays, you have the urge to run like a big dumb puppy dog to a boyfriend/girlfriend, or let the wind blow through your hair at 76mph, as you croon along to the vocoder like a robot. Warning: When ‘Mr. Blue Sky’ is used without such outlets, it can cause deep wanderlust.
22. ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ by the Proclaimers
If there’s one road trip song that can unite everyone in the car in the simple act of thumping whatever surface is near them in time with a ludicrously catchy tune, it’s this one—a hit in 1988 for Scottish twins the Proclaimers. Fun fact: The ‘havering’ referred to in the first verse (‘And if I haver, I know I’m gonna be the man who’s havering to you’) is Scots slang for babbling foolishly. So now you know.
23. ‘Ride Like the Wind‘ by Christopher Cross
Take your EGOT and stuff it. Chris Cross has the transportation trifecta—mega-hits for the sea (‘Sailing’), sky (‘Arthur’s Theme’) and road (‘Ride Like the Wind’). People condescendingly pigeonhole the guy as yacht rock (the pink flamingo on his smash album doesn’t help), but he’s truly yacht-jet-and-rental-car rock. Despite its lily-white reputation, ‘Ride‘ is cool and dangerous. It’s possibly—no, probably—about drug smuggling. Racing away to Mexico with Michael McDonald as the devil on your shoulder. Hearing those percolating bongos, wind effects, electric piano and oily guitar licks, it could fit right on Daft Punk’s ‘Random Access Memories’ album . It remains DJ gold. Call it ‘Get Unlucky’.
24. ‘Ramblin’ Man’ by the Allman Brothers Band
We may not have been born in the backseat of a Greyhound bus (thanks, mum!), but for whatever reason, the idea of being a ramblin’ man (or woman) is endlessly appealing. And when we play this 1973 hit—based on Hank Williams’s 1951 song of the same name—on the open road, that’s exactly who we are. At least until Monday.
25. ‘On the Road Again’ by Willie Nelson
Nothing beats hitting the open road, where you can escape the stress of work, family, bills, city life and just be free, man. Just ask tireless road dog Willie Nelson. The Red Headed Stranger penned this 1980 country hit—the ultimate get-the-hell-out-of-town anthem—not in the back of a tour bus but rather, of all places, on a barf bag midflight.
26. ‘Runnin’ Down a Dream’ by Tom Petty
Some would argue that we could have built this entire list solely out of Petty tunes—but we had to make a choice, and we picked this 1989 single from the song man’s first solo record, ‘Full Moon Fever’. Not only does it take place in a car, but the tune’s reference to Del Shannon’s ‘Runaway’ and killer guitar solo make it a perfect fit for blasting out of your speakers while cruising down the interstate in pursuit of the American dream, your future destination or simply that next roadside burger.
27. ‘Let Me Ride’ by Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre’s ‘The Chronic’ album arrived on the heels of the 1992 South Central riots. Folks in Compton were looking to escape and could not—and not just because of the traffic on the 110 and 405. This was a cry for cruising with the bucket seats dropped back, slow rolling on a resting-heart-rate rhythm and those G-funk dog-whistle keyboards. ‘Swing down, sweet chariot, stop, let me ride,’ goes the chorus lifted from Parliament’s ‘Mothership Connection,’ itself based on a slave spiritual. But just because the song hides a deeper political meaning the way lowriders hide a subwoofer in the trunk, there’s no reason Dre can’t roll in style. Specifically, in a 1964 Chevy Impala shoed with Dayton rims (a.k.a. ‘Ds,’ as in ‘Throw some Ds on that bitch’).
28. ‘Born to Be Wild’ by Steppenwolf
The riff, like the rev of a motorcycle throttle, has become so terribly commonplace, it’s hard to imagine what it must have been like to hear its ‘heavy-metal thunder’ with virgin ears during the opening credits of Easy Rider . Today, Steppenwolf’s monster hit is a movie-trailer cliché on par with ‘Bad to the Bone’ and ‘I Got You (I Feel Good).’ What was once-tough biker rock is now Viagra-ad fodder. Still, if you can wash out the soundtrack memories of Problem Child, Dr. Dolittle 2, Rugrats Go Wild, et al., the dirty little number still rips, along with a deep huff of exhaust fumes and jazz cigarettes.
29. ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ by Journey
A thousand terrible karaoke performances have somewhat dulled the lustre of this once-gleaming classic ’80s song , but once it comes on in the car, you’ll be in love with it all over again within seconds. Just don’t use it as a road map—there is no such place as South Detroit. Okay, there is, but it’s in Ontario, Canada, so you might need your passport.
30. ‘Interstate Love Song’ by Stone Temple Pilots
The underrated STP (hey, that’s a fuel additive) was never truly a grunge band. The ‘Core’ album was a trend-surfing foot in the door, the American equivalent to Blur’s baggy-riding ‘Leisure’. Really, the bands have more melodic ambitions. Scott Weiland, as his solo albums and pink fur coat proved, had far more Bowie in him than his peers. ‘Interstate Love Song’ was the lifting of the veil, when the Pilots announced, Hey, we actually listen to the Beatles , not the Melvins. It chugs along with drop-top bliss, even if the chorus is oddly about trains, not driving.
31. ‘Radar Love’ by Golden Earring
Appropriately for a song about driving, this 1973 cut from Dutch rockers Golden Earring is one of the best road trip songs ever written. ‘The road has got me hypnotised, I’m speeding into a new sunrise!’ wails singer Barry Hay, as that bassline gets your head nodding and your foot instinctively pressing down on the gas. ‘Radar Love’ also has the best breakdown of any rock song ever. This is an indisputable scientific fact.
32. ‘Life Is a Highway’ by Tom Cochrane
Okay. We know how heavy-handed these metaphors are. And how forced the rhymes are. We never said every song on this list was a masterpiece. But we dare you not to sing along with the chorus of this 1991 cheesefest— especially on a highway. Maybe no one ever listens to the song in its entirety (sorry Tom), but one or two ‘life is a highway’s are pretty much mandatory. Give in.
33. ‘The Way’ by Fastball
Alt-rock band Fastball had a breakout 1998 hit with this fast-driving tale of a married pair that ditches its conventional home and family, in favour of a dream life on the highway with no destination. The feel-good, sing-along optimism of the chorus—‘They’ll never get hungry, they’ll never get old and grey’—has a dark undercurrent: Weeks after their disappearance, the bodies of the real-life Texas couple who inspired the song were discovered in an Arkansas ravine. But all of life’s roads hit a dead-end eventually: Better, maybe, at least to leave the driveway.
34. ‘California’ by Phantom Planet
Contrary to popular belief, the hair-metal power ballad did not die by grunge’s bullet. The hair just got shorter and the trousers got looser. Case in point: this 2002 theme from The O.C. It is emo made only from the emotion of uncut nostalgia. It is basically Motley Crüe’s ‘Home Sweet Home’ for mollycoddled millennials, right down to the video compiled from sentimental tour footage. And it is oddly reminiscent of Al Jolson’s ‘California, Here I Come.’ That’s some feat, finding the common ground between Jolson and the Crüe. Man, remember when Ryan became a cage fighter after Marissa died?
35. ‘Shut Up and Drive’ by Rihanna
This electro bop from 2007 isn’t a top-tier Rihanna tune, but it still kinda rips. Driven – pun definitely intended – by a crafty sample from New Order’s club classic ‘Blue Monday’, it’s an unashamedly fluffy new wave pastiche that’s as much about sex as hitting the open highway. Don’t even pretend you can resist it – especially when the chance of RiRi releasing new music any time soon seems to get slimmer with each passing year.
36. ‘Running on Empty’ by Jackson Browne
There’s a reason this song soundtracks the Forrest Gump protagonist’s famous transcontinental jog: Few pop tunes capture the rush of earthbound travel—by foot, by car or, in Jackson Browne’s case, by tour bus—better than this autobiographical FM-radio staple. But what makes it a classic is the ambiguity in Browne’s message. ‘I don’t know where I’m running now; I’m just running on,’ he sings, perfectly summing up how the desire for escape can be its own kind of trap.
37. ‘Two of Us’ by the Beatles
The Fab Four’s back catalogue is replete with songs about travelling around: ‘Drive My Car,’ ‘Day Tripper,’ ‘Ticket to Ride,’ ‘Yellow Submarine’—the list goes on and on like a long and winding road. No Beatles track, though, captures the feeling of setting off into uncharted territory with someone special better than ‘Two of Us,’ penned by Paul McCartney in 1969. There is debate as to whether McCartney’s partner in crime in this song is future wife Linda Eastman, as he claims, or John Lennon, which some of the nostalgia-infused lyrics would suggest. No matter—an impromptu road trip is a good time whether your passenger-seat companion is your new flame or your counterpart in the greatest songwriting tandem of all time.
38. ‘Chicago’ by Sufjan Stevens
Some songs make your heart beat faster from the get-go, and 2005 road-trip song ‘Chicago’ is just such a gem, announcing its entrance in a whirlwind of strings and a rush of percussion. The backing cuts suddenly to Stevens’s voice, whispering that most universal human sentiment: ‘I fell in love again—all things go, all things go,’ and then later, another familiar feeling: ‘I made a lot of mistakes, I made a lot of mistakes.’ It’s this acknowledgement of our frailty, coupled with our irrepressible capacity for hope and excitement that gives ‘Chicago’ its electrifying, driving charge. That and the fact it features in the ridiculously touching road movie Little Miss Sunshine .
39. ‘Fade Into You’ by Mazzy Star
Night driving found a shimmering musical complement in this ethereal 1994 track from dream popsters Mazzy Star. In a rare bit of sonic magic, it seems that no matter how fast you’re driving, the low beats per minute on ‘Fade Into You’ always manage to sync up perfectly with the passing dividing lines visible from your car’s two headlights. And a night drive, preferably undertaken as you’re pining for an unrequited love, wouldn’t be complete without Hope Sandoval’s dusk, haunting vocals echoing throughout your ride. Two-lane highway bliss, by moonlight.
40. ‘The Golden Age’ by Beck
This 2002 road trip song, off Beck’s desolate, heartbreaking ‘Sea Change’ , is one of the most perfect and profound illustrations of driving as a means of escape. It’s best played at night, in the desert if you’ve got one handy, when you feel like crap but have pretty much come to terms with it. And when, as Beck says, ‘You've gotta drive all night just to feel like you’re okay.’ Go forth, drive and wallow. Maybe you’ll feel better in the morning.
41. ‘Scar Tissue’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers
The L.A.-bred Peppers clearly know a thing or two about hitting the highways, as evidenced by a song catalogue riddled with Cali-inspired, crank-up-the-dial tunes. For a journey out on the open road, we like this lead track off the band’s 1999 album, ‘Californication’, due to its lilting desert-by-twilight vibe. The song’s main attraction is John Frusciante’s wailing guitar solos, which achingly embody Anthony Kiedis’s lyrics about isolation and the twisted, drug-fuelled paths he’s traversed (‘With the birds I’ll share this lonely view’). Enter tumbleweed, stage right.
42. ‘Every Day Is a Winding Road’ by Sheryl Crow
The little sister to Tom Cochrane’s ‘Life Is a Highway,’ Sheryl Crow’s 1996 hit unabashedly co-opts the use of automotive byways as metaphors for life’s ups and downs. (Billy ‘the world is a vampire’ Corgan apparently misread the memo.) The ‘wacky’ characters in Crow’s songs are often a bit too precious for our liking—in this case, a vending-machine repairman with a daughter he calls ‘Easter’ (what?)—but the chorus always gets us fired up for some hairpin turns, even when we’re cruising down a seemingly endless straightaway. This road trip song works perfectly when your destination is San Francisco’s iconic Lombard Street, whose residents probably have this tune swirling in their heads 24/7.
43. ‘Jack & Diane’ by John Cougar Mellencamp
Inevitably, your road trip is going to hit some lulls: You’re fighting off the yawns, your passengers have passed out, and it's 57 miles to the next pit stop. When this happens, there’s one sure-fire way to get your journey back on course: Unleash the Cougar. Indiana’s favourite son specialiaes in songs about the heartland, and his crowning jewel is this 1982 chart topper about two high-school sweethearts and the twists and turns of their American Dream. Despite the jaunty beat and an epic drum breakdown rivaling the one in Phil Collins’s ‘In the Air Tonight,’ the tale is cautionary, urging us to savour those thrilling, carefree teenage years. Oh, to be young, in love and suckin’ on chilli dogs outside the Tastee Freez.…
44. ‘King of the Road’ by Roger Miller
Did our dads play this 1964 ditty on long car rides when we were little? You betcha. Do we think they contemplated the potential consequences of making penniless vagabonds sound super cool? Doubtful. Regardless, it’s a timeless everyman’s anthem, and darn if it isn’t catchy. We really like listening to it in our van down by the river.
45. ‘Green Onions’ by Booker T. & the M.G.’s
This R&B instrumental, recorded in 1962, is the perfect soundtrack for an unhurried drive, when you’re sick of singing along and ready to just cruise. It’s repetitive, much like the open road, but with a steady beat and some soulful Hammond organ to keep things interesting. Widely considered to be one of the greatest songs of all time, it’s received accolades from Rolling Stone , Acclaimed Music, the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Library of Congress. If AAA had a greatest songs list, we’re sure ‘Green Onions’ would be on that, too.
46. ‘Mustang Sally’ by Wilson Pickett
You can probably blame censorship for our automobile sex fetishes. Early rock & rollers couldn’t sing about sex, so they sang about their cars…with not-so-subtle undertones. ‘Mustang Sally,’ the grandmother of ‘Little Red Corvette’ only wants to ‘ride around,’ and Pickett howls with his thumb out, looking to hitch. Don’t let this song’s karaoke staple status let you forget what it’s really about.
47. ‘Going Back to Cali’ by LL Cool J
From Al Jolson to Led Zeppelin and Phantom Planet, dozens of artists have tapped into the westward dream of the Golden State. Heck, the tradition stretches back to Gold Rush ditties of the mid 19th century, Smithsonian Folkways fodder like ‘Life in California.’ But only one man made the trip wrapped in precious metals, not seeking them. Cool J cruises to the coast, as he proclaims in verse, in a Corvette with a Laurents chrome chain steering wheel, Dayton wire rims and a gold-leaf convertible top. Rick Rubin’s stark 808 beats thunder under the extremely relaxed rhymes of Mr. Ladies Love. ‘I’m going back to Cali,’ he nearly whispers before shrugging it off. ‘Hmm, I don't think so’ He might go, he might not. With his riches, he is a walking California. That’s cool. Cool enough to pull off one of the few sax solos in hip-hop history.
