road trip songs rap

Hip-Hop’s Greatest Road Trip Songs

By Stereo Williams

Published Wed, March 6, 2024 at 11:00 AM EST

The only thing better than hopping in the car and riding to nowhere is having a great soundtrack to push things along. Songs about the open road are a great American tradition – from “Rocket 88” to “Freeway of Love.” In Hip-Hop, those songs convey a sense of freedom and identity, beyond just the allure of hitting the highway, there’s also the sense of self that comes from riding around the neighborhood, speakers blaring, rims spinning. Whether long drives, or slowly rollin' the streets on a Sunday—these are some classic rap road songs that you'd have on deck.

For the Riders: All-Purpose Anthems

“My Hooptie” – Sir Mix-A-Lot (1989)

As Hip-Hop became more obsessed with flashy, luxury vehicles, it’s sometimes great to think back to when it was cool to rap about the kind of junker we all had to push at some point or another.

There’s no better ode to the lemon than Mix-A-Lot’s classic “My Hooptie,” featuring an always broken windshield, non-working meters   and dragging tailpipe. Sir Mix-A-Lot had a knack for story raps about cruising with his boys, and while “Posse On Broadway” might be more beloved, “My Hooptie” is the quintessential everyman car song. We’ve all had this car.

DROP YOUR EMAIL

To stay in the know, “24s” – t.i. (2003).

Tip has a few songs that define the early 2000s, and “Top Back” is another car banger that could have easily been on this list. But it was this ode to bigass rims that helped set things off for Clifford Harris’ early career, and the hook is one of his best. 

Produced by DJ Toomp, it perfectly captures ATL swagger and the car culture that defines so much of southern rap from Miami to Atlanta to Houston. And T.I. is on one throughout the track. “I'm in a drop-top Chevy with the roof wide open/My partners looking at me to see if my eyes open/Cause I've been dranking and I've been smoking…” A ridin’ masterpiece.

Ridin' - Chamillionaire feat. Krayzie Bone (2005)

The thrill of driving is as American as apple pie — but the reality of “Driving While Black” is just as inherent in the experience of so many young Black people. This classic hit from Chamillionaire illustrates the duality of both:  it’s an undeniable car classic that also functions as a harrowing tale of how just being a brotha cruising in your ride can lead to an altercation with the cops.

The Texas rapper was inspired by UGK’s classic 1996 album, and with a heavy assist from Krayzie, Cham makes it clear that, for certain folks, there is no easy liberation to be found in going for a ride in the whip. But he also couches that message in a song that functions as perfect car music. Quite a trick to pull off.

Block Bangers for Urban Road Warriors

“You’re Gonna Get Yours” – Public Enemy (1987)

P.E.’s first album is bombastic and aggressive, but it may surprise younger listeners with how it’s not quite as focused on righteous, raging rhetoric as their later, more famous works. 

The clearest example of Chuck D’s early approach is this car-themed classic. Often casually referred to as “My ’98 Oldsmobile” it features Chuck rhyming over an almost Run-DMC-esque truck rattling beat courtesy of the Bomb Squad, where he makes his Olds sound like an urban terrain vehicle made for b-boys. He rhymes about his ride as if it’s his only protection against the suckas hatin.’ Tell me you can’t relate. Perfect anthem for any road warrior.

“The Boomin’ System” – LL COOL J (1990)

LL COOL J was blanking out throughout Mama Said Knock You Out, a classic album with no shortage of bangers. But this car anthem classic made it clear that James Todd Smith knew a thing or three about having a dope-ass system in your car. A sentiment that resonated with heads from Queens to Cali, LL perfectly tapped into the energy of riding around with the system loud as hell.

“LET’S RIDE” – Q-TIP (1999)

The former A Tribe Called Quest frontman’s solo debut Amplified may be most remembered for shiny pop singles like “Breathe & Stop” and the ubiquitous “Vivrant Thing,” but it was this chill ode to riding in your whip that best crystalizes who Kamal Fareed was going to be circa Y2K. 

Name-dropping the classic rock of The Who alongside the Hip-Hop du jour of Biggie, Q-Tip makes a perfect case for rolling to the sounds of your choice and not letting the outside world interrupt the groove.

IMPALA ANTHEMS: FOR SITTIN’ SIDEWAYS ON A SOUTHERN SLAB

“DRIVE SLOW” – KANYE WEST FEAT. PAUL WALL (2005)

‘Ye was in full bloom on Late Registration, and this Paul Wall-assisted, southern-flavored tribute to riding was one of the standouts on an album that many still consider Yeezy’s best. Over an inspired Hank Crawford sample, ‘Ye and Wall rap about car culture as a metaphor for life, and Wall almost missed the session. 

“I got pulled over on the way to the studio,“ he said in 2016. "My driver made a right turn from the wrong lane. “I said, ‘Hell nah. This ain’t real.’ I cussed the police out thinking I was getting ‘Punk’d. I almost ain’t make it.”

The remix featured a verse from T.I. and the video is an orgy of dope cars. “That verse was actually the first verse that I wrote when I was writing ‘Sittin’ Sidewayz,'” explained Paul. “Back in those days, I didn’t know how to harness the power of the production sometimes.” In the end, he decided that those rhymes were “hard” but, “Didn’t really go hand-in-hand with that beat.”

“LACVILLE ’79” – DEVIN THE DUDE (2002)

Devin is Hip-Hop’s most laconic storyteller; like a laid-back cousin who tells stories better than anybody else in the family. His classic single breaks down the joys of having a car that’s all your own — warts and all. 

Like Mix-A-Lot’s “My Hooptie,” this is an ode to a car that we all have owned at some point, and it’s the perfect anthem for hitting the road on a lazy afternoon or two. It also wouldn’t hurt to have a doobie in the ashtray — not that anyone’s advocating that sort of thing.

“STILL TIPPIN’” – MIKE JONES FEAT. PAUL WALL AND SLIM THUG (2004)

It’s slow as syrup and perfectly encapsulates Houston’s car culture in a genre-defining four and a half minutes. Mike Jones never quite topped his debut single, a tribute to chopped-and-screwed sound of DJ Screw and to a uniquely Texas flavor of rap that had been a part of southern rap since the early 1990s. 

The whole song is a dedication to cruising, and of course "tippin' on four 4s, wrapped in four Vogues." It dropped the Houston sound smack dab into the middle of the mainstream, made stars out of Paul Wall and Slim Thug — and ensured that no one would have to ask “Who is Mike Jones?” ever again.

LOWRIDER LEANING: CLASSICS FOR CALI CRUISIN’...

“LET ME RIDE” – DR. DRE (1993)

The good Doctor’s G-Funk classic perfectly captures the essence of The Chronic and the feel of So Cal cruising. Even if you’ve never seen Crenshaw and Slauson, the slice of laid-back Cali cool puts you right there. The gunplay and tough talk are there, but take a backseat to the feel good vibe of rollin’ in ya 64, a sentiment that anyone can relate to who has ever gone for a Sunday road trip on a gorgeous day.

“HIGH TIL I DIE” – 2PAC (1996)

This song isn’t exactly about a car or about driving, but it perfectly captures a certain feel associated with carefree cruising when you got nowhere to go. Like a lot of Pac anthems, the freewheeling feel belies lyrics that warn of danger at every turn — even while sounding unaffected (“When I'm in traffic, it's kinda rough and, I drive a bucket, Live the Thug Life nigga – screaming ‘fuck it’”). It’s quintessential Pac, and a perfect thug anthem for a ride.

“JEEP ASS NIGUH/BORN TO ROLL” – MASTA ACE (1993, 1994)

Former Juice Crewer and Brooklyn legend Masta Ace became a somewhat unlikely advocate for Hip-Hop car culture in the mid-1990s. The rhyme animal semi-reinvented himself as a cruise anthem rapper with hits like this. Of course, “Jeep Ass Niguh” first appeared in 1993s Slaughterhouse before it was reinvented as the decidedly West Coast-leaning “Born To Roll” a year later. It gave Ace one of his biggest crossover hits and came to define car songs that Cali loved in the 1990s. He would dive headfirst into the sound on 1995s Sittin’ On Chrome, but this was his first foray into such subject matter — and still his best.

New Classics

"backseat freestyle" - kendrick lamar (2012).

"Backseat Freestyle" by Kendrick Lamar is a standout track that exemplifies Lamar's lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities. Released as part of his critically acclaimed album "good kid, m.A.A.d city," the song showcases Lamar's journey from Compton to international stardom. With its infectious beat and hypnotic flow, Lamar delivers a captivating narrative that delves into themes of ambition, identity, and the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment. The track serves as both a celebration of his roots and a reflection on the struggles he faced on his path to success. Through vivid imagery and clever wordplay, Lamar paints a vivid picture of his upbringing while also offering insight into his aspirations and dreams. "Backseat Freestyle" stands as a testament to Lamar's ability to craft compelling narratives within the framework of his artistry, solidifying his status as one of the most influential voices in modern Hip-Hop.

"In My Feelings" - Drake (2018)

Drake's "In My Feelings" car challenge took the internet by storm, igniting a viral sensation that swept across social media platforms. The challenge, inspired by the catchy chorus of Drake's hit song, involves participants dancing alongside a moving vehicle to the infectious beat. Originating from comedian Shiggy's interpretation of the song's lyrics, the challenge quickly gained momentum, with countless individuals from all walks of life eagerly joining in on the fun. Celebrities, athletes, and fans alike embraced the challenge, sharing their own renditions and adding their unique flair to the viral craze. However, the challenge also sparked concerns regarding safety, prompting warnings from authorities about the potential dangers of dancing in traffic. Despite these concerns, the "In My Feelings" car challenge served as a testament to the power of music and social media in creating moments of shared joy and cultural phenomenon

*This post has been updated

* HEADER CREDIT: Dr. Dre and Fab 5 Freddy during 1993 MTV Video Music Awards at Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)

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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?)

RELATED:  The Quintessential Best Summer Songs From the Last 60 Years

"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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The 50 Greatest Car Songs in Rap History

The ultimate playlist for your whip.

Image via Complex Original

Hip-hop and car culture have long been tied at the hip. Some rappers prefer Lambo’s to Rolls Royce’s, and some like to keep it old-school. We know that In Cali they ride Dayton’s, and in Houston it’s swangers, but whether you're from the east coast, the west coast or somewhere in-between, riding clean is an absolute must.

As hip-hop has expanded to reach different cultures, the music has always reflected the importance of having a nice set of wheels. That’s why we’ve put together The  50 Greatest Car Songs In Rap History . Over the years, rappers have spilled about everything from road-tripping with their crew to stunting with their new wheels in their old hood. Take a look inside, and find out which songs we’re riding with and why they made the cut.

RELATED:  Best Songs to Blast in the Car RELATED:  25 Monumental Cars of Hip-Hop

50. Dre f/ Rick Ross "Chevy Ridin High" (2006)

Producer : Cool & Dre Album : N/A Label : Zomba When Dre of Cool And Dre stepped out from behind the boards and into the booth, he rapped about what he knew. The Miami scraper culture is huge, and Dre ended up penning this summer anthem to highlight just how much money was being put into tricking out and restoring old-school American vehicles.

Rick Ross swooped in with two stellar verses to accompany a catchy chorus and energetic production, but it was the respect paid to the Miami scraper scene that pulled listeners from everywhere into the real pulse of the city.

49. The Game f/ Techniec, E-40, Crooked I, Chingy, Lil Rob, WC & Ice Cube "My Lowrider" (2005)

Producer : Chops Album : Stop Snitchin–Stop Lyin Label : Black Wall Street On “My Lowrider,” Game linked up with some long-time west coast legends like E-40, WC and Ice Cube, and they all went in, connected by multiple generations of classic Cali car culture. Paul Wall also added a verse, bringing some Houston flavor to the track.

Aside from being an absolute banger, “My Lowrider” showed just how deeply woven car culture is into every generation of western hip-hop, going all the way back to its roots. For all the east coast has contributed to hip-hop, it's safe to say that no one does riding music like the left coast does.

48. Lil B "Rolls Royce" (2009)

Producer : Lil B Album : 6 Kiss Label : N/A For many of us, being able to own a car that we're proud of is a goal worth working for. On “Rolls Royce,” Lil B talks about how he's realized that more important than buying a dream car is the journey that gets you there and the life you lead after you can afford it.

B kicks some knowledge about how there's more to life than possessions, while relaying the message that he once strived for the same things. Superficiality is an aspect of hip-hop that's not going away, but Lil B's “Rolls Royce” puts it all in perspective.

47. Will Smith "Just Cruisin'" (1997)

Producer : Poke & Tone Album : Big Willie Style Label : Columbia Records Be it starring in blockbuster movies and television shows or crafting classic rap records, Will Smith does it all and has it all. Though, as he demonstrates on “Just Cruisin',” sometimes we've all got to get away. Working your ass off all week is sure to catch up with you at some point. “Just Cruisin'” is the perfect soundtrack for hitting the open road, alone in your whip, and going wherever those last few gallons of gas will take you.

46. Waka Flocka Flame & Slim Dunkin f/ D-Bo "BMW" (2011)

Producer : Southside Album : Twin Towers 2 Label : N/A On “BMW,” Waka Flocka and Slim Dunk turn the Bavarian Motor Works acronym into an abbreviation for “body made wrong.” It's playful and it's hilarious, but more importantly it's a testament to the fun-loving bond that these two rappers had. “BMW” is one of the best songs these Waka and Slim made together, before Slim Dunkin's passing in December of last year.

45. Lil Boosie "Tight Whips" (2009)

Producer : Unknown Album : Thug Passion Label : N/A It's hard to break a man's spirit when he's gotten his haircut, taken a fresh shower and has some nice wheels to drive around in. On “Tight Whips,” Boosie's feeling himself, and his energy is contagious. This is the theme music for the Friday night ride to the club, when the only thing left to do is hop out and make sure everybody sees you.

44. Slim Thug f/ Paul Wall "Top Drop" (2009)

Producer : Mr. Rogers Album : Boss Of All Bosses Label : Boss Hogg Outlawz/E1 Music “Top Drop” isn't your typical song about cruising in an old Cadillac, and stunting for all to see. Instead, the beat utilizes keys and a sample to curate a reflective mood. Slim Thug and Paul Wall rap thoughtful verses, and touch on how sometimes a car can be all a person has to momentarily escape their problems. Anytime you need to take that late-night drive to get your mind off everything you're going through, put this on repeat and ride out.

43. Gucci Mane & Waka Flocka Flame "Ferrari Boyz" (2011)

Producer : Drumma Boy Album : Ferrari Boyz Label : 1017 Brick Squad/BSM/Asylum/Warner Bros. Not known for his class and sophistication, on “Ferrari Boyz,” Gucci raps about passing on the Rolls Royce Phantom, opting instead for the wilder and more fitting yellow, two-seater Ferrari. Waka joins in on the fun and cops the red one, and the Ferrari Boyz tandem rips through the streets of Atlanta.

The song boasts a charming aimlessness, as if the two friends simply drive around, with nowhere to go, impressing women and being cheered on by locals all day. Of course, it's not that simple, but that doesn't stop us all from wishing we could also buy colorful Ferraris and parade around the city with our friends.

42. Rick Ross f/ R. Kelly "Speedin" (2008)

Producer : The Runners Album : Trilla Label : Slip-n-Slide/Def Jam Though Rick Ross is known for having quite the car collection, “Speedin” is not only about mashing the gas, doing 100-miles-per-hour in a Maybach. It's also about living the fast life. Ross raps about money flowing in and out of his accounts faster than he can wrap his head around and doing things he always dreamed of on the regular.

Rozay realizes the excess can be dangerous. However, he raps about it inconspicuously enough that if you're not paying attention, you might think it's just a great record about expensive cars and high speeds. Forget a one-liner with a double meaning. This entire song doubles as a metaphor for his life.

41. Yelawolf "Daddy's Lambo" (2010)

Producer : Drama Beats, Cameron Wallace Album : Trunk Muzik 0-60 Label : Ghet-O-Vision/DGC/Interscope Through the years, there's been many a song dedicated to rappers attracting hot females with even hotter whips. On “Daddy's Lambo,” Yelawolf flips the script and raps instead about fraternizing with rich Hollywood socialites whilst trying to convince them to let him drive their daddy's Lamborghini.

