Despite the term really only appearing recently, the “vibe” of a song has always been important. Some topics and feelings transcend music boundaries, making their way into dozens of cultures. There are great exercise songs in every genre. There are songs that encourage lifting weights, running, and about everything in between.
These aren’t the only vibes that transcend genres either. Topics like partying, love, and heartbreak are everywhere. There are hundreds of songs that are simply about relaxing and enjoying life.
No specific topic encompasses this more than enjoying a ride. Songs about riding, whether it’s in a car with the top dropped or on motorcycles can be found in just about every type of music.
Below are the 10 best tracks about riding.
“On The Road Again” – Willie Nelson
No song list about riding is complete without “On The Road Again” by Willie Nelson. It would be higher on the list if it wasn’t already so well-renowned. This track sets the vibe perfectly for anyone who might feel like they’re on a never-ending journey.
Everyone can relate to this one because everyone has felt like they have nowhere they belong. This song is designed for the loner that likes to take their mind off things with a relaxing ride.
“Ride On” – AC/DC
This AC/DC song is all about the freedom that riding gives. It’s a great song for the lone rider, delivering thought-provoking lyrics and general speaking on life’s woes. Anyone who is feeling down and uses their bike as a way to escape would enjoy listening to this song on a ride. “I’m so lonely, I know what I’m going to do,” the singer loudly proclaims before softly whispering “I’m gonna ride on.”
“It Was A Good Day” – Ice Cube
While primarily focusing on songs about riding motorcycles, some songs about car rides simply can’t be ignored. Ice Cube crafted his biggest hit of all time when he wrote the lyrics to “It Was A Good Day.”
The song makes for the perfect song about riding because Ice Cube tells a story about his day while driving around Los Angeles. He meets up with friends for a basketball game, stops by to play dominos, and eventually drives to see a girl he likes.
“Road To Nowhere” – Talking Heads
Talking heads perfectly explain what it feels like to ride a motorcycle on an ideal day. It’s a feeling that every rider is familiar with, and while a bit strange at times, “Road To Nowhere” perfectly describes the freedom that comes along with riding a motorcycle. This song isn’t for everyone, and it’s certainly not for the average motorcycle enthusiast. Despite this, it’s still a great throwback track that is worth a listen.
“Harley Davidson” – Steve Miller Band
Although it’s entirely possible that the Steve Miller band is using the Harley Davidson brand as a metaphor in this track, it still makes for a great song for avid riders. Like AC/DC’s “Ride On,” this song is all about how motorcycles can help you forget about your woes. Steve Miller encourages his fans to live for today and worry less about tomorrow. This one is likely a favorite for many bike riders already.
“Little Red Corvette” – Prince
Despite the song being about riding in a car, Prince describes imagery that bikers are likely familiar with as well. The song is about a woman who loves riding and going fast. This makes it a great track to listen to while both riding in a car or on a bike. It feels a bit dated, but it’s still a classic track from a classic artist. It’s worth listening to at least once in your life.
“Ride On” – Dierks Bentley
This is a great song, but it has an even better music video. Partnered with the History channel, Dierks Bentley made a beautiful alternative style music video with this one. It’s a great track to listen to while riding, but its music video is worth a chance too. The song was created for the History Channel original seriesBiker Battleground,and the music video features imagery from the show.
“Motorcycle Cowboy” – Merle Haggard
This track is a glimpse into history. It’s not only great to ride to, but it provides us with a glimpse into a dying culture of years past. Merle Haggard sings about him and his self-described hippy wife. The song is all about enjoying your motorcycle with your significant other. “I’m her motorcycle cowboy, she’s my long, tall gal’,” Haggard sings just before an incredible guitar solo.
“In a Cadillac” – OutKast
Along with a beautifully animated cartoon music video, “In a Cadillac” perfectly describes what it’s like to ride in their Cadillac in Atlanta. The verses range in topics from Andre Benjiman battling local rappers to what the general vibe is around Atlanta; however, the smoothest part of this sound is without a doubt the chorus. An uncredited singer offers her smooth vocals to fully encompass the vibe of simply cruising in a car.
“Born to Be Wild” – Steppenwolf
“Born to be Wild,” like Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again,” is a legendary riding song. However, unlike Willie’s track, many people may not have heard of this hidden gem. It’s been featured in numerous movies for good reason. It sets the tone perfectly for a motorcycle ride. In addition to being a great riding track, it was also very revolutionary for its time. Released in 1968, it is the first rock song ever to use the term “heavy metal.” Some credit it as being the first heavy metal song ever.
Final Thoughts
The feeling of riding, whether in a car or on a motorcycle, is so universal the topic has truly transcended all music genres. No matter the taste in music, motorcycle lovers should be able to find plenty of songs to ride to. In fact, it’s pretty easy to find other songs about riding scattered throughout the discographies of many artists.