48. ‘The Distance’ by Cake
With the band’s signature horns and a self-serious melody that practically requires head-bobbing and Speed Racer–esque intensity (you may even want to invest in racing gloves), this single off of 1996’s ‘Fashion Nugget’ album is irresistible. The album is filled with more on-the-nose driving songs than this one (‘Race Car Ya-Yas,’ ‘Stickshifts and Safetybelts’), but this is the money single—and got the album platinum status. Throw it on repeat and hit the open road. Just take an occasional break for track No. 7, the band’s excellent cover of Gloria Gaynor’s ‘I Will Survive.’
49. ‘Roadrunner’ by the Modern Lovers
Talk about a brilliant juxtaposition: Jonathan Richman’s 1972 cut, written when he was 19, beautifully contrasts the Velvet Underground’s bare-bones, dirty-as-hell chugalug sound with a subject matter so suburban that Richman’s heroes Lou Reed & Co. wouldn’t dare touch it: The thrill of being young, driving in a car and blasting the radio. The song’s repetitive two-chord propulsion is a perfect late-night road-trip pick-me-up. And there’s a bangin’ cover by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts to check out, too.
50. ‘Have Love, Will Travel’ by the Sonics
At some stage in your life—at any point between getting your driver’s licence and getting married, really—you’ll drive from ‘Maine to Mexico’ for a piece of ass, as Gerry Roslie does in this proto-punk classic. The high-tension twang of the guitar sounds like the strings are about to snap, the perfect sonic emulation of sexual frustration. A recent ad for Mexican beer claims you need an ‘encyclopedic knowledge of garage rock’ to pull up this song, as if from some lost, dusty volume. Nah, this is Rock & Roll 101.
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50+ BEST Road Trip Songs for the Ultimate Road Trip Playlist
Heading on a road trip soon and looking for the top road trip songs to add to your road trip playlist? I’ve got you covered with 50+ of the best road trip songs to listen (and sing along to) on long car drives.
Road Trip Songs For Your Road Trip Playlist
I hope you enjoy this list of great road trip songs. I have included a mix of road trip songs from different genres (including rock, pop and country) and different eras (from classic road trip songs to modern road trip songs). Most of these great songs are about road trips and travel or cars, highways and driving in general.
(And if you are planning on taking a road trip soon make sure to check out my essential road trip packing list to make sure you have all your road trip essentials before you go!)
10 Best Road Trip Songs of All Time
I think these are the 10 best road trips songs of all time (in no particular order).
- “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
- “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson
- “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
- “Life Is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane
- “Little Red Corvette” by Prince
- “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by the Proclaimers
- “Take It Easy” by the Eagles
- “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf
- “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd (This song is perfect for a classic American road trip in the South.)
- “I Can’t Drive 55” by Sammy Hagar
Best Classic Road Trip Songs
Below are the greatest classic road trip songs that need to be on your music playlist:
- “Long Lonely Highway” by Elvis Presley
- “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC
- “American Pie” by Don McLean
- “Hit the Road Jack” by Ray Charles
- “Route 66” by Chuck Berry
- “No Particular Place to Go” by Chuck Berry
- “Truckin’” by The Grateful Dead
- “Running on Empty” by Jackson Browne
- “Tiny Dancer” by Elton John
- “Mustang Sally” by Wilson Pickett
- “Radar Love” by Golden Earring
- “Hotel California” by Eagles
- “America” by Simon & Garfunkel
- “The Passenger” by Iggy Pop
80s Road Trip Songs
Below are best 80s road trip songs to add to your music playlist:
- “Holiday Road” by Lindsey Buckingham
- “Road to Nowhere” by Talking Heads
- “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins (from the movie Top Gun)
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
- “Love Shack” by the B52s
- “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake
- “Born in the U.S.A” by Bruce Springsteen
- “Free Fallin’” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- “I Drove All Night” by Cyndi Lauper
- “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
90s Road Trip Songs
Below are best 90s road trip songs to add to your music playlist:
- “Road Trippin'” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
- “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash
- “The Distance” by Cake
- “Drive” by Incubus
- “The Way” by Fastball
- “Everyday is a Winding Road” by Sheryl Crow
Modern Road Trip Songs
Below are best modern road trip songs to add to your music playlist:
- “Shut Up and Drive” by Rihanna
- “California” by Phantom Planet – this is one of my favorite California road trip songs .)
- “Keep the Car Running” by Arcade Fire
- “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton
- “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus
- “California Gurls” by Katy Perry (featuring Snoop Dogg)
- “Maps For The Getaway” by Andrew McMahon
- “Holocene” by Bon Iver
- “I Am The Highway” by Audioslave
- “Wild” by John Legend and Gary Clark Jr.
- “Thousand Miles” by Miley Cyrus (feat. Brandi Carlile)
- “Levitating” by Dua Lipa
- “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros – this is the perfect song to listen on the way back home after a long trip
Road Trip Playlist on Spotify
To make it easier for you to listen, I have created a spotify playlist of the best road trip songs of all time:
What are your favorite road trip songs?
Need some road trip inspiration?
- Best Road Trips in the USA
- Best Road Trips In Europe For Your Bucket List
- Best Road Trips in Australia
- Best Road Trip Quotes to Inspire You to Go!
Related Posts
savvyglobetrotter
These are all classics for sure when you’re talking about a road trip. My favorite would be Sammy Hagar “I Can’t Drive 55”. Something about that cool flow that makes it perfect for a summer road trip. But I would not follow the advice because I wish not to get pulled over crossing the country LOL.
Thank you so much for putting out this list of road trips and songs!!
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50 Best Road Trip Songs: From Beastie Boys to Bruce Springsteen and Beyond
Join SiriusXM as we take a look at 50 of the most iconic road trip songs to include in your playlist this summer!
Looking for the best road trip anthems to soundtrack your drive? There’s something special about cruising down the highway in the summer with your loved ones, windows down and volume up!
Whether you’re off on vacation or just taking a day trip, it’s hard not to smile when the sun’s shining and there’s nothing ahead but the open road. The only thing that could make it better is the perfect song playing at full blast. We’ve gathered the perfect summery tunes to accompany you on your travels. So, fasten your seatbelts and come along for the ride with SiriusXM as we look at 50 of the most iconic road trip songs!
Listen to nonstop hits on Road Trip Radio (ch. 301) now →
Sing-Along Anthems
A road trip usually means you’ve got time to kill on your way to your destination. Time flies when you’re having fun, and there’s no better way to get the good vibes going than by rolling down the windows and blasting out some sing-along anthems!
From Bruce Springsteen ’s lyrics about hitting the road to find success to Vanessa Carlton’s pop hit about going the distance for love, these iconic tracks are essential road trip listening. Whether you’re a natural performer or more of the humming type, you’ll be singing along in no time!
- “Paradise By the Dashboard Light” — Meat Loaf
- “A Thousand Miles” — Vanessa Carlton
- “Proud Mary” — Tina Turner
- “Psycho Killer” — Talking Heads
- “Born to Run” — Bruce Springsteen
- “Go Your Own Way” — Fleetwood Mac
- “American Pie” — Don McLean
- “Livin’ On a Prayer” — Bon Jovi
’80s Throwbacks
If you really love a blast from the past, these songs are for you. So many ’80s tracks are ideal for road trips, with nostalgic melodies and catchy beats which instantly transport you back in time. Get your neon leg-warmers out — it’s time for permed hair and iconic dance moves as you cruise down the open road (and take a trip down memory lane)!
- “Little Red Corvette” — Prince
- “I Drove All Night” — Cyndi Lauper
- “Walk This Way” — Aerosmith and Run DMC
- “Danger Zone” — Kenny Loggins
- “Runnin’ Down a Dream” — Tom Petty
’90s Bops
As you make your way through your journey, you might also want to make your way through music history. Jumping forward a decade, the ’90s is where you’ll find catchy rhythms and beautiful melodies that will make any journey enjoyable. From TLC to the Beastie Boys, here are some perfect songs to sing with your besties as you contemplate your lives on the open road.
- “Waterfalls” — TLC
- “All The Small Things” — Blink-182
- “No Sleep ‘til Brooklyn” — Beastie Boys
- “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” — Shania Twain
- “Everyday Is a Winding Road” — Sheryl Crow
2000s Bangers
Another decade on, the bops just won’t stop! From Corinne Bailey Rae’s smooth vocals to Miley Cyrus’ 2009 party pop, these early 2000s tracks are essential for a summer adventure. These catchy tunes will get even the grumpiest backseat drivers nodding along, so be sure to add them to your road trip playlist.
- “Long Road to Ruin” — Foo Fighters
- “California” — Phantom Planet
- “Chasing Pavements” — Adele
- “Put Your Records On” — Corinne Bailey Rae
- “Shut Up and Drive” — Rihanna
- “Party in the USA” — Miley Cyrus
Modern Pop Hits
A road trip doesn’t technically have to be by car. Maybe you’ve taken a page out of Lil Nas X’s book and you’re making your way on horseback. Either way, these modern pop hits are must-haves on your travels. Channel your inner Ed Sheeran as you drive down those country lanes!
- “Barbie World” — Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice (with Aqua)
- “Castle on the Hill” — Ed Sheeran
- “Levitating” — Dua Lipa
- “Vroom Vroom” — Charli XCX
- “Old Town Road” — Lil Nas X
Classic Rock
When the going gets tough, it’s time to headbang your way down the highway. Driving long distances can get tiring, so when you need an energy boost, these are the tracks to turn up to eleven. All you need is your headband and your air guitar — get ready to kick back and let the beat drive you onwards to Paradise City!
- “Paradise City” — Guns N’ Roses
- “Highway Star” — Deep Purple
- “Here I Go Again” — Whitesnake
- “Highway to Hell” — AC/DC
- “Who Are You” — The Who
Baby Driver (2017) Soundtrack
This Edgar Wright film combines two great things: music and driving. It also happens to have a fantastic soundtrack! Many movies through the years have captured the spirit of driving in many different ways, such as Easy Rider (1969), Little Miss Sunshine (2006), and Mad Max: Fury Road (2015). These songs will have you enjoying your journey, but you’ll also be planning your next movie night!
- “Radar Love” — Golden Earring
- “Baby Driver” — Simon & Garfunkel
- “Chase Me” — Danger Mouse feat. Run the Jewels & Big Boi
- “Brighton Rock” — Queen
From Luke Combs ’ heartfelt cover of Tracy Chapman’s 1998 hit to Willie Nelson ‘s love letter to the journey ahead, country music is perfect for reflective moments on the road. These songs encapsulate the often bittersweet joy of travel, which resonates with the freedom and adventure of road trips. Have your tissues at the ready — some of these tracks are real tear-jerkers!
- “Highway Vagabond” — Miranda Lambert
- “Sweet Home Alabama” — Lynyrd Skynyrd
- “Fast Car” — Luke Combs
- “On the Road Again” — Willie Nelson
- “Take It Easy” — Eagles
- “Life is a Highway” — Rascal Flatts
- “Take Me Home, Country Roads” — John Denver
While we certainly hope your road trip doesn’t feel like you’re going through the valley of the shadow of death, we do have a song for that. Whether it’s Coolio or Q-Tip providing the soundtrack to your road trip, there are plenty of hip-hop songs about driving to get you through even the longest of journeys. Check out these tracks to help you vibe while you drive.
- “Ridin’” — Chamillionaire feat. Krayzie Bone
- “A Boomin’ System” — LL Cool J
- “Gangsta’s Paradise” — Coolio
- “Let Me Ride” — Dr. Dre
- “Let’s Ride” — Q-Tip
Find more music to soundtrack your summer road trip on SiriusXM.
Carrie Underwood Shares Faith-Based Country and Gospel Music on Her Newest Channel
Listen to u2’s final sphere concert on their siriusxm channel, kacey musgraves performs live during her ‘howard stern show’ debut, music to sleep to, from ambient and downtempo to white noise and nature sounds, music, sports, news and more.
All in one place on the SiriusXM app
Classics Du Jour
Top 10 classic rock road trip songs.
Whether you’re headed down the highway or stuck in the middle of a traffic jam, a tune you can crank up and rock out to is the best way to lift your mood and keep you moving. Here’s our list of the top ten classic rock songs for your road trip playlist.
10 “I’m Bad I’m Nationwide” – ZZ Top
If you’re heading out on a long drive, there’s nothing like some Southern Rock to keep you moving. ZZ Top ’s “I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide” is an ode to life on the road, no matter what you’re driving.
The song was released as the third track on the band’s 1979 album, Deguello .
09 “Highway Star” – Deep Purple
With a driving beat and lyrics like “Nobody gonna take my head / I got speed inside my brain / Nobody gonna steal my head / Now that I’m on the road again,” Deep Purple’s “Highway Star” will pump you up for any long drive.
The song, which was conceived on a tour bus in 1971, was the opening track on Deep Purple’s Machine Head album the following year. It still remains a staple in the band’s live show.
Here’s the band performing the song on German TV back in 1972.
08 “Running on Empty” – Jackson Browne
It’s no surprise that Jackson Browne’s “Running on Empty” appears on our list of the Top Ten Classic Rock Road Trip Songs; Browne wrote it in his car, while driving to the studio each day to make his 1977 album, The Pretender.
The song went on to become the third-biggest hit single of Browne’s career. It features a driving backbeat, which, in addition to its lyrical content, makes it the perfect song for the open road.
07 “Midnight Rider” – Allman Brothers Band
While the Allman Brothers Band originally released “Midnight Rider” on their 1970 album Idlewild South, it was Gregg Allman ’s solo version, released as a single in 1973, that made it a top 20 hit. The song has been covered by various other artists including Joe Cocker, Jamaican singer Paul Davidson, and Willie Nelson.
Here’s the Allman Brothers Band performing “Midnight Rider” from Live at Great Woods in 1991.
06 “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen
Released on Bruce Springsteen ’s 1975 album of the same name, “Born to Run” was a career-defining song for The Boss. While its lyrics are that of a love letter written by a hot-rod-riding protagonist, at the song’s core is a subject so many can relate to; getting out of a small town.
The song peaked at #23 on the Billboard Hot 100 upon its release, but is regularly referred to as one of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time.
05 “Life Is a Highway” – Tom Cochrane
Tom Cochrane’s “Life is a Highway,” released on the Canadian rocker’s 1991 album, Mad Mad World, might be one of the first songs that comes to mind if you’re putting together a road trip playlist.
The song has been covered by numerous artists including Whitesnake , country group Rascal Flatts, and even Alvin and the Chipmunks.