The song hammers home the message that the fortunate upperclass need those who struggle to make ends meet to realize their privilege. To some, it may serve as a mirror that reveals an uncomfortable image of our society, but if you're just looking for some music to cruise to, it bangs all the same.

40. Public Enemy "You're Gonna Get Yours" (1987)

Producer : Bill Stephney Album : Yo! Bum Rush The Show Label : Def Jam/Columbia Chuck D and Public Enemy were known for whipping around Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight's. Though, as they were quick to point out on “You're Gonna Get Yours,” with a little shine comes a lot of hate. On this jam, Chuck D lashes out at the haters with some sly and probably half-hearted encouragement. With a voice made to played at loud volumes, Chuck D went in and made one of the best riding records ever.

39. Xzibit "Front 2 Back" (2000)

Producer : Rockwilder Album : Restless Label : Loud On “Front 2 Back,” Xzibit revisits the archetypal musings of hitting switches and riding old-schools, but this isn't your typical easy-going record about having fun. Instead, he brings the ruckus and spits that energetic LA hood flow that makes you want to go do something out of character. Xzibit matched the aggressiveness of Rockwilder's hard-hitting beat, and it turned out to be one of his greatest records ever.

38. DJ Quik f/ Nate Dogg "Black Mercedes" (2005)

Producer : DJ Quik Album : Trauma Label : Mad Science/Fontana Distribution There's nothing sexier than a woman who's got her own. On “Black Mercedes,” DJ Quik becomes entranced by a sexy woman in a nice car. Nate Dogg adds his usual dose of beautifully misogynist crooning, while Quik finds a comfortable pocket to settle into and spits about possibly falling in lust with this mystery woman.

Somehow, “Black Mercedes” is ageless and criminally slept on. Though, seven years later it sounds as good as it ever has. We miss you, Nate Dogg. Rest in peace.

37. Beastie Boys "High Plains Drifter" (1989)

Producer : Beastie Boys, Dust Brothers, Mario Caldato Jr. Album : Paul's Boutique Label : Capitol “High Plains Drifter” is a tale of a wild night gone awry in the Beastie Boys native Brooklyn stomping grounds. Adrock, MCA and Mike D rap about a night they drive recklessly, ruining property and committing multiple robberies, before being pulled over and booked by the police. The Beasties use their trademark tag-teaming flow for all three verses and keep the story intriguing and laughable, at the same time.

36. Coolio "Fantastic Voyage" (1994)

Producer : Brian Dobbs Album : It Takes A Thief Label : Tommy Boy Records/Warner Bros. Judging by his not-so-fantastic run-ins with the law in recent years, it's easy to assume that Coolio would relish returning to the days of old, when all he was worried about was how far he could get on a full tank of gas. “Fantastic Voyage” was Coolio anthem for anyone looking to escape the hardships of the hood and ride out to a place where the people were easy-going and parties never ended. That place doesn't exist, but Coolio made us feel like it did, and that he knew exactly how to get there.

35. T.I. "Top Back" (2006)

Producer : Mannie Fresh Album : King Label : Grand Hustle/Atlantic On “Top Back,” T.I. lets the world know exactly how he likes to ride, minus packing the machine gun arsenal of a small country, of course. He talks about the stuff of memory for all hip-hop fans in their youth, listening to music at obnoxious levels and riding only with your closest homies.

T.I. was able to step it up a bit by riding kitted-out, with tinted windows and huge rims, but we all remember blaring our music until our system was hot and on the verge of giving out for good. “Top Back” represents those times when the ride is just as important as the destination.

34. Big Tymers f/ Lac, Lil Wayne & Juvenile "#1 Stunna" (2000)

Producer : Mannie Fresh Album : I Got That Work Label : Cash Money/Universal Sometimes you've just got to shine a little bit. On “#1 Stunna,” the Big Tymers waxed poetic about that stuntastic feeling that accompanies riding through your hood in whips most commonly seen in James Bond flicks. Everyone wants to come back to their old stomping grounds and prove to the people they grew up with that they've made something of themselves and were better than their peers all along. This is the anthem for our inner egomaniacal and fantastically disrespectful selves.

33. Masta Ace Inc. "Jeep Ass Niguh" (1993)

Producer : Bluez Brothas, Ase One Album : SlaughtaHouse Label : Delicious Vinyl On “Jeep Ass Niguh,” Masta Ace takes us back to a simpler time, when street confrontations weren't always life-threatening. He raps about his Jeep boasting the loudest base on the block and how it intimidated anyone from engaging in a battle of the booming systems. This is the kind of record that's made to be played at high volumes, with your windows down and a scowl on your face, showing just how much you'd hate to be anyone else.

32. Leaders Of The New School f/ MC Jah "Sobb Story" (1991)

Producer : Eric "Vietnam" Sadler Album : A Future Without A Past... Label : Elektra Today, rappers continually one-up each other by having the newest and most expensive rides, but you better believe it wasn't always this way. In 1991, Leaders Of The New School rapped candidly about longing for their first rides on “Sobb Story.” For a young guy, sick of constantly walking city streets and eager to impress the ladies, saving up and copping your first set of wheels is a momentous occasion. Busta's built quite the car collection since 1991, but before he bought his first Murcielago, he captured those Lamborghini dreams perfectly for this LOTNS banger.

31. Lloyd Banks f/ Juelz Santana "Beamer Benz or Bentley" (2010)

Producer : Prime Album : H.F.M. 2 (The Hunger For More 2) Label : G-Unit/EMI You know what's better than having one insanely expensive whip? Having to decide between three insanely expensive whips and picking which one you'd like to drive. Make no mistake about it, Lloyd Banks has rich guy dilemmas. “Beamer Benz Or Bentley” isn't just another flashy song about whips, it's an extraordinary tale of contemplative decision-making.

We've all got problems, some bigger than others, some absurdly more expensive than others, and certainly some worth rapping a few bars about. “Beamer Benz Or Bentley” is about the kind of problems we'd all like to have.

30. Wale f/ Rick Ross & Jadakiss "600 Benz" (2011)

Producer : Cardiak Album : Self Made Vol. 1 Label : Maybach Music Group/Warner Bros. Wale's move to Maybach Music Group was nothing short of a rebirth. Before the move, his career had stalled, and linking up with Rick Ross was what propelled him to the peak of his career thus far. On “600 Benz,” Wale raps about saving some major loot and copping some new wheels.

What makes the song so powerful is that, after hitting a low-point in his career, Wale being able to cop the 600 Benz felt like a triumphant return to the winner's circle. More than being a hot tribute to a nice car, “600 Benz” is a testament to sticking out the grind.

29. The Pharcyde "Officer" (1992)

Producer : J-Swift Album : Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde Label : Delicious Vinyl “Officer” is a tale all-too-familiar to young drivers, especially in Los Angeles. When you're driving with a suspended license, the heightened awareness and constant dodging of cop cars feels like a super-frightening game of real-life Pacman. There's a million songs in which a rapper references whipping his gaudiest wheels, but The Pharcyde kept it real about how big of a burden a car can become when you're young, broke, and irresponsible.

28. Jay-Z "99 Problems" (2003)

Producer : Rick Rubin Album : The Black Album Label : Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam Today, Jay-Z's more likely to be caught with a baby bag than a brick in his trunk, and you'd be hard-pressed to find him driving his own car. However, on “99 Problems” Jay revisits his less-glamorous hustling days and writes vividly about escaping the law with a little knowledge of his rights and some divine intervention.

Obviously, Jay was able to escape doing hard time, but had the canines shown up like they were supposed to, Jay-Z would probably own far less businesses and a lot more cigarettes. Like a great businessman, he flipped a bad experience into one of hip-hop's greatest tales of riding dirty.

27. Cypress Hill "Lowrider" (2001)

Producer : DJ Muggs Album : Stoned Raiders Label : Columbia Records “Lowrider” not only perfectly nails the imagery of the Los Angeles lowrider scene, but it's also one of the most intriguing depictions of the southern California lifestyle that hip-hop has ever produced. Mellow Man Ace kills the hook, while B-Real and Sen Dog paint the classic LA picture of riding clean, sipping brews and hitting house party after house party. In 2001, “Lowrider” made us all wish we were from Los Angeles.

26. Paul Wall f/ Big Pokey "Sittin Sideways" (2005)

Producer : Salih Williams Album : The People's Champ Label : Swishahouse/Asylum/Atlantic Records The Houston car culture really started to come to prominence in hip-hop with the emergence of Paul Wall and Slim Thug in the early 2000's. “Sittin Sideways” brought hip-hop fans from everywhere into Paul Wall's culture of swangin' cars and candy paint. The slang was different, the sound was new, but the message was tried and true. Paul Wall was paying homage, but he made us realize that the music that has so heavily influenced many of today's young rappers doesn't exist without the car culture.

25. Big Tymers "Get Your Roll On" (2000)

Producer : Mannie Fresh Album : I Got That Work Label : Cash Money/Universal The Big Tymers were known for whipping the most expensive rides imaginable. Birdman once even bragged about owning 50 cars. Instead of stunting on the hood this time, the Big Tymers made an anthem for everybody to join in on. You might not have had a Bentley or a Hummer, and you may not have been able to afford televisions in your headrests, but if you owned a car of any kind, this track had you itchin' to get out and get your roll on.

24. 50 Cent "Get in My Car" (2005)

Producer : Hi-Tek Album : The Massacre Label : Shady/Aftermath/Interscope On “Get In My Car,” 50 Cent illustrated just how easy it is to bag a hot girl when you've got some nice wheels. Fresh off the success of Get Rich Or Die Tryin , 50 was experiencing all the newfound perks of superstardom, including the switch from hooptie to Benz. You don't have to sell 10 million records to finally step your game up with the females, though. As 50 notes, there's no pick-up lines needed when you've got a decent ride.

23. Rick Ross f/ Drake & Chrisette Michelle "Aston Martin Music" (2010)

Producer : J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League Album : Teflon Don Label : Maybach Music Group/Slip-n-Slide/Def Jam Rick Ross might be hip-hop's most recognized Maybach enthusiast, but his assortment of luxury whips is likely rivaled only by the assortment of snacks he keeps on deck. On “Aston Martin Music,” Drake and Chrisette Michelle provide the tone of the record—perfectly matching the J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League backdrop—while Rozay spits about riding with the top down, accompanied only by a down chick and a lust for life. An undeniable banger, “Aston Martin Music” solidified the fact that there's no one better at making aspirational riding music than Rick Ross.

22. LL Cool J "Illegal Search" (1990)

Producer : Marley Marl, LL Cool J Album : Mama Said Knock You Out Label : Def Jam/Columbia/CBS Records On “Illegal Search,” LL exposes all the emotions and stray thoughts that a person experiences when they've been racially profiled and/or pulled over unjustly by law enforcement. When this song was released, immediately following the Reagan era, race relations were extremely tense in America, and minorities found it difficult to get their voices heard. The song is special because it's relatable, and LL used his stardom to emphasize the frustration of millions of people to an audience that might not have otherwise listened.

21. Kanye West f/ Paul Wall & GLC "Drive Slow" (2005)

Producer : Kanye West Album : Late Registration Label : Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam On “Drive Slow,” Kanye West weaves a tale of a young kid getting his license, eager to impress the females, into a metaphor for a person's common tendency to rush the best years of their life. He reminisces on the things that we're all eager to do when we first experience the independence of getting our licenses like taking trips to the mall and picking up girls for a weekend movie night.

Kanye ultimately relays the message that it's important to live in the moment. Whether in life or en route, drive slow, homie.

20. Lil Troy Feat. Fat Pat, H.A.W.K., Lil Will & Yungstar “Wanna Be A Baller” (1998)

Producer : Bruce Rhodes Album : Sittin' Fat Down South Label : Short Stop Records/Universal Lil Troy's 1998 hit had us all aspiring to live the flashy lifestyle. Troy and his Screwed Up Click fam made driving up the highway in an old school impala, puffing some good weed with some money in your pocket sound like it was all anyone could ever want. It was evident that they yearned for that lifestyle. Perhaps, Fat Pat and Big Hawk dying before they ever got to fully experience it make the song that much more powerful.

19. Sir Mix-A-Lot "My Hooptie" (1989)

Producer : Anthony Ray Album : Seminar Label : Nastymix, Def American Recordings On “My Hooptie,” Sir Mix-A-Lot chronicles just how tough it can be when you're rolling with a dragging tailpipe and a broken tape-deck. With his Benz in the shop, Mix-A-Lot learns the hard way that driving a hooptie is the best vagina repellant available.

It's a story not unlike the reality of millions of high-school and college guys out there, who are currently whipping their beater around town ultra-cautiously, hoping their engine doesn't overheat. It's a shame-evoking method of transportation, but on the bright side, at least Sir Mix-A-Lot made an incredible song about it.

18. Outkast "Benz Or Beamer" (1995)

Producer : Organized Noize Album : New Jersey Drive, Vol. 1 Label : Tommy Boy Records On “Benz Or Beamer,” Big Boi and Dre choose to spit alternating 10-bar verses and use only a sample for the hook. Like their rhyme patterns, the structure is unorthodox, but everything falls into place over the Organized Noise production.

They rap about the expensive cars that they love so much, but also stay true to what they've always done. “Benz Or Beamer” is essentially about not letting your success define you. In that respect, we love the song for the same reason we love the group.

17. Rich Boy f/ Polow Da Don "Throw Some D's" (2006)

Producer : Polow da Don, Butta Album : Rich Boy Label : Zone 4/Interscope On “Throw Some D's,” Rich Boy raps about finally being able to afford an old school Cadillac from drug money. He does what any right-minded person would do and switches out the stock rims for some 20-plus-inch Dayton spokes.

He flosses freely, but is quick to let us know that trying him for his wheels would be bad for your health. Polow Da Don beat set the backdrop to this summer anthem, and it was because of this record that Rich Boy's career took off.

16. LL Cool J "Back Seat (Of My Jeep)" (1993)

Producer : LL Cool J, QD III Album : 14 Shots to the Dome Label : Def Jam/Columbia/SME Records A man's best friend might be his dog, but that's only after he's gotten his own place. Before then, a man's best friend is undoubtedly the back seat of his ride. On “Back Seat,” LL smoothly rapped about the dilemma of having people to do and nowhere to go, and how his Jeep became a convenient problem solver.

For a young guy, the back seat of your car has likely served as the backdrop to some of your best memories. LL's here to remind us that it's all been done before. Plenty of times.

15. Chamillionaire f/ Krayzie Bone "Ridin'" (2005)

Producer : Play-N-Skillz Album : The Sound Of Revenge Label : Chamillitary/Universal The narrative in the average rap song about riding dirty depicts the rapper knowingly in the wrong and glorifying their disregard for the law. On “Ridin',” Chamillionaire flips the script and focuses on the issue of racial profiling. He still depicts himself as illusive, but to the dismay of prejudiced Houston patrol men, it's because he's riding clean. Sure, obeying the law may not be edgy or cool, but one thing that never goes out of style is freedom.

14. Do Or Die f/ Tung Twista & Johnny P "Po Pimp" (1996)

Producer : The Legendary Traxster Album : Picture This Label : Rap-A-Lot/Virgin Records “Po Pimp” is a timeless record born out of Do Or Die's Chicago-bred affinity for Cadillac's and probably a few pulls of some incredible ganja. The Legendary Traxster sets the mood with a laid-back beat, and Johnny P really makes the song by crafting a melodic and catchy hook. Twista drops in to steal the show on the song's final verse, and 16 years later, “Po Pimp” is still one of the better riding songs ever made.

13. DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince "You Saw My Blinker" (1991)

Producer : DJ Jazzy Jeff, Hula & K. Fingers Album : Homebase Label : Jive “You Saw My Blinker” is the most complete car storytelling done by a rapper. The Fresh Prince tells the tale of driving his brand new car with his girlfriend in the passenger side, when all of a sudden, he's hit by a 90-year-old lady. When he shows up to court, the lady shows up in a wheelchair and neckbrace, effectively killing Will's case.

Aside from the fact that Will Smith says, “Bitch,” the story is funny and the flow is well-executed. Apparently, even when he takes a loss, Will Smith stays winning.

12. UGK "Fuck My Car" (1996)

Producer : N.O. Joe, Pimp C Album : Ridin' Dirty Label : Jive It's no secret that a nice car can do wonders for a guy's attempt-to-conversion rate with the ladies. Back in 1996 UGK was kicking everything you need to know about how to handle the perks of owning a brand new ride. Bun and Pimp made sure we all realized that it's not you that she's into, it's your car.

