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There’s nothing better than being on the open road, watching the world unfold in front of your eyes. Whether you’re having a day out, going away for the weekend, or traveling for the summer, every great road trip needs a soundtrack. In this article, we review 20 of the best road trip songs of all time. Whatever type of music you’re into, your next road trip playlist starts here. Sit back and enjoy the ride.
Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
Released in 1981, “Don’t Stop Believin'” is a fantastic slice of rock by American band Journey, with the main chorus kicking in with less than a minute left on the tape. This track has a solid driving momentum as Steve Smith’s drums push you forward and Steve Perry’s vocals light the darkness ahead.
Life is a Highway – Tom Cochrane
This song by Tom Cochrane seems tailor-made for long road trips. It comes from his second studio album, the fabulous Mad Mad World, released in 1991. “Life is a Highway” was originally conceived as “Love is a Highway,” but it changed when Cochrane took a trip with his family to Eastern Africa for World Vision. This song is inspired by the poverty he saw there and the strength of the human spirit to keep on going.
Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac
The mighty Fleetwood Mac wrote and released this song in 1977, on their iconic album Rumours. “Go Your Own Way” was crafted on tour, when the band was staying at a possibly haunted house. The lyrics came in a stream of consciousness, with bass, guitar, and drums added in the studio to create the gentle country vibe. Whether you’re traveling across town or going away for the entire summer, this song is perfect for the open road.
On the Road Again – Willie Nelson
When it comes to road trip songs, you can’t beat “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson. It was released on Nelson’s 1980 album Honeysuckle Rose, but it was originally crafted for the film of the same name. This song has an incredible legacy, having featured in numerous films and TV shows over the decades. From South Park to Ghostbusters, from Shrek to Forrest Gump, it’s become an important part of American music history.
Shut Up and Drive – Rihanna
This track by Rihanna is all about driving, but maybe not how you think. Over 3 minutes and 33 seconds, RiRi makes thinly veiled references to her driver’s ability and performance. She even compares herself to a ’57 Cadillac at one point, and that’s just one of the many car references. “Shut Up and Drive” was released in 2007 on the album Good Girl Gone Bad, but it incorporates lots of ’70s and ’80s musical elements in a successful new wave style.
Send Me On My Way – Rusted Root
This isn’t the most famous song on this list, but it’s one of the best for driving. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root is ideal for long adventures with friends, with the repeated refrain of “Send me on my way (on my way)” sure to keep you moving. Rusted Root was a much-loved American band that created a distinct world beat sound, and this track is one of their best.
I Wanna Dance with Somebody – Whitney Houston
When you’re on the open road for hours at a time, it’s good to hear songs you know. ” I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston was a massive sensation when released in 1987, and its power hasn’t diminished over time. When your eyelids feel heavy after long hours on the road, light-filled tracks like this can offer immediate relief.
Africa – Toto
“Africa” by Toto is one of the most ’80s songs ever created, and it’s a massive road trip favorite. Released in 1982, it captures the wide-eyed innocence and optimism of the decade. This song is about a man’s love of a continent, and it sounds great when the world is rolling on by. This song highlights the unique wonders of the African landscape, from wild dogs crying in the night to Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti.
Mr. Brightside – The Killers
This song started it all for The Killers, as their debut single from 2004. The track has an infectious energy, with driving rock instruments and memorable lyrics helping to light up the long road home. “Mr. Brightside” is not actually that bright, however. It’s a man presenting a vivid story of his girlfriend cheating at the Crown & Anchor bar in Vegas.
Take It Easy – Eagles
If you like spending smooth hours on the road watching the world roll past, “Take It Easy” by The Eagles is the perfect companion. This is one of the most classic road trip songs of all time, and it’s more popular today than when it was released in 1972. As the opening number on their debut album, this iconic song laid the foundations for the Eagles’ long and successful
Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
Another classic rock stalwart, “Sweet Home Alabama” has transcended its Americana lyrics. Written and released by Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1974, this famous song invokes memories of home and the people you love. Interestingly, this track had three songwriters, none of whom were actually from Alabama. Whatever road you’re on, this wonderful song will definitely have you longing for home.
Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen
The Boss wrote lots of great road trip songs, but there’s none better than “Born to Run.” It was his first global single release, and it’s responsible for making Bruce Springsteen a household name. The famous New Jersey singer wrote this track while on the road in Tennessee, and the lyrics are all about adventure. “Born to Run” is about escaping the doldrums of life and going to “that place we really want to go.”
Dreams – The Cranberries
Irish rock band The Cranberries released lots of energetic and emotional music over their long career. “Dreams” is their debut single from 1992, and it’s a great road trip sing-along. Singer Dolores O’Riordan wrote this track about her first love, long before she became a global superstar. With clear twangy guitars and loud drums, “Dreams” is perfect for keeping you alert on the long trip home.
Riptide – Vance Joy
The wonderful Vance Joy has released lots of stunning music over the years, including the rather special song “Riptide.” This number has been described as “indie folk” and “twee pop,” with its sunny ’70s vibes well suited to long afternoons on the road. As a piece of music, “Riptide” rolls gently past without incident, just like the scenery outside your window. This is one of the best road trip songs of all time.
Valerie – Mark Ronson ft. Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse’s music career was cut tragically short, but she left some incredible music behind. “Valerie” is widely associated with the talented UK singer, but officially, it’s actually a Mark Ronson number. Winehouse featured as the vocalist on the song, which was originally conceived by English indie rock band The Zutons. The rich, raspy voice of Amy Winehouse is the perfect companion for road trip sing-alongs with friends.
Highway to Hell – AC/DC
If you want to feel energized on a long road trip, there’s nothing better than putting AC/DC on the stereo. “Highway to Hell” is one of the band’s signature songs, and it’s an absolute jam. The lyrics of this track reflect the arduous nature of life on the road touring, which makes it absolutely perfect for a road trip.
Fast Car – Tracy Chapman
Everything about this song seems tailor-made for the road. The thoughtful lyrics are about escaping to find a better life, and the beautiful music moves forward with momentum and grace. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman is about working hard and hoping for a better future. It’s been described as an “optimistic folk-rock narrative,” and it’s undeniably moving in every way.
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers
If you want something a little more light-hearted, “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers is sure to put a smile on your face. This track was released in 1988 as a rousing ditty to perseverance and romance. It is a devotional number about how far you’d walk for a woman’s love, but I reckon it works just as well driving.
Californication – Red Hot Chili Peppers
The one and only Red Hot Chili Peppers released tons of great music over their long career, and much of it works great for the road. “Californication” comes from their album of the same name as an ode to their favorite state and state of mind. This song was released in 1999, and it reflects the underbelly of American society during this strange pre-millennial time.
Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles
The Beatles made some great road trip songs. “Here Comes the Sun” is the perfect example, with lyrics about the arrival of spring and the feelings it brings. This is one of the few Beatles tracks written and sung by George Harrison, which makes it a special part of the band’s catalog. “Here Comes the Sun” is perfect for the home straight, when you’re almost at your destination and ready to leave the road behind.
Final thoughts
The best road trip songs reflect the freedom and fun of life on the road. They move forward with uncertainty and purpose, and they help you remember home around every musical corner. If you want to create the perfect road trip playlist for your next adventure, the songs on this list are a great place to start. From classic ’70s rock to new millennial bangers, crank up your stereo and start your adventure today.