“Life is a highway / I want to ride it all night long / If you’re going my way / I want to drive it all night long”
04 “Runnin’ Down a Dream” – Tom Petty
Released on his 1989 album Full Moon Fever, Tom Petty ’s “Running Down a Dream” was co-written by Petty, Jeff Lynne and Mike Campbell. With its propulsive beat and driving guitar riff, the song is a must-listen when you’re hitting the open road.
03 “Highway to Hell” – AC/DC
While this Lynyrd Skynyrd hit was written as a political response to Neil Young’s criticism of the American south with his two songs “Southern Man” and “Alabama,” its references to the south-land and ‘going home’ have made it one of the great road trip songs of rock and roll.
“Big wheels keep on turning / Carry me home to see my kin / Singing songs about the south-land / I miss ‘ole’ ‘baby once again and I think it’s a sin”
The song reached #8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and was Lynyrd Skynyrd’s second hit single.
02 “Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd
01 “Born to be Wild” – Steppenwolf
If you’re headed out on the open highway with no specific destination in mind, Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild” is the perfect road trip anthem. With lyrics like “Get your motor runnin’ / Head out on the highway / Looking for adventure / In whatever comes our way,“ it’s no surprise that the turbo-charged, guitar-driven tune tops our list of the Top Ten Classic Rock Road Trip Songs.
“Born to Be Wild” was the third single from the band’s 1968 self-titled album. It reached #2 in the US and #1 in Canada. Other artists that have covered the song include Ozzy Osbourne, Bruce Springsteen, Blue Oyster Cult, and Krokus.
Related: Top 10 Summer Titled Classic Rock Songs
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150+ Road Trip Songs: Your Ultimate Driving Playlist
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The Best Road Trip Music
A road trip wouldn’t be a road trip without a good old sing along. Whilst on the road, regardless of how you sound, singing at the top of your lungs is just de rigueur – in fact, it’s road trip law!
There are so many amazing songs to choose from that I’ve had a great time compiling our playlist of road trip songs. I’ve been transported back through time to my favourite memories and karaoke nightmares, and been introduced to some fantastic new songs.
Forget about the 100 best road trip songs, we’ve broken down the top 150+ of the best songs for road trips! Each category has its own amazing road trip playlist, and there is also a combined Spotify ultimate playlist for a road trip, with four hours of travelling songs. So, warm up those pipes and get ready to belt out some fantastic tunes on the open road!
Classic Road Trip Songs
No matter what year you were born, or your musical taste, most of you will have heard and know the lyrics to these classic rock songs, making them really good songs to drive to. From Hotel California to Space Oddity, these are some of the greatest songs, by the greatest artists of all time. They also include some of the best guitar solos ever recorded. A great addition to any road trip playlists.
- The Eagles – Hotel California
- Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody
- Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama
- Tom Petty – Free Fallin
- AC/DC – Highway to Hell
- The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
- Creedence Clearwater Revival – Bad Moon Rising
- The Rolling Stones – Sympathy for the Devil
- The Kinks – You Really Got Me Going
- Fleetwood Mac – Go Your Own Way
- David Bowie – Space Oddity
- Don McLean – American Pie
- Bob Segar – Old Time Rock & Roll
- Abba – Waterloo
- Elton John – Rocket Man
- The Doors – Light My Fire
- Bob Dylan – Like A Rolling Stone
- Ray Charles – Hit The Road Jack
- Allman Brothers Band – Midnight Rider
- Willie Nelson – On The Road Again
- Aretha Franklin – Respect
- Billy Joel – Piano Man
- Chuck Berry – Johnny B. Goode
- The Beach Boys – Surfin U.S.A
- Neil Diamond – Sweet Caroline
- Van Morrison – Brown Eyed Girl
- Bachman Turner Overdrive – Taking care of Business
- Johnny Cash- Ring of Fire
- Simon & Garfunkel – Mrs Robinson
- Led Zepplin – Kashmir
- Nina Simone – Sinnerman
- Golden Earring – Radar Love
- Jackson Browne – Stay
Get the classic road trip songs playlist here
DJ’s & Collaborations
Some of the best songs for driving are collaborations. Two or three amazing artists bringing together their unique sounds can result in pure magic, and these are a great addition to any chill road trip songs playlist.
- David Guetta ft. Sia – Titanium
- Calvin Harris ft. Rag’n’Bone Man – Giant
- Dr. Dre, Eminem ft. Skylar Grey – I Need a Doctor
- Dua Lipa and Elton John – Cold Heart
- Rihanna and JAY Z – Umbrella
- Robin Shultz and Lilly Wood- Prayer in C
- David Guetta ft. Estelle – One Love
- Calvin Harris ft. Dua Lipa – One Kiss
- Beyonce and JAY Z – Crazy in Love
- Diddy Dirty Money and Skyler Grey – Coming Home
- Sigma ft. Paloma Faith – Changing
- David Guetta ft. Becky Hill, Ella Henderson – Crazy What Love Can Do
- Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris – We Found Love
- Rudimental and John Newman, Alex Clare – Not Givin In
- Sean Paul and Dua Lipa – No Lie
- Ed Sheeran and Khalid – Beautiful People
- JAY Z and Alicia Keys – Empire State of Mind
- Blackstreet, Dr Dre and Queen Pen – No Diggity
- Santana and Rob Thomas – Smooth
- Kanye West, Rhianna and Paul McCartney – FourFiveSeconds
- Nelly and Kelly Rowland – Dilemma
- Eve and Gwen Stefani – Let Me Blow Ya Mind
- Rudimental and John Newman – Feel The Love
- The Chainsmokers and Coldplay – Something Just Like This
- Amy Winehouse and Mark Rowland – Valerie
- Eminem abd Dido – Stan
- Run D.M.C and Aerosmith – Walk This Way
Get the alternative road trip songs playlist here
Road Trip Songs from the Twenties (2020 – 2022)
There is a bigger selection of all types of music than ever before, and a lot of the new artists are very exciting. However, Kate Bush and Running Up That Hill making a comeback after 30 years just goes to show that there’s room for everyone. Use these songs to help create your modern road trip playlist.
- Lizzo – About Damn Time
- Doja Cat – Say So
- Tones and I – Dance Monkey
- Kate Bush – Running Up That Hill
- Adele – Easy On Me
- Charli XCX – Yuck
- Gayle – abc
- Charlie Puth – Light Switch
- Florence + The Machine – King
- Harry Styles – As It Was
- Beyonce – Summer Renaissance
- The Weekend – Out Of Time
- Camilla Cabello – La Buena Vida
- Jessie Ware – Free Yourself
- Amber Mark – Bliss
- Ellie Goulding – Easy Lover
- Dua Lipa – Love Again
Get the twenties playlist here
Late Noughties (2011-2019) Road Trip Songs
In 2011 Spotify really started to take off, gaining over 1 million subscribers. This new way of listening allowed you to play music your own way, whatever you wanted, whenever you wanted, and changed the way we buy and listen to music forever. Creating a songs playlist of your favourites led to people discovering new music, which they wouldn’t have heard otherwise. These are some of the best road trip songs of the 2000s.
- Adele – Rolling in The Deep
- Paloma Faith – Crybaby
- Robin Thicke – Blurred Lines
- Mumford & Suns – I Will Wait
- Rag’n’Bone Man – Human
- The Weekend – Blinding Lights
- Mr. Probz – Waves
- Klangkarussell – Sonnentanz
- Parov Stelar – The Sun
- Arctic Monkeys – I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor
- Rihanna – Diamonds
- Lorde – Royals
- Jess Glynn – Hold My Hand
- The Chainsmokers – Don’t Let Me Down
- Bruno Mars – 24k Magic
- Pharrell Williams – Happy
- Twenty One Pilots – Stressed Out
- Coldplay – Viva La Viva
- Mylie Cyrus – We Can’t Stop
- Harry Styles – Adore You
- Sia – Chandelier
- Robyn – Dancing On My Own
- Ed Sheeran – Shape of You
Get the late noughties playlist here
The Early Noughties (2000-2010) Best Driving Songs
Anything goes as far as music from the early noughties, there wasn’t a particular genre that stood out and no new genres really emerged. Still, we had some fantastic music from really iconic bands. Include these great tunes on your road trips songs playlist.
- Coldplay – Yellow
- The Killers – Mr. Brightside
- Muse – Uprising
- Florence + The Machine – You’ve Got The Love
- Kings of Leon – Sex on Fire
- Alicia Keys – Fallin’
- Gnarls Barkley – Crazy
- Nelly Furtado – I’m Like A Bird
- India.Arie – Video
- Lady Gaga – Just Dance
- Eminem – The Real Slim Shady
- Keane – Somewhere Only We Know
- Black Eyed Peas – I Gotta Feeling
- Coldplay – Clocks
- Black Eyed Peas – Where is the Love
- Snow Patrol – Chasing Cars
- Stereophonics – Dakota
- Madonna – Hung Up
- Kaiser Chiefs – I Predict A Riot
- The Fratellis – Whistle For The Choir
- Kelly Rowland – Work
- The Strokes – Last Night
- Franz Ferdinand – Take Me Out
- Green Day – Boulevard of Broken Dreams
Get the early noughties playlist here
Grab our road trip packing list, road trip checklist & road trip planner when you subscribe for our monthly newsletter, cool road trip remixes.
If you fancy listening to something a bit different, check out these fantastic remixes on SoundCloud.
- Moby – Almost Home – Vijay & Sofia Zklatko Remix
- Tracey Chapman – Stand By Me – Fabien Lanciano Remix
- Calvin Harris & Disciples – How Deep is Your Love – Chris Lake Remix
- Chaka Khan – Ain’t Nobody – Laurent Wild & The Discoh Family Edit
- Hall and Oats – I Can’t Go For That – Pomo Remix
- Clean Bandit – Rather Be – JackLNDN Remix
- Chic ft. Sugarhill Gang – Good Times Vs Rappers Delight – Jet Boot Jack Remix
- Dusty Springfield – Son of a Preacher Man – Bergeque Edit
- Sia – Cheap Thrills ft. Sean Paul – Bruno Torres Remix
- The Chainsmokers & Halsey – Closer – R3hab Remix
- Wiz Khalifa Ft. Charlie Puth – See You Again Bauke Top Remix
- Dire Straits – Sultans of Swing – lg Oliver Remix
- Fleetwood Mac – Dreams – Gigamesh Edit
- Sade – Smooth Operator – Dj S Bootleg Dance Remix
- Naz – Old Town Road – B.R.T Official Remix
- Snow Patrol – Mysterious ways
- Parra For Cuva – Wicked Game
Get the cool remixes playlist here
Best 90’s Road Trip Songs
The nineties were one of the most inventive and creative periods for music. The decade saw grunge really take off in the USA and the battle of Brit pop in the UK. These different genres still influence music today. So if you’re going on an American road trip or to drive through Europe, add these songs to create your perfect road trip songs playlist.
- Nirvana – Smells like Teen Spirit
- Red Hot Chilli Peppers – Under the Bridge
- Pearl Jam – Even Flow
- Faithless – Why Go?
- Alanis Morissette – Ironic
- The Cranberries – Linger
- The Verve – Bitter Sweet Symphony
- R.E.M – Losing My Religion
- TLC – Waterfalls
- Blur – Park Life
- Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger
- Sheryl Crow – All I Wanna Do
- Natalie Imbruglia – Torn
- Fugees – Killing Me Softly With His Song
- 4 Non Blondes – What’s Up?
- Radiohead – Creep
- No Doubt – Don’t Speak
- The Goo Goo Dolls – Iris
- Sixpence None The Richer – Kiss Me
- Lenny Kravitz – Are you Gonna Go My Way
- Guns N’ Roses – Don’t Cry
- The Cure – Friday I’m in Love
- Weezer – Buddy Holly
- Ace of Base – All That She Wants
- 10,000 Maniacs – These Are Days
- The Commitments – Mustang Sally
- George Michael – Freedom! ’90
- Fatboy Slim – Praise You
- Tom Cochrane – Life is a Highway
Get the 90’s road trip songs playlist here
Best 80s Road Trip Songs
The eighties are one of my favourite eras for music, it was also when MTV started and launched the music video, I’ll never forget the first time I saw the video for Thriller, it was pretty epic! The likes of punk rock, new wave and out and out pop gave us some of the greatest tunes ever. Add these tunes to your song list.
- A-ha – Take on Me
- Culture Club – Karma Chameleon
- Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer
- Eurythmics – Sweet Dreams
- Madonna – Like A Virgin
- Bryan Adams – Summer Of ’69
- Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Wanna Fun
- Michael Jackson – Thriller
- Tears for Fears – Shout
- Toto – Africa
- Katrina & The Waves – Walking on Sunshine
- U2 – With or Without You
- Guns N’ Roses – Paradise City
- Soft Cell – Tainted Love
- Tracy Chapman – Fast Car
- Simple Minds – Don’t You
- The Human League – Don’t You Want Me
- Bruce Springsteen – Born in the U.S.A
- Prince – Little Red Corvette
- The Clash – Rock the Casbah
- Men At Work – Down Under
- Frankie Goes To Hollywood – Relax
- Duran Duran – Girls on Film
- Spandau Ballet – Gold
- Chris Isaak – Wicked Game
- Pet Shop Boys – West End Girls
- New Order – True Faith
- Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance with Somebody
- Pat Benatar – Heartbreaker
- The Boomtown Rats – I Don’t like Mondays
- The Police – Message in A Bottle
- The Bangles – Manic Monday
- The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be / 500 miles
- Wham – Club Tropicana
- Phil Collins – In The Air Tonight
- The Communards – Don’t Leave Me This Way
- The B-52’s – Love Shack
Get the 80s road trips songs playlist here
Best Driving Power Ballads
Everyone loves a power ballad! These emotionally charged love songs are just begging you to belt them out at the top of your lungs! Anytime you are going to travel, include these on your road trip songs playlist.
- Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is
- Bryan Adams – Everything I Do
- Journey – Don’t Stop Believin
- Cutting Crew – I Just Died In Your Arms Tonight
- Heart – Alone
- Guns N’ Roses – November Rain
- Boston – More Than a Feeling
- Bonnie Tyler – Total Eclipse of the Heart
- Richard Marx – Right Here Waiting
- REO Speedwagon – Can’t Fight This Feeling
- Meatloaf – Paradise By The Dashboard Light
- Foreigner – Waiting for a Girl Like You
- Berlin – Take My Breath Away
- Europe – The Final Countdown
- Crowded House – Don’t Dream It’s Over
- Poison – Every Rose Has Its Thorn
- Survivor – Eye of the Tiger
- Starship – Nothing’s Going to Stop Us Now
- Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes – The Time of My Life
- Alannah Myles – Black Velvet
Get the driving power ballads playlist here
Disco Road Trip Songs
Disco disco disco – if these tunes with their rhythmic beats don’t get you singing and moving to the music then nothing will. Keep an eye on that speed limit in case you get carried away! Perfect for those summer road trips.
