Introduction

Driving long distances can be a wonderful experience, especially with the right music to keep you informed and engaged. Over the years, I've found that a carefully curated playlist of road trip songs can turn any drive into a memorable journey. In this article, I'll share some of my favorite songs that make every drive on the open road a bit more exciting and enjoyable. From classic rock to Broadway hits, I'll cover a range of musical genres that can keep you entertained and energized during your next road trip.

Classical and American Roots

For the purist and those who appreciate American roots music, The New Lee Highway Blues by Avi B.1 is a must-listen. This song offers a quintessential American road experience, with its upbeat tempo and engaging lyrics. The interplay of bluegrass breaks adds a layer of authenticity and soul to the track, making it a perfect choice for a long drive.

Classic Hits for Romantic Reflection

When the road trip is about reflection and nostalgia, Boys of Summer by Don Henley comes to mind. This song captures the spirit of youthful love and the irretrievable memories that linger in our hearts. With its poignant lyrics and Don Henley's iconic vocals, it serves as a timeless ode to the people we once knew and the times we shared. Listening to this song can be both a joy and a reminder of past experiences.

Optimistic and Uplifting

A driving playlist isn't complete without some upbeat and optimistic tunes. For me, the Beatles and Pinback have always stood the test of time. Their music is both light and meaningful, making them an excellent choice for long drives. While songs like Babylon Sisters, Bohdi Sattva, and Peg are incredibly emotive, there's also something to be said for the timeless classics of the Fab Four. Playing any of their songs can turn a mundane drive into a thrilling adventure.

Rock with a Balance

Rock songs can be powerful and engaging, but there's a fine line between driving with the volume up and driving with your life in danger. Here are some rock songs that are just loud enough to keep you awake but not so loud that they might cause you to crash:

Sunshine of Your Love by Cream Suzie Q by Creedence Clearwater Revival Mississippi Queen by Mountain Bring It On Home by Led Zeppelin Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf She's Not There by The Zombies I Can't Explain by The Who Layla by Derek And The Dominos Lyin Eyes by The Eagles

These tracks provide the perfect blend of excitement and mood-setting, keeping you in the right frame of mind for a long journey.

Broadway Showtunes and Harmonies

These days, my driving playlist is often filled with songs from Broadway shows and musical films. Songs like those from Hamilton, The Greatest Showman, Once, West Side Story, Dear Evan Hansen, Anastasia, Wicked, Waitress, and Spring Awakening add a touch of elegance and charm to my drives. Adding an orchestral quality and a complete performance experience to a road trip can make the journey feel like a special occasion.

One of my current favorite albums for driving is Debut by Jackie Evancho, released in 2019. Each of her songs is a gem, and they continue to be a staple in my playlist. The musical performances and harmonies in her work have a way of propelling me forward, even on the most mundane drives.

Whether you're a fan of classic rock, American roots, Broadway, or just good old driving music, there are songs out there that will enhance your journey. With this guide, you can start building your own road trip playlist and enjoy every mile of your adventure.

Note 1

Avi Bromberg is a virtuoso musician known for his work on multiple instruments and genres. He's also a luthier, someone who makes and repairs stringed instruments. His music, including The New Lee Highway Blues, captures the essence of American road music, providing a genuine and soulful experience for those who enjoy this genre.