I get that road trips are a classic way to explore new places, bond with friends and family, and create unforgettable memories. But do you know that what makes a road trip truly memorable is not just the destination, but also the journey itself? There are several things that make a journey fun ranging from road trip games, healthy road trip snacks and meals, and making stops at attraction sites, but a good soundtrack like soul-elevating road trip songs can elevate the whole experience, making it even more enjoyable and memorable.
With that in mind, here is a list of the top road trip songs to add to your playlist. With this list, it doesn’t matter whether you’re cruising down the highway with the windows down or exploring scenic back roads, they are sure to get you pumped up and put you right in the mood.
Various criteria such as upbeat tempo, catchy lyrics, and the ability to evoke memories of road trips past are some of the factors that guide this choice. From classic rock anthems to modern pop hits, trust me, this playlist has something for everyone. So why not get ready to hit the open road and make some unforgettable memories with these top road trip songs?
Criteria for Selecting Road Trip Songs
To choose the right mood-elevating and adrenaline-pumping songs for your road trip playlist, here are some of the factors to consider.
Upbeat tempo
The upbeat tempo of a song can have a significant impact on your mood while on a road trip. Songs with high-energy beats can help you stay awake, alert, and pumped up during long drives. An upbeat tempo can also create a fun and energetic atmosphere, making the road trip even more enjoyable.
Lyrics that evoke a sense of adventure and freedom
Road trips are all about adventure and freedom, so the lyrics of the songs on your playlist should reflect that. Look for songs that talk about exploring new places, living life to the fullest, and being free-spirited. These lyrics can help you get in the right mood and make the road trip even more memorable.
Appeal to a wide range of musical tastes
A road trip playlist should appeal to a wide range of musical tastes to accommodate everyone in the car. It’s important to include a mix of genres, such as rock, pop, country, and hip hop, to keep everyone entertained.
Mood and energy of the song
The mood and energy of a song can greatly affect your overall road trip experience. It’s important to choose songs that have a positive and energetic vibe to keep you pumped up, while also including some slower, more introspective songs to help you relax and take in the scenery.
Lyrics that reflect the road trip experience
Songs with lyrics that reflect the road trip experience can make the journey even more meaningful. Look for songs that mention the open road, traveling, and the freedom of the road trip experience.
Length of the song
The length of a song is also an important factor to consider when creating your road trip playlist. Longer songs can be great for taking in the scenery, but shorter songs can help keep the energy levels up during long drives. It’s important to find a balance between the two.
Versatility and variety
A good road trip playlist should have a good mix of different styles, genres, and moods to keep things interesting. A little variety can go a long way in making the road trip even more enjoyable.
Nostalgic value
Songs with nostalgic value can bring back memories of road trips past, adding to the overall experience. Look for songs that you used to love listening to during road trips or that bring back memories of a specific trip. These songs can add an extra layer of meaning to the journey and make it even more special.
Read also 20 Best Road Trip Podcasts To Listen to On the Go for Kids and Adults
The Best Music Genres for Road Trips
Here is a list of popular contemporary music genres that are perfect for road trips. However, your choices don’t have to be limited to these.
Indie Rock
Indie Rock music is characterized by its distinctive sound which is a mix of punk, alternative rock, and folk music. Bands like The Lumineers, Fleet Foxes, and The Black Keys are some of the popular names in the genre.
Pop-Punk
Pop-Punk is a high-energy and fast-paced genre that is perfect for a lively road trip. Bands like Green Day, blink-182, and Sum 41 are some of the popular names in this genre.
Alternative
Alternative music is a genre that encompasses a wide range of styles, including indie rock, alternative rock, and post-punk. Bands like The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, and Radiohead are some of the popular names in this genre.
Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
EDM is characterized by its fast-paced and energetic beats that are perfect for keeping the momentum going on a road trip. Popular names in the genre include Calvin Harris, David Guetta, and ZEDD.
Country
Country music is a genre that is often associated with road trips and driving. Bands like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, and Miranda Lambert are some of the popular names in this genre.