- Abba – Dancing Queen
- Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive
- Earth Wind and Fire – Boogie Wonderland
- Bee Gees – Stayin’Alive
- Diana Ross – Upside Down
- The Trammps – Disco Inferno
- Donna Summer – Hot Stuff
- The Pointer Sisters – I’m So Excited
- Earth Wind and Fire – Let’s Groove
- Chic – Le Freak
- Cool and The Gang – Celebration
- Lipps Inc – Funky Town
- Chaka Khan – I’m Every Woman
- Earth Wind and Fire – September
- The Emotions – Best of My Love
- Cheryl Lynn – Got to Be Real
- The Jacksons – Blame it On the Boogie
- Peaches and Herb – Shake Your Groove Thing
- Kylie Minogue – Can’t Get You Out of My Head
- Scissor Sisters – I Don’t Feel Like Dancing
- Barry Manilow – Copacabana
Get the disco road trip songs playlist here
Your Ultimate Driving Playlist
Get every single one of these amazing road trip songs bundled into an ultimate road trip songs playlist to keep you singing along for nearly four hours!
Looking for more road trip tips & resources? Check out these top posts…
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Driving in Turkey – Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
Driving in Georgia – Your Ultimate Guide
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Suggestions
50 best road trip songs (ultimate road trip playlist).
Finding the best road trip songs can elevate your journey from mundane to memorable.
We all crave that perfect soundtrack, one that mirrors the landscapes whizzing by and enhances the thrill of the open road.
Dive in, and discover the ultimate tunes to accompany every mile of your adventure.
1. “Road Trippin'” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
There’s something about the Red Hot Chili Peppers vibe that makes for excellent road trip music (that West Coast chilled vibe.)
There are many songs to pick from, but this one, which is named “Road Trippin,” is simply too good not to mention.
2. “L.A. Woman” by The Doors
One of the all-time great road trip songs by the Doors is “L.A. Woman.”
The organ solo, the bass line, the build-up, and the breakdown
It seems like it was designed to be driven in a laboratory.
It has repeated references to driving, including the closing phrase “driving down your freeway.”
3. “Waterfalls” by TLC
The song “ Waterfalls ” is recorded by the American hip-hop group TLC.
“Waterfalls,” which is frequently regarded as the group’s signature song, was a worldwide hit that topped the charts in numerous nations.
The song gave the trio their second US No. 1 after spending seven weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
This music demands to be sung along with its catchy chorus and funk backbeat.
It is one of the trio’s best songs and the ideal song for a road trip.
4. “She’s So High” by Tal Bachman
“She’s So High,” Tal Bachman ‘s breakthrough hit, continues to be a classic ballad.
We must all sing that enormous falsetto note with him throughout the chorus’s build-up.
Any road trip playlist should have this song.
5. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Lynyrd Skynyrd is an American southern rock band .
Their second album, Second Helping , features the song “Sweet Home Alabama” (1974).
Since it has been in so many media, including TV commercials and movies, this has perhaps been overused.
Since it’s a very fantastic road trip song, it’s worth disregarding all that.
It is a must if you are driving through Alabama.
6. “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
Even when you’re trapped in traffic, pomp, bombast, and amazing riffs and melodies can set you free.
The Killers ‘ Hot Fuss debut album contains a song called “Mr. Brightside,” a rare road trip song that can lift you out of the daily grind’s metaphorical “cage” and the traffic blues.
7. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show
Bob Dylan was contacted by the Old Crow Medicine Show and asked if they could finish writing a demo he had recorded decades earlier.
We should all be grateful that it gave us “Wagon Wheel,” one of the best party songs .
8. “Every Morning” by Sugar Ray
The main single from Sugar Ray ‘s third studio album, 14:59 , is “Every Morning,” a song that was written by the American rock group.
Sugar Ray’s Every Morning is a four-minute shot of dopamine with a calm guitar lick.
It’s the ideal song to put on while driving and sing along with friends.
9. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
Nobody, at least that I know of, doesn’t stop what they’re doing to belt out the lyrics of “ Don’t Stop Believin’ .
And you, my friend, are a liar if you shake your head and claim that you never do.
This song is ideal for any type of road trip. It’s ideal at any time.
10. “Born To Be Wild” by Steppenwolf
“Born to be Wild” by Steppenwolf must be included on any list of classic road trip songs.
The song, which was used in the 1960 cult movie Easy Rider, immediately went viral.
It is the ideal song since it glorifies the need for freedom and adventure and makes explicit references to engines and automobiles (“get your motor running”).
11. “Lose Yourself” by Eminem
The soundtrack to the 2002 film “8 Miles” includes the American rapper Eminem ‘s song “Lose Yourself.”
The song was written and produced by Eminem, Jeff Bass, a member of the Bass Brothers production team, and Luis Resto.
Eminem was the writer of the lyrics.
One of the best tracks to rap along to in hip hop is Eminem’s famous hit “Lose Yourself.”
The guitar introduces the song, which is a famous hit from his movie 8 Mile and is about having the courage to reach your full potential.
12. “White Flag” by Dido
The anthem “White Flag” by Dido is a song for women worldwide.
Here, the emphasis is on remaining steadfast, remaining true to oneself, and never giving up on your convictions.
While driving along a highway after dusk, this song is ideal for belting out loud.
13. “The Passenger” by Iggy Pop
Iggy Pop recorded and released “The Passenger,” a song written by Ricky Gardiner and Iggy Pop, on the Lust for Life album in 1977.
This Iggy Pop hit makes people think of nighttime highways and road cruising (“down the city’s backsides”) in search of fun.
Pop and co-writer/producer David Bowie were living a crazy lifestyle that included drugs, alcohol, and late nights at the time this was being written.
14. “Hotel California” by Eagles
You’ll probably end up staying at one or more hotels if you’re taking a road trip.
You’d best hope that you don’t stumble onto “ Hotel California ,” where “you can check out but never leave.
It’s very difficult to dislike this song, which ranks among the most well-known American rock tunes ever.
15. “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt
This iconic breakup song is about No Doubt singer Gwen Stefani and the band’s guitarist.
For anybody with a broken heart, this is one of the best sing-along songs .
It’s also an excellent song to put on your next driving playlist, especially if you’re trying to get away from a failed relationship.
16. “Hey There Delilah” by Plain White T’s
The Plain White T’s “Hey There, Delilah” is the ideal song for you if you’re attempting to get into your feelings throughout your lengthy drive.
It is all about the difficulties of pursuing your goals while being in a committed relationship.
The lovely song is ideal for a rainy stretch of highway.
17. “Truckin'” by Grateful Dead
One of the best songs for road trips is “Truckin’.”
First off, the sound quality through a vehicle speaker system is incredible.
“You’ve got to play your hand; sometimes your cards aren’t worth a dime if you don’t lay ’em down,” the song’s lyrics state. (Pretty profound, right?)
Another phrase that can be relevant depends on how the road trip is going: “Lately, it occurs to me what a long, strange trip it’s been.”
18. “Graceland” by Paul Simon
The seventh studio album released by American singer -songwriter Paul Simon is titled “Graceland.
It was released in 1986 by Warner Bros. Records and was produced by Simon with engineering assistance from Roy Halee.
Paul Simon must be included if we’re talking about musicians that sound amazing on the road.
His slightly melancholy voice fits wonderfully when you cast your gaze across the landscape and consider what could have been.
19. “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield
This lustful pop song is all about the singer’s excessive obsession with the fiancée of one of his friends.
If there is someone you can’t have on your mind, the buildup to the chorus is the ideal song to sing along to on your next road trip.
20. “What’s Up” by 4 Non-Blondes
The second single from American rock band 4 Non-Blondes ‘ 1992 first album, Bigger, Better, Faster, More!, is the song “What’s Up?
Several European nations, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and Switzerland, as well as the United States, have all seen an increase in popularity for the song.
It peaked at number one in those countries.
The classic song “What’s Up” by 4 Non-Blondes is the ideal soundtrack for solo drives through country places.
The song is ideal for yelling at the top of your lungs because it has an epic chorus.
21. “American Pie” by Don McLean
The epic song “ American Pie ” has several references to current events in pop culture.
The 1959 aircraft disaster that claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper is said to be the inspiration for the phrase “day the music died.”
It’s also believed that Bob Dylan is the “jester” who “sang for the king and queen, in a coat he borrowed from James Dean.”
22. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
Here’s another foot-tapper that is a great going-home song.
I realize that getting home isn’t the objective of road trips; the opposite is usually the case, but you have to return home eventually.
It’s also wonderful if you’re travelling on country roads, provided you aren’t stuck behind a tractor.
23. “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
In one of the most popular love songs of the 2000s, Jason Mraz provided us with a tongue-twister-filled song to sing along to.
Singing along to “I’m Yours” in the car for four minutes is the ideal way to pass the time.
24. “I Try” by Macy Gray
American artist Macy Gray co-wrote and sang the song “I Try.”
The song was released in 1999 as the second single from her debut album, How Life Is .
With her breakout hit, “I Try,” Macy Gray created a masterpiece with her smoky voice.
The song is a therapeutic track to play in the car and portrays how all of us uncomfortable people feel when we are around the person we have a crush on.
25. “Road to Nowhere” by Talking Heads
This song’s first line, “Well, we know where we’re going, but we don’t know where we’ve been,” makes it clear that the following three minutes are going to be entertaining.
This is one of the best songs for a road trip.
Just ensure not to be travelling on a road that leads nowhere.
26. “Route 66” by Chuck Berry
Possibly the most well-known road in the country is Route 66.
It served as the main path for migrants moving west as well (especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s).
Along with several other covers, including a very fine one by the Rolling Stones, this Chuck Berry song helped put it on the musical map.
27. “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains Of Wayne
In this society, there are only two types of people: those who want to date Stacy’s mother and those who want to be Stacy’s mother.
Whichever group you belong to, you should play “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne loudly on your next road trip.
28. “How You Remind Me” by Nickelback
The song “How You Remind Me” is by Nickelback , a Canadian rock group.
The band’s third studio album, Silver Side Up, featured the song as the lead single, which was written by lead singer Chad Kroeger.
Before being the subject of a picture meme, Nickelback was a hitmaker.
How You Remind Me is among the best road trip music to play while driving since it captures the post-grunge energy of the 2000s.
29. “Going up the Country” by Canned Heat
It’s a great choice and makes this the ideal road trip playlist with its upbeat pace, the flute, and the lyrics about leaving the city (“I’m gonna leave the city, gotta go away”).
This song was notably performed by Canned Heat at Woodstock in 1969, but the band’s career was tragically terminated when lead singer Alan Wilson killed himself in 1970, followed shortly after by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Jim Morrison. That’s too awful.
30. “On The Road Again” by Willie Nelson
One of the best road trip songs is “On the Road Again.”
While most songs are about returning home, this one is the exact opposite.
It’s all about seeking adventure, exploring the unknown, and travelling “like a band of gypsies.”
“The life I love is making music with my friends,” he confesses.
Your desire for your road trip to never end will be fueled by this.
31. “I Want It That Way” by Backstreet Boys
Backstreet Boys , an American boy band, does have a song called “I Want It That Way.”
Their third studio album, Millennium, featured it as the lead single, which was released in 1999.
“I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys should be at the top of your road trip playlist if you’re ready for our favorite boy bands to make a comeback.
There aren’t many songs that are more enjoyable to sing along to.
32. “F*Ck You” by Cee Lo Green
The song by Cee Lo Green , “F*ck You,” is the ideal sing-along song for everyone who has been hurt, dumped, or dissed.
There aren’t many songs that are more therapeutic to sing, and given the vulgarity, the car is the ideal setting to let it blast.
33. “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac
You’ve probably already figured out that songs with a strong bassline work well as driving songs.
This song’s bass begins unexpectedly and grooves along brilliantly while Stevie Nicks bemoans her relationship with Lindsay Buckingham (usually Faire for Fleetwood Mac ).
33. “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi
“Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi is the epitome of 80s rock ‘n’ roll.
The story of the unfortunate pair, Tommy and Gina, serves as a reminder that anything is possible when love and a dream are present.
The huge song is ideal for belting out when driving along a highway or city street.
34. “Drive My Car” by The Beatles
The Beatles should be on every self-respecting driving playlist.
You truly have a lot of options, but since we’re talking about cars, “Drive My Car” is as excellent as any.
With his bass playing in The Beatles, McCartney was always a cut above the rest, and this is a perfect illustration.
“The Long and Winding Road” and “Two of Us” are two more you can add.
35. “More Than A Feeling” by Boston
There aren’t many legendary rock bands that can match Boston ‘s massive sound.
With its epic guitar solos and powerful vocals that you can try your best to match, its hit song “More Than A Feeling” will have you rolling down the highway.
36. “Friday I’m In Love” by The Cure
“Friday I’m In Love” by The Cure perfectly captures the spirit and style of every John Hughes movie.
Put this song on and belt it out while you drive down the highway to get the feeling that you are the lead character in everyone’s new favorite coming-of-age movie.
37. “Put Your Records On” by Corinne Bailey Rae
One of the greatest jazz-pop songs to ever be played on the radio is Corinne Bailey Rae ‘s “Put Your Records On,” which begins with that funk guitar.
When the chorus comes on, it’s best to turn up the radio, roll down the windows, let go of all your worries, and sing as loudly as you can.
38. “Your Song” by Elton John
English singer Elton John and American songwriter Bernie Taupin collaborated on the song “Your Song,” which John performed.
It was John’s debut Top 10 single internationally.
Elton John is the king of radio ballads, and every road trip requires a song.
His hit song, “Your Song,” which stands for the gift of his love, is maybe the most romantic or recognized.
39. “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins
Phil Collins , an English drummer and singer-songwriter, released his first solo single titled “In the Air Tonight.”
Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” is one of the greatest radio singles of all time and is credited with popularizing air-drumming.
The song begs to be sung as it builds on a soft synth.
Just be sure to keep your hands on the wheel when the loud drum solo begins.
Following the 1980 divorce of his first wife, Andrea Bertorelli, Collins penned the song while grieving.
40. “Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer
Weezer , an American rock band, is the author of the song “Say It Ain’t So.”
Rivers Cuomo, the lead singer, wrote it.
