STUDIO814 Listening Picks — Road Trip Soundtrack

There’s something magical about a road trip soundtrack. Windows down, miles rolling by, and the perfect song blasting through the speakers — that’s where memories are made. For this week’s Listening Picks, I’ve pulled together five tracks that capture the spirit of the open road: a blend of freedom, adventure, and those little moments in between.

“Shut Up and Drive” — Rihanna

No road trip playlist is complete without a track that embodies pure velocity. Rihanna’s unapologetic anthem is practically built for the highway, with a beat that matches the hum of tires on asphalt. It’s a burst of adrenaline that sets the tone for hitting the road with no destination in mind.

“Mr. Brightside” — The Killers

A classic sing-along anthem, “Mr. Brightside” transforms any car into a concert venue. The soaring chorus and infectious energy cut through monotony on long stretches of road. Whether you’re driving solo or packed into a car with friends, this track guarantees at least one moment where everyone shouts the lyrics in unison.

“Go Your Own Way” — Fleetwood Mac

This one’s for the stretches when the sun is setting, the scenery blurs, and you’re reflecting on where you’ve been and where you’re going. Fleetwood Mac’s timeless hit is a reminder that the road is as much about the journey as the destination. It’s freedom captured in sound, tailor-made for highways that seem endless.

“Midnight City” — M83

Late-night driving requires a different kind of soundtrack, one that feels expansive and cinematic. “Midnight City” nails the vibe, with synths that shimmer like streetlights and a beat that mirrors the quiet rhythm of night roads. It’s a song that makes even empty highways feel like they’re alive with possibility.

“Life Is a Highway” — Tom Cochrane (or Rascal Flatts cover)

The quintessential road trip anthem. Whether you’re leaning into nostalgia with the original or blasting the “Cars” soundtrack version, “Life Is a Highway” is the song that makes every journey feel like an adventure. It’s the track that ties the whole playlist together, reminding you that the road isn’t just where you’re going — it’s where you are right now.

Every great road trip has its soundtrack, and every soundtrack tells its own story. These five tracks capture the rush, the reflection, and the timeless energy of being behind the wheel with the world ahead of you.

At STUDIO814, we believe in amplifying voices, celebrating creativity, and connecting music lovers with the artists who inspire them. Stay tuned to our blog for more stories, spotlights, and insights from the ever-evolving world of music.