Classic Rock
Classic Rock is a genre that encompasses a wide range of styles, including blues rock, hard rock, and heavy metal. Bands like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and AC/DC are some of the popular names in this genre.
The Top Classic Road Trip Songs to Add to Your Playlist
Most times, when road trip songs are mentioned, the first kind of music that comes to play (literally) are classics. Don’t worry, I love me some captivating classics too! So when you are planning your road trip itinerary and routes and of course need to add some cool music to liven up the entire trip, here is a list of songs I consider the perfect road trip songs for the right mood.
“Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane
“Life is a Highway” is a must-have for any road trip playlist. You can find this classic road trip anthem on popular music streaming platforms and apps such as Spotify and Apple Music. It’s also available for purchase on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
“Don’t Stop Believin'” is a classic rock song that will get you pumped up for your road trip. This uplifting tune is available on music apps like Spotify and Apple Music. You can also purchase it on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
“Sweet Home Alabama” isn’t just a classic country rock song but this hit is just one of those perfect road trip songs to add to your playlist. This upbeat tune is available on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, or you can purchase it on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams
“Summer of ’69” is a classic rock song that will get you in the right mood for your road trip. This upbeat tune can be found on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music or purchased on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“I Can’t Drive 55” by Sammy Hagar
“I Can’t Drive 55” is an energetic rock song that’s perfect for a road trip. This upbeat tune can be found on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music or purchased on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Take It Easy” by The Eagles
“Take It Easy” is a classic rock song that’s perfect for a road trip. This catchy song can be found on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music or purchased on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
“Born to Run” is a classic rock anthem. It is what you would call one of the perfect road trip songs for lovers of classics having an adventure on the highway. This energetic song is available on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music or purchased on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Roadhouse Blues” by The Doors
Perfect for road trips, “Roadhouse Blues” is a classic rock song that you would love. It will keep you high and alive all the way and can be found on music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music or purchased on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“The Power of Love” by Huey Lewis and the News
“The Power of Love” is a classic pop song that’s perfect for a road trip. This upbeat and catchy tune can be found on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music or purchased on online music stores like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Going to California” by Led Zeppelin
This song was written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, and was included in the 1971 album “Led Zeppelin IV”. The song features Page’s acoustic guitar and Plant’s harmonica and vocals, which create a lighthearted and whimsical atmosphere. The lyrics tell the story of a traveler who is on a journey to find love and fulfillment in California. You can download it on Spotify or Tidal or buy it on Amazon Music or iTunes.
“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line
Now you can’t really call this a classic although it was released in 2012, however, it should make that list when talking of road trip songs. This song was written by Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard and was released in 2012. It features a catchy melody and upbeat tempo, making it a popular choice for road trip playlists. The lyrics evoke a sense of adventure and freedom, as the singer invites his love interest to hit the road with him and cruise down the open road. You can download or stream this on Spotify or buy it on iTunes or Amazon Music.
“Roads” by Portishead
This song was written by Beth Gibbons and Geoff Barrow and was included in the 1994 album “Dummy”. It features a slow, moody tempo and haunting vocals that create a dream-like atmosphere. The lyrics reflect on the journey of life and the memories that we create along the way. Stream or download it on Spotify or buy it on iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Riders on the Storm” by The Doors
Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, John Densmore, and Robby Krieger, wrote and released this song in 1971. it paints a vivid picture of a traveler making his way through a stormy night by featuring a slow, bluesy tempo and Morrison’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics reflect on the journey of life and the uncertainties that come with it. Stream on Spotify, Tidal, and Apple music. You can purchase it on Amazon Music
“Hit the Road Jack” by Ray Charles
Percy Mayfield wrote this song that was released in 1961. It features Charles’ soulful vocals and upbeat tempo, making it a popular choice amongst other road trip songs to add to your playlist. The lyrics tell the story of a traveler who is ready to hit the road and move on from a relationship that has gone sour. You can stream it on music platforms like Tidal and Spotify.
