The open road beckons, and what better companion than a soundtrack that perfectly captures the thrill of the journey? This list celebrates the timeless appeal of pop anthems that have become synonymous with car rides. From the catchy hooks that will have you singing along to the heart-tugging ballads that evoke nostalgia, these songs are a testament to the power of music to connect us to our emotions and experiences. Whether you're cruising down a highway or navigating city streets, these tracks are guaranteed to elevate your driving experience. So turn up the volume, roll down the windows, and let the music carry you away.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Shape of You | Ed Sheeran | ÷ (Deluxe) | 6B+ |
| 2. Sugar | Maroon 5 | V | 4B+ |
| 3. Counting Stars | OneRepublic | Native | 4B+ |
| 4. Roar | Katy Perry | PRISM | 4B+ |
| 5. Thinking out Loud | Ed Sheeran | x (Deluxe Edition) | 4B+ |
| 6. Rolling in the Deep | Adele | 21 | 3B+ |
| 7. All of Me | John Legend | Love In The Future (Expanded Edition) | 2B+ |
1. Shape of You (2017)
Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You" is a global phenomenon that took the world by storm in 2017. Released as part of his album ÷ (Divide), the song's infectious tropical house beat and catchy lyrics about a blossoming romance quickly captivated listeners worldwide. The track's success is undeniable, topping the charts in an astounding 34 countries, including a 12-week reign atop the US Billboard Hot 100. "Shape of You" also broke streaming records, becoming the most-streamed song on Spotify at the time, amassing over 2 billion streams. The song's widespread appeal can be attributed to its relatable themes of attraction and connection, resonating with a diverse audience. "Shape of You" has garnered critical acclaim, winning the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance and receiving numerous other accolades. Although originally intended for Rihanna, Sheeran ultimately decided to keep the song for himself, as it perfectly captured his musical style and personal experiences.
2. Sugar (2014)
Emerging from the pop scene of the mid-2010s, "Sugar" by Maroon 5 became an instant hit, known for its infectious energy and playful charm. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a perfect choice for cruising down the highway. "Sugar" exudes a sense of carefree fun and optimism, ideal for a spontaneous road trip with friends or a solo drive with the windows down. The lyrics, filled with declarations of love and the joy of unexpected encounters, evoke a feeling of youthful romance and the thrill of adventure, making it a perfect companion for any journey. "Sugar" is a timeless classic, a guaranteed mood booster, and a must-have for any car playlist.
3. Counting Stars (Native - 2024)
Released in 2013 as part of OneRepublic's Native album, "Counting Stars" is a pop rock anthem with a disco beat that has resonated with listeners for over a decade. The song's infectious energy and uplifting lyrics, particularly the line "I'm on fire" make it an ideal choice for a road trip or any drive where you want to feel a surge of excitement. With its catchy chorus and timeless themes of ambition and chasing dreams, "Counting Stars" is a guaranteed mood-booster that will make any journey feel a little bit more special.
4. Roar
"Roar" by Katy Perry, a power pop anthem with a stadium-rock edge, is a song that will instantly crank up the energy in any car ride. While it might not be the most subtle choice, the song's anthemic quality and empowering lyrics make it a perfect choice for those moments when you need a confidence boost on the road. Lyrics like "I'm a fighter, I'm a survivor," resonate with the feeling of independence and determination, a sentiment many associate with driving. Whether you're blasting it on a long road trip or cruising through city streets, "Roar" has that unforgettable energy that turns a regular commute into a moment of power.
5. Thinking out Loud
"Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran is a romantic ballad that transcends the typical wedding song category. With its gentle acoustic guitar and Sheeran's soulful vocals, the song creates a warm and nostalgic atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed car ride. The lyrics speak of enduring love and commitment, painting vivid pictures of a long-lasting relationship, a feeling that resonates with the freedom and open-road spirit of driving. While the song may not be explicitly about driving, its calming nature and its ability to evoke powerful emotions make it a timeless choice for a long drive, whether it's a scenic route or a familiar commute.
6Rolling in the Deep
Adele
2010
21
7All of Me
John Legend
2013
Love In The Future (Expanded Edition)
- 8
Wake Me Up
Avicii
2013
True
9Someone Like You
Adele
2011
21
10Bohemian Rhapsody
Queen
1975
A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)
11CAN'T STOP THE FEELING!
Justin Timberlake
2016
TROLLS (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
12Love Yourself
Justin Bieber
2015
Purpose (Deluxe)
13Sweet Child O' Mine
Guns N' Roses
1987
Appetite For Destruction
14I Will Always Love You
Whitney Houston
1993
The Bodyguard - Original Soundtrack Album
15Radioactive
Imagine Dragons
2013
16Firework
Katy Perry
2010
Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection
17Happy
Pharrell Williams
2013
G I R L
18Old Town Road
Billy Ray Cyrus,Lil Nas X
2019
19Livin' On A Prayer
Bon Jovi
1986
Slippery When Wet
20Dancing Queen
ABBA
1976
Arrival
21Blinding Lights
The Weeknd
2019
After Hours
22Can't Help Falling in Love
Elvis Presley
1961
Blue Hawaii
23Hotel California
Eagles
1976
Hotel California (2013 Remaster)
24Highway to Hell
AC/DC
1979
Highway to Hell
25Let It Go
Idina Menzel
2013
26Don't Stop Believin'
Journey
1981
Escape (2022 Remaster)
27Here Comes The Sun
The Beatles
1969
Abbey Road (Remastered)
28Stairway to Heaven
Led Zeppelin
1971
Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)
29Born to Run
Bruce Springsteen
1975
Born To Run