Cuomo feared the marriage between his mother and stepfather would also break apart due to his father’s alcoholism since he thought his mother and father’s marriage failed because of this.
This song, which is one of Weezer’s most famous, has a vibe throughout.
This four-minute song, which perfectly captures the anxiety and rage of adolescence, will have you switching between being calm and yelling.
It is ideal for singing along when driving with friends.
41. “Stairway To Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
One of Led Zeppelin’s best-known songs, “ Stairway to Heaven ,” is regarded by many as the greatest rock song of all time.
It is regarded as one of the best road trip songs to blast at full volume.
It portrays the tale of a greedy lady who is overly optimistic about her gloomy future.
The song’s charm and mystery are enhanced by its vague lyrics, which also let listeners interpret it in their own way.
Heads will be thumping in the car thanks to an engaging plot and a tune that builds to an enormous solo and chorus.
42. “Crazy” by Patsy Cline
Crazy by Patsy Cline is one of the songs you need to know if you’ve ever wanted to be a country diva.
The country song , which has her distinctive high voice, is ideal for singing along in the car, especially if your love life is currently in ruins.
43 “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson
“Since U Been Gone” is a powerful and emotional song, and it was one of Kelly Clarkson ‘s first major hits.
The experience of leaving a toxic relationship is well encapsulated in this song.
We’ve all been in relationships where we weren’t treated as we should have been.
44. “Complicated” by Avril Lavigne
“Complicated” is the first song on Avril ‘s first album, Let Go , and thus her entire musical career.
It’s about the issues that arise when you try to be someone you’re not when all you need to do is chill out, relax, and enjoy life.
One of the finest songs in the pop-punk ballad genre, particularly for anybody who grew up in the early 2000s, is Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated.”
The song is one of the greatest sing-along songs ever since it combines country and punk aesthetics.
45. “Love On Top” by Beyoncé
For her fourth studio album, 4 , American singer Beyoncé recorded the song “Love on Top.”
Even though Queen B has many fantastic songs for a road trip, “Love on Top” is perfect for everyone with a heart full of love.
This song is ideal for expressing all the love in your heart since it is catchy and has a lot of 80s nostalgia vibes.
46. “All Star” by Smash Mouth
Not singing along to “All-Star,” Smash Mouth ‘s biggest song, is nearly impossible.
The song, which tells the tale of a potentially deluded wannabe rock star, has awesome wordplay and a catchy melody that demands to be sung even after we’ve heard it way too many times.
47. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
One of the best songs ever recorded is “ Bohemian Rhapsody ,” a monumental work of art by Queen.
Their record label objected to the notion of a song that was almost six minutes long.
Fortunately for all of us, including Wayne and Garth, the band persisted and gave us one of the best driving songs ever.
48. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers
One of the greatest declarations of love ever to be recorded is “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)”.
The biggest hit by The Proclaimers is ideal for singing along to while driving, especially if you’re returning home to a special person.
49. “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light Orchestra
It’s tough to resist singing along to Mr. Blue Sky, the upbeat song that became Electric Light Orchestra ‘s most recognized hit.
Even though the song’s true meaning is debatable, your road trip playlist should include it because of the upbeat melody and entertaining lyrics.
50. “Hit The Road Jack” by Ray Charles
Ray Charles released a song in 1961 that would go on to be used as the theme music for countless TV shows, motion pictures, and commercials for decades to come.
Every woman’s “I’m fed up with my man” anthem is “Hit the Road Jack,” and its appealing simplicity makes it the perfect road trip song.
Just be careful not to put it at the end of your playlist, or it might become stuck in your head forever.
Wrapping Up Our List of the Best Road Trip Songs
So, that wraps up our post on the best road trip songs.
We’ve included a mix of old and new, as well as fast and slow songs with each one having a special meaning.
Regardless of how long your journey is, these songs will make the trip infinitely more enjoyable.
So turn up the volume and enjoy the ride.
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101 Road Trip Songs to Play on Your Next Drive
- From top movie picks to celebrity scoops and travel advice, Brittany writes on a wide range of topics for The Knot.
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There's nothing quite like a thrilling adventure behind the wheel, and no journey is complete without the best road trip songs to accompany you on your ride. Whether you're planning a solo expedition, a road trip honeymoon or a fun-filled outing with the bach party crew, the right driving music playlist can transform your lengthy car rides into unforgettable experiences.
From powerful rock anthems that'll have you cranking up the volume to mellow acoustic tunes that set the mood for scenic drives, our editors have curated a list of 101 road trip songs that are so good, they might as well be considered road trip essentials . With the wind in your hair, the sun on the horizon and road trip music on the speakers, you're bound for a memorable adventure. Sit back, fasten your seatbelts, and feel the beat with these road trip songs.
In this article:
The Knot's Top 10 Road Trip Songs
Road trip songs about driving, classic road trip songs, singalong road trip songs, country road trip songs, summer road trip songs, groovy road trip songs, road trip playlist names.
From funky beats to cinematic electro-pop, here are the absolute best road trip songs curated by our editors.
"Road Trippin'" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers
Here's a mellow, acoustic track by the Red Hot Chili Peppers that captures the essence of wanderlust and the open road, making it an essential tune for any road trip playlist.
"Pull Up To The Bumper," Grace Jones
This sultry groove may not be talking about a car's bumper per se, but it's an iconic disco classic that is perfect for staying energized on late drives.
"California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & the Papas
This timeless anthem beautifully expresses the longing for warmth and sunshine, making it an evergreen song choice for dreamy road trip escapes.
"I Wish," Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder's "I Wish" is a funky masterpiece that's impossible not to groove along with while driving to an exciting destination.
"Mr. Brightside," The Killers
As a chart-topping indie-rock hit, "Mr. Brightside" by The Killers is the perfect blend of nostalgia and catchy energy, making it a must-play track for car sing-a-long sessions.
"You Go Down Smooth," Lake Street Dive
When it comes to songs for the road trip of your dreams, look no further than Lake Street Dive's "You Go Down Smooth." With Rachael Price's mesmerizing vocals, this soulful song was made for winding down on a moonlit journey.
"Nightcall," Lovefoxxx, Kavinsky
Fans of the 2011 film Drive will instantly recognize this cinematic electro-pop track. It's a must-play on late night drives through vibrant cityscapes.
"Could Heaven Ever Be Like This," Idris Muhammad
With its hypnotic groove and a unique blend of jazz and disco elements, this iconic track by Idris Muhammad belongs on every list of road trip songs.
"Son of a Preacher Man," Dusty Springfield
Jam-packed with soul and charm, this classic song is ideal for a breezy cruise down memory lane.
"Coming Home," Leon Bridges
This heartfelt tune is a great companion for the long drive home after an epic road trip adventure.
With lyrics and melodies that amplify the joy of hitting the open road, these road trip songs about driving also serve as powerful metaphors for life's journey. They're perfect driving songs, but many of them will resonate beyond the literal act of hitting the road, too.
"Fast Car," Tracy Chapman
"Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman is a heartstring-tugging ballad that paints the picture of chasing freedom down the open road — a relatable journey for anyone who loves getting the heck out of Dodge when push comes to shove.
"Keep Driving," Harry Styles
In this Harry Styles road trip song, the lyrics "should we just keep driving?" serve as a metaphorical invitation to persevere through life's chaos, no matter how absurd or challenging it may become.
"Life Is a Highway," Tom Cochrane
This electrifying anthem cranks up the volume on the joys of life as a never-ending highway, making it an absolute must-have for your road trip playlist.
"No Particular Place to Go," Chuck Berry
This rock 'n' roll hit by Chuck Berry is a total blast, capturing the thrill of cruising around with your sweetheart, with no particular place to go.
"I Can't Drive 55," Sammy Hagar
Here's a high-energy rock song that rebels against speed limits and embodies the need for speed — but please, don't take these lyrics literally!
"Drive My Car," The Beatles
Who can resist grooving to The Beatles' "Drive My Car"? It's a pop-rock classic that's practically woven into our musical DNA. With its clever lyrics, it turns the whole idea of driving into a wild ride of ambition and success
"Running on Empty," Jackson Browne
Hit play on "Running on Empty" by Jackson Browne when you're in a nostalgic and reflective mood.
"King of the Road," Roger Miller
"King of the Road" by Roger Miller is a foot-tapping country classic that embraces the carefree simplicity of life on the open road, where the journey is the real treasure.
"Highway to Hell," AC/DC
AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" is an electrifying rock anthem that'll have you revving up for your road trip and the wild ride of life.
"I Drove All Night," Cyndi Lauper
Buckle up for an 80s track that'll whisk you away on a nostalgia-fueled journey. This one's a love song that uses driving as a metaphor for the extraordinary lengths someone will go to be with their special someone.
"Six Days on the Road," Dave Dudley
In "Six Days on the Road" by Dave Dudley, you can practically smell the diesel fumes and taste the trucker's coffee as he sings about life on the asphalt, making you want to hit the road for a cross-country road trip.
"Brand New Cadillac," The Clash
This musical joyride by The Clash features roaring guitars and frenetic beats that'll make you feel like you're speeding down the highway in a vintage muscle car.
"Cruisin'" by Smokey Robinson
Smokey Robinson's "Cruisin'" is the ultimate serenade to the special someone sitting in your passenger seat, inviting you to take a musical journey where love and the open road merge in perfect harmony.
"Truckin'" by the Grateful Dead
"Truckin'" by the Grateful Dead is the ultimate road trip anthem, a groovy tune that'll have you nodding along to its rhythm while dreaming of endless adventures on the highway.
"Riding in My Car," Elizabeth Mitchell
If you're going on a road trip with kids, this delightful song about driving will make all of you want to roll down the windows and sing along with a carefree heart.
Get your party started
"mustang sally," wilson pickett.
This is the kind of song that'll make you want to hit the gas pedal and let your inner wild child take the wheel, with a chorus so catchy you'll be humming it long after the ride's over.
"Boyfriend's Car," Colour Me Wednesday
With its upbeat melody and cheeky lyrics, "Boyfriend's Car" by Colour Me Wednesday will make you want to grab the car keys and hit the road with your best pals.
"Get in My Car," BRONCHO
With lyrics like "I like to go fast, I like to go far, won't you open that door? Get in my car," this catchy song by BRONCHO is a fab pick for adventure seekers and dreamers alike. You'll love its catchy beat and unique vocals.
"Road to Nowhere," Talking Heads
Lyrically, "Road to Nowhere" reflects a sense of journey and searching for meaning in life. It uses driving and the open road as a metaphor for life's uncertain and often directionless path.
From Willie Nelson's "On the Road Again" to "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers, these timeless classics are quintessential driving songs for any road trip adventure.
"On the Road Again," Willie Nelson
With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, this country hit has become an anthem for travelers and adventurers, resonating with anyone who's ever felt the call of the highway and the excitement of a new journey.
"Life in the Fast Lane," Eagles
"Life in the Fast Lane" by the Eagles is a rock masterpiece known for its driving rhythm and vivid lyrics that capture the allure and perils of a fast-paced, high-octane lifestyle.
"Take Me Home, Country Roads," John Denver
Here's a beloved folk classic that evokes a sense of nostalgia and the longing for the familiar, making it an essential song for those returning to their roots.
"You're So Vain," Carly Simon
Everyone will be singing along to this sassy, upbeat song by Carly Simon. It'll help to turn those lengthy hours behind the wheel into a fun and memorable road trip experience.
"Wild World," Cat Stevens
This ballad speaks to the bittersweet farewells and reflections often encountered during a road trip, offering a great soundtrack for those moments of contemplation.
"Rich Girl," Daryl Hall & John Oates
Daryl Hall & John Oates' "Rich Girl" is a groovy, feel-good tune that infuses a sense of carefree luxury and adventure into your journey, making it perfect for the road.
"Highwayman," The Highwaymen, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash
This epic country ballad that weaves together tales of life, death, and reincarnation along the roadways, creating an emotionally resonant narrative for your travels.
"Wild Horses," The Rolling Stones
"Wild Horses" is the kind of song that'll add depth and emotion to your journey, inviting reflection and a deeper connection with the landscape, the people you're with and the places you're heading.
"The Long and Winding Road," The Beatles
Here's a classic ballad by The Beatles that'll take you through the scenic landscapes of life, reminding you that even the most twisty-turny journeys can lead to beautiful destinations.
"Riders on the Storm," The Doors
With haunting melodies and Jim Morrison's evocative vocals, this is one of the best road trip songs for cruising along rain-soaked highways, conjuring a cinematic journey into the unknown.
"Easy," Commodores
The Commodores' "Easy" is a smooth and soulful road trip anthem, providing a laid-back groove that matches the leisurely pace of a scenic drive.
"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey
This iconic road trip song is pretty much synonymous with the enduring spirit of adventure. Its memorable chorus and anthemic sound make it an uplifting and powerful addition to any road trip playlist.
"Rearviewmirror," Pearl Jam
This driving song by Pearl Jam is a great song for shaking off the past and hitting the gas on life's highway, leaving regrets in the dust. With Eddie Vedder's emotive vocals, it's the ultimate anthem for forward momentum.
"Lovely Day," Bill Withers
"Lovely Day" by Bill Withers is a classic song known for its uplifting and feel-good vibe, making it a go-to track for brightening any lengthy drive.
Characterized by catchy melodies, easy-to-remember lyrics and an irresistible urge to belt out the words, these singalong road trip songs belong on your driving music playlist.
"Dancing in the Moonlight," King Harvest
With its infectious and carefree melody, "Dancing in the Moonlight" by King Harvest is perfect for late-night drives, where passengers can't help but sing along to the feel-good lyrics.
"Like a Rolling Stone," Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" offers a timeless anthem for soul-searching road trips, with its poetic lyrics and memorable melody that invites passionate singing from all passengers.
"Hey Jude," The Beatles
A singalong standard, "Hey Jude" by The Beatles is tailor-made for group road trips, with its unforgettable "na-na-na-na" chorus that's impossible not to join in on.
"September," Earth, Wind & Fire
This high-energy, funk-infused hit that will have everyone in the car grooving and harmonizing to its infectious melodies.
"My Girl," The Temptations
A soulful gem, "My Girl" by The Temptations is an absolute must-sing during any road trip, with its heartwarming lyrics and soothing harmonies.
"You Make My Dreams Come True," Daryl Hall & John Oates
This upbeat pop classic is an instant mood-lifter, making it an ideal choice for a car full of enthusiastic passengers, ready to sing along to the fun, uplifting chorus.
"Stand by Me," Ben E. King
"Stand by Me" is a timeless ballad that brings people together with its comforting lyrics, making it a natural addition to your list of road trip songs.