“Queen of the Highway” by The Doors
This song was written by Jim Morrison and was included in the 1971 album “Morrison Hotel”. It features a slow, bluesy tempo and Morrison’s distinctive vocals, which evoke a sense of longing and wanderlust. The lyrics reflect on the journey of life and the memories that we create along the way. Download and stream on music platforms like Spotify and Apple Music or buy on iTunes
“American Pie” by Don McLean
“American Pie” was released in 1971 and is a story-telling ballad that tells the tale of “the day the music died”, referring to the death of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. The song features McLean’s distinctive vocals and acoustic guitar and is a popular choice for road trip playlists due to its nostalgic and melancholic atmosphere. Buy on Amazon Music or Stream on music platforms like Apple Music and Tidal
“All Along the Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix
Bob Dylan wrote this song and was included in the 1967 album “Jimi Hendrix Experience”. Hendrix’s signature guitar work and powerful vocals are featured here, which create a tense and atmospheric mood. The lyrics tell the story of a traveler who is making his way through a dark and foreboding world. Stream on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify or purchase it on Amazon Music and iTunes
“Drive” by Incubus
This song was written by Brandon Boyd, Mike Einziger, and José Pasillas II, and was included in the 1999 album “Make Yourself”. It features a fast, upbeat tempo and powerful vocals that evoke a sense of adventure and freedom. The lyrics tell the story of a traveler who is determined to keep moving forward, no matter what obstacles he may face along the way. Download on Spotify, stream on Apple Music, or buy on Amazon Music
“Lose Yourself to Dance” by Daft Punk
This popular dance track by the French duo Daft Punk features Pharrell Williams on vocals and was released in 2013 as part of their album “Random Access Memories”. It’s a funky and upbeat tune that’s perfect for a road trip dance party.
“Lose Yourself to Dance” can be downloaded from popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. It’s also available for purchase on platforms like iTunes and Amazon Music.
“Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
Released in 1988 by Tracy Chapman, this classic folk rock song has since become one of her most well-known tracks. It’s a poignant and reflective ballad that’s great for an introspective road trip. It is available for download on music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. It can also be purchased on platforms like iTunes and Google.
“On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson
“On the Road Again” is a country classic by Willie Nelson. It is quite an upbeat and catchy tune that’s perfect for a road trip. Released in 1980, it has become one of Nelson’s signature songs and a staple of road trip playlists. You can find it on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. You can also purchase it on platforms like iTunes.
“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Joan Jett
This rock anthem by Joan Jett was released in 1981 and became a hit single, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It’s a high-energy and upbeat song that’s perfect for a road trip sing-along.
You can download “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” on popular music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. It’s also available for purchase on platforms like iTunes.
Popular Contemporary Songs Perfect for Road Trips
Here are some of the contemporary songs that are a great fit for road trips that you should include in your road trip playlist.
“Levitating” by Dua Lipa
“Levitating” is a dance-pop song that features a pulsing beat and catchy lyrics.
It is taken from Dua Lipa’s second studio album, “Future Nostalgia.”
The song has a retro-inspired sound, with elements of the 80s and 90s dance music.
“Levitating” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Good 4 U” by Olivia Rodrigo
“Good 4 U” is a pop song that features an upbeat melody and an attitude-filled chorus.
The song is taken from Olivia Rodrigo’s debut album, “Sour.”
The song has a confident and rebellious theme, making it a perfect anthem for a road trip.
“Good 4 U” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Watermelon Sugar” by Harry Styles
“Watermelon Sugar” is a pop-rock song that features a lively beat and catchy lyrics.
It is taken from Harry Styles’ second studio album, “Fine Line.”
The song has a summery vibe, making it perfect for a road trip with the windows down.
“Watermelon Sugar” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Shallow” by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper
“Shallow” is a pop-rock ballad that features a powerful vocal performance from both Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper.
The song is taken from the soundtrack of the film “A Star is Born.”
The song has a soaring melody and emotive lyrics, making it a perfect anthem for a road trip.
