Cars have been a constant presence in our lives for over a century and have been featured in countless songs throughout the years. From fast-paced rock anthems to slow-burning ballads, cars have served as the inspiration for some of the greatest and most memorable songs in popular music. Whether it’s the freedom and excitement of hitting the open road, the thrill of the chase, or the simple joy of cruising with the windows down, cars have inspired musicians across genres to put their feelings into words and music. In this article, we’ll be counting down the top 20 songs about cars, showcasing some of the most iconic and memorable tracks that pay tribute to our favorite four-wheeled companions. From classic rock and roll anthems to modern pop hits, these songs capture the essence of what it means to be a car enthusiast, and they’re sure to get your heart racing and your foot tapping. So buckle up, crank up the volume, and let’s hit the road with some of the greatest car songs of all time!
1. “Little Deuce Coupe” by Beach Boys
“Little Deuce Coupe” is a classic surf rock song by the Beach Boys. The song features upbeat and energetic guitar riffs, catchy vocal harmonies, and a driving beat that will get your feet tapping. The lyrics are all about the singer’s love for his “little deuce coupe,” a 1932 Ford coupe, and his desire to show it off on the highway. The harmonies are infectious and memorable, with each member of the Beach Boys adding their own unique vocal contribution to the mix. The song has a carefree and playful vibe that captures the spirit of the 1960s and the surf culture that the Beach Boys were so closely associated with. “Little Deuce Coupe” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among fans of the Beach Boys and surf rock enthusiasts. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love a good rock and roll song, “Little Deuce Coupe” is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
2. “Route 66” by The Rolling Stones
“Route 66” is a classic blues-rock song originally recorded by American blues artist Bobby Troup, but popularized by The Rolling Stones in the 1960s. The song features a driving beat, dirty electric guitar riffs, and Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a journey down Route 66, a famous highway that runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, and the excitement of hitting the open road. The song has a raw and energetic feel, with the band’s bluesy sound capturing the spirit of the American highway and the freedom that comes with it. “Route 66” is a staple of classic rock and roll, and is often considered one of The Rolling Stones’ best early recordings. Whether you’re a fan of the blues or just love a good rock and roll tune, “Route 66” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates classic rock music.
3. “Low Rider” by War
“Low Rider” is a classic funk and R&B song by the band War. The song features a groovy bass line, funky horns, and smooth vocals, and is centered around the theme of the titular low rider, a type of car that is lowered to the ground and often customized. The lyrics describe the singer’s love for cruising in his low rider and the sense of freedom and individuality that comes with it. The song has a relaxed and easy-going feel, with the band’s smooth and soulful sound creating a vibe that’s perfect for cruising on a sunny day. “Low Rider” has become a classic of the funk and R&B genres and is still widely played today, thanks to its timeless grooves and catchy hooks. Whether you’re a fan of classic funk and soul or just appreciate a good car song, “Low Rider” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
4. “Driving in My Car” by Madness
“Driving in My Car” is a fun and upbeat ska-pop song by the English band Madness. The song features a catchy piano riff, a fast-paced drum beat, and the band’s signature horns, all backed by playful and lighthearted lyrics about driving in a car. The song has a carefree and joyful energy, with the band’s upbeat sound creating a vibe that’s perfect for cruising with the windows down. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with the band’s tight harmonies and upbeat instrumentation coming together to create a sing-along vibe that is sure to get stuck in your head. “Driving in My Car” is a classic Madness track that showcases the band’s signature sound, and is sure to bring a smile to your face and get your foot tapping. Whether you’re a fan of ska and pop or just appreciate a good driving song, “Driving in My Car” is a must-listen for anyone who loves fun and catchy music.
5. “Drive My Car” by The Beatles
“Drive My Car” is a classic rock and roll song by The Beatles, appearing on their 1965 album “Rubber Soul”. The song features a driving beat, upbeat guitar riffs, and Paul McCartney’s playful lead vocals. The lyrics are lighthearted and tongue-in-cheek, with the singer offering to be someone’s chauffeur and drive their car for them. The song has a fun and energetic vibe, with The Beatles’ signature harmonies and playful instrumentation creating a sound that is both catchy and memorable. The chorus is infectious, with the band’s tight harmonies and upbeat instrumentation coming together to create a sing-along vibe that is sure to get stuck in your head. “Drive My Car” is a classic Beatles track that showcases the band’s upbeat and playful side, and is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock and roll. Whether you’re a fan of The Beatles or just love a good driving song, “Drive My Car” is sure to bring a smile to your face and get your foot tapping.