As stressed on “Fuck My Car,” one should beware of the ladies' motives and never let them get too close. However, if you're not using your ride to help seal the deal, your game needs some serious work. This record might as well be called the whip-appeal-management handbook: Port Arthur edition.

11. Masta Ace Inc. "Sittin On Chrome" (1995)

Producer : Ase One Album : Sittin' On Chrome Label : Delicious Vinyl Masta Ace's 1995 banger “Sittin' On Chrome” is a song suited for summertime stunting. Ase One does a masterful job of sampling and chopping the chorus, to which Masta Ace adds some melodic ad-libs. Then, Ace goes in, rapping about showing off his new ride, which is eventually stolen by someone posing as a valet driver. Ace took a loss, but keep this song on loop, and you'll be winning all summer.

10. Slick Rick f/ Doug E. Fresh "Sittin' in My Car" (1994)

Producer : Doug E. Fresh, Vance Wright Album : Behind Bars Label : Def Jam/PolyGram Records People have some of their most contemplative moments in their car. It's part of what makes a car yours. On “Sittin' In My Car,” Slick Rick raps about all the thoughts running through his mind as he sits in his ride awaiting his girlfriend, whom he presumes to be cheating on him. He's also caught some feelings for another woman, and in his ride, he attempts to sort it all out.

Rick's dilemma might be one you've never experienced, but we've all had some life-defining moments in our vehicles. “Sittin' In My Car” is an ode to all the growing up we do behind the wheel.

9. Three 6 Mafia f/ Lil Flip "Ridin Spinners" (2003)

Producer : DJ Paul, Juicy J Album : Da Unbreakables Label : Columbia Records “Ridin Spinners” represents a time when it was considered cool to have obscenely large rims that never stopped spinning. Looking back at this era evokes feeling similar to looking back at decade-old pictures of yourself and realizing that jacket you thought was so cool was actually a horrible and unforgivable eyesore. It was glorious, and it was ridiculous, but it was completely hip-hop.

You probably wouldn't have seen a Wall Street executive riding spinners back then or ever. And yes, rappers often bejewelled them, as expected, but Three 6 Mafia captured the time in all its splendor.

8. A Tribe Called Quest "I Left My Wallet in El Segundo" (1990)

Producer : A Tribe Called Quest, Jungle Brothers Album : People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm Label : Jive On “I Left My Wallet In El Segundo,” Q-Tip rhymes about taking a California-bound road trip with the rest of A Tribe Called Quest, while his mother's away on a cruise. They end up in El Segundo, where things go awry. After trying to holler at the waitress, Tip unwittingly leaves his wallet at the restaurant, which he doesn't realize until the gang has already traveled back to Brooklyn.

The song is an exhibition of Q-TIp's storytelling abilities, but also one of the only hip-hop tales about road-tripping. Fable or not, the song is one of the best in the ATCQ discography and a top 50 car song of all time.

7. 2Pac f/ Big Syke, CPO & Danny Boy "Picture Me Rollin'" (1996)

Producer : Johnny J Album : All Eyez On Me Label : Death Row/Interscope On “Picture Me Rollin',” Pac speaks on his dreams of flossing a Benz that isn't stolen, the car being the ultimate pay-off of all the hard work he was putting in at the time. For many of us, that's what makes our dream car so special, the fact that we have to endure so much to achieve it.

He talks about leading a dangerous life and having to do risky things everyday, leaving him nervous and stressed out. The constant weight of not knowing what dangers the day held seemed to be getting to Pac, and “Picture Me Rollin” was his way of putting his dreams on wax.

6. Mike Jones f/ Paul Wall & Slim Thug "Still Tippin'" (2004)

Producer : Salih Williams Album : Who Is Mike Jones? Label : Swishahouse/Asylum/Jive/Warner Bros. “Still Tippin'” was one of the biggest hits to come out of the Houston takeover in the early 2000's. The entire Houston rap scene rested on the late-night escapades of Houstoners in their whips, bumping loud music and picking up females. Mike Jones, Paul Wall and Slim Thug illustrated what those nights were all about. Their influence eventually spread throughout the country and has shaped a lot of how today's hip-hop fans have a good time.

5. LL Cool J "The Boomin System" (1990)

Producer : Marley Marl, LL Cool J Album : Mama Said Knock You Out Label : Def Jam/Columbia/CBS Records “The Boomin System” is one of the most honest accounts of stunting in rap history. LL touches on everything from blaring your sound systems in nice cars to rocking gold chains, and in the process, points out that it's all purely done for attention.

LL illustrates what we've known all along: Guys want nice cars, because women want guys who can afford nice cars. In his prime, LL knew just what to say and how to say it. The beat bangs, the flow is masterful, and there's never been a more poignant explanation as to why four wheels and a nice subwoofer have such huge effect on a guy's ego.

4. Devin The Dude "Lacville '79" (2002)

Producer : Devin The Dude Album : Just Tryin' Ta Live Label : Rap-A-Lot Let's face it, not everyone can drive Maybachs and Lambos. Some of us will forever be knee-deep in that hooptie life, but it doesn't have to be all bad. On “Lacville 79,” Devin The Dude pays homage to those of us who constantly drive below the speed limit and struggle to raise those once-automatic windows.

Devin raps about frequent visits to different mechanics and all the woes that come with relying on an old beater to get from point A to point B. If there's a silver lining, it's that at least Devin doesn't have to worry about someone stealing his ride. That's a headache safely in his possession.

3. Outkast "Two Dope Boyz (In a Cadillac)" (1996)

Big Boi and Dre always went right when everyone else went left, but they made sure they shined when they did it, never compromising who they were.

2. Lost Boyz "Jeeps, Lex Coups, Bimaz & Benz" (1995

1. dr. dre f/ snoop dogg, ruben & jewell "let me ride" (1993).

As you would expect, Dre tossed in a few lines about doing some extracurricular activities that law enforcement may not have looked upon too highly, but gangster movements aside, the good doctor delivered a classic car record.

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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.

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The morrison project album special with billy morrison, ozzy osbourne & more, listen to pearl jam’s ‘dark matter’ with their exclusive commentary, music legend clive davis hosts and curates his own channel, music, sports, news and more.

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History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

101 Perfect Road Trip Songs for an Epic Road Trip Playlist!

Last Updated on: 17th March 2023, 02:59 pm

Looking for a great road trip playlist? Well, look no further! This list includes my personal favorite road trip songs, recommendations from road trip experts, catchy hits, and a few surprises.

This road trip playlist spans decades, genres, and countries, so there’s something here for everyone! Save this post so you can play these road trip songs on your next road trip!

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

The Top 50 Road Trip Songs

Here are fifty amazing road trip songs. See below for fifty more and a free Spotify road trip playlist that you can save and play on Spotify!

Road Trippin’ (The Red Hot Chili Peppers)

A true classic road trip song from the Chilli Peppers’ 1999 album ‘Californication’, which tells the story of the band’s road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. Sung by lead vocalist Anthony Kiedis, with John Frusciante and Flea providing acoustic guitars and backing vocals, the song projects those chilled out, positive vibes and the freedom anticipated from life on the road. 

The single was only released in Europe, with two versions released in the UK, and later the third version in Australia. The video wasn’t released to a US audience until the ‘Greatest Hits’ album was released in 2003.  -Jenny from  Peak District Kids

American Girl (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)

It’s hard to believe this classic American rock song never even charted when it was released on the band’s 1976 debut. It was also the last song the band ever performed together live, over forty years after they originally released it.

Super Bass (Nicki Minaj)

This song was on Minaj’s 2011 debut album. While she has become a staple featured artist on numerous songs over the past decade, this is the best of her songs for simply singing along.

Super Bass has been listed on numerous songs of the summer compilations, including this one by Rolling Stone.

Born to Run (Bruce Springsteen)

Born to Run was released in 1975 on the eponymous album by Bruce Springsteen. This was the song and album that made “the Boss” a mainstream hit, and it is considered to be one of the greatest albums ever recorded.

It’s a love song sung by a hot-rod riding tough guy to a woman named Wendy. The protagonist implores Wendy to leave their hometown and hit the road with him, saying “we gotta get out while we’re young, ’cause tramps like us, baby, we were born to run”. This sentiment will resonate with anyone who’s ever had the urge to get behind the wheel and head out of town for new adventures. -Wendy Werneth from  The Nomadic Vegan

I’m Gonna Be [500 Miles] (The Proclaimers)

Any fans of the tv show How I Met Your Mother know this is the ultimate road trip song, especially if your tape deck is broken and it’s the ONLY song your car will play.

Even if you aren’t a HIMYM acolyte, any song that literally lists the miles one needs to traverse automatically deserves a spot on your road trip playlist.

Come on Eileen (Dexy’s Midnight Runners)

Come on Eileen by Dexy’s Midnight Runners is hands-down the best road trip song that there is. This alternative song was originally released back in 1989 and was written by Billy Adams, Kevin Rowland, and Jim Paterson.

There is yet to be a cover as good as the original. From the amazing tune of the song to the gradual pacing throughout, Come on Eileen is one song that will have everybody in the car singing, no matter their age. -Krystianna from  Volumes and Voyages .

A Horse with No Name (America)

A Horse With No Name is a song from the band America and is probably one of the most famous songs of the 70s. When you listen to it, all you want to do is sing along. It’s a perfect song for an amazing road trip across the USA in an old hippie van. So next time you are traveling don’t forget to add it to your playlist! -Robin from  Everything Yoga Retreat

Love Shack (The B-52s)

This 1980s classic hit by the B-52s is so popular that it’s been featured in shows and movies as well as getting its own parody on The Simpsons, “Glove Slap.”

Of course, the eponymous Love Shack was an actual shack that only got destroyed in 2004. So you really could “get away” for decades.

This infinitely groovy song is easy to sing along with, and of course you have to shout out at the end, “Tin Roof Rusted.”

Toxic (Britney Spears)

This Grammy award-winning song is catchy AF. While it might not be Britney Spears’s most famous or most popular track, it’s the grown-up tune your road trip playlist.

The video was deemed too racy for MTV to play during the day. In fact, it was once voted the sexiest music video of all time.

America (Simon & Garfunkel)

This song about two hitchhikers mentions American highways by name (hello, New Jersey turnpike) so it’s almost like it was written to make this list. And even though the track is over fifty years old, it still describes an angsty beauty that resonates today.

Back to You (Bryan Adams)

A perfect song for a road trip is the toe-tapping ‘Back To You’ performed by Canadian artist Bryan Adams. The song – which was co-written by Eliot Kennedy – features several lyrics about travel but is mostly about the yearning desire and wish to be somewhere else.

The acoustic version of the song is particularly good! The strong pulse of the song and its catchy melody make ‘Back To You’ a great road trip song for playing loudly and singing along to.  -Sinead from  Map Made Memories

9 to 5 (Dolly Parton)

If you are on a road trip, you get a chance to escape your 9 to 5 job, at least for a few days. But that doesn’t mean that you won’t enjoy singing along with Dolly Parton complaining about how much corporate America sucks the life out of you. Even if you like your job, there’s always something to angry sing about!

Burning Down the House (Talking Heads)

While there are a few Talking Heads songs that would fit right in on a playlist for a road trip, but it’s this Parliament-Funkadelic inspired new wave hit that was the bands highest charting single.

Run Run Run (The Velvet Underground)

This song about the dark side of New York City is nonetheless fun to sing along with, perhaps because it isn’t structured like other more conventional songs. It also works as somewhat of a time capsule. At over fifty years old, it chronicles an NYC that in many ways no longer exists.

Society (Eddie Vedder)

As an avid traveler, I love to be on the road most of the time and one of my favorite road trip songs is “Society” which is sung and composed by Eddie Vedder. The song was selected for a soundtrack for the popular travel film Into The Wild . In fact, Eddie Vedder has written a few more songs for the same film which narrates an epic travel journey.

The song depicts a journey of a young curious man, who after graduating decides to quit the materialistic conventional world and leave for a lifelong road trip into the wild. As the song goes, the lyrics beautifully articulate his intent to chase his grand vision to live in the wild, which is much larger than usual life he had been living so far. 

In fact, the lyrics make one appreciate the beauty of road trips even more. -Debjani Lahiri from  THE VAGABONG .

Ramblin’ Man (The Allman Brothers)

The most traditionally successful of all the Allman Brothers’ songs, this 1970s hit was inspired by (though not a cover of) a 1950s Hank Williams song. Its country flavor and peripatetic main character make it the perfect road trip song, especially if you’re out on the road alone.

Fell in Love with a Girl (The White Stripes)

This fun alternative song is less than two minutes, but you can belt along to it the entire time since the lyrics come at a steady clip. Fun and unassuming, this song was actually proclaimed by Rolling Stone as one of forty songs that changed the world.

Hold On (Wilson Phillips)

Considered one of the greatest girl group songs of all time, this 1990s hit is beloved by fans of the movie Bridesmaids . It’s the ultimate sing-along song for your girls’ trip.

Life is a Highway (Rascal Flatts)

The song Life is a Highway was originally recorded in 1991 by Tom Cochrane. It is an uptempo country song about the journey of life. The song ultimately ended up not being a huge hit for the member of Red Rider. The song was then updated with a more modern sound in 2005 by Rascall Flatts for a Disney blockbuster movie.

The song premiered as the leading single for the well-known and popular movie, Cars . The updated version flew to the top of the charts with over 4 million downloads.

It is a fun road trip sound because you can’t help feeling happy and singing along. The lyrics are relatable, especially during a road trip. The song is all about riding out life and exploring different stops. Isn’t that what road trips are all about. It’s about taking everything that comes, exploring, uncertainty, and adventure. -Corritta from It’s a Family Thing .

Crazy in Love (Beyonce)

No road trip playlist is complete without some Beyonce, and what better than Beyonce’s first solo single (featuring Jay-Z, of course). And since it’s Queen B, the song of course hit number one.

See if you know all the lyrics, including Jay-Z’s verse.

Keep the Car Running (Arcade Fire)

This 2007 single was listed by Rolling Stone as one of the best of the year. If the road is starting to wear on you, this song will fit your mood. Seemingly upbeat, yet the lyrics are worn-down, perfect for a long trip with lots of stops.

I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Whitney Houston)

This 1987 Grammy-Award winning hit is a Whitney Houston classic, and no road trip play list should fail to have some Houston to belt while hitting the road. This synth-pop chart topper continues to make lists of the best dance songs. You’ll need this kind of energy after a long day on the road.

Rocky Road to Dublin (The Dropkick Murphys)

Rocky Road to Dublin needs to be on every list of epic road trips. Originally written by D. K. Gavan and popularised by Harry Clifton in the 19th century, this Irish song became an instant hit with street performers all over Ireland.

Not only is this slip jig (a particular style of Irish dance) particularly catchy because of its fast beat and crescendo, this song is also about traveling and the adventures, experience, insights, and hardship that it might bring. If you want to enjoy a traditional rendering of the song, check out the version of The Dubliners or The High Kings.

For all of those who like a bit more punk during their road trip, listen to the version of The Dropkick Murphys (which was used for a scene in Sherlock Holmes). -Emer and Nils from Let’s Go Ireland

Don’t Stop Believin’ (Journey)

While it’s possible that this Journey hit has been overplayed in the past decade thanks to major 80s nostalgia, I’m more of the belief that when it comes to “Don’t Stop Believin’,” the limit does not exist.

This 1980s rock song has also received a renaissance thanks to its appearance in a pivotal Sopranos scene. However, you don’t need an HBO subscription to appreciate just how great it feels to sing this song at the top of your lungs with the windows down.

Down by the Water (The Decemberists)

Named by NPR as one of the top 100 songs of 2011, this Grammy-nominated indie rock song is pure modern Americana. It’s also catchy and singable, borders on country music without crossing over into it, and features not just the Decemberists but also the work of indie darling Gillian Welch.

I Like It (Cardi B, Bad Bunny, J Balvin)

Every year there’s an acknowledged song of the summer, and every song of the summer has an honorary spot on the best road trip playlists. Not only do they harken back to great summer road trips of the past, but they also are designed to be the perfect accompaniment to hot days and long nights.