"Jolene," Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton's "Jolene" offers a fabulous opportunity for passengers to show off their vocal skills while engaging with this iconic country hit.
"All Star," Smash Mouth
"All Star" is an upbeat and spirited tune that encourages animated singalongs, particularly for those who grew up watching Shrek.
"Bennie and the Jets," Elton John
Elton John's "Bennie and the Jets" combines a memorable melody with quirky lyrics, creating playful moments that are perfect for singing along on the road.
"Brown Eyed Girl," Van Morrison
With its feel-good lyrics and folk-rock melody, "Brown Eyed Girl" is an enduring singalong that'll bring warmth to any car ride.
"Eye of the Tiger," Survivor
This high-energy anthem is a favorite for group singalongs, especially when you need a motivational boost on the road.
"Tambourine Man," Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan's "Tambourine Man" combines poetic storytelling with a memorable melody, providing ample opportunities for passengers to harmonize and get lost in the music.
These country road trip songs are perfect companions for scenic drives, offering a soundtrack that resonates with the sights and sounds of driving out in the countryside and making your road trip one to remember.
"Wide Open Spaces," The Chicks
"Wide Open Spaces" is a country classic by The Chicks (formerly known as the Dixie Chicks), with lyrics that capture the feeling of setting out on the open road, making it an anthem for wanderers.
"Fast Cars and Freedom," Rascal Flatts
Rascal Flatts' "Fast Cars and Freedom" is an up-tempo country song that embodies the spirit of a carefree road trip, complete with a driving beat and lyrics about adventure.
"Wagon Wheel," Old Crow Medicine Show
Originally penned by Bob Dylan and later reimagined by Old Crow Medicine Show, "Wagon Wheel" is a beloved folk-country song that conjures images of a scenic journey on a dusty trail.
"I've Been Everywhere," Johnny Cash
This high-energy, tongue-twisting song lists an array of places, creating a sense of vicarious travel for the listener.
"Take a Back Road," Rodney Atkins
Rodney Atkins' "Take a Back Road" is a feel-good, country-rock tune that encourages taking the scenic route and embracing life's little detours.
"Drivin' My Life Away," Eddie Rabbitt
Here's an upbeat country track that captures the nomadic spirit of road tripping, with a chorus that's hard not to sing along with.
"Amarillo by Morning," George Strait
George Strait's "Amarillo by Morning" is a classic country ballad that paints a vivid picture of the open plains and the longing for home, making it an ideal song for a cross-country journey.
"I Walk the Line," Johnny Cash
A Johnny Cash classic, "I Walk the Line" conveys devotion and steadfastness, making it a song that resonates with travelers as they embark on their journey.
"Daytona Sand," Orville Peck
"Daytona Sand" by Orville Peck is a modern country song with a nostalgic sound that evokes a sense of wanderlust and the feeling of freedom on the road.
"Here You Come Again," Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton's "Here You Come Again" is a timeless country hit that conveys a sense of longing and anticipation, with Dolly singing about the return of a past love.
Whether it's a drive to the beach, a cross-country journey or simply cruising with the windows down, these summer road trip songs will set the soundtrack for sun-soaked moments on the road.
"Riptide," Vance Joy
Vance Joy's "Riptide" is a folk-pop song with an infectious melody and a carefree spirit, making it a perfect accompaniment for a summer drive along the coast.
"As It Was," Harry Styles
"As It Was" by Harry Styles is a sunny and laid-back track that embodies the nostalgia of summer, ideal for a leisurely road trip.
"I Follow Rivers," Lykke Li
Here's an upbeat indie-pop song with an adventurous spirit, evoking a sense of wanderlust and exploration.
"Alaska," Maggie Rogers
Maggie Rogers' "Alaska" is a fusion of folk and electronic elements, creating a unique sound fit for capturing the essence of a summer adventure.
"Summertime Sadness," Lana Del Rey
This melancholic yet captivating song captures the bittersweet feelings of summer's end, making it perfect for late August or September road trips.
"Cruisin' to the Parque," Durand Jones & The Indications, Y La Bamba
"Cruisin' to the Parque" is a soulful track with a groovy, retro vibe that sets the mood for a relaxed summer road trip.
"Texas Sun," Leon Bridges, Khruangbin
"Texas Sun" is a collaboration between Leon Bridges and Khruangbin, offering a fusion of soul and funk that pays homage to the Texan landscape, making it a fantastic choice for a Lone Star State adventure.
"Old Pine," Ben Howard
Evoking nostalgia and longing for the outdoors, this song by Ben Howard is the perfect driving music — especially if you're driving into the woods for an epic camping trip with your pals.
"Postcards From Italy," Beirut
Beirut's "Postcards From Italy" is a folk-infused song with a continental flair, evoking images of sun-drenched European road trips and Mediterranean coastlines.
"Home," Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
This joyful, folk-rock anthem radiates a sense of togetherness and nostalgia, making it ideal for shared road trip memories.
"Summer of '69," Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams' "Summer of '69" is a classic rock hit that brims with nostalgia, celebrating the memories of youthful summer adventures.
"Walking on Sunshine," Katrina and the Waves
An enduring pop song, "Walking on Sunshine" exudes a carefree, upbeat energy that makes sense for a summertime joyride.
"Eternal Summer," Strokes
This indie rock track might be one of the best road trip songs ever, capturing the hazy and timeless feeling of driving in the summertime.
"All Summer Long," Kid Rock
This song is the ultimate summer soundtrack, sampling two iconic rock songs: Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" and Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London."
"Good Vibrations," The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys' "Good Vibrations" is a legendary surf-rock track that radiates sunny and beachy vibes, making it synonymous with the spirit of summer.
"Island in the Sun," Weezer
This feel-good, alt rock song that embodies the dream of finding an idyllic paradise, which is totally fitting for a dreamy summer road trip.
"How Long Do I Have to Wait for You?," Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
With vintage vibes and a groovy, horn-laden melody, this soulful track by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings will undoubtedly enhance your summer road trip playlist.
"Franklin's Tower," Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead's "Franklin's Tower" is a jammy and bluesy track that embodies the free-spirited atmosphere of summer music festivals and road trips.
"Sugar Man," Rodriguez
Rodriguez's "Sugar Man" is a folk-rock song with an aura of mystery and adventure, a perfect fit for a road trip seeking the unknown.
"You And Me," Penny & The Quarters
This soul ballad by Penny & The Quarters sets a romantic and nostalgic tone for a summer road trip, filled with love and longing.
"Heavy California," Jungle
Jungle's "Heavy California" is an electrifying funk and soul-infused track that exudes energy and excitement, making it a top-notch summer road trip song choice.
"Cecilia," Simon & Garfunkel
Simon & Garfunkel's "Cecilia" is a beloved folk-rock song that captures the carefree essence of youth and summertime fun.
"Me and Julio Down by the School," Paul Simon
This Paul Simon song is an upbeat tune that celebrates youthful adventures, making it a great addition to your summer road trip music list.
With funky basslines, rhythmic guitar riffs and infectious melodies, these groovy road trip songs are perfect for making those long journeys more fun.
"Back Pocket," Vulfpeck
"Back Pocket" by Vulfpeck is a funk-infused track with a catchy, danceable groove and an infectious bassline, making it a great choice for a lively road trip playlist.
"Young Hearts Run Free," Candi Staton
Candi Staton's "Young Hearts Run Free" is a classic disco song with an upbeat tempo and lyrics that'll inspire a little car seat dancing.
"Long Way Home," Durand Jones & The Indications
This soulful, groovy track will set a mellow, yet rhythmic mood for your journey.
"Oh, Loretta," Sex on Toast
"Oh, Loretta" is a fun and funky tune by Sex on Toast, with a mix of soul and pop elements, with lyrics that'll add a hint of humor to your road trip music selection.
"You're Mine," The Funk Brothers
The Funk Brothers' "You're Mine" is a smooth and soulful track that embodies the classic Motown sound and infuses a groovy atmosphere into your adventure.
"Pusherman," Curtis Mayfield
This funk and soul masterpiece, known for its gritty rhythm and lyrics, is perfect for adding a touch of grit to your selection of road trip songs.
"Give Up The Funk," Parliament
"Give Up The Funk" by Parliament is a funky anthem with an irresistible beat and memorable hooks, igniting a lively vibe during your long journey.
"Le Freak," Chic
"Le Freak" is a disco classic by Chic, known for its catchy melody and danceable groove, making it an ideal choice to keep the good vibes flowing during your road trip.
"Last Dance," Donna Summer
Donna Summer's "Last Dance" is an energetic disco hit that encourages passengers to bob their heads and sing along, setting the stage for a memorable time on the road.
"You Haven't Done Nothin'," Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder's "You Haven't Done Nothin'" is a groovy track with a social message, mixing soul and funk elements to keep the journey's energy flowing.
"1612," Vulfpeck
This funky track has a playful rhythm with killer vocals that's sure to bring a smile to the faces of your fellow road trippers.
"Down in Mexico," The Coasters
The Coasters' "Down in Mexico" is a famous rhythm and blues track with a sultry and captivating groove you'll want to play more than once on your next road trip.
Whether you're cruising through scenic landscapes, embarking on an epic adventure or seeking the perfect soundtrack name for your journey, here are a few road trip playlist names to consider before putting together your next road trip music list.
- Highway Harmonies
- Cruisin' Classics
- Sun-Kissed Highway Jams
- Road Trippin'
- For the Open Road
- Driving Fast
- Golden Hour on the Road
- Summer Road Trip
- Coastal Cruisin'
- Backroad Beats
- Open Road Remixes
- Country Roads Collection
- Sizzlin' Summer Sounds
- Road Trip Mixtape
- Sunny Drives
The 50 Most Essential Songs for Your Perfect Road Trip Playlist
Ready to hit the open road? Load up your playlist with these songs first.
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Car-culture tunes cross musical genres as seamlessly as changing lanes, moving between classic country, heavy metal, folk, funk, and rap. Whether you're in the mood for Rihanna or the Ramones, we've put together an eclectic list of the 50 best road trip songs to keep you humming along your journey. (Pro-tip: Once your road trip playlist is all loaded up, don't forget to download some audiobooks and plan a few games too.)
"Holiday Road" by Lindsey Buckingham
Even if you’re stuck driving a Family Truckster, this song will take you right back to carefree days. (Who else thought this was Kenny Loggins?)
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"Radar Love" by Golden Earring
You may not be able to name another song the Dutch band Golden Earring recorded, but this classic 1973 hit combines "midnight love" with the drive-all-night ballad for a road trip win.
"Ramblin' Man" by The Allman Brothers Band
A seventies version of the age-old musical trope of people who call the road their home and can't be burdened with staying in one place (see also: "Brandy," "Take It Easy" and "Me and Bobby McGee").
RELATED: 40 Song Lyrics That We've Been Messing up This Whole Time
"Little Red Corvette" by Prince
Songs about cars are a favorite subset of the road trip song genre, and Prince sets the bar high with this song about a "car" (ahem) that goes too fast.
"Hot Rod Lincoln" by Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen
This rockabilly tribute to racing cars was first recorded in 1955 but has been covered by lots of fast-picking twangy guitarists since, most famously in 1971 by Commander Cody.
"Shut Up And Drive" by Rihanna
Everything about this song is engineered to pop perfection: Her purring vocals, bouncy melody, and double entendres. Every girlfriends' weekend playlist needs some RiRi — and one that starts with a road trip needs this song.
"No Sleep Till Brooklyn" by Beastie Boys
This Beastie Boys hit from their first album, Licensed to Ill , hits two well-traveled road trip sub-genres: the musician-singing-about-being-on-the-road genre and the paean to a specific destination. It's guaranteed to add a little energy to the playlist and revive the driver.
"Rocket 88" by Ike Turner (Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats)
Recording as Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats, Ike Turner was instrumental in turning the key and igniting rock and roll with this jumping twelve-bar blues composition. You can feel the purring power of the car, and the undeniable attraction of going too fast. (Rocket 88 was a nickname for the recently minted Oldsmobile 88.)
"Road to Nowhere" by Talking Heads
You can feel good about getting lost with this tribute to a long aimless drive. Embrace the opportunity to yip, yodel, and scat along with lead singer David Byrne.
"Fun, Fun, Fun" by The Beach Boys
America's romance with the car had been jumpstarted by the end of WWII, but it really hit cruising speed in the 1960s with groups like The Beach Boys and Jan and Dean singing about being teenagers, driving fast cars, and having fun.
"On The Road Again" by Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson wrote his first song at nine years old and hasn't stopped yet, even at 87. This heartfelt love song for a life of touring with musician friends was reportedly written on the back of an airplane airsickness bag.
"Highway to Hell" by AC/DC
Here we have the perfect soundtrack to every miserable traffic jam along your road trip. Bon Scott's guttural vocals make singing along particularly satisfying when frustrated by a standstill.
"I've Been Everywhere" by Johnny Cash
This fast-paced litany of geographic destinations is the more entertaining musical version of sitting through someone else's travel slideshow. Johnny Cash takes a 1959 Australian song (in which all the destinations are Down Under) and makes it his own.
"Drive My Car" by The Beatles
Not only does this song benefit from Paul McCartney's perfect formula for delicious pop confection, its final verse, "Beep beep'm beep beep yeah" is irresistible.
"Semi-Crazy" by Junior Brown
No road trip playlist is complete without a trucker song. Austin musician Junior Brown recorded arguably the perfect one, complete with twanging solos on his unique double-neck guitar: half electric, half pedal steel.
"State Trooper" by Bruce Springsteen
Pretty much every song on Springsteen's 1982 album Nebraska involves cars and driving, usually at night, but there's an urgency to "State Trooper" that is familiar to any driver who's flown past a speed trap and hoped not to get pulled over.
"Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X
Not only does this 2019 blockbuster combine Lil Nas X's rap and trap music bona fides with some classic country elements (banjo! Billy Ray Cyrus!), it even samples a song by industrial rock group, Nine Inch Nails. Besides being catchy and fun, the song made history by simultaneously appearing on both country and hip-hop charts.
"Mercury Blues" by Alan Jackson
You may think that a love song to a brand of car was written by an advertising executive, but this song was first recorded in 1948 by a blues musician from Mississippi. Lots of bands have covered "Mercury Blues" but country boy Alan Jackson had a hit with it in 2010, the year that Mercurys were discontinued.
"Low Rider" by War
The revving engine, the insistent riff of the saxophone, singer Charles Miller's Mariana Trench – deep repetition of "Low. Ri. Der" — no wonder the Chicago Tribune called this song the "quintessential cruising song."
