There’s something special about hitting the open road, windows down, and your favorite tunes blasting through the speakers. Countless artists have immortalized music and driving in their songs about cars. There is no shortage of songs that perfectly express the essence of the open road, from vintage rock songs to today’s pop hits.
This post will examine 15 of the best driving-related songs, both old and new, that will have you strapped in and ready to go. Let’s dive into our diverse list of songs about cars and take a closer look at each one of them.
Table of Contents
Classic Songs About Cars
1. Little Red Corvette – Prince (1982)
“Little Red Corvette” is a classic song about cars that features Prince’s unmistakable falsetto and guitar work. This 1982 hit is a tale of a one-night stand with a woman who drives a fast red sports car.
The metaphor of the little red Corvette serves as a symbol of a passionate and wild relationship. This song remains an enduring classic for its catchy chorus, infectious beat, and Prince’s signature sound.
2. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen (1975)
Any playlist with songs about cars must include “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen. This 1975 classic is a powerful anthem that speaks to the longing for escape and freedom. Its exhilarating energy and Springsteen’s powerful vocals make it a timeless song that resonates with generations of drivers.
The narrative of the song revolves around the desire to leave a small town behind, with a fast car serving as the means of escape.
3. Fast Car – Tracy Chapman (1988)
“Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman is a poignant folk-rock song that tells a story of love, escape and hope for a better life. The 1988 song, written about the desire to escape a difficult situation and find comfort on the open road, perfectly expresses this sensation.
Chapman’s soulful voice and the introspective lyrics make this a powerful and emotionally resonant track. The car in the song symbolizes freedom, offering the protagonist a chance to break free from the hardships of her life.
4. Highway To Hell – AC/DC (1979)
Without “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC, no list of songs about cars and driving would be complete. The theme of this hard-rocking song from 1979 embraces the wild side of the open road and living life on the edge. Its driving beat and unforgettable guitar riff makes it an irresistible anthem for any road trip.
With lyrics about heading down the highway with no stop signs or speed limits, the song captures the spirit of rebelliousness and adventure.
5. Drive My Car – The Beatles (1965)
“Drive My Car” is one of The Beatles’ most famous songs about cars. Released in 1965, this upbeat and catchy tune showcases the band’s playful side. The song’s lyrics tell a lighthearted story of a young woman who wants the narrator to be her chauffeur and lover. With its memorable chorus and infectious rhythm, “Drive My Car” has become a beloved classic.
6. Pink Cadillac – Bruce Springsteen (1984)
Another classic from the Boss, “Pink Cadillac” is an essential song about cars. This 1984 track is a fun and playful tribute to the beauty of the classic pink Cadillac. Its catchy rhythm and Springsteen’s energetic vocals make this a must-have for any car-themed playlist.
The song’s lyrics describe the allure of the titular car and the romantic escapades that unfold within its confines.
7. Low Rider – War (1975)
“Low Rider” by War is a funky tune that captures the essence of cruising in style. As one of the best songs about cars from the 1970s, this track features an infectious beat and an unforgettable horn riff that is perfect for rolling down the streets in your favorite low rider.
The song celebrates the lowrider car culture and has become an anthem for those who appreciate custom cars and the laid-back lifestyle that accompanies them.
Modern Songs About Cars
8. Shut Up and Drive – Rihanna (2007)
“Shut Up and Drive” is a modern addition to the canon of car-themed classics. This energetic pop tune from 2007 is all about the thrill of hitting the gas and letting go of your inhibitions.
With its infectious beat and catchy chorus, “Shut Up and Drive” encourages listeners to embrace the freedom and excitement of driving fast. The song’s lyrics use driving as a metaphor for taking control of one’s life and enjoying the ride.
9. White Walls – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis feat. ScHoolboy Q and Hollis (2012)
“White Walls” is a hip-hop track that pays tribute to the classic Cadillac with its whitewall tires. Coming out in 2012, the song has a catchy chorus, cool lines from Macklemore and ScHoolboy Q, and emotional singing by Hollis.
The song’s lyrics celebrate the timeless appeal of the Cadillac and the sense of style and luxury it represents. With its laid-back beat and memorable melody, “White Walls” is a modern ode to car culture.
10. The Distance – Cake (1996)
“The Distance” is a quirky alternative rock song about cars and driving that features Cake’s distinctive style. Released in 1996, the song tells about a focused race car driver who gives his all to win.
The driving beat, catchy chorus, and memorable trumpet line make “The Distance” a unique and unforgettable addition to any playlist featuring songs about cars.
11. Gas Pedal – Sage the Gemini feat. Iamsu! (2013)
“Gas Pedal” is a hip-hop song about cars that revolves around the concept of going fast and living life in the fast lane. Released in 2013, the track features a catchy hook and verses from Sage the Gemini and Iamsu!
The song’s infectious beat and memorable chorus make it a fun addition to any car-themed playlist, and its lyrics capture the thrill of driving at high speeds.
12. Ridin’ – Chamillionaire feat. Krayzie Bone (2005)
“Ridin'” is a hip-hop track that celebrates the freedom of cruising around in a car. Released in 2005, the song features Chamillionaire and Krayzie Bone delivering smooth verses over a laid-back beat.
The song’s lyrics focus on the joy of driving and evading the authorities, showcasing the rebellious spirit often associated with songs about cars. With its catchy hook and memorable verses, “Ridin'” is a modern classic that belongs on any car-themed playlist.
13. Day ‘N’ Nite – Kid Cudi (2008)
“Day ‘N’ Nite” is a hip-hop track that compares driving to the ongoing search for happiness and dealing with loneliness. Released in 2008, Kid Cudi’s introspective lyrics and moody beat create a unique and atmospheric track.
While not directly about cars, the song’s theme of driving through the night to escape one’s troubles makes it a fitting addition to a playlist of songs about cars and driving.
14. Cruise – Florida Georgia Line (2012)
“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line is a modern country hit that combines catchy melodies with lyrics that celebrate the joy of driving. The song, out in 2012, describes a love story during a relaxed drive in a truck. The track’s upbeat tempo and infectious chorus make it a perfect addition to any road trip playlist.
As a modern country song about cars, “Cruise” showcases the timeless appeal of cruising down a country road with someone special.
15. Drive – Incubus (1999)
“Drive” by Incubus is an alternative rock song that uses driving as a metaphor for personal growth and overcoming fear. Released in 1999, the song showcases Brandon Boyd’s unique voice and deep lyrics, motivating people to take charge of their lives and confront their fears.
While not explicitly about cars, the theme of driving as a journey of self-discovery makes “Drive” a fitting conclusion to our list of songs about cars and driving.
Final Words
From classic rock anthems to modern pop hits, these 15 songs about cars and driving capture the spirit of the open road and the freedom it represents. These car songs are perfect if you’re planning a long road trip or just driving around town. They’ll make you want to buckle up and enjoy the ride.
Music uniquely evokes emotions and transports us to different places, and these tracks celebrate the powerful connection between driving and the human experience. So, roll down the windows, turn up the volume, and let these timeless songs about cars take you on a journey of adventure and excitement on the open road.
Check also:
![The Top 12 Best One Piece Arcs [Ranked]](https://calibbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/The-Top-12-Best-One-Piece-Arcs-Ranked-180x180.jpeg)