What makes I Like It a step above other songs of the summer is a few special elements. First, as a Latin trap song, it’s both familiar and yet different than what else was out at the time.

Writing for  Rolling Stone , Brittany Spanos proclaimed that it “sounds like it was chemically concocted in a mad scientist’s lab to be 2018’s reigning song of the summer…Everything about this song is perfect for summer: the trap-meets-salsa beat, features from two of reggaeton’s biggest stars, a sample of Pete Rodriguez’s half-century-old boogaloo hit “I Like It Like That.”

And of course, who doesn’t want their road trip to include getting to shout our that you’re “‘Bout my coins like Mario.”

Breeze (Xavier Rudd)

Xavier Rudd is an Australian artist, known for his interesting culturally mixed style. He is one of the rare musicians who brings together European and Aboriginal culture from Australia in his music and lyrics.

Any instrument you can think of, he plays it! Guitar, keys, drums, and didgeridoo. Listening to the song Breeze is a bit like having a wave of freedom and fresh air going through your body. The lyrics will transport you to the most beautiful and relaxing places. It’s a beautiful and inspiring song, perfect for any road trip.

If you want to discover more road trip songs by Xavier Rudd, you can listen to Follow the Sun and Spirit Bird. -Pauline from BeeLoved City

Old Town Road [Remix] (Lil Nas X, Billy Ray Cyrus)

What might appear corny at first is actually subversive and brilliant and was created by one of the most prominent Black country artists of the past few decades.

The 2019 song of the summer, it was the first hit of the Tik Tok era and one of the only country trap songs to gain international acclaim. And it didn’t just get everyone’s attention, it became the Longest-Running No. 1 in Hot 100 History.

And the fact that Lil Nas X did that while being a Gay, Black country music artist is astonishing enough, but he also did it by reaching listeners in new ways and on new platforms. Or maybe that’s just how much extra hard he had to work to get the recognition that his song deserved.

Fast Car (Tracy Chapman)

Another genre-crossing Black artist, Tracey Chapman’s rock anthem to cars lead to adulthood, freedom, and ultimately responsibility was included on Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday tribute.

Rolling Stone listed the song in the top two hundred greatest songs of all time, and it received Grammy award nominations and MTV Music Video nominations the year it came out.

Of course, today we mostly think of it as just an amazing song, connecting the open road with the need to “be someone” and a hope for things to get better.

Mustang Sally (Wilson Pickett)

This 1960s rhythm and blues classic is an ode to buying a woman a car and then her not letting you ride in it. (Or maybe “ride in it?). I honestly had no idea until I starting writing this post just how crazy this scenario was, but I guess it was the sixties.

Setting aside the narrator’s belief that he deserves a ride (or “ride), I think I am going to love singing this song out loud even more. Just because you buy me a car don’t mean I got to let you ride in it. Call this an accidental women’s empowerment song?

Bohemian Rhapsody (Queen)

Nothing beats this Queen classic for a rockin’ road trip tune everyone can sing along to. Its catchy melodies and operatic high notes through to air guitar riffs will have you all chanting out loud and swaying along with an unmistakable head bop! One of the greatest rock songs of all time, this fun, quirky, and high-energy hit that will definitely help you pass the miles and put smiles on everyone’s faces. -Keri Hedrick from  Our Globetrotters

Umbrella (Rhianna)

Rhianna belongs on this list, as she belongs on every list. And when considering the Rhianna cannon, I find that my favorite to sing when I’m a little horse and want to shout into open windows on the highway is “Umbrella.” And since that’s an important component of the criteria for this list, well then this is the song that wins.

It’s strange to think this quintessential Rhianna track was actually written for Britney Spears. What would the world be without Rhianna’s performance in this video? I shudder.

Immigrant Song (Led Zepplin)

This 1970’s Led Zeppelin Viking metal song includes one of the most fun and ridiculous screams and ample opportunities to shake your fist into the air.

While the opening lyrics might seem inventive to say the least:

We come from the land of the ice and snow From the midnight sun, where the hot springs flow The hammer of the gods

Robert Plant once let people know, saying “We weren’t being pompous … We did come from the land of the ice and snow. We were guests of the Icelandic Government on a cultural mission. We were invited to play a concert in Reykjavik.”

This is the perfect song to sing on a road trip in an old van, a la School of Rock. Bonus points if your road trip is around Iceland.

…Baby One More Time (Britney Spears)

The song that introduced us to Britney Spears is perhaps one of the catchiest of all time. It’s almost impossible to believe the track was written for the Backstreet Boys and TLC. How could anyone else be the voice behind the classic lyrics?

So Good (B.o.B.)

“So Good” by B.O.B is an upbeat song perfect to raise your mood during a road trip. Not only will it make you want to dance, but it also serves as a great reminder of how good it is to be able to explore the world. It tells you not to rush, but take it slow and soak up the sun. So as the song says, “Pack your bags real good baby, cause we’ll be gone for a while.” -Dan Bagby from  CabinCritic.co

Raspberry Beret (Prince and the Revolution)

While I do enjoy the Yo La Tengo cover, nothing can ever even approach the majesty of a Prince tune, even one as unassuming as his rendition of “Raspberry Beret.”

Reaching number 2 on Billboard’s Hot 100, the song may tell the tale of a bike ride and boy’s first encounter with a girl, it’s the perfect song to take out on the open road.

Party in the USA (Miley Cyrus)

While the song may start out in an airport, any fan of the movie Pitch Perfect knows this song deserves to be sung a capella on your team bus on the way to a music competition.

Even if you have no idea what I’m talking about, this is a song about playing “my song.” It’s meta without taking itself seriously.

Vogue (Madonna)

When you’re in a car bopping along, you want to dance. Yet, you’re in a car, so your hands have to do the dancing. And while the eponymous dance is much more than hand movements, the Vogue is the perfect dance to imitate while in the passenger’s seat. If you’re the driver, keep them on ten and two.

Movin’ Right Along (Alkaline Trio)

A road trip song that’s perfect for driving with kids or being a kid at heart while you drive is Movin’ Right Along. The song was released as part of The Muppet Movie soundtrack in 1979.

It features Kermit the Frog and Fozzy Bear singing a fun and playful song while driving across the country. The lyrics are clever and the tune is catchy so it’s a perfect addition for the soundtrack of any road trip.

Movin’ Right Along was given an updated cover by Alkaline Trio, a band that clearly enjoyed the song in their own childhood because they nail the original zaniness of the track. -Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

You Can’t Rollerskate in a Buffalo Herd (Roger Miller)

Roger Miller, a homegrown Oklahoma legend, created some of the best songs honky-tonk road trip songs of the 1960s. So much so that’s it’s hard to narrow down to just one or two for this list.

If you haven’t heard of Roger Miller, you’ve probably still heard his music since he recorded three of the songs on Disney’s animated Robin Hood, including the sad-but-lovely “Not in Nottingham.” His character, Allan-a-Dale narrates the movie, and Miller’s animated performance is unforgettable.

When selecting from Miller’s catalog for this list, I went with my personal fave. For me, “You Can’t Roller-skate in a Buffalo Herd” is one of the most fun, and since you’ll see lots of bison and buffalo on certain road trips from Oklahoma City, I think it’s fitting for this website that we have at least one buffalo-themed road trip song on this list.

Hit the Road Jack (Ray Charles)

This Grammy award-winning Rhythm and Blues song is not about how great it is to be on the road, but rather about telling a man to hit the road and “don’t you come back no more.”

So if you happen to be on a road trip because your girl has kicked you to the curb, then the song is the perfect one to narrate your journey. Otherwise just enjoy the irony while singing this American classic at the top of your lungs.

No Diggity (Backstreet)

This 1996 Grammy award-winning R&B hit ended the Macarena’s reign at the top of the charts, yet it still sounds relevant today. It’s hard to believe the two songs are even from the same era.

Between the fun of singing the lyrics to attempting both rap verses, there’s so much to keep you entertained during your long drive.

Khawabon Me Parinde (Mohit Chauhan)

Khwabon Ke Parindey (the birds of dreams) from Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (You Live Only Once ) is a beautiful road trip song written by Javed Akhtar and sung by Mohit Chauhan and Alyssa Mendonsa. The song plays while three main characters (Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar) are on a road trip to Seville, Spain.

This song with a perfect road trip vibe makes for the best road trip songs of all time. You can listen to it (on repeat) over and over and never get bored. Yes, it’s that soothing and meaningful. This one song perfectly epitomizes the theme of the movie ZNMD – Seize the day! -Anjali from  Travel Melodies

One Week (The Barenaked Ladies)

There’s a certain glee you feel when you master all the lyrics to this fun song. The Barenaked Ladies can sing ballads, but they also can go fast, as evidenced by their popular title track for the tv show The Big Bang Theory.

Packed with pop culture references, it’s not enough just to get the lyrics right, you also need to figure out what they’re referencing. It’s both a perfect nineties time capsule and a timeless classic.

I Will Survive (Gloria Gaynor)

Some songs are meant to be sung loud, and “I Will Survive” might be the most important of this subgenre. While there are some great covers, like the one by Cake, it’s the disco beats and perfection of Gaynor’s vocals that make this one of the most important songs in American music history.

Think I’m being hyperbolic? In 2016, the Library of Congress voted to have Gaynor’s original recording preserved in the National Recording Registry, citing its “culturally, historically, or artistically significant” importance.

Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (Wham!)

Fans of the movie Zoolander will instantly think of the movie’s amazing-yet-tragic model gasoline fight set to this song. If you’re running out of energy, this purposefully energetic pop song can wake you right up, no gasoline fight required.

Doo Wop [That Thing] (Lauryn Hill)

Lauryn Hill’s first song from her debut album premiered at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, starting her solo career off with a bang. It went on to win Grammy and MTV Video Music awards, cementing Hill as a superstar.

This song is uplifting, beautiful, singable, and positive – all great traits in a road trip song. It also stylistically fits in with nearly every decade of American music, a truly timeless classic.

Into the Great Wide Open (Tom Petty)

Into the Great Wide Open is the perfect road trip song for your cross country adventure. The song was written and performed by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and appeared as the third track on their 1991 album of the same name. 

I nto the Great Wide Open is a song about endless possibilities and the excitement that comes with going after your dreams. It makes you feel anything is possible, which is exactly what you want when hitting the open road.  -Eden from Rock a Little Travel

July, July (The Decemberists)

Opening with the promising lyric, “there is a road that meets the road that goes to my house,” the song “July, July” is an ode to mysterious stories, ghosts, and strangeness. Yet, the heat of summer is think in this song, and its upbeat tune hides its darkness.

Of course, any song named after one of the most popular months for road tripping is going to get consideration for this list, but what puts it over the top for me is its forward-looking nostalgia. The narrator reminds the audience that “…we’ll remember this when we are old and ancient, though the specifics might be vague…” just like all important road trips.

Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes)

As someone who has driven to (okay, mostly past) Wichita many a time, I can’t express how much joy I get at singing the lyrics “I’m going to Wichita, far from this opera forevermore…”

This unexpected sports anthem is also wildly popular nearly twenty years after its release, due to its military imagery and near marching beat. I’m sure the White Stripes never imagined it would be chanted at stadiums when they recorded it. Perfect for any road trip heading to a sporting event, whether you’re going to Wichita or not.

Mr. Blue Sky (ELO)

This 1970s prog rock gem is fantastical and robotic, yet its actually an ode to an open sky – the perfect fodder for a road trip! Like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Mr. Blue Sky” has multiple parts and approaches the operatic at times, making it even more appealing to sing along to as you travel.

De Donde Vengo Yo (Choc Quib Town)

One of the breakout songs from the Colombian hip-hop group Choc Quib Town, “De Donde Vengo Yo” is a song that is full of the raw, electric energy, that the group is famous for. 

The best thing about this song? During your road trip, whenever you are dizzy or a little low on energy, put it on and it will wake you up with its zazzy beats and Afro-Latin rhythms right away. Soon you will be singing along (or trying to do so if you don’t speak Spanish). -Deb from  The Visa Project

My Sharona (The Knack)

This 1979 ode to the songwriter’s girlfriend asks proclaims “Ooh, you make my motor run, my motor run,” and if that wasn’t sign enough that this song belongs on a road trip playlist, I don’t know what is.

This song bops along at a fast clip, perfect for dancing along in your seat.

Take Me Home, Country Roads (John Denver)

“Take me Home, Country Roads”, John Denver’s signature song is one of the most beloved country songs of all time. If you are driving through the scenic beauty, majestic mountains, or to the countrysides, playing this song will bring the feelings of home and belongings.

For a traveler, the world is home. But the place where the soul is raised is always special. This song is a tribute to every traveler’s almost heaven ‘Home’! This classic song was written by Bill Danoff and his wife Taffy Nivert.” -Nishu Barolia from Tannedtravelgirl

Behind the Wheel (Depeche Mode)

Behind The Wheel is a very popular song written by Martin Gore and sung by the deep voice of the stage wonder that is Dave Gahan. This is reason enough for this legendary 1987 single by Depeche Mode to be considered one of the best singles of all time. However, Behind The Wheel is also one of the most epic road trip songs ever.

Both the song’s lyrics and its official video evoke memories of unforgettable moments on the road while fueling the ever-burning lust for brand new road trip adventures to strange uncharted lands at the same time.    -Maria & Katerina from  It’s All Trip To Me

On the Road Again (Willie Nelson)

On the Road Again by Willie Nelson is a really great upbeat song to get you in the spirits of traveling. It’s the perfect fun, campy song to play on your road trips as you get to get on the road again!

Originally sung by Willie Nelson, you can find lots of different versions from rock to pop and even Alvin & The Chipmunks. Next time you’re on the road, check out your favorite cover of On The Road Again .  -Sara from Awesome Gift Guides

Route 66 (Chuck Berry)

Probably the epitome of the American road trip tune, Route 66’s lyrics are literally a catalog of the cities on the original American highway that ran from Chicago to Los Angeles.

Route 66 was written as a 12-bar blues in 1946 by the actor Bobby Troup while he and his wife were on their way to Los Angeles to try their hand as LA songwriters. The song was first recorded in a smooth pop version by Nat King Cole in 1946 and became a hit on both the pop and R&B charts.

Later versions turned it more into a rocker and it was covered by both Chuck Berry and the Rolling Stones. If you want jazzier versions try those from Diana Krall or Brian Setzer. -Tom Bartel of Travel Past 50

Home (Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zero)

With a catchy tune guaranteed to get stuck in your head, “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros is an upbeat love song perfect for the end of a road trip. 

The song feels like that perfect summer day you spent with someone you loved and will conjure up the best feelings from the adventure you just had. 

Blast this right when you cross your county line, grab your significant other’s hand, and sing along to tell them that “home is wherever I’m with you.” -Ale from  Sea Salt and Fog  

Don’t Stop Me Now (Queen)

One of Queen’s most popular songs, Don’t Stop Me Now, was released in 1978 as part of their album Jazz and as a single in 1979. It also forms part of the band’s Greatest Hits album which was released in 1981.

It has been covered by McFly, Foxes, and The Vandals. This is one of the ultimate feel-good songs and is perfect for long drives – especially if it happens to be a road with some bends.

For maximum effect, it should be played at volume with the windows rolled down and everyone singing at the tops of their voices! -Emma from Wanderlust and Wet Wipes

The Long Way Around (The Chicks)

The Dixie Chicks single, “The Long Way Around,” was released on January 8th, 2007. It was a critical and commercial success, on their first album released after their criticism of the president at the time and the backlash that occurred. 

“Take the Long Way Around” embraces non-conformity and doing things your own way. There are some anthemic qualities that make you want to blast the volume up to 11. If you put this song on your road trip playlist, it will stay there. -Theresa Ladner from Adventures in Middle-Aged Travel

Ghost Riders in the Sky (Johnny Cash)

The next song on your road trip playlist should definitely be “Ghost Riders in the Sky” by Johnny Cash. Roll the windows down, crank up the volume, and sing at the top of your lungs as the miles fly by.

