10. Running on Empty, Jackson Browne
Jackson Browne captured the wistful side of life on the road with his 1977 hit Running on Empty. Hopefully you’re a little more upbeat about where you’re going in life in general, and your road trip in specific. And hopefully you keep your tank full so you aren’t literally “running on empty”. Great road tune, nonetheless.
11. Shut Up and Drive, Rihanna
One of Rihanna’s endless stream of radio hits, this one was released in 2007. It has a new wave dance beat and some heavy guitar riffs ideal for zooming down the highway. The fluffy lyrics are full of car references and double-meanings. Don’t analyze this one too deeply, just have fun with it as you go “0 to 60 in three point five.”
12. Everyday is a Winding Road, Sheryl Crow
This was a big hit back in 1996, and helped solidify Sheryl Crow’s popularity as a singer-songwriter. It’s a catchy tune about hitching down the road and being open to the randomness of life’s twists and turns. “Jump in, let’s go, lay back, enjoy the show.” When you’re on a particularly long car journey, every day really is a winding road.
Of course, everyone has their own tastes in music, but these are a few ideas to help you rock your road trip. Do you have any more suggestions for the ultimate car tunes playlist?