"Truckin'" by Grateful Dead
Every playlist meant for driving should probably include a song that repeats "what a long, strange trip it's been" a few times. This particular Dead song has been singled out for recognition not just by Rolling Stone and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but in 1997, the Library of Congress declared it a national treasure.
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Top 10 Road Songs
Narrowing down a list of the Top 10 Road Songs is like naming the best love song . Following that subject and, perhaps, drugs , there are few more popular topics in rock 'n' roll than touring. Writers are often told, “Write what you know,” and for musicians, the result is lyrics about life on the road. It's no coincidence that none of the songs on our list comes from a debut album. These soulful, weary and humble tunes are by artists who've already experienced the victories and defeats that become part of any traveling band’s legend.
‘The Load-Out’
From: ‘Running on Empty’ (1977)
A critic once called the ‘Running on Empty’ album “audio verite” – an LP about the road recorded onstage, backstage, in buses and in hotel rooms. ‘The Load-Out,’ co-written by Browne and Bryan Garofalo, helps bring the record to a close in elegant fashion, as Browne earnestly describes the highs and lows of the touring life, along with his gratitude and frustration. “ We’ve got time to think of the ones we love / While the miles roll away ,” he sings, “ But the only time that seems too short / Is the time that we get to play .” Then the song segues into a celebratory cover of the doo-wop classic ‘Stay’ and all that weariness melts right off the stage.
‘Day After Day’
From: ‘Pretenders II’ (1981)
Chrissie Hynde compares touring to going to war – an all-too common perspective found on sophomore albums by bands still reeling from the craziness of it all. In ‘Day After Day,’ Hynde sings about planes and dolphins and Tokyo and Lake Erie, flying above everything while missing the real life that’s happening down below. She speaks a hushed coda: “ When the war’s finally over we’ll meet again / And pick up where we left off .” Then James Honeyman-Scott breaks into a roaring guitar solo and we hear the crash of a jet plane.
‘Torn and Frayed’
From: ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
Gram Parsons was palling around with Keith Richards during the band's ‘Exile’ days, and it’s tough to imagine that he didn’t have an influence on this country-soul ballad. In fact, Mick Jagger (twanging up his voice like a hillbilly) might even be singing about the over-indulging musician: “ You think he’s bad, he thinks you’re mad .” Or maybe that’s aimed at Keef. Regardless, ‘Torn and Frayed’ rolls around in the muck of touring – parasites, prostitutes, sickness and drugs – but still finds a space for salvation: “ Just as long as the guitar plays / Let it steal your heart away .”
‘All the Way from Memphis’
From: ‘Mott’ (1973)
Mott guitarist Mick Ralphs lost his guitar when the band was touring, prompting frontman Ian Hunter to pen this rocker. In the tune, a rock star’s guitar gets sent to Oriole, Kentucky, by mistake and he has to take a train from Memphis to retrieve it. He gets it back mid-song, but during his trip back he ruminates on the endless road of rock 'n' roll. Hunter sings, “ Your name gets hot so your heart grows cold ,” an admission of how touring changes people.
‘Ramblin’ Man’
From: ‘Brothers and Sisters’ (1973)
Although this glistening Southern-rock standard doesn’t mention touring specifically, ‘Ramblin’ Man’ is a perfect snapshot of Dickey Betts’ life as a traveling musician. He departs one music town for another (Nashville to New Orleans), meeting women and good times every night, and leaving them behind the next morning. All that he asks in return is understanding. After all, he’s “ just trying to make a livin’ and doin’ the best [he] can .”
‘(We Are) The Road Crew’
From: ‘Ace of Spades’ (1980)
Lemmy Kilmister paid tribute to Motorhead’s road crew by writing this raucous gem … on the toilet. According to Lemmy, it was the only place in the studio where he could get some peace. The song tells us about the endless amount of roadie responsibilities – “ Another backstage pass for you / Another tube of super glue / Another border to get through ” – and touring distractions – “ Another hotel we can burn / Another screw, another turn .” Lemmy wasn't just observing, of course. He once was a roadie for the Jimi Hendrix Experience .
‘Green River’ (1969)
There's probably a few more spots on our list of the Top 10 Road Songs for more CCR, but we’re going with the best: a ‘Green River’ country chestnut that combines John Fogerty ’s road experience with his imagination. Although he’d never been to Lodi, Calif., he pictured himself becoming a washed-up musician playing for pennies in the middle of nowhere. His ambition drained, all he wants to do is return home, a common theme in all of these road songs. The people of Lodi have a good sense of humor about the track, having used the refrain of “ Oh Lord, suck in Lodi again ” as a theme for events.
‘Homeward Bound’
From: ‘Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme’ (1966)
Paul Simon wrote this Simon & Garfunkel song in a railway station, during the period that he was living and working as a troubadour in England. ‘Homeward Bound’ is wistful, but not angry, as Simon becomes resigned to the “show” in show business. He sings, “ Tonight I’ll sing my songs again / I’ll play the game and pretend .” Like many people on tour, he’s stuck doing the same thing again and again, lost in the repetition and longing for what most people take for granted.
‘Turn the Page’
From: ‘Back in ’72’ (1973)
Willie Nelson loves to be on the road, but to hear Bob Seger growl about it, being a touring musician must be the worst job in the world. Who’d want to put up with all those lonesome nights, long drives and back-breaking performances? People sometimes make fun of your hair! You might have to go to Omaha! Grizzled old Bob sounds both angry and blasé about his job as he pictures ruffling through the scrapbook of his life: “ Here I am / On the road again … There I go / Turn the page .” And yet, he’s still touring. Must be a real glutton for punishment.
From: ‘American Beauty’ (1970)
All four of the Dead’s main songwriters ( Jerry Garcia , Bob Weir , Phil Lesh and lyricist Robert Hunter) collaborated on what turned out to be an anthem for the band. ‘Truckin’’ drew on the Dead’s touring experiences, moving from town to town, getting high and getting busted. Near the end, they shine a light on the Catch-22 of rock 'n' roll. When you’re a young band, "you’re sick of hangin’ around" and you’d like to travel. Then, once you begin touring, you “get tired of travelin’ and you want to settle down.” Even though they’ve been bruised by the road, the Dead still make it sound like fun. After all, “ what a long, strange trip it’s been ” probably could summarize most rock tours.
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10 Great Rock Driving Songs
Is there anything that goes together better than cruising in your wheels and with some great tuneage blasting away to set the soundtrack? Actually, yes. Make the music some cool driving songs and it all aligns as a peak experience.
The right driving songs set the pace, enhance the experience, and provide hi-test fuel for the driver and passengers. And these classic cuts will have you bouncing up and down in the fast lane, so remember to keep your seat belt buckled.
10) “Roadhouse Blues” by The Doors
Jim Morrison opens this live version of the cautionary tale with a stop at a New York roadhouse, invoking to the audience, who are ready to ride along with him, “Hi, how you doin’ there? Y-e-ah . Looking good. Everything is fucked up as usual… you know…” A psychedelic way to prepare for a road trip with L.A.’s finest, as long as you don’t forget to “A-keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel.”
9) “Drive My Car” by The Beatles
Van Halen covered it, and so did the Jonas Brothers. And Paul McCartney does a rockin’ version of it on tour. But the meanest way to motivate to this tune is to crank up the original, off Rubber Soul by the Fab Four. But wait … sadly you can’t get this recording on YouTube anymore. So Macca it is. Beep beep, yeah !
8) “Radar Love” by Golden Earring
The Dutch band’s 1973 thumper has fueled many a half-crazed jaunt up the freeway. While the live versions have their period charm, this pastiche-y music video is quaint yet comical. You will be amused.
7) “Little Floater” by NRBQ
“I’m in love with an automobile and I know it’s in love with me/When I get behind the wheel I know what it is to be free,” is the refrain crooned in this actual love song to a car off the band’s 1989 Virgin Records release, Wild Weekend . It’s a little bit more lilting than you’d expect from the often more hard-chargin Q, but hey, let’s lilt again like we did last summer.
6) “Truckin'” by The Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead is not known for three-minute singles by any means, so if you want to hear/see the extended version of this song, whose title is synonymous with four-wheel transportation, get yourself a copy of The Grateful Dead Movie , the feature-length film shot by cinematographer Leon Gast during the Dead’s so-called “retirement run” of shows at San Francisco’s Winterland Arena during mid-October 1974 – after which the band was to take an extended sabbatical from touring. Get your doo-dah on right here.
5) “You Can’t Catch Me” by The Rolling Stones
When the Stones released their take on Chuck Berry’s ultimate drive-and-pursuit saga in 1964 on the U.K. studio album The Rolling Stones No. 2 , they were at the height of their good-times get-happy phase in which they introduced white audiences to black R&B and blues. So when Mick says, “…bye bye New Jersey I was so airborne … if you get too close I’ll be gone like a cool breeze,” we are literally transported to the New Jersey Turnpike in the wee wee hours. About two-thirds of the way in, check out a playful Keith as he channels Chuck, even way back then. Trivia bit: John Lennon’s “Here come ol’ flat top…” that starts “Come Together” is derived from Chuck’s “Up come a flattop/he was movin’ up with me…” from this very song.
4) “Crawling From The Wreckage” by Dave Edmunds
Ya’d think that the retro-rocker would learn from his experiences in this cautionary tale – from 1979’s Repeat When Necessary , composed by the very-sober Graham Parker – not to go right back “into a brand-new car.” But crawl back he does, and we are happy as a sow in a Studebaker to ride along with him and his crew: Nick Lowe, Billy Bremner and Terry Williams, collectively known as Rockpile.
3) “La Grange” by ZZ Top
Whether you got here by way of the Geico Motorcycle ad, or you got disoriented at the corner of Red Light and Going My Way, Big Boy, you are definitely motivatin’ now, or at least you will be by the second “haw, haw, haw.” Then you get run over by a Greatest Guitarists of All Time-level riff that powers this homage to sin, John Lee Hooker and “a lotta nice girls, ah.” From ZZ Top’s 1973 album Tres Hombres . Have mercy!
2) “Two Trains” by Little Feat
Who says the ultimate driving song has to be about a car? I’ve had some fairly unique road experiences riding the rails. Not to be confused with that other iron horse classic, “Two Trains Running” by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, this boogie-down get-down off 1973’s Dixie Chicken by the ultimate funky slide guitarist, Lowell George, god rest his wise old soul, makes you want to dance. Revisiting this tune caused me to reach up for my dog-eared copy of the LP (the greatest in the Feat canon) and wear the grooves down even further.
1) “Born To Run” by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band
The best live version of this certified classic drivin’ song – with Clarence Clemons pumping the overdrive – is agreed to be his performance at London’s Hammersmith Odeon in 1975, but the YouTube video for it is audio only. Have no fear. A most rockin’ live version was captured of Bruce and the E Street Band at the Capital Centre in Landover, MD on August 15, 1978.
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34 Comments so far
Good call on “La Grange”. Would add “Roundabout” by Yes. About a drive around Loch Lomand in Scotland, with chugging riffs not always associated with Yes.
so so so many great bands the late 1960’s through and including the 1990’s arguably the most prolific explosion of dynamite bands. I think that is why, the people in my age group 60 and up listen to classic rock almost exclusively. A 30 yr + era as great as any era of music making in the history of man.
This list is not complete without Highway Star by Deep Purple.
Definitely Highway Star. I’d also highly recommend Grand Funk Railroad’s We’re an American Band.”
The Doobie Brothers “Rockin’ Down the Highway” should be on this list, definitely!
sammy hagar’s i can’t drive 55 is the ultimate road song
Though neither are classic rock, every driving playlist I’ve ever made has included Bloodhound Gang’s “Asleep At the Wheel.” Though often relegated to the novelty-act dustbin, this one is too-notch rap-rock guaranteed to wake you out of your endless highway daze. Another must-have is Depeche Mode’s “Never Let Me Down Again.”
Waiting for the Bus/Jesus Just left Chicago
I’d add “Under My Wheels” by Alice Cooper! The original version from their 1971 “Killer” album rocks from the very beginning drum intro.
Love your daily email blasts, but you guys missed the best highway driving song of all time, even has highway lyrics. LA WOMAN!! 2nd place? Ramblin Man! “….born on a Greyhound bus…”
No born to be wild????
Runnin’ Down A Dream, Tom Petty; Hollywood Nights, Bob Seger; two other songs that need to be on there.
If the dog man don’t getcha then The Katmandu. I hear ya but mama don’t play no Bob Seger.
Take it Easy, Take it to the Limit, Already Gone, Life in the Fast Lane…need I continue?
If you are taking a long road trip it gets no better than listening to Kraftwerk’s Autobahn. The long version of course.
All good choices, but needs to have Black Betty by Ram Jam on this list!!
How can this list not have a single Bachman-Turner song? They have written more driving songs than anyone else.
great list- one more ‘Drive’ by Todd Rundgren
And “Drive” by the Cars!
Peter wolf, ‘nothing but the wheel’. Better make it 20 songs!
I would add “Born to be Wild” – “Runnin’ on Empty” and Long Train Runnin’
Chuck Berry ‘Promised Land’ Gourds ‘Lower 48’
Top 10 (or 11) driving songs. How in Hell did Eagles “Life in the Fast Lane” not make either of these lists? That’s a sacrilege!!!! Unbelievable.
No one list is definitive, that is one reason these discussion boards, when addressed with civility, make for enjoyable reading and exchange.
My two cents worth, if I was on a long road trip, and wanted steering wheel-tappin’ music, I would have in the mix (but limited to 10 songs here), in no particular order:
(As well as many selections from previous readers/commentators):
“Radar Love”: Golden Earring “Roll On (Down The Highway)”: Bachman-Turner “Rocky Mountain Way” (Long/Live Version): Joe Walsh “Free Ride”: Edgar Winter Group “Free Bird” (One More From The Road/Live Version): Lynyrd Skynyrd “Green Grass and High Tides” (Long/Live Version): The Outlaws “Highway Star”: Deep Purple “Two-Lane Highway”: Pure Prairie League “If You Want To Get To Heaven”: Ozark Mountain Daredevils “Ramblin’ Man”: Allman Brothers (Courtesy of Dickey Betts)
!!!??!!!?!!!!?! BTO’s Roll On Down The Highway, Let It Ride, Four Wheel Drive and Freeways not even mentioned!??????!!! This band should be in the HOF and at the very top of this list!!!!!
Kola… BTO are the first band featured in Part 2, linked at the end of this story.
One of my favs didn’t make the list or the comments yet – Bat Out Of Hell (the song for sure and others from the album like All Revved Up and Paradise By The Dashboard Light).