Play it at night as your day winds down as the perfect wake-you-up song. Written in 1948 by Stan Jones, it has been performed by dozens of artists including Elvis Presley and The Chicks. Perhaps the most famous is Johnny Cash’s 1979 rendition, which remains popular today. -Heather from Oregon Outdoor Family

Sweet Child O’ Mine (Guns N Roses)

Sweet Child o’ Mine  is a song by American heavy metal band Guns N’ Roses.  It charted as a US hit single in August 1988.  The lyrics were written by the band’s lead singer, Axl Rose, and the song featured in Guns N’ Roses debut album,  Appetite for Destruction .   Sweet Child o’ Mine  has been covered many times, most notably by the likes of Sheryl Crow, Anastacia and Texas.  It makes a brilliant road trip song as it’s nostalgic with a cracking guitar solo and lyrics you can unselfconsciously belt out while driving along. -Nikki from  Gin and Cocktails .

Africa (Toto)

“Africa” by American band Toto is a timeless road-trip classic that has stayed popular since its release in 1981. Its sultry base ascending into a powerful crescendo makes it a feel-good tune.

Toto band members – David Paich and Bobby Kimball – wrote the song from the view of a boy telling a story about Africa from what he has seen on TV and what he has read.

It is meant as an analogy of the nostalgia you can feel for a place that you have never actually visited.

“Africa” peaked in the 1980s and was top of the charts around the world. Toto gained five platinum discs for the recording.

It was covered by American band Weezer in 2010.

Forty years on and “Africa” is still as popular today as when it was released and is regarded as a cult classic by all generations. -Angie of  Where Angie Wanders

Ei Path Jodi Na Shes Hoy 

“El Path Jodi Na Shes Hoy” is a Bengali song that means “If the road does not end.” The song is popular with Bengalis in West Bengal as well as worldwide.

The song is from a movie named Saptapadi (1961), directed by Ajoy Kar, Lyricist Gauriprasanna Mazumder. The song is sung by Hemanta Mukherjee and Sandhya Mukherjee. This song was shot while they are on a road trip with a bike. -Ruma from The Holiday Story  

Thinking of a Place (War on Drugs)

“Thinking Of A Place” is an 11-minute musical epic and embodies classic Americana at its best, featuring absolutely everything from guitar and harmonica solos to murmuring synthesizers.

The song takes you on a joy ride as it builds to a number of crescendos, before moving into a psychedelic odyssey and then almost fading out, all the while carrying the listener along on a wave of nostalgia for a trip that hasn’t even happened yet.

“Thinking Of A Place” is all about a journey, both literally and figuratively: as the lyrics say, “I’m thinking of a place and it seems so very real”. Utterly sublime. -Sasha from  Mog and Dog Travels

Free Road Trip Playlist on Spotify

Here is this playlist on Spotify. You can follow it in your Spotify app and play it on your trip, or you can bookmark this post and play from here.

More Great Road Trip Songs for Your Road Trip Playlist

Here are the rest of the songs that make my top 101 road trip songs on this playlist:

Apesh*t (The Carters)

Hurtin’ Me (Stefflon Don Ft. French Montana)

If She Wants Me (Belle & Sebastian)

Waterloo (ABBA)

Wagon Wheel (Old Crow Medicine Show)

Here I Go Again (Whitesnake)

Feel Good Inc. (The Gorillaz)

Boasty (Wiley Ft. Steflon Don and Idris Elba)

Roadrunner (The Modern Lovers)

Running on Empty (Jackson Brown)

Jolene (Dolly Parton)

American Idiot (Green Day)

Summertime Sadness (Lana Del Ray)

Island in the Sun (Weezer)

Proud Mary (Tina Turner)

Uptight (Stevie Wonder)

Where It’s At (Beck)

It’s the End of the World As We Know It (R.E.M.)

Homeward Bound (Simon & Garfunkel)

Walk It Talk It (Migos Ft. Drake)

Jack & Diane (John Cougar Mellencamp)

We Didn’t Start the Fire (Billy Joel)

Me Gusta (Shakira)

1979 (The Smashing Pumpkins)

The Way (Fastball)

Black Beatles (Rae Srummond)

Under Pressure (Queen and David Bowie)

Basket Case (Green Day)

Whatever You Like (T.I.)

If I Had a Million Dollars (Barenaked Ladies)

Little Red Corvette (Prince)

King of the Road (Roger Miller)

Linger (The Cranberries)

I’ve Been Everywhere (Johnny Cash)

Little Deuce Coup (The Beach Boys)

Down on the Corner (Credence Clearwater Revival)

Juice (Lizzo)

Bailando (Enrique Iglesias)

Truckin’ (The Grateful Dead)

Me and Bobby McGee (Janis Joplin)

Flashlight (Parliament-Funkadelic)

How We Do [Party] (Rita Ora)

Cracklin’ Rosie (Neil Diamond)

She’s a Lady (Tom Jones)

One Headlight (The Wallflowers)

Blinded by the Light (Mannfred Mann’s Earth Band)

Pin these Road Trips Songs for Your Next Trip!

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Lovely collection of all the beautiful road songs. Some of them are new findings. Will look forward to hearing!

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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…

Driving to Spain from UK: Best Routes & Driving Tips

Driving to France from UK: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know

Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Road Trips with Your Family

Driving in Turkey – Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Driving in Georgia – Your Ultimate Guide

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Home > Tips > 275 Best Road Trip Songs For Your Road Trip Playlist

275 Best Road Trip Songs For Your Road Trip Playlist

By Dymphe / February 9, 2023

Road trip songs are amazing when you're on the road! If you're looking for the perfect road trip playlist, I'm sure you'll love this one.

Going on a vacation soon? Then music will make it a lot of fun. For example, when I'm going on a beach vacation, I love listening to my beach playlist .

I always love listening to songs when traveling. And especially when I'm on the road, music is also very important.

For that reason, I made this road trip playlist. Even though this playlist is perfect for traveling, I always love listening to it.

The playlist consists of 275 songs. The genres on the list are pop, rock, dance, indie, and hip-hop. Furthermore, I've included a category of other genres as well. All the songs are perfect for your next road trip.

Depending on what music you want to listen to, you can choose one of the genres. But I'd recommend listening to all and adding them to your Spotify account.

Here are the 275 best road trip songs!

Table of Contents

Pop: Amazing Road Trip Songs With Great Melodies

One of the best genres for your road trip is the popular music genre or pop for short.

The road trip songs that belong to this category are a lot of fun. And they will make your trip much better for sure.

You likely recognize a lot of songs on this list, which is great. It is always fun to sing along songs you know very well. These songs are great while you are driving the road for that reason.

Also, pop songs are great to listen to when you are going on a road trip with other people. The other people in the car will likely also know the songs on this list! This makes these songs even better for your road trip playlist.

What's great about pop music as well is that the songs have a lot of great melodies.

Furthermore, pop songs almost always have parts that repeat.

Also, many of the parts of the song are easy to sing. This makes them even better as a road trip song.

All these aspects make that you should definitely add pop songs to your road trip playlist.

Besides that, what's great is that pop music exists for a long time. Because of this, there were a lot of songs to choose from.

To make creating your playlist with pop road trip songs easier I divided these songs by when they came out.

For example, I have a category with songs from 2015 till 2019. Also, this list contains new songs from the year 2021 till the present. These songs will likely be more familiar to you when you often listen to the radio or look at the charts. Besides that, you find older songs on this list as well.

Music From 2021 Till Now

1. It'll Be Okay - Shawn Mendes

2. Oh My God - Adele

3. Sunshine - OneRepublic

4. Shivers - Ed Sheeran

5. Cold Heart - PNAU Remix - Elton John, Dua Lipa, PNAU

6. GHOST TOWN - Benson Boone

7. Easy On Me - Adele

8. Pepas - Farruko

9. Better Days (NEIKED x Mae Muller x Polo G) - NEIKED, Mae Muller, Polo G

10. THATS WHAT I WANT - Lil Nas X

11. abcdefu - GAYLE

12. INDUSTRY BABY (feat. Jack Harlow) - Lil Nas X, Jack Harlow

13. STAY (with Justin Bieber) - The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber

14. Woman - Doja Cat

15. Need to Know - Doja Cat

16. Bad Habits - Ed Sheeran

17. Life Goes On - Oliver Tree

18. good 4 u - Olivia Rodrigo

19. Heartbreak Anthem (with David Guetta & Little Mix) - Galantis, David Guetta, Little Mix

20. Freaks - Surf Curse

21. Build a Bitch - Bella Poarch

22. Run - OneRepublic

23. Save Your Tears (with Ariana Grande) (Remix) - The Weeknd, Ariana Grande

24. Kiss Me More (feat. SZA) - Doja Cat, SZA

25. MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name) - Lil Nas X

26. Mood (feat. iann dior) - 24kGoldn, iann dior

27. Peaches (feat. Daniel Caesar & Giveon) - Justin Bieber, Daniel Caesar, Giveon

28. Rasputin - Majestic, Boney M.

29. Cover Me In Sunshine - P!nk, Willow Sage Hart

Songs in 2020

30. Good Days - SZA

31. WITHOUT YOU - The Kid LAROI

32. positions - Ariana Grande

33. Lonely (with benny blanco) - Justin Bieber, benny blanco

34. Sweet but Psycho - Ava Max

35. Heat Waves - Glass Animals

36. Take You Dancing - Jason Derulo

37. Savage Love (Laxed - Siren Beat) - Jawsh 685, Jason Derulo

38. Put Your Records On - Ritt Momney

39. Levitating (feat. DaBaby) - Dua Lipa, DaBaby

40. Don't Start Now - Dua Lipa

41. Break My Heart - Dua Lipa

42. In Your Eyes - The Weeknd

43. Blinding Lights - The Weeknd

44. Control - Zoe Wees

45. Boss Bitch - Doja Cat

Music from 2015 Till 2019

46. Watermelon Sugar - Harry Styles

47. If the World Was Ending (feat. Julia Michaels) - JP Saxe, Julia Michaels

48. I Don't Care (with Justin Bieber) - Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber

49. 7 rings - Ariana Grande

50. Don't Call Me Up - Mabel

51. No Lie - Sean Paul, Dua Lipa

52. Attention - Charlie Puth

53. One Kiss (with Dua Lipa) - Calvin Harris, Dua Lipa

54. The Middle - Zedd, Maren Morris, Grey

55. New Rules - Dua Lipa

56. Perfect - Ed Sheeran

57. Shape of You - Ed Sheeran

58. Happier - Ed Sheeran

59. Castle on the Hill - Ed Sheeran

60. Hold On - Chord Overstreet

61. Starboy - The Weeknd, Daft Punk

62. Cake By The Ocean - DNCE

63. Say You Won't Let Go - James Arthur

64. 7 Years - Lukas Graham

65. We Don't Talk Anymore (feat. Selena Gomez) - Charlie Puth, Selena Gomez

66. Love On The Brain - Rihanna

67. Love Yourself - Justin Bieber

68. Sorry - Justin Bieber

69. Stitches - Shawn Mendes

70. Uptown Funk (feat. Bruno Mars) - Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars

Songs From 2010 till 2014

71. Time of Our Lives - Pitbull, Ne-Yo

72. Summer - Calvin Harris

73. Maps - Maroon 5

74. Sugar - Maroon 5

75. Animals - Maroon 5

76. Rude - MAGIC!

77. Thinking out Loud - Ed Sheeran

78. Photograph - Ed Sheeran

79. Like I Can - Sam Smith

80. Story of My Life - One Direction

81. Royals - Lorde

82. Mirrors - Justin Timberlake

83. Counting Stars - OneRepublic

84. Heart Attack - Demi Lovato

85. When I Was Your Man - Bruno Mars

86. Die Young - Kesha

87. Just Give Me a Reason (feat. Nate Ruess) - P!nk, Nate Ruess

88. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction

89. Payphone - Maroon 5, Wiz Khalifa

90. Call Me Maybe - Carly Rae Jepsen

91. Love You Like A Love Song - Selena Gomez & The Scene

92. Somebody That I Used To Know - Gotye, Kimbra

93. On The Floor - Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull

94. Hey, Soul Sister - Train

95. Grenade - Bruno Mars

96. Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars

97. DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love (feat. Pitbull) - Usher, Pitbull

98. TiK ToK - Kesha

99. Dynamite - Taio Cruz

100. Baby - Justin Bieber, Ludacris

Music before 2010: Perfect Road Trip Songs If You Like Older Pop Songs

101. See You Again (feat. Charlie Puth) - Wiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth

102. Classic - MKTO

103. Hey Ya! - Outkast

104. Bad Romance - Lady Gaga

105. I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas

106. Party In The U.S.A. - Miley Cyrus

107. Umbrella - Rihanna, JAY-Z

108. Viva La Vida - Coldplay

109. I'm Yours - Jason Mraz

110. Gimme More - Britney Spears

111. SexyBack (feat. Timbaland) - Justin Timberlake, Timbaland

112. Hips Don't Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean) - Shakira, Wyclef Jean

113. Toxic - Britney Spears

114. I Want It That Way - Backstreet Boys

115. Careless Whisper - George Michael

116. Wannabe - Spice Girls

117. Take on Me - a-ha

118. Everybody Wants To Rule The World - Tears For Fears

119. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go - Wham!

120. Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) - Remastered - Eurythmics, Annie Lennox, Dave Stewart

121. Billie Jean - Michael Jackson

122. Beat It - Michael Jackson

123. Africa - TOTO

124. Let's Groove - Earth\, Wind & Fire

125. Let It Be - Remastered 2009 - The Beatles

126. Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell

127. Dancing Queen - ABBA

Songs of the dance music genre are also great to add to your road trip playlist.

These road trip songs are great for dancing, but also great while you are driving.

This genre has a lot of rhythm and great beats that I'm sure you'll enjoy and will make your trip better!

128. Where Are You Now - Lost Frequencies, Calum Scott

129. Panga (Ft. Idd Aziz) - LevyM

130. Love Tonight - David Guetta Remix Edit - Shouse, David Guetta

131. Sweet Dreams - Alan Walker, Imanbek

132. Never Going Home - Kungs

133. BED - Joel Corry, RAYE, David Guetta

134. Friday (feat. Mufasa & Hypeman) - Dopamine Re-Edit - Riton, Nightcrawlers, Mufasa, Hypeman, Dopamine

135. The Business - Tiësto

136. uNcuthu Ft. Sekiwe - LevyM

137. ily (i love you baby) (feat. Emilee) - Surf Mesa, Emilee

138. Lose Control - MEDUZA, Becky Hill, Goodboys

139. Ride It - Regard

140. Love Tonight - Edit - Shouse

141. Something Just Like This - The Chainsmokers, Coldplay

142. Closer - The Chainsmokers, Halsey

143. This Is What You Came For (feat. Rihanna) - Calvin Harris, Rihanna

144. Don't Let Me Down - The Chainsmokers, Daya

145. Waiting For Love - Avicii

146. The Nights - Avicii

147. Get Lucky (feat. Pharrell Williams & Nile Rodgers) - Radio Edit - Daft Punk, Pharrell Williams, Nile Rodgers

148. Wake Me Up - Avicii

149. Titanium (feat. Sia) - David Guetta, Sia

150. Feel So Close - Radio Edit - Calvin Harris

151. Give Me Everything (feat. Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer) - Pitbull, Ne-Yo, Afrojack, Nayer

152. Fireflies - Owl City

153. Timber (feat. Ke$ha) - Pitbull, Kesha

154. Remember - Becky Hill, David Guetta

155. Head & Heart (feat. MNEK) - Joel Corry, MNEK

156. Someone To You - BANNERS

Rock: Nice Road Trip Songs With Great Beats

Here's yet another genre that is great to add to your playlist.

Rock music often features acoustic or electric guitars. These instruments add a great sound to the song.

Furthermore, there is a lot of difference in the songs that belong to this genre.

For example, there are road trip songs of this genre that are very fast, while there are also very slow ones.

Furthermore, there are songs with heavy vocals, while there are also ones with soft vocals.

These differences exist because there are a lot of subgenres of rock.

Depending on what type of song you like most, you can choose certain songs from this road trip playlist.

Also, what's great is that rock songs often feature great stories. Taking in these stories while listening to these songs will make your road trip much more fun for sure!

For example, many songs are about love, but some are also about political or social themes.

These stories make the songs much more interesting!

Like pop music, there are a lot of different songs to choose from. That's because the genre exists for more than 75 years. This makes this genre amazing if you're looking for road trip songs.

To make choosing a song for your road trip playlist easier, I divided this list of songs too.

For this list, I chose to use the year 2000 as the dividing year.