6. “Mustang Sally” by Wilson Pickett
“Mustang Sally” is a classic soul and R&B song by Wilson Pickett. The song features a driving beat, horns, and Pickett’s soulful lead vocals, and is centered around the theme of a woman named Sally and her Mustang car. The lyrics describe Sally’s love for her Mustang and her desire to keep cruising in it, and the song has a energetic and playful feel, with Pickett’s soulful voice and the band’s driving instrumentation creating a sound that is both powerful and catchy. The chorus is memorable and upbeat, with Pickett’s soulful voice and the band’s tight harmonies coming together to create a sing-along vibe that is sure to get stuck in your head. “Mustang Sally” is a classic soul and R&B track that showcases Pickett’s signature sound, and is still widely played and covered today. Whether you’re a fan of classic soul and R&B or just love a good car song, “Mustang Sally” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
7. “Dead Man’s Curve” by Jan & Dean
“Dead Man’s Curve” is a classic surf rock and pop song by the duo Jan & Dean. The song features a fast-paced beat, upbeat guitar riffs, and the duo’s harmonizing vocals, and is centered around the theme of a dangerous stretch of road known as Dead Man’s Curve. The lyrics describe the thrill of speeding down the road and the danger of the curve, and the song has a lively and energetic feel, with Jan & Dean’s tight harmonies and upbeat instrumentation creating a sound that is both catchy and memorable. The chorus is upbeat and catchy, with the duo’s harmonies and driving instrumentation coming together to create a sing-along vibe that is sure to get stuck in your head. “Dead Man’s Curve” is a classic surf rock and pop track that showcases Jan & Dean’s signature sound, and is still widely played and covered today. Whether you’re a fan of classic surf rock and pop or just love a good driving song, “Dead Man’s Curve” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
8. “Riding in my car (Car Song)” by Woody Guthrie
“Riding in My Car (Car Song)” is a classic folk song by Woody Guthrie. The song features Guthrie’s signature acoustic guitar and storytelling style, and is centered around the theme of traveling in a car. The lyrics are playful and lighthearted, with Guthrie singing about various destinations and the joys of the open road. The song has a simple and charming feel, with Guthrie’s folksy voice and acoustic guitar creating a sound that is both timeless and endearing. “Riding in My Car (Car Song)” is a classic folk track that showcases Guthrie’s signature sound, and is a testament to his enduring impact on American music. Whether you’re a fan of classic folk or just appreciate a good road trip song, “Riding in My Car (Car Song)” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
9. “Fun, Fun, Fun” by Beach Boys
“Fun, Fun, Fun” is a classic surf rock and pop song by the Beach Boys. The song features a fast-paced beat, upbeat guitar riffs, and the Beach Boys’ harmonizing vocals, and is centered around the theme of having fun in a car. The lyrics describe the joys of cruising in a hot rod, and the song has a lively and energetic feel, with the Beach Boys’ tight harmonies and upbeat instrumentation creating a sound that is both catchy and memorable. The chorus is upbeat and catchy, with the Beach Boys’ harmonies and driving instrumentation coming together to create a sing-along vibe that is sure to get stuck in your head. “Fun, Fun, Fun” is a classic surf rock and pop track that showcases the Beach Boys’ signature sound, and is still widely played and covered today. Whether you’re a fan of classic surf rock and pop or just love a good driving song, “Fun, Fun, Fun” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
10. “Little Red Corvette” by Prince
“Little Red Corvette” is a classic pop and funk song by Prince. The song features Prince’s signature electrifying guitar and keyboard work, and is centered around the theme of a one-night stand in a sports car. The lyrics are sensual and seductive, with Prince singing about the physical attraction between himself and his partner. The song has a funky and energetic feel, with Prince’s tight musicianship and irresistible groove creating a sound that is both memorable and danceable. The chorus is catchy and infectious, with Prince’s iconic vocals and electrifying instrumentation coming together to create a sound that is both classic and contemporary. “Little Red Corvette” is a classic pop and funk track that showcases Prince’s signature sound, and is still widely played and celebrated today. Whether you’re a fan of classic pop and funk or just love a good dance song, “Little Red Corvette” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
11. “GTO” by Ronnie & the Daytonas
“GTO” is a classic surf rock and pop song by Ronnie & The Daytonas. The song features upbeat guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and soaring harmonies, and is centered around the theme of cruising in a GTO sports car. The lyrics are upbeat and playful, with the band singing about the joys of the open road and the thrill of driving a muscle car. The song has a lively and energetic feel, with Ronnie & The Daytonas’ tight musicianship and catchy melodies creating a sound that is both fun and infectious. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with the band’s harmonies and upbeat instrumentation coming together to create a sound that is sure to get stuck in your head. “GTO” is a classic surf rock and pop track that is still widely played and enjoyed today. Whether you’re a fan of classic surf rock and pop or just love a good driving song, “GTO” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
12. “White Cadillac” by The Band