“Shallow” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa
“Don’t Start Now” is a dance-pop song that features a lively beat and catchy lyrics.
It is taken from Dua Lipa’s second studio album, “Future Nostalgia.”
The song has a confident and empowered theme, making it a perfect anthem for a road trip.
“Don’t Start Now” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
“Blinding Lights” is a pop-R&B song that features a pulsing beat and catchy lyrics.
It is taken from The Weeknd’s fourth studio album, “After Hours.”
The song has an upbeat and energetic vibe, making it perfect for a road trip.
“Blinding Lights” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“I Can’t Get Enough” by Benny Blanco, Tainy, Selena Gomez, J Balvin
“I Can’t Get Enough” is a dance-pop song that features a pulsing beat and catchy lyrics.
The song is a collaboration between producer Benny Blanco, singer Selena Gomez, and Latin artists Tainy and J Balvin.
The song has a playful and energetic vibe, making it perfect for a road trip.
“I Can’t Get Enough” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Levitating (feat. Madonna and Missy Elliott)” [Remix]
“Levitating (feat. Madonna and Missy Elliott)” [Remix] is a dance-pop song that features a pulsing beat and catchy lyrics of the original version, but with added verses from Madonna and Missy Elliott. The song has a retro-inspired sound, with elements of the 80s and 90s dance music.
This remix version of “Levitating” is perfect for a road trip with its upbeat and energetic vibe.
“Levitating (feat. Madonna and Missy Elliott)” [Remix] can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“WAP” by Cardi B ft. Megan Thee Stallion
“WAP” is a hip-hop/rap song that features a pulsing beat and explicit lyrics.
It is a collaboration between rappers Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion.
The song has a confident and empowered theme, making it a perfect anthem for a road trip.
Note: This song has explicit lyrics and may not be suitable for all audiences.
“WAP” can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Peaches” by Justin Bieber, Daniel Ceaser, and Giveon.
“Peaches” is an R&B-pop song that features a mellow beat and smooth vocals from Justin Bieber, Daniel Caesar, and Giveon.
The song has a relaxed and smooth vibe, making it perfect for a road trip with its mellow and easygoing energy. This song can be downloaded on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
How to Create the Perfect Road Trip Playlist
Music can definitely make or break the experience, so be sure to go over your list and choose the right music that will make your trip lively. On that note, to guide you, here are a few tips on how to create the perfect road trip playlist.
- Use a music streaming platform like Spotify or Apple Music to have access to a wide variety of music. This way, you won’t have to worry about bringing CDs or having enough space on your phone for all the tunes.
- Make the playlist versatile by including different genres and moods. From upbeat pop songs to mellow acoustic tracks, you want to have a little bit of everything to match the different vibes of the road trip.
- Consider the length of the road trip when creating your playlist. If you’re going on a long journey, you’ll want to make sure you have enough songs to last the whole trip. But don’t worry, you can always add more as you go!
- Allow for surprises and spontaneous additions! Encourage everyone in the car to contribute their favorite tunes and have some fun with them. You never know what kind of musical gems you’ll discover on your road trip.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having the right road trip songs can greatly enhance the overall experience. Whether it’s to pump you up, calm you down, or just keep you entertained, music has the power to make memories that will last a lifetime. From classic sing-along tunes to upbeat contemporary pop songs, the right road trip playlist can bring everyone together and make the journey that much more enjoyable.
Also read 20 Best Road Trip Podcasts To Listen to On the Go for Kids and Adults
Always keep in mind that the perfect road trip playlist should be versatile, taking into account the length of the trip and allowing for surprises and spontaneous additions. And of course, don’t forget to include these top road trip songs in your playlist for your next adventure.
Did this list inspire you to create your own perfect road trip soundtrack? Whether it’s a solo journey or a road trip with friends, the music you choose can set the tone for the trip and create memories that will last forever. So go ahead and start building your playlist today and hit the road with the perfect soundtrack to accompany you on your journey!
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