Rock Your Ride
You know that feeling—the open road stretching ahead, the wind in your hair, and your favorite classic rock jams pumping through the speakers. If you're gearing up for a road trip, these 20 classic rock bangers are a must to keep the good vibes flowing and the energy high. Let's dive in!
1. Born To Be Wild (Steppenwolf)
This track was famously featured in the movie Easy Rider, cementing its place as the ultimate road trip anthem. Its rebellious spirit and thumping bassline perfectly match the freedom you feel on the open road. When you hit play, you’ll know exactly what it means to let loose.
Steppenwolf - Born To Be Wild (Easy Rider) (1969) by Retrospective Soundtrack
2. It’s My Life (Bon Jovi)
Bon Jovi’s 2000 hit is an anthem for anyone ready to take control. With its powerful message of self-determination, it encourages you to follow your heart no matter where the road leads. Hence, it’s perfect for long stretches when you want to feel unstoppable.
Bon Jovi - It's My Life (Official Music Video) by Bon Jovi
3. Life In The Fast Lane (Eagles)
For the moments when you just want to let loose and zoom down the highway, Life in the Fast Lane is your go-to track. Released in 1977, this song’s powerful riff and energetic tempo make it feel like you’re actually racing through life.
4. Go Your Own Way (Fleetwood Mac)
This 1977 hit by Fleetwood Mac is the perfect soundtrack for anyone carving their own path—literally and figuratively. The song’s driving beat and carefree vibe make it ideal for solo journeys where you’re exploring new horizons.
Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way (10.9.2014)(#Today 1080p) by Joe Simonetta
5. Sweet Home Alabama (Lynyrd Skynyrd)
If you’re cruising through the South or just dreaming of it, Sweet Home Alabama will be your travel companion. With every strum of the electric guitar, you’ll feel the urge to roll down the windows and enjoy the ride.
Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama - Live At The Florida Theatre / 2015 by Lynyrd Skynyrd
6. Hotel California (Eagles)
This haunting 1976 ballad captures the mystique of the American Southwest. The intricate guitar solos and mysterious lyrics evoke a sense of intrigue. Is it paradise, or are you trapped in a fantasy? You decide.
Eagles - Hotel California (Live 1977) (Official Video) [HD] by Eagles
7. Don’t Stop Believin’ (Journey)
Need a burst of optimism on the road? Journey’s 1981 smash hit is here to remind you that no matter how long your road trip feels, there’s always hope ahead. Its infectious chorus will have you belting out, “Don’t stop believin’!” before you know it—don’t forget to keep your eyes on the road!
Journey - Don't Stop Believin' (Live In Japan 2017: Escape + Frontiers) by GIGS
8. You Make Loving Fun (Fleetwood Mac)
The 1977 Fleetwood Mac gem brings good vibes to your road trip playlist. It's ideal for when you're feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair. Play it loud and watch the miles disappear with a smile on your face.
9. Ramble On (Led Zeppelin)
From the 1969 album Led Zeppelin II, Ramble On encapsulates the spirit of adventure. The song has a mix of folk-inspired verses and hard rock energy and hence reflects the excitement and mystery of exploring new horizons.
Led Zeppelin - Ramble On (Live at the O2 Arena 2007) [Official Video] by Led Zeppelin
10. Born To Run (Bruce Springsteen)
Springsteen’s 1975 hit captures the feeling of youthful defiance and the pursuit of freedom. It tells the story of escaping a small town to chase a bigger dream, and its infectious rhythm is best for long drives where you can let go and race toward the horizon.
11. Free Bird (Lynyrd Skynyrd)
A 1973 anthem, Free Bird, starts slow and builds into a powerful crescendo. Its soaring guitar solo is best for when you want to feel liberated on the road. Take this as your invitation to embrace the freedom of the highway—nothing holding you back.
Lynyrd Skynyrd "Free Bird" (Live in Atlantic City) by earMUSIC
12. Jumpin’ Jack Flash (The Rolling Stones)
Released in 1968, Jumpin’ Jack Flash was one of The Rolling Stones' biggest hits. Written by Mick and Keith, the song’s energetic beat and gritty lyrics make it an excellent choice for when you need an adrenaline boost on the road.
The Rolling Stones - Jumpin' Jack Flash (Official Music Video) (With Makeup) by ABKCOVEVO
13. Takin’ Care of Business (Bachman-Turner Overdrive)
This 1973 track has a catchy rhythm that’s ideal for long drives. With its lyrics celebrating hard work and success, it’s an anthem for anyone tackling life head-on. Turn up the volume and let it inspire you to take on your road trip with determination and style.
Bachman & Turner - Takin' Care Of Business (Live At The Roseland Ballroom NYC) by GIGS
14. Bad To The Bone (George Thorogood & The Destroyers)
Bad to the Bone is a rock ‘n’ roll classic with a gritty, rebellious tone. Known for its iconic guitar riff and bold lyrics, the song is about embracing a tough, fearless persona. Whether you're cruising through an empty highway or facing the thrill of a new destination, this one sets the mood.
15. Baba O’Riley (The Who)
A 1971 classic, Baba O’Riley is known for its powerful intro and anthemic feel. The driving rhythm and evocative lyrics will make you feel like you’re heading toward something epic. Moreover, the song’s dramatic build-up also makes it a banger.
The Who - Baba O'Riley (Shepperton Studios / 1978) by TheWho
16. Take It Easy (Eagles)
Another classic from the Eagles, this 1972 track is an invitation to slow down and enjoy the ride. Its upbeat, easygoing rhythm is perfect for winding through scenic routes. Take a breath, relax, and let the music carry you as you take life— and the road—one mile at a time.
Eagles - Take It Easy (Live on MTV 1994) (Official Video) [HD] by Eagles
17. The Weight (The Band)
The Weight, released in 1968, is a soulful, Americana-inspired track that tells the story of a man who takes on burdens during his travels. Its gospel-like harmonies will resonate with you during those introspective moments on the road.
The Band, And The Staples - The Weight (The Last Waltz) by Héctor Colorado
18. Proud Mary (Creedence Clearwater Revival)
This one on the list starts slow but picks up pace, mirroring the journey of a river as it flows. The lyrics tell the story of a trip down the Mississippi River, but it’s also a metaphor for traveling through life.
Proud Mary - John Fogerty (Creedence Clearwater Revival) & Artists NOTP 2010 by ogmuk
19. Highway To Hell (AC/DC)
AC/DC’s 1979 anthem is pure rock ‘n’ roll energy. And like all its tracks, Highway to Hell is for those moments when you just want to push the pedal to the metal and let the road unfold before you. Its energy will keep you charged.
AC/DC - Highway to Hell (Live At River Plate, December 2009) by AC/DC
20. Africa (Toto)
Since its release, Africa has become a road trip favorite. The song’s infectious melody and uplifting lyrics transport you to a land of adventure and discovery. Though not pure rock, its anthemic chorus and joyous feel make it a perfect addition to any long drive.