“White Cadillac” is a classic country and rock song by The Band. The song features a mix of twangy guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and soulful harmonies, and is centered around the theme of cruising in a white Cadillac. The lyrics are reflective and nostalgic, with The Band singing about the memories of a simpler time and the freedom that came with cruising in a classic car. The song has a warm and sentimental feel, with The Band’s rich harmonies and heartfelt instrumentation creating a sound that is both comforting and memorable. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with The Band’s harmonies and driving instrumentation coming together to create a sound that is both classic and contemporary. “White Cadillac” is a classic country and rock track that showcases The Band’s signature sound, and is still widely played and enjoyed today. Whether you’re a fan of classic country and rock or just love a good driving song, “White Cadillac” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
13. “Hot Rod Honeymoon” by Jeff Beck
“Hot Rod Honeymoon” is a classic rock song by Jeff Beck. The song features a blend of fiery guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and bold vocal lines, and is centered around the theme of a hot rod honeymoon. The lyrics are playful and upbeat, with Jeff Beck singing about the excitement of cruising in a hot rod and the thrill of a new marriage. The song has a fast-paced and energetic feel, with Jeff Beck’s virtuosic guitar work and driving rhythm section creating a sound that is both exhilarating and infectious. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with Jeff Beck’s powerful voice and blazing guitar solos coming together to create a sound that is both classic and contemporary. “Hot Rod Honeymoon” is a classic rock track that showcases Jeff Beck’s signature sound, and is still widely played and enjoyed today. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or just love a good driving song, “Hot Rod Honeymoon” is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music.
14. “Crown Victoria Custom ’51” by Jerry Lee Lewis
“Crown Victoria Custom ’51” is a rockabilly classic by the legendary Jerry Lee Lewis. The song is centered around Lewis’s love for his 1951 Ford Crown Victoria, which he sings about in detail, describing its style and power. The upbeat melody, driven by Lewis’s energetic piano playing and catchy guitar licks, creates a feel-good, foot-tapping atmosphere. The song is a perfect example of Lewis’s classic rock and roll style, which combined elements of blues, country, and gospel to create a unique and memorable sound. The lyrics are playful and lighthearted, with Lewis’s distinctive drawl delivering lines about cruising down the road in his Crown Victoria. “Crown Victoria Custom ’51” is a classic rock and roll song that is still widely played and enjoyed today, and remains a timeless testament to the power of music to capture the spirit of a moment and create memories that last a lifetime.
15. “Roadrunner” by Bo Diddley
“Roadrunner” is a classic rock and roll song by the legendary Bo Diddley. The song is built around a driving, repetitive guitar riff and a pulsing beat, creating an upbeat, energetic feel. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, with Bo Diddley singing the chorus “Roadrunner, roadrunner, going faster miles an hour” over and over again. Despite its simple structure, “Roadrunner” is a powerful and memorable song, with Bo Diddley’s distinctive vocal style and electrifying guitar playing coming together to create a timeless rock and roll classic. The song is widely regarded as one of Bo Diddley’s most influential and enduring works, and has been covered by countless musicians in the decades since its release. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock and roll, blues, or just good music in general, “Roadrunner” is a must-listen for anyone who loves great music.
16. “Somewhere In My Car” by Keith Urban
“Somewhere in My Car” is a modern country song by Keith Urban. The song is a nostalgic look back at a lost love and the memories associated with that relationship. The lyrics describe the singer driving his car, thinking about his past and the person he used to be with. The song has a mid-tempo beat, with Keith Urban’s smooth, emotional vocals accompanied by soft acoustic guitar and a steady drum beat. The chorus is a powerful, soaring melody that emphasizes the singer’s longing for his lost love. Throughout the song, Urban’s powerful voice and passionate delivery create a sense of yearning and sadness that is both moving and relatable. “Somewhere in My Car” is a touching and heartfelt ballad that is sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love. It is a standout track from Keith Urban’s extensive repertoire and a testament to his skill as a singer and songwriter.
17. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
“Fast Car” is a socially conscious acoustic ballad by Tracy Chapman. The song tells the story of a young woman trying to escape poverty and the hardships of her life by seeking a better future with her lover. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles and dreams of working-class Americans, with Chapman’s powerful, emotional voice and simple, stripped-down acoustic guitar creating a stark and moving sound. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics create a sense of hope and longing, making “Fast Car” an affecting and memorable ballad. Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” is a classic example of politically charged folk music that speaks to the struggles and aspirations of working people everywhere. The song has been covered by countless artists and remains one of Tracy Chapman’s most well-known and beloved works. Whether you’re a