That’s driving music!
None of these songs are great driving songs. A great driving song is one that actually makes you feel the car itself as we cruise. Better examples are Peace of Mind by Boston, 24 Hours at a Time by Marshall Tucker Band, California Man by Cheap Trick, Fool for the City by Foghat, etc.
Jessica and High Falls by the Allman Bros. If you’re stuck in traffic, Stormy Monday.
Midnight Rider. nuff said
“From the Kentucky coal mine to the California sun…”, I’ll ride that road with Janis and Bobby McGee any day of the week!
For those willing to wander off the beaten path a bit.
Moon Martin – Rollin’ In My Rolls Rodney Crowell – The Ballad of Fast Eddie Neil Young – Fork In The Road Screaming Blue Messiahs – Jesus Chrysler Drives a Dodge Mike Ness – I’m In Love With My Car
I live next door to the Rocky Mountains. Misty Mountain Hop by Zep is definitely a highway tune.
Driver’s Seat by Sniff and the Tears
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The Greatest Road Trip Songs, Ever
50 road trip songs to make the miles fly by..
F inding the right song in the car can be as frustrating as trying to find the right movie on Netflix on a Friday night. As we head out on a weekend trip or a bucket list vacation, we find ourselves mindlessly scrolling through radio stations or hitting ‘pass’ on “Suggested For You” playlists. You need the right soundtrack for your time in the car .
This story contains affiliate links; A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from sales generated by links in this story.
To help you navigate this slight roadblock, these are some of the best tunes to listen to when it’s just you, your family, and the open road. Let’s just start here:
1. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
During long road trips, one can never go wrong when listening to songs by Queen. Freddie Mercury, the true lyrical genius he was, wrote this nearly six-minute track for the release of Queen’s album A Night at the Opera which took the music industry by storm in 1975. Arguably the most well-known song from the band, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is perfect for jamming out in the car because of its energetic tempo and stimulating verse.
Best car for singing to Queen: Range Rover
2. soak up the sun – sheryl crow.
Looking for a light-hearted and upbeat melody befitting a summer song? Sheryl Crow’s “Soak Up The Sun” has got you covered. It’s the type of tune that one would listen to when they want to drive with the windows down in a cool breeze and bathe in the warmth of the sun. It came out in 2002 alongside Crow’s other single “Steve McQueen.” “Soak Up The Sun” is proof that the early 2000s knew how to make music that will last forever.
Best car for singing along with Cheryl: Toyota Sequoia
3. ophelia – the lumineers.
In 2016, The Lumineers became even more popular after their release of “Ophelia,” inspired by William Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet . Through it, the alternative band demonstrated their ability to produce yet another hit song (the former being “Ho Hey” in 2012). In the two minutes and forty seconds that “Ophelia” has been recorded, its lyrics will no doubt be stuck in your head for the rest of your drive.
Best car for singing along with The Lumineers: Rivian R1S
4. mr. brightside – the killers.
Yet another throwback to the early 2000s, The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” is a song to scream to in the car when the road dwindles down to nothing but desert or treelines. If you thought that you heard it everywhere you went in the United States ten years ago then you might be shocked to learn just how much more traction it gained in the United Kingdom. Not only has it gone down in music history as one of the most streamed songs there, it was also selected as the “Song of the Decade” by several U.K. radio stations.
Best car for singing along with The Killers: Dodge Durango SRT
5. cruel summer – taylor swift.
This one is for all of the Swifties out there (especially since her recent embark through the U.S. on her Eras Tour). Based on the brilliance of her lyrics, Taylor has proven herself to be the mastermind of the current music industry. “Cruel Summer” was originally released in her 2019 album, Lover , but is set to be re-released on June 20th as a single. Its exuberant energy is sure to set you basking in the afterglow of the summer sun when cruising down the highway in the fast lane.
Best car for singing along with Taylor Swift: Infiniti QX60
6. party in the u.s.a. – miley cyrus.
This one makes everyone sing along, and makes everyone feel like a teenager (again). Party in the U.S.A. shares emotions we can all identify with – the nerves of being somewhere new, among people we don’t know, looking different, feeling homesick. And then, it gives us the confidence we can find our way, make new friends, find ourselves in this new place. This song is fun and contagious, and none more perfect for a road trip and the destination at the end of the ride.
Best car for singing along with Miley Cyrus: Cadillac Escalade
7. daylight – david kushner.
Perhaps a lesser-known song than the others, David Kushner’s “Daylight” has also dominated the internet with its calming ambiance and powerful vocals. The most recent release on this list (as it came out in April), it has secured Kushner his position in becoming a rising star, one that you should look out for as he grows even more prominent in the industry. Behind the lyrics, Kushner has stated that “Daylight” was inspired by the Bible, specifically that of Paul’s Epistles in the New Testament.
Best car for singing along with David Kushner: Acura MDX
8. beautiful boy (darling boy) – john lennon.
Although “Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)” was made public in 1981, there is a 2010 remastered version available across streaming platforms (like Spotify and Apple Music). With such a mesmerizing and soothing melody, it’s not a surprise that John Lennon wrote it as a sort of lullaby for his son, Sean. The boy is even named at the end of the recording as Lennon bids him good night. As a member of The Beatles, Lennon continued to prove his ability to stand alone as an influential and compelling lyricist through “Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy).”
Best car for singing along with John Lennon: VW ID Buzz
9. little talks – of monsters and men.
Of Monsters and Men released their song, “Little Talks,” in 2011 and received a generous reaction from both its American and European audiences. While the track already provides us with something worth listening to, its lyrics go deeper than you might think. Switching between two perspectives, “Little Talks” portrays two lovers being trapped in the same house they lived in after one of them has passed away. The feminine voice is talking to either her deceased soulmate or herself as she slowly loses her sanity (this is up to the listener’s interpretation). In contrast, the masculine voice responds to her from the other side of the afterlife or, perhaps, it’s not really there at all. Telling a tragic story, the song is beautifully and yet hauntingly written.
Best car for singing along with Of Monsters and Men: Kia Telluride
10. life is a highway – rascal flatts.
Although “Life is a Highway” was originally recorded by Tom Cochrane in 1991, the Rascal Flatts made a cover of the song fifteen years later in 2006. As an exhilarating country rock track, this version is definitely worth the listen. Unfortunately, the group itself is no longer in production as it officially disbanded in 2021 but after nearly twenty years together, they made enough music for you to sing along to in the car for the rest of your drive.
Best car for listening to Rascal Flats: Ford F-150
Inspired make your own playlist of road trip songs.
Ten songs are not enough for a playlist for the road, so I added forty more for your entertainment. You can build on this playlist, or make custom playlists with these songs as inspiration. We like Amazon Music’s unlimited to 100 million songs… you’ll never run out of something great to listen to!
Our Favorite Top 40 Songs For a Road Trip Playlist
- As It Was – Harry Styles
- Golden – Harry Styles
- Dancing Queen – ABBA
- Highway to Hell – AC/DC
- American Pie – Don McLean
- Walking on Sunshine – Katrina And The Waves
- Seven Nation Army – The White Stripes
- Tongue Tied – GROUPLOVE
- Hit the Road Jack – Ray Charles
- Malibu – Miley Cyrus
- Flowers – Miley Cyrus
- California Gurls – Katy Perry, Snoop Dogg
- Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.) – Katy Perry
- Hey There Delilah – Plain White T’s
- Summertime Sadness – Lana Del Rey
- All The Stars (with SZA) – Kendrick Lamar, SZA
- Electric Love – BØRNS
- Are You Bored Yet? (feat. Clairo) – Wallows, Clairo
- Can I Call You Tonight? – Dayglow
- Steal My Girl – One Direction
- Perfect – One Direction
- Cruise – Florida Georgia Line
- 22 (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift
- Blank Space – Taylor Swift
- Style – Taylor Swift
- Someone To You – BANNERS
- broken – lovelytheband
- Midnight City – M83
- Wonder – Shawn Mendes
- Yellow – Coldplay
- Heat Waves – Glass Animals
- Cloud 9 – Beach Bunny
- Thunder – Imagine Dragons
- Maniac – Conan Gray
- Sunroof – Nicky You’re, dazy
- I Ain’t Worried – OneRepublic
- Coastline – Hollow Coves
- Before He Cheats – Carrie Underwood
- Daddy Issues – The Neighbourhood
- The Night We Met – Lord Huron
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The Best Road Trip Songs. 1. Sympathy For The Devil by the Rolling Stones. If you are looking for a song to drive to with a lot of groove, Sympathy for the Devil is just the ticket. We've been lucky enough to see the Rolling Stones in concert three times. Dave even met the band way back in 2003 when he shot a media blitz they did in Toronto.
More Awesome Rock Songs for Road Trips. "A Reason to Fight"—Disturbed. "Crazy Train"—Ozzy Osbourne. "Betray and Degrade"—Seether. "Hallowed Be thy Name"—Iron Maiden. "Miles Away"—Winger. "Sharp Dressed Man"—ZZ Top. "Monsters"—Shinedown. "I Believe in a Thing Called Love"—The Darkness.
Van Halen's most successful single, "Jump" is a song worthy to be listened with a full-fledged rocking mood, and will keep your adrenaline going. It's a part of Van Halen's 1984 album. Previous. Share on Facebook.
Best Driving Songs- All-American road trip songs. Born in the USA - Bruce Springsteen. Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynyrd. Walk This Way - Aerosmith & Run DMC. My Life - Billy Joel. Living on a Prayer - Bon Jovi. Footloose - Kenny Loggins. One of these Nights - The Eagles. Born to be Wild - Steppenwolf.
14: Dr. Dre: Let Me Ride. Any G-funk track is made for driving, but this cut from The Chronic is the ultimate road trip song. Between the Parliament-sampling chorus and Dre 's evocative verses ...
Here we take a look at 55 of the greatest road trip songs to sing along to on your next interstate adventure. 1. Born to Run - Bruce Springsteen. Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run (Official Video) No song captures the thrill of hitting the open road better than Bruce Springsteen's classic hit, Born To Run.
24.Poison - Nothin' But A Good Time. 25.Skid Row - Youth Gone Wild. 26.Sammy Hagar - There's Only One Way to Rock. 27.David Lee Roth - Yankee Rose. 28.Aerosmith - Love In An Elevator. 29.Cinderella - Shake Me. 30.Warrant - Cherry Pie. Well, there you have it, the ultimate classic rock road trip playlist! Get the whole playlist ...
Here is the Spotify link for the 25 Classic Rock Road Trip Songs. Highway to Hell, AC/DC. Gimme Shelter, The Rolling Stones. Stairway to Heaven - Remaster, Led Zeppelin. Sweet Child O' Mine, Guns N' Roses. Little Wing, Jimi Hendrix. I Love Rock 'N Roll, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts.
Best road trip songs, ranked. 1. 'Born to Run' by Bruce Springsteen. Like Bruce Springsteen's 'Born in the U.S.A.,' 'Born to Run' is darker than it may seem. Embedded in the scuffed ...
Below are best modern road trip songs to add to your music playlist: "Shut Up and Drive" by Rihanna. "California" by Phantom Planet - this is one of my favorite California road trip songs .) "Keep the Car Running" by Arcade Fire. "A Thousand Miles" by Vanessa Carlton. "Party in the U.S.A." by Miley Cyrus.
Start Me Up - The Rolling Stones. And I Can't Get No Satisfaction - two of the best road trip songs on the planet! When the Going gets tough - Billy Ocean. You are likely to feel the pressure on any road trip, we feel you! So when the going gets tough, whack this song on the stereo. Radar Love - Golden Earring.
The Best Classic Rock Road Trip · Playlist · 433 songs · 8.9K likes
These catchy tunes will get even the grumpiest backseat drivers nodding along, so be sure to add them to your road trip playlist. "Long Road to Ruin" — Foo Fighters. "California" — Phantom Planet. "Chasing Pavements" — Adele. "Put Your Records On" — Corinne Bailey Rae. "Shut Up and Drive" — Rihanna.
Whether it's a reminiscent trip down memory lane or discovering classics anew, these songs are your ultimate road trip companions. 🤘🏻🚗🌄 Share your thoughts on our playlist: [email protected]
08 "Running on Empty" - Jackson Browne. It's no surprise that Jackson Browne's "Running on Empty" appears on our list of the Top Ten Classic Rock Road Trip Songs; Browne wrote it in his car, while driving to the studio each day to make his 1977 album, The Pretender. The song went on to become the third-biggest hit single of Browne ...
Top Classic Rock Road Trip Songs Subscribe: http://bit.ly/1lY0X5y and click the bell to the right for new travel video notifications each week We take a lot ...
However, Kate Bush and Running Up That Hill making a comeback after 30 years just goes to show that there's room for everyone. Use these songs to help create your modern road trip playlist. Lizzo - About Damn Time. Doja Cat - Say So. Tones and I - Dance Monkey. Kate Bush - Running Up That Hill. Adele - Easy On Me.
7. "Highway To Hell" By AC/DC. Not only is "Highway to Hell" by AC/DC a staple rock and roll song. It's also one of the best anthems for a road trip, the way it captures the spirit of hitting the open road. Listening to this song gives you the feeling of freedom and being on an adventure.
1. "Road Trippin'" by Red Hot Chili Peppers. There's something about the Red Hot Chili Peppers vibe that makes for excellent road trip music (that West Coast chilled vibe.) There are many songs to pick from, but this one, which is named "Road Trippin," is simply too good not to mention. 2. "L.A. Woman" by The Doors.
This indie rock track might be one of the best road trip songs ever, capturing the hazy and timeless feeling of driving in the summertime. "All Summer Long," Kid Rock. This song is the ultimate summer soundtrack, sampling two iconic rock songs: Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" and Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London."
Car-culture tunes cross musical genres as seamlessly as changing lanes, moving between classic country, heavy metal, folk, funk, and rap. Whether you're in the mood for Rihanna or the Ramones, we ...
Narrowing down a list of the Top 10 Road Songs is like naming the best love song. Following that subject and, perhaps, drugs , there are few more popular topics in rock 'n' roll than touring.
5) "You Can't Catch Me" by The Rolling Stones. When the Stones released their take on Chuck Berry's ultimate drive-and-pursuit saga in 1964 on the U.K. studio album The Rolling Stones No. 2, they were at the height of their good-times get-happy phase in which they introduced white audiences to black R&B and blues.
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The Greatest Road Trip Songs, Ever. Story by A Girls Guide to Cars. • 5mo • 6 min read. Time in the car can fly by when you have the right road trip songs; cue these up and sing along, or take ...