Over the next several months, we’ll be spending a LOT of time in the car. That means we know just how crucial a roadtrip playlist is. When you’re staring at miles and miles of highway, it’s easy to zone out – these songs will keep you singing along and paying attention to the drive. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your kid to the best music!
American Pie – Don McLean
Iconic song, right? And since everybody in the country knows the words, it’s a great song to sing along with in the car. I’m not sure there’s ever a time when Don McLean is an inappropriate choice, but this is definitely on my playlist.
We Didn’t Start The Fire – Billy Joel
Another favorite because, well…Billy Joel. Plus, when you’re traveling with your kid, it’s like a history lesson! We’ve discussed different events mentioned in the song, which can take a while to get through, but the beat keeps you up and alert.
What I Like About You – The Romantics
I’m a child of the 80s, so it’s no surprise that some 80s stuff is on my playlist. This song always gets me dancing in the driver seat. If you’re driving for a while, or late at night, put this on to wake yourself up.
American Girl – Tom Petty
I, too, am an American Girl, and I’ve always loved this song from Tom Petty. Upbeat but not too much, so it doesn’t distract me from driving. And, if my kid doesn’t like Tom Petty, am I even a good parent?
Take It Easy – Eagles
Yeah, the band is just Eagles, not The Eagles! Crazy, right? Anyway, while their entire discography is amazing, Take It Easy just screams open road to me.
Little Red Corvette – Prince
Prince was an icon and this song is an excellent choice for a roadtrip playlist, especially because even though I’m in a truck that can pull my RV, who wouldn’t rather be cruising in a ‘vette?
Life Is A Highway – Rascal Flatts
I know the Rascal Flatts version is a cover, but they really nailed it. It’s an easy, carefree song, perfect for rolling the windows down and letting the wind whip through your hair.
Born In The USA – Bruce Springsteen
I’m from Jersey, I cannot have a playlist that doesn’t have The Boss on it. I’m pretty sure that’s illegal. While the song’s lyrics are technically a little dark, it still screams summertime to me, and summer means roadtrips!
Paradise City – Guns ‘n’ Roses
A bit of hard rock gets the blood pumping. Paradise City often serves as my wake-up song when we start driving in the morning, or if I’m just feeling a little out of it – blasting it at top volume will always wake you up!
Fast Car – Tracy Chapman
Nice, chill, and Tracy Chapman’s voice is amazing. When cruise control is on and you just need to relax, play this.
Heads Carolina, Tails California – Jo Dee Messina
A song all about how it doesn’t matter where you go, just have fun with whoever you’re with? Sign me up! Since we were headed south from snowy PA, I was blasting this to set the mood for warmer weather and a carefree trip. Because really, at the end of the day, you can find fun anywhere.
My go to is anything Bonnie Raitt. And occasionally I will put on a 1970’s station. Nostalgia really breaks up the monotony of being stuck in traffic.