Top 10 Driving Songs

Top 10 Driving Songs

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Neither a cross-country trek nor a quick trip around the corner is complete without the right music to accompany the journey. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we’re counting down our picks for the top 10 driving songs. The songs chosen for this list are those whose subject matter or tempo make them ideal to complement the act of driving.

#10: “Take It Easy” (1972) Eagles

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Written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey, this song was the very first single ever released by The Eagles back in 1972. It’s still one of their signature tunes because it helped to define the band’s easy-going Southern California sound. The track’s narrator may have some problems with angry women and unreliable vehicles, but he ultimately takes the title’s advice to heart and learns to enjoy his haphazard journey.

#9: “Turn the Page” (1976) Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band

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Although first released in 1973, on the album Back in ‘72, it wasn’t until the live version, released three years later, that the song really took off. That’s because the live setting was the appropriate one for a track that so effectively details how weary the road can make you, even when you’re a rock star. This one is perfect for those introspective late-night drives when you’re the only one on the road.

Inspired by Nikki Sixx’s drug overdose and subsequent resuscitation in 1987, this glam-rocking track celebrates Mötley Crüe’s ability to survive all manner of problems and still bring the metal. It also mentions all types of fast things, from motorcycles to airplanes to sexy women. “Kickstart My Heart” even features a start that sounds like an engine being revved up. It’s no wonder it’s been featured in several car commercials over the years.

Here’s one of those songs whose tempo and rhythm have more to do with it being a driving song than its lyrical content. It’s actually a fierce criticism of those children of privilege whom were able to avoid being drafted into the Vietnam War. But the steady, propulsive rhythm and twangy guitar riffs puts one in mind of cruising down a highway on a summer’s afternoon. We submit this track has probably caused quite a few inadvertent speeding tickets throughout its history.

#6: “Still D.R.E.” (1999) Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg

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Perhaps no other producer has ever made hip-hop sound better coming out of car speakers than Dr. Dre. This smash hit from 1999 is a good example of this ability, but it likely helped to have Snoop Dogg’s silky vocals along for the ride. Utilizing a mid-tempo groove and a chilly, repeating piano phrase, this song can’t help but make you want to lean back, bob your head and cruise down the strip while you’re in the driver’s seat.

#5: “Bat Out of Hell” (1979) Meat Loaf

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The title of this song could feasibly describe some peoples’ driving habits and the lyrics’ themes of freedom and deliverance are best experienced on the highway. Unfortunately it also tells the tale of something you’d rather not experience on the highway: it’s about a boy in love who smashes his motorcycle while on a wild ride. The boy had wanted to take the girl he loves out of their dead-end town, and while the boy dies he does, in a way, manage to find his way out.

There are few bands that sound so consistently great coming out of the car stereo at high volume as AC/DC. From the moment Angus Young tears into his electric guitar at the start of this anthem, it’s impossible to stop it. Lead singer Bon Scott seems to revel in his trip to the underworld, singing with a demented glee. “I’m going down all the way,” Scott sings, and you’ll likely want to take the trip right along with him.

#3: “Radar Love” (1973) Golden Earring

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The Dutch band Golden Earring had a few random hits throughout their career in the U.S. But none was bigger than this song that captured the country’s need for speed. “Radar Love” tells the story of a lonely driver and his desperate need to connect with his girl for what we can only assume is a late-night booty call. With a thumping bass line, wickedly smooth drum solo, and some screaming refrains, it’s easy to get caught up in the momentum of this memorable track.

#2: “Life Is a Highway” (1991) Tom Cochrane

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With a title like “Like Is a Highway,” this song by former Red Rider singer Tom Cochrane just had to be on this list. Luckily, the rest of the song lives up to that title with a dynamic rhythm, energetic guitars, and an unforgettable chorus. It’s the perfect song to play when the road in front of you seems to stretch on forever. You’ll want to ride that road all night long too, and play this song the whole time. Before we ride away with our top pick, here are some honorable mentions: - “Ride wit Me” (2001) Nelly feat. City Spud - “Drive My Car” (1965) The Beatles - “On the Road Again” (1980) Willie Nelson - “I Get Around” (1964) The Beach Boys - “Ridin’” (2006) Chamillionaire feat. Krayzie Bone

Steppenwolf’s rocking guitars made everyone who heard this track want to “head out on the highway” and join them. Some people say that “Born to Be Wild” can be considered the first ever heavy metal tune, and it’s still one of the best. It was also popularized in the film “Easy Rider,” which only furthered its reputation as the all-time driving song. There’s no better music to play when you’re out there “looking for adventure.” Do you agree with our list? Are these your favorite jams when behind the wheel? For more revved up top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.