Moreover, this list contains some new songs, such as Circles by Post Malone from 2019. But this list also has older songs. For example, it also includes Sweet Child O' Mine by Guns N' Roses, which is a more classic rock song that I'm sure you know!

Music From 2000 Till Now

157. Circles - Post Malone

158. Sucker - Jonas Brothers

159. Natural - Imagine Dragons

160. High Hopes - Panic! At The Disco

161. Beggin' - Måneskin

162. Believer - Imagine Dragons

163. Thunder - Imagine Dragons

164. High Enough - K.Flay

165. Heathens - Twenty One Pilots

166. Stressed Out - Twenty One Pilots

167. Ride - Twenty One Pilots

168. Friends - Chase Atlantic

169. Centuries - Fall Out Boy

170. Locked out of Heaven - Bruno Mars

171. Hall of Fame (feat. will.i.am) - The Script, will.i.am

172. Everybody Talks - Neon Trees

173. Paradise - Coldplay

174. Animal - Neon Trees

175. Sex on Fire - Kings of Leon

176. Snow (Hey Oh) - Red Hot Chili Peppers

177. How to Save a Life - The Fray

178. Fix You - Coldplay

179. The Scientist - Coldplay

180. Clocks - Coldplay

181. Kryptonite - 3 Doors Down

182. Yellow - Coldplay

Songs Before 2000

183. Californication - Red Hot Chili Peppers

184. Bitter Sweet Symphony - The Verve

185. Basket Case - Green Day

186. What's Up? - 4 Non Blondes

187. Under the Bridge - Red Hot Chili Peppers

188. Losing My Religion - R.E.M.

189. Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N' Roses

190. Paradise City - Guns N' Roses

191. You Give Love A Bad Name - Bon Jovi

192. Dancing In the Dark - Bruce Springsteen

193. Under Pressure - Remastered 2011 - Queen, David Bowie

194. Don't Stop Believin' - Journey

195. Back In Black - AC/DC

196. You Shook Me All Night Long - AC/DC

197. Another One Bites The Dust - Remastered 2011 - Queen

198. Mr. Blue Sky - Electric Light Orchestra

199. Highway to Hell - AC/DC

200. Don't Stop Me Now - Remastered 2011 - Queen

201. Dreams - 2004 Remaster - Fleetwood Mac

202. Hotel California - 2013 Remaster - Eagles

203. Bohemian Rhapsody - Remastered 2011 - Queen

204. Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynyrd

205. Dream On - Aerosmith

206. Rocket Man (I Think It's Going To Be A Long, Long Time) - Elton John

207. Stairway to Heaven - Remaster - Led Zeppelin

208. Have You Ever Seen The Rain - Creedence Clearwater Revival

209. Fortunate Son - Creedence Clearwater Revival

210. Here Comes The Sun - Remastered 2009 - The Beatles

211. Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison

Indie: Great Road Trip Songs If You Like Alternative Music

Ready for some alternative road trip songs during your trip?

If you like songs that are lesser-known, you should choose some of the songs on this list.

Also, the songs are great to add to your road trip playlist if you want to listen to more unusual instruments.

Indie music often combines a lot of different aspects of other genres. This makes the songs unique!

Also, what's great is that if you choose to add a lot of these songs to your playlist, you have a very diverse list of music! And that's great if you want to have a nice list of road trip songs. I'm sure you'll love these songs!

212. my ex's best friend (with blackbear) - Machine Gun Kelly, blackbear

213. Can I Call You Tonight? - Dayglow

214. Someone You Loved - Lewis Capaldi

215. Bruises - Lewis Capaldi

216. when the party's over - Billie Eilish

217. Are You Bored Yet? (feat. Clairo) - Wallows, Clairo

218. Into It - Chase Atlantic

219. Infinity - Jaymes Young

220. Ophelia - The Lumineers

221. Hymn for the Weekend - Coldplay

222. Electric Love - BØRNS

223. Wait a Minute! - WILLOW

224. Shut Up and Dance - WALK THE MOON

225. Riptide - Vance Joy

226. Take Me To Church - Hozier

227. Best Day Of My Life - American Authors

228. Still into You - Paramore

229. Little Talks - Of Monsters and Men

230. Stereo Hearts (feat. Adam Levine) - Gym Class Heroes, Adam Levine

231. Tongue Tied - Grouplove

232. Pumped Up Kicks - Foster The People

233. Feel Good Inc. - Gorillaz

234. Hey There Delilah - Plain White T's

235. Numb - Linkin Park

236. Bring Me To Life - Evanescence

237. In the End - Linkin Park

238. Safe And Sound - Capital Cities

239. Best Friend (feat. Doja Cat) - Saweetie, Doja Cat

Hip-Hop music is great music to listen to during your road trip. That's why I added also added perfect road trip songs of this genre to the list.

This is a music genre that often includes rap, but there are also songs without rap. Also, there are lots of songs of this genre with both rap and other types of vocals. This combination makes these songs great too!

Besides that, these songs often have very rhythmic melodies. Also, there is sometimes beatboxing that accompanies rap.

What's great is that there is a lot of variety in these songs.

For example, there are hip-hop songs that combine with pop. Also, there are songs that feature both rap and rock.

Besides that, what's great is that these songs differ in their tempo. There are very fast songs, but also very slow songs.

The rhythm of this music genre is what makes many of these songs proper road trip songs. It is great to ride on the road while listening to a rhythm at the same time.

Also, many of these hip-hop songs contain stories that you can listen to while driving on the road. This makes these songs even better for your trip.

To make this list of songs more comprehensible I divided this list as well. Below, you can find songs from 2015 till now, and songs from before 2015.

Songs From 2015 Till Now

240. Laugh Now Cry Later (feat. Lil Durk) - Drake, Lil Durk

241. WAP (feat. Megan Thee Stallion) - Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion

242. What You Know Bout Love - Pop Smoke

243. ROCKSTAR (feat. Roddy Ricch) - DaBaby, Roddy Ricch

244. Godzilla (feat. Juice WRLD) - Eminem, Juice WRLD

245. Bandit (with YoungBoy Never Broke Again) - Juice WRLD, YoungBoy Never Broke Again

246. Robbery - Juice WRLD

247. SICKO MODE - Travis Scott

248. rockstar (feat. 21 Savage) - Post Malone, 21 Savage

249. Ric Flair Drip (with Metro Boomin) - Offset, Metro Boomin

250. Let You Down - NF

251. goosebumps - Travis Scott

Music Before 2015

252. No Role Modelz - J. Cole

253. Can't Hold Us - feat. Ray Dalton - Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

254. Work Out - J. Cole

255. Love The Way You Lie - Eminem, Rihanna

256. Empire State Of Mind - JAY-Z, Alicia Keys

257. Low (feat. T-Pain) - Flo Rida, T-Pain

258. Yeah! (feat. Lil Jon & Ludacris) - Usher, Lil Jon, Ludacris

259. Ms. Jackson - Outkast

Other Genres: Additional Road Trip Songs That Are Perfect For Your Playlist

In the lists above I covered the genres pop, dance, rock, indie, and hip-hop.

Of course, there are more genres of road trip songs. That's why I included some songs that didn't fit the categories above in this section.

For example, there are songs of the R&B genre in this part of the list. Also, there are soul and country songs on this list.

Don't forget to add these songs to your road trip playlist, as they are great as well! Also, many of the songs are very popular songs, so you likely know them.

For example, if you want to add a great and slow song to your playlist, choose All of Me by John Legend!

Besides that, the songs of this section by Bruno Mars are great to listen to while driving as well!

260. I GUESS I'M IN LOVE - Clinton Kane

261. Leave The Door Open - Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic

262. DÁKITI - Bad Bunny, Jhay Cortez

263. You Got It - Vedo

264. 10,000 Hours (with Justin Bieber) - Dan + Shay, Justin Bieber

265. No Guidance (feat. Drake) - Chris Brown, Drake

266. Shallow - Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper

267. All The Stars (with SZA) - Kendrick Lamar, SZA

268. Redbone - Childish Gambino

269. That's What I Like - Bruno Mars

270. The Hills - The Weeknd

271. idfc - blackbear

272. Like I'm Gonna Lose You (feat. John Legend) - Meghan Trainor, John Legend

273. All of Me - John Legend

274. Sure Thing - Miguel

275. Temperature - Sean Paul

This was my playlist of amazing road trip songs. If you're going to travel soon, have a lot of fun! I'm sure you'll have a great time listening to these lovely songs.

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90+ Best Road Trip Songs for Your Travel Playlist

Travelling by road can be both wonderful and tiresome–that’s why you need a great soundtrack to keep you singing along! Here I’ve compiled some of the best road trip songs from rock to hip hop; 1950’s through to now—there’s a little something for everyone. You can take this as one, mega, road trip playlist or use the themed sections to find exactly the kind of music you are after. Scroll to the end to get a link to my Spotify Road Trippin’ playlist with all these tunes.

Press skip, and get to your favourite selection:

Press skip and get to your favourite selection:

Old-school road trip songs, 1990-forward road trip songs, all american road trip tunes, all australian road trip songs, car-themed tracks, girls road trip songs, country road trip songs, get this list on spotify.

Disclosure: I may earn compensation from the purchase of any product or service linked on this website, at no extra cost to you. I only link to products I use and love, therefore feel comfortable recommending.

All the classic, pre-1990’s tracks about driving, cars, trucking and travelling by road.

• Cruisin’ – Smokey Robinson
• Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac
• Take the Money and Run – Steve Miller Band
• Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
• Danger Zone – Kenny Loggins
• Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf
• I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers
• Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now – McFadden & Whitehead
• Hit the Road Jack – Ray Charles
• Truckin’ – Grateful Dead
• Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen
• Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
• Where the Streets Have No Name – U2
• Ride Like the Wind – Christopher Cross
• Life is a Highway – Tom Cochrane
• Willin’ – Linda Rondstadt
• Roadhouse Blues – The Doors
• I Drove All Night – Cyndi Lauper
• Road to Nowhere – Talking Heads
• Radar Love – Golden Earring
• Is Your Mama Gonna Miss Ya? – Bryan Adams
• Keep on Truckin’ – Eddie Kendricks
• Running on Empty – Jackson Browne

Post-1990, road-trip-ready tracks for passing the time and getting your groove on.

• Window Seat – Erykah Badu
• Tints – Anderson .Paak ft. Kendrick Lamar
• Ain’t it Fun – Paramore
• Old Town Road – Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
• Shut Up and Drive – Rhianna
• Car Wash – Christina Aguilera and Missy Elliott
• On The Road – Bonfire Set
• A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton
• Home – Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
• Runaway Baby – Bruno Mars
• Keep the Car Running – Arcade Fire
• One For the Road – Arctic Monkeys
• The Distance – Cake
• Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Slow Ride – Kenny Wayne Shepard
• Send Me on My Way – Rusted Root
• Your Turn to Drive – David Bowie
• Let Me Ride – Dr Dre
• Anywhere – Passenger
• Remember That Night? – Sara Kays

Best destination-themed road trip songs for journeys across the US.

• Californication – Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Graceland – Paul Simon
• America – Simon and Garfunkel
• Route 66 – Chuck Berry
• Nutbush City Limits – Tina Turner
• Save Me, San Francisco – Train
• Louisiana Bayou – Dave Matthews Band
• Tennessee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton
• The Beehive State – Randy Newman
• Texas Sun – Khruangbin and Leon Bridges
• Dear Chicago – Ryan Adams
• Leaving Las Vegas – Sheryl Crow
• Empire State of Mind – Jay Z ft Alicia Keys

Did you know Australia is approximately the same size as the 48 contiguous US States?! So when it comes to epic road trips and songs to match we can hold our own.

• Follow the Sun – Xavier Rudd
• Weather With You – Crowded House
• One Way Road – John Butler Trio
• St Kilda to Kings Cross – Paul Kelly
• Great Southern Land – Icehouse
• Drive – Shannon Noll
• Road to Gundagai – Slim Dusty
• Chained to the Wheel – The Black Sorrows
• The Car Song – Cat Empire
• Sounds of Then – Gang Gajang
• Flame Trees – Cold Chisel
• Tenterfield Saddler – Peter Allen
• I’ve Been Everywhere – Lucky Star
• Solid Rock – Goanna
• Highway to Hell – AC/DC

The best road trip songs with the word “car” in the title; along with odes to specific makes and models; and stories all about cars.

• Camaro – Kings of Leon
• Paradise by the Dashboard Light – Meatloaf
• Fun, Fun, Fun – The Beach Boys
• Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car – Billy Ocean
• Black Devil Car – Jamiroquai
• Little Red Corvette – Prince
• Fast Car – Tracy Chapman
• Shelby ’68 – Kylie Minogue
• Two Dope Boyz (In a Cadillac) – OutKast
• Mercedes Benz – Janis Joplin
• Mustang Sally – Wilson Pickett
• Drive My Car – The Beatles
• Stickshifts and Seatbelts – Cake

Fiercely feminine road trip tunes, including some great artists old and new!

• Roam – The B-52s
• Every Day is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow
• Everywhere – Fleetwood Mac
• Drive All Night – Joss Stone
• Where You Lead – Carol King
• Pink Cadillac – Natalie Cole
• I Love It – Icona Pop ft Charli XCX

Best road trip songs for country music lovers.

• On The Road Again – Willie Nelson
• Take Me Home (Country Roads) – John Denver
• I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash
• King of the Road – Roger Miller
• Ramblin’ Man – Allman Brothers
• Wagon Wheel – Darius Rucker
• Days Go By – Keith Urban
• Red Dirt Road – Brooks & Dunn
• Highwayman – Highwaymen

If you have a favourite road trip song not listed here – drop me a line in the comments. See this post for international travel music and you will find themed playlists accompanying most of my road trip itineraries featuring artists from, and songs about each destination.

Peace, love & inspiring travel,

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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”.

‘California Dreamin’’: Mamas And The Papas’ Homesick Shade Of Winter

‘does your mother know’: the story behind the abba song, 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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111 Songs About Road trips (Pop, Rap & More)

08 Sep 2022 — Filed Under: General

I. Latest Songs About Road trips

Ii. rock songs about road trips, iii. christian songs about road trips, iv. r&b songs about road trips, v. rap songs about road trips, vi. country songs about road trips, vii. pop songs about road trips, 1. ramblin’ man by the allman brothers band.

The song is about a man who is always on the move and can’t stay in one place for very long. He is always looking for something new and exciting to do.

2. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

The song is about a man who is from Alabama and is proud of it. He talks about how he loves the state and its people. He also talks about how he is not a fan of the city life and how he is happy to be back home.

3. Runnin’ Down a Dream by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

The song is about a person who is living out their dreams. They are running down the road, chasing their dreams, and they are never going to give up. The song is about determination and never giving up on your dreams.

4. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

The song is about a young woman who is in a relationship with a man who is struggling to make ends meet. She is trying to convince him to leave his job and start a new life with her.

5. Take It Easy by Eagles

The song is about taking it easy and enjoying life despite the challenges that come up. The singer encourages the listener to relax and not worry too much.

6. Country Roads by John Denver

The song is about a man who is longing for the simplicity of life in the country. He remembers growing up in the country and all of the things that he loved about it. He talks about how the city life is not for him and how he misses the country. In the end, he decides to take a road trip back to the country to find the peace that he is looking for.

7. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” By The Proclaimers by Geekscape & Sound Talent Media

The song is about a man who is determined to travel 500 miles to be with the woman he loves. He is willing to overcome any obstacle to reach her, and he is confident that they will be together in the end.

8. Mustang Sally by Wilson Pickett

The song is about a man who is trying to convince a woman named Sally to get back with him. He tells her that he is sorry for what he did and that he loves her.

9. Running On Empty by Jackson Browne

The song is about a person who is running on empty, meaning they have nothing left to give. The person is tired and wants to stop, but they keep going because they have to.

10. On the Road Again by Willie Nelson, Alanis Morissette

The song is about a person who is always on the road and never stays in one place for very long. They are always looking for new places to go and new people to meet.

11. On the Road by Kendrick Lamar

The song “On the Road” by Kendrick Lamar is about the rapper’s journey to success. He discusses how he has had to overcome obstacles and how he is still on the road to success.

12. Roadtrip by PmBata, Dream

Roadtrip by PmBata, Dream is about a group of friends going on a road trip. The song talks about the different places they visit and the different things they do. The song is upbeat and has a positive message.

1. Life Is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

The song is about living life to the fullest and not taking anything for granted. It talks about how life is a highway and we should all just enjoy the ride.

2. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

The song is a list of places the narrator has been, with the refrain “I’ve been everywhere, man.” The narrator claims to have been to all of the places mentioned in the song, which span several continents.

3. Take the Highway by The Marshall Tucker Band

The song is about a man who is leaving town and hitting the open road. He is telling his woman that he is going to take the highway and she can come with him if she wants. He is ready to start a new life and is not looking back.

4. Ramblin’ Man by The Allman Brothers Band

5. the boys are back in town by thin lizzy.

The song is about a group of friends who have reunited and are ready to have a good time. They are excited to be back together and are ready to party.

6. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

The song is about a young man’s escape from his hometown. He is in love with a girl named Mary and he wants to take her away to a better life. The song is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt trapped by their circumstances and longed for something better.

7. Running on Empty by Jackson Browne

The song is about a person who is “running on empty” and needs a break. The person is tired of the rat race and just wants to relax and take it easy for a while.

8. Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand

The song is about a guy who is asking a girl to go out with him. He is telling her that he will show her a good time and she will not be disappointed.

9. Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty

The song is about a young man who is in love with a girl who is in love with someone else. The young man is trying to figure out what to do and how to tell the girl that he loves her.

10. The Road to Nowhere by Talking Heads

The song is about a relationship that is not going anywhere. The singer is talking about how he is tired of being in a relationship that is not going anywhere and how he is ready to move on.

11. Ramble On by Led Zeppelin

Ramble On is a song by Led Zeppelin from their 1969 album Led Zeppelin II. The song was written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, and is one of the band’s most popular songs. The song is about a young man’s journey through life, and his encounters with love, death, and the devil. The song has a very catchy riff, and is one of Led Zeppelin’s most well-known songs.

12. The Long and Winding Road by The Beatles

The song is about a relationship that has ended and the singer is looking back on all the happy times they shared together. He is sad and regrets all the things he didn’t do to make the relationship work.

13. Life Is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

14. on the road again by willie nelson, alanis morissette, 15. take the long way home by supertramp.

The song is about a man who is tired of his life and decides to take the long way home. He is tired of the city and the people in it. He wants to find a place where he can be alone and find peace.

1. I Can Only Imagine by MercyMe

The song is about a person imagining what it will be like to be in heaven. The person imagines being in a beautiful place with no more pain or suffering. They imagine being reunited with loved ones who have died and being able to worship God freely. The song is a reminder that even though we don’t know what heaven will be like, we can trust that it will be better than anything we can imagine.

2. Matthew West by Casting Crowns

The song is about a young man named Matthew West who is struggling with his faith. He is questioning whether or not God is real and if He is, why He would allow such bad things to happen in the world. The song is a prayer for Matthew, asking God to give him the strength to keep going and to help him find the answers to his questions.

3. I Need YouMatt Maher by Matt Maher

The song is about a person needing God and how God is always there for them. The song talks about how God is the only one who can truly help us and how we need Him in our lives.

4. Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) by Hillsong UNITED

The song is about continuing to walk through life even when the going gets tough. It talks about how the oceans may seem like they are too big to cross, but with faith, anything is possible. The song is a reminder that God is always there for us, no matter what.

5. Good Good Father by Chris Tomlin

This song is about how God is a good father and how we can trust him. It is a worship song that is sung in many churches.

6. 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) by Matt Redman, Steve Angrisano

The song is a worship song about giving thanks to God for all the reasons He blesses us. It starts with the reasons we have to bless the Lord, such as His love, His faithfulness, and His mercy. Then it talks about how we should bless the Lord even when we don’t feel like it, because He is worthy of our praise. The chorus is a declaration that we will bless the Lord always, no matter what.

7. How Great Is Our God by Chris Tomlin

The song is a worship song that talks about how great God is. It talks about how God is above everything and how He is the one who created everything.

8. Mighty to Save by Hillsong Worship

The song Mighty to Save by Hillsong Worship is a powerful song about the saving power of God. The song starts out with a strong declaration of faith that God is mighty to save us from our sins. It then goes on to talk about how God is our refuge and strength in times of trouble. The song ends with a powerful declaration of faith that God is worthy of all our praise.

9. Cornerstone by Hillsong Worship

The song is about how Jesus is the cornerstone of our lives and how we need to trust in Him. The song is sung from the perspective of someone who is struggling and trying to find their way. The song is about how we need to surrender our lives to Jesus and trust Him to lead us.

10. Holy Spirit by Francesca Battistelli

The song is about the Holy Spirit and how He is always with us. It talks about how the Spirit is our comforter, guide, and strength. It is a song of worship and praise to the Holy Spirit.

11. O Come to the Altar by Elevation Worship

The song is about coming to the altar and giving everything to God. It is a worship song that is sung to God, asking Him to come and meet us at the altar. The song is based on the scripture from Isaiah 6:8, which says, “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.'” The song is a reminder that we are all called to come to the altar and give our lives to God.

12. What a Beautiful Name by Hillsong Worship

The song is about the beauty of God’s name and how it is worth praising. The lyrics talk about how God’s name is above all other names and how it is the only name that can save us. The song is a worship song that is meant to praise God and give thanks for His name.

13. Matthew West by Casting Crowns

14. i need youmatt maher by matt maher, 15. 10,000 reasons (bless the lord) by matt redman, steve angrisano, 16. blessed be your name by matt redman.

The song is about praising God for who He is and what He has done. It is a song of thanksgiving and worship.

17. Shine Jesus Shine by Graham Kendrick

The song is about shining the light of Jesus to the world and letting his love be seen in everything we do. It is a call to action for Christians to be the light in the world and to let Jesus’ love shine through them.

18. The Stand by Hillsong UNITED

The song is about continuing to stand even when the world around us is crumbling. It talks about how God is our foundation and our hope, and how He will never leave us even when everything else does. The song is a reminder that we need to keep our eyes on God and not on the things of this world.

19. You Are My King (Amazing Love) by Newsboys

The song is a worship song about how Jesus is our King and how Amazing His love is for us.

1. Shut Up and Drive by Rihanna

This song is about a girl who is telling her boyfriend to stop talking and just focus on driving. She is tired of him always talking and not paying attention to her. She just wants him to shut up and drive.

2. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers

The song is about a man who is willing to walk 500 miles to be with the woman he loves. He is determined to make the journey, no matter what the obstacles, and he is sure that he will be happy when he finally arrives at her side.

3. 1, 2 Step by Ciara

The song is about a woman who is telling her partner that she is ready to take their relationship to the next level, and she is asking him to dance with her so they can get closer.

4. Born To Run by Bruce Springsteen

The song is about a young man’s escape from his small town to the city. He is in search of something better and is willing to take risks to find it. The song is an anthem for those who are chasing their dreams.

5. Hit the Road Jack by Ray Charles

The song is about a man who is leaving his woman. He tells her that she can’t come with him, and she should just “hit the road.”

6. Little Red Corvette by Prince

The song is about a man who is trying to seduce a woman who is driving a red Corvette. He tells her that he is a good driver and can take her wherever she wants to go. He also tells her that he is a good lover and can please her in bed.

7. I Drove All Night by Cyndi Lauper

The song is about a woman who is driving all night to get to her lover. She is thinking about him and how much she loves him. She is willing to do anything to be with him.

8. Road Trippin’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers

The song is about going on a road trip and the various adventures that can be had while doing so. It is a fun and upbeat song that encourages listeners to get out there and explore.

9. Ridin’ by Chamillionaire

The song is about Chamillionaire’s success in the rap game, and how he’s able to enjoy the fruits of his labor by riding around in his expensive cars. He brags about his wealth and how he’s able to spend lavishly on whatever he wants. He also takes shots at other rappers who aren’t as successful as him, and talks about how he’s able to stay relevant despite the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.

10. Road to Riches by Tupac Shakur

The song is about Tupac’s journey to becoming a successful rapper. He talks about how he started out poor and struggled to make ends meet. He talks about how he hustled and grinded to make a name for himself. He talks about how he persevered through tough times and eventually made it to the top. The song is motivational and inspirational, and it encourages listeners to never give up on their dreams.

1. Let Me Ride by Dr. Dre

The song is about how Dre is the best at what he does and how he will never let anyone take his place.

2. Rolling in the Deep by Adele

The song is about a failed relationship and how the person feels about it. They are angry and hurt, and they want the other person to feel the same way.

3. Cruise by Florida Georgia Line

The song is about a young couple in love who are enjoying a carefree life together. They are living life in the moment and enjoying every minute of it.

5. Little Red Corvette by Prince

6. ridin’ by chamillionaire, 7. i’m on a boat by the lonely island.

I’m on a Boat is a comedic song by American comedy troupe The Lonely Island. The song is about a man who is bragging about being on a boat, and his various luxurious activities.

8. My Hooptie by Sir Mix-a-Lot

The song is about a man’s car, which he affectionately refers to as his “hooptie.” He talks about how he loves his car, even though it’s not the best looking or the most reliable. He also makes a point to say that he’s not materialistic, and that he would never trade his hooptie for a fancy car.

9. Get Low by Lil Jon

Lil Jon’s “Get Low” is a high-energy rap song that encourages listeners to get up and dance. The song features a catchy beat and Lil Jon’s signature rap style. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, but they are effective in getting the point across. The song is sure to get listeners moving and is perfect for a party or club setting.

10. Shut Up and Drive by Rihanna

11. low by flo rida.

The song is about a break-up and how the person is feeling low because of it.

12. Here I Go Again by Whitesnake

The song is about a man who is trying to get over a woman he loved and lost. He is looking back on their relationship and wondering if he will ever find another love like hers.

13. Roadtrip by PmBata, Dream

14. i hit the road jack by ray charles.

The song is about a man who is leaving town because he has been cheated on by his woman. He is telling her that he is not going to stick around and be her punching bag, he is going to hit the road.

1. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

The song is about living life to the fullest and enjoying the ride. It talks about how life is a highway and we should all just enjoy the journey.

2. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

3. on the road again by willie nelson.

The song is about a man who is on the road again and is looking forward to the journey. He is excited to see the different places and people he will encounter along the way.

4. Wagon Wheel by Darius Rucker

The song is about a man who is hitchhiking and hoping to find a ride. He is hoping to find a ride to North Carolina, where he is from. The song talks about the man’s journey and how he is hoping to find a ride on a wagon wheel.

5. Dirt Road Anthem by Jason Aldean

The song is about a guy who is from a small town and he is talking about how his life is and how he likes it. He talks about how he likes to go out on the dirt road and just drive. He talks about how he is not like the other guys who are from the city and how he is just happy with his life the way it is.

6. I’ve Been Everywhere by Hank Snow, Willie Nelson

The song is a travelogue, detailing the narrator’s journey across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In each verse, the narrator lists the places he’s been and the things he’s seen. The chorus repeats the phrase “I’ve been everywhere, man.”

7. Take a Back Road by Rodney Atkins

The song is about a man who is sick of his life in the city and longs for a simpler life in the country. He is tired of the traffic and the noise and just wants to get away from it all. He’s had enough of the rat race and is ready to take a back road.

8. The Boys of Summer by Don Henley

The song is about the summertime and young love. It talks about how summertime is a time for young love to blossom and how it is a time for memories to be made.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeBTFjSUNMM

9. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

The song is about the beauty of West Virginia and the desire to be home. The singer longs for the simplicity of the country life and the peace that comes with it. The song has a nostalgic and wistful tone, and speaks to the longing for a simpler time and place.

10. I’ve Been Everywhere by Hank Snow, Willie Nelson

11. the road goes on forever by robert earl keen.

The Road Goes on Forever is a song written and performed by Robert Earl Keen. It was released in 1994 as a single and peaked at number 62 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. The song is about a man who is reflecting on his life and how it has changed over the years. He is looking back at all of the places he has been and all of the people he has met. The road has always been there for him, and it will always continue to be there.

12. Take Me Home (Country Roads) by John Denver

The song is about the beauty of the West Virginia mountains and the feeling of being home. The singer longs for the simplicity of life in the country and the peace that comes with it.

13. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

14. the devil went down to georgia by charlie daniels band.

The song is about a fiddle contest between a young man named Johnny and the devil. The devil makes a bet with Johnny that he can’t play the fiddle better than him, and if he wins, he gets Johnny’s soul. Johnny ends up winning the contest and the devil has to give him his soul.

15. Highway Vagabond by Miranda Lambert

The song is about a woman who is a vagabond and is always on the move. She is always looking for the next adventure and is never satisfied with staying in one place for too long.

16. Drivin’ My Life Away by Eddie Rabbitt

The song is about a man who is driving his life away. He is tired of the same old thing and wants to find something new. He is looking for a new place to call home and a new love to call his own.

17. East Bound and Down by Jerry Reed

The song is about a man who is heading eastbound and down, presumably on a road trip. He is singing about how he is looking forward to the journey and all the adventures that he will have. He is also looking forward to getting away from his current situation, which is not specified.

18. I Love a Rainy Night by Eddie Rabbitt

The song is about a man who loves rainy nights because they make him feel romantic. He enjoys the sound of the rain and the way it makes everything feel fresh and new. The rain makes him feel like anything is possible and he can’t help but dance in the rain.

19. Convoy by C. W. McCall

The song is about a trucker who is leading a convoy of other trucks across the country. He is singing about the various places they are going and the things they are seeing.

20. Days Go By by Keith Urban

The song is about how time seems to move faster as we get older. The days go by quickly and we don’t have as much time to enjoy life as we did when we were younger.

21. I’m a Ramblin’ Man by Waylon Jennings

The song is about a man who is a wanderer and doesn’t want to be tied down to one place. He talks about how he has been all over the country and has seen many things. He doesn’t want to settle down because he knows that he will just get restless and start wandering again.

22. The Road Goes on Forever by The Allman Brothers Band

The song is about a man who is on the road and is never going to stop. He is always going to keep going and never look back.

23. The Highwayman by Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash

The Highwayman is a song about a man who is killed while trying to make a getaway on horseback. The song is told from the perspective of the horseman’s spirit, who is looking down on his body as it is being taken away. The horseman’s spirit then goes on to tell the story of how he became a highwayman, and how he met his end.

1. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

2. the boys of summer by don henley, 3. summer of ’69 by bryan adams.

The song is about Adams’ childhood memories of the summer of 1969. He talks about how he and his friends would spend their days playing street hockey and riding their bikes. He also mentions some of the historical events that took place that summer, such as the Apollo 11 moon landing and the Woodstock music festival.

4. Drive by The Cars

The song is about a person who is driving around in their car and they see somebody that they are attracted to. They are thinking about what they would do with that person if they were to get the chance to be with them.

5. Lynyrd Skynyrd by Sweet Home Alabama

“Sweet Home Alabama” is a song by Lynyrd Skynyrd that was released in 1974. The song is about the state of Alabama and how the band members feel about it. They talk about how much they love the state and how it is a great place to live.

6. Steppenwolf by Steppenwolf

The song is about a man who is transformed into a wolf and has to live in the wilderness. He is lonely and misunderstood, but he is also fierce and wild.

7. Billy Joel by Billy Joel

The song is about the singer’s life and career. He talks about how he started out and how he’s become successful. He also talks about some of the people in his life who have helped him along the way.

8. Bruce Springsteen by Bruce Springsteen

The song is about the singer’s love for Bruce Springsteen and how he has inspired him.

9. Prince by Prince

10. tracy chapman by tracy chapman.

Tracy Chapman is a song about a young woman who is in love with a man who is in jail. She is waiting for him to come home, and she is hoping that he will be able to stay out of trouble.

11. Cyndi Lauper by Cyndi Lauper

The song is a celebration of the life and career of singer Cyndi Lauper. It chronicles her journey from her humble beginnings as a girl from Brooklyn to her rise to stardom as one of the most successful female musicians of the 1980s. The song highlights her unique style and personality, and pays tribute to her many hits, including “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time.”

12. Lynyrd Skynyrd by ‘Sweet Home Alabama’

The song is a southern rock anthem that celebrates the state of Alabama. It was written in response to the song “Southern Man” by Neil Young, which critiqued the racism in the American South. “Sweet Home Alabama” celebrates the South’s heritage and defends its way of life.

13. Whitesnake by Whitesnake

The song is about a snake that is white in color.

14. The Eagles by Eagles

The song is about a group of friends who are trying to make it in the music industry. They are struggling to find success and are struggling to pay their bills. They are working hard to make their dream a reality, but they are not sure if they will ever make it.

15. Bruce Springsteen by Bruce Springsteen

16. aerosmith & run dmc by run-d.m.c..

Aerosmith & Run DMC is a song by Run-D.M.C. It is a remix of the song “Walk This Way” by Aerosmith. The song features Aerosmith’s lead singer, Steven Tyler, and guitarist, Joe Perry. It was released in 1986 as a single and was later included on the album, Raising Hell.

17. Kenny Loggins by Kenny Loggins

The song is about the musician Kenny Loggins and his life as a musician. He talks about his early life and how he got into music. He talks about his success as a musician and how he has been able to achieve his goals.

18. Bon Jovi by Living on a Prayer

The song is about a couple, Tommy and Gina, who are struggling to make ends meet. They are both working hard to make their dreams come true, but they are constantly being tested by life’s challenges. Despite all the obstacles they face, they remain hopeful and continue to live on a prayer.

19. the B-52s by ‘Love Shack’

The song is about a party at a Love Shack, where everyone is welcome and the party never stops. The song is upbeat and positive, with a message of love and acceptance.

20. U2 by U2

The song is about the band U2 and their career. It talks about how the band has been together for over 40 years and how they are still making music that is relevant today. The song also talks about how the band is always changing and evolving and how they are always trying new things.

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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.

RECOMMENDED: 🤝   The best songs about friendship 🎉  The best birthday songs of all time 🎶  The best ’80s songs 🎤  The best karaoke songs 🕺  The best pop songs of all time

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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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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.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

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.

Make planning your next road trip EASY (& fun!)

When you’re planning a road trip, keeping track & organising all your ideas is often the hardest part. Fix that TODAY with our printable pdf road trip planner. Grab yours FREE now

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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

Planning a road trip? You might find these posts useful:

• How to plan a road trip
• The BEST printable road trip planner (FREE!)
• Most useful road trip apps
• 100 inspiring road trip quotes

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

Planning a long drive? These post might help

• 15 Essential road trip tips you NEED to know
• Things to remember before you leave
• Healthy snacks for road trips

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.

Sharing is caring!

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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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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.
• While Brittany is a contributing writer for The Knot Worldwide, she also provides shopping content for publications like BuzzFeed, CTV and The National Post.
• Brittany has a Bachelor of Arts in media and communications studies, along with minors in creative writing, theater studies and music performance. ...

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

Illinois: Top 11 Epic Road Trip Songs

I f you are looking for road trip songs for your next adventure from Chicago , the Prairie State is no stranger to the influence of music in the United States and around the world.

From Jazz greats like Miles Davis to hip-hop stars like Ludacris, road trip songs are the perfect companions for an epic journey on the open road.

Here are our picks for top road trip songs and why they are so befitting for Illinois.

Great Road Trip Songs for Illinois

With well-known artists like the Smashing Pumpkins and Cheap Trick, Illinois hails as a state from which great musical talents are born (ok, there may be some bias).

Here is a mix of genre and if you'd like to hear it on  Spotify , be my guest!

1979, by The Smashing Pumpkins

Year Released: 1995

This piece has road trips written all over it. It's nostalgic but has a nice, steady beat and makes it easy to create new memories. If you close your eyes while listening, you can see the turns in the road, feel the warm sun, and appreciate what nature has on display.  

September, by Earth, Wind & Fire

Year Released: 1978

This song is our national anthem for the start of the Fall season , although that was not its original intent. You can't help but get in a groove with this feel-good tune.

The band started in Chicago and makes us Illinois proud with their blend of American, African, Jazz, and R&B style. If you have a long drive ahead, get pumped and belt out those bah-dee-yahs!

I'm Every Woman, by Chaka Khan

Don't you think it's the perfect road trip song for a nature getaway with the girls? This tune speaks volumes about female empowerment (the lyrics don't have to be about a highway, right?)!

Solo travelers, especially, will find several affirmations in this number. The song was originally released in 1978 (by Chaka Khan) and Whitney Houston revamped it with extra funky beats in 1992. Both are expertly delivered.

Runaway, by Kanye West

Year Released: 2010

The playlist would not be complete without a song from Yeezy. People wonder what is going thru his head, and in the same breath, they praise his musical genius. 

When it starts to get crazy, then run away. Babe, I got a plan, run away as fast as you can.  This voice speaks to all of us as travelers. We hear you K, just don't chase after us. 

Let's Go Crazy, by Prince

Year Released: 1984

It’s high energy and a blood-rush to see this song performed on stage. If you haven’t heard Prince’s Purple Rain album, where have you been? Prince was not born in Illinois, but we adopted him.

He performed free concerts in Chicago, and his philanthropist deeds saved the Chicago arts . And let’s not get into deep discussions about the guitar riff at the end. Enough said. 

Too Much Time on My Hands, by Styx

Year Released: 1981

Known as one of the greatest rock bands in the 70's and 80's, this song is pumpin', stumpin', rockin', and jumpin'. It should be brought back as the 2020 quarantine anthem for Illinois.

The lyrics ask, Is it any wonder I'm not crazy? Is it any wonder I'm sane at all? Yes, Styx, bring all the upbeat and funky piano chords. We are here for it! Put this one on full blast as you leave the driveway.

I Need Your Lovin, by Teena Marie

Year Released: 1980

Some call her Vanilla Child, but names don't cramp her style. When Teena burst into the music scene everyone thought, "Who dat?" She was one of the first to release a song with a series of rhymes that came close to rap in the song Square Biz.

She played at the Chicago House of Blues in 2008 and brought many fine Chicago musicians together to set the town afire. The beat is fun and makes you and your girl crew ride want to ride with the top down.

The horns section came through and the extended play version leaves you wanting more.

Like Sugar, by Chaka Khan

Year Released: 2019

Chaka did not come to play. The beat is hot. The music video is vibrant and fresh. Watch out, you may pick up a few new moves to show off on the dance floor.

Her vocals are just as powerful as they were 40 years ago. This tune pops and brings life. Why, with the state that I’m in. Everybody here is dancing. All I wanna do is get your body next to mine.

Chaka sang with the Chicago band, Rufus, and gained notoriety in the 1970s. Now, Chaka is single-handedly bringing back the afro and the Soul Train line.

Gold Digger, by Kanye West

Year Released: 2005

Some say Kanye is cray-cray, but listen to the lyrics. Not only is this song serving a funky bass beat, but he's also spitting some good advice!

And can we take a moment to appreciate the soulful Ray Charles sound that Jamie Foxx delivered?! Cause when she leave yo' ass, she gon' leave with half. Kanye, Bill Gates, and Jay Cutler may have this on rotation this year, but we're not mad at them. Divorce is a biotch! It's only appropriate that this song makes the top ten list of items for travel .

Moves Like Jagger, by Maroon 5 featuring Christina Aguilera 

Take note of all the accompaniments...whistles, hot guitar strums, and drum pumps. The lyrics may be a double entendre. So get in the car, we can ride it. Wherever you want, get inside it .

But let's be honest (and keep it clean). Who wouldn't want an offer like that? The entire song screams let's go, baby! This song should be on every road trip playlist from Alabama to Wyoming.  

Yeah! by Usher featuring Lil Jon & Ludacris

Year Released: 2004

Ready for the road trip, heck Yeah! Come get me! Let's Go ! Of all the collaborations and releases from Ludacris, this one tops the charts. This song has a classic club vibe that will have you doing the Dougie in the driver's seat.

Final Thoughts for Illinois Road Trip Songs

I've had some unforgettable memories on a road trip from Chicago and music had a huge influence on the experience.

As I hit the open road, windows down and wind blowing in my face, there was always one thing that elevated the journey to a whole new level: road trip songs. Several years later, when I hear those songs again, I think of those road trips and the feeling of freedom.

From classic anthems to upbeat melodies that inspire sing-alongs, let's rev up the engines and embark on a melodic adventure together this summer!

Buckle up, adjust the volume, and get ready to discover the ultimate playlist for your next epic road trip.

What song would you include for Illinois or for you own state? Leave a comment with a suggested road trip song and the state.

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K-Pop Comebacks May 2024: Stray Kids, Aespa, Seventeen & More Artists Confirmed

By Arpita Adhya

May 2024 is set to be one of the most significant comeback months for K-pop groups . Globally popular K-pop bands like Stray Kids, Seventeen, ATEEZ, and more will make their much-anticipated return this month.

Along with K-pop comebacks, there are numerous K-pop concerts lined up next month. NCT Dream will take the stage at Seoul’s Gocheok Sky Dome From May 2 to 4 as part of their World Tour 2024. Right after, SM Entertainment’s newest K-pop group, RIIZE , will hold their fan con world tour Seoul edition from May 4 to 5 at Jamsil Indoor Stadium.

From the comebacks of the biggest groups to fan-favorite superstars taking the stage, the K-pop fandom is eagerly waiting for May 2024 to arrive. This article will look at some of the biggest groups returning to the music scene this month.

HyunA EP [Attitude] Vertical Clip #3 2024.05.02 6PM KST ? PRE-ORDER : https://t.co/R9gJOPZ38m ? PRE-SAVE : https://t.co/r4V3EVZCKg #HyunA #현아 #Attitude #ATAREA #앳에어리어 pic.twitter.com/9tzMstIApJ — AT AREA (@ATAREAOFFICIAL) April 22, 2024

After exiting Psy’s label P Nation, K-pop sensation Hyuna will release her comeback EP with her new agency, At Area, on May 2. The upcoming extended play (EP) Attitude will mark her tenth mini-album release since her solo debut on July 5, 2011.

Before the EP release, Hyuna released the single “Attitude” in November 2023. The song channeled everything that Hyuna is known for—her signature groovy beats, pop icon charisma, and sultry vocals. The performance video of the song has garnered over 9.5 million views since its release.

EXO Doh Kyung Soo

도경수 미니 앨범 [성장] Concept Photo 03 Doh Kyung Soo Mini Album [Blossom] Concept Photo 03 ➫ 2024.5.7 6PM (KST) #도경수   #DOHKYUNGSOO #컴퍼니수수   #CompanySoosoo pic.twitter.com/q8OvYFvi5q — Company Soosoo (@companysoosoo_) April 18, 2024

K-pop all-rounder EXO’s D.O., aka Doh Kyung Soo , will release his comeback album Blossom on  May 7 at 6 p.m. KST/ 5 a.m. ET/ 2 a.m. PT/ 10 a.m. BST . The mini album will contain six tracks, including “Mars,” “Simple Joys,” “Popcorn,” “Good Night,” “My Dear,” and “About Time.” The album will also feature two music videos of the songs “Mars” and “Popcorn.”

Kyungsoo’s previous albums — Expectations, and Empathy — impressed fans as it exhibited his brilliance in depicting a story with precision. His 2023 album Expectations explored the themes of love and loss. The EXO star successfully transported listeners on a journey where they could experience firsthand how it felt to fall in love and the aftermath of losing it.

SEVENTEEN (세븐틴) BEST ALBUM '17 IS RIGHT HERE' ‘LALALI’ MV Preview ➣ 2024.05.10 0AM (KST) ➣ 2024.05.09 11AM (ET) #SEVENTEEN #세븐틴 #17_IS_RIGHT_HERE #LALALI pic.twitter.com/4zqK9xYsk6 — 세븐틴(SEVENTEEN) (@pledis_17) April 23, 2024

K-pop supergroup Seventeen will release their upcoming album Seventeen The Best ’17 Is Right Here’ on  April 29 at 6 p.m. KST/ 5 a.m. ET/ 2 a.m. PT . The album will contain four new tracks and some of Seventeen’s most popular tracks in two CDs.

The upcoming album features songs titled “Don’t Wanna Cry,” “Rock With You,” “Ready To Love,” and “Hot.” The tracklist also includes four new tracks, including the title song “MAESTRO” and “LALALI,” “Spell,” and “Cheers to Youth.” The first song, “Maestro,” will drop on April 29 at 6 p.m. KST/ 5 a.m. ET . The next release, “LALALI,” will be released on May 10 at 12 a.m. KST/ May 9 at 11 a.m. ET .

NewJeans will be making their comeback with double singles on May 24th and June 21st. May 24th: 1. How Sweet 2. Bubble Gum June 21st: 1. Supernatural 2. Right Now Bubble Gum MV Release (April 27, 00KST) pic.twitter.com/o4dvbrRvQR — n ?️♪ (@dollphams) April 25, 2024

ADOR’s girl group, NewJeans, will release two singles in May 2024. The title track, “How Sweet,” and the B-side song, “Bubble Gum,” will come to music platforms on May 24. Following the double single release, NewJeans will release two more songs, “Super Natural” and “Right Now,” on June 21 .

NewJeans fans can witness the four new songs live on their fan meeting Bunnies Camp at Tokyo Dome on  June 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. KST/ 6 a.m. ET . The concert will feature twenty-four live performances by the “Ditto” crooners.

aespa 에스파 'Armageddon' INTRO https://t.co/RsNDsWZseo aespa 에스파 The 1st Album 〖Armageddon〗 ➫ 2024.05.27 6PM (KST) ? https://t.co/8IVqBeE9vE #aespa #æspa #에스파 #Armageddon #aespaArmageddon pic.twitter.com/16pf2XyG6Y — aespa (@aespa_official) April 21, 2024

SM Entertainment’s award-winning girl group Aespa will unveil their first full-length album, Armageddon, on May 27th at 6 p.m. KST, 5 a.m. ET, 2 a.m. PT, and 10 a.m. BST.  The pre-released single, “Supernova,” will drop on  May 13 at 6 p.m. KST .

Armageddon will hold a special place in the Aespa-lore as reports say the album will continue the SM Culture narrative. It will initiate the season 2 story of Aespa’s worldview, which expands into the multiverse beyond the real and digital worlds. The album will contain ten tracks with two title songs, “Armageddon” and “Supernova.” Armageddon will be diverse in terms of genres. The group has combined energetic hip-hop, bright and cheerful dance songs, rhythmic modern pop, and ballads in Armageddon.

[?] ATEEZ(에이티즈) GOLDEN HOUR : Part.1 Concept Photo 1 ⠀ 2024. 05. 31 RELEASE ⠀ #ATEEZ #에이티즈 #GOLDENHOUR #GOLDENHOUR_Part1 pic.twitter.com/JZGIep4wOP — ATEEZ(에이티즈) (@ATEEZofficial) April 25, 2024

KQ Entertainment’s famous K-pop group ATEEZ will make its 2024 comeback with their tenth EP, Golden Hour: Part. 1 on May 31 at 1 p.m. KST/ 12 a.m. ET . Following the new EP release, the K-pop act will kickstart its world tour on July 14 at Tacoma Dome.

The group will travel to ten cities in North America for its “TOWARDS THE LIGHT: WILL TO POWER” America tour, which will conclude on August 10 in Rosemond’s Allstate Arena. After wrapping up the North America tour, the group will perform at  Summer Sonic Japan  on August 17 and 18 in Osaka and Tokyo.

Stray Kids(스트레이 키즈) Digital Single "Lose My Breath (Feat. Charlie Puth)" TRACK PREVIEW 1 https://t.co/0QHRw7ekPL 2024.05.10 FRI 1PM (KST) | 0AM (ET) ?PRE-SAVE & PRE-ORDER "Lose My Breath (Feat. Charlie Puth)" https://t.co/sAzEcEGuL8 #StrayKids #스트레이키즈 … pic.twitter.com/ECs4zd7SJ5 — Stray Kids (@Stray_Kids) April 25, 2024

Billboard 200 topper act Stray Kids will also make their much-anticipated comeback with the single “ Lose My Breath ” on  May 10 at 1 p.m. KST, 12 a.m. ET, 5 a.m. BST, 6 a.m. CET,  and  9 p.m. PT.

Their forthcoming track features global pop star Charlie Puth. Prior to the release of “Lose My Breath,” Stray Kids shared the first look of the single. The images tease a dream-like atmosphere where members pose against mirrored backdrops and sunset hues.

Arpita covers K-pop, K-drama and Asian Entertainment scoops for ComingSoon.Net. From in-depth coverage of Asian Entertainment gems to the latest fan obsession, she is dedicated to bring out the best of Asian pop culture to the world one story at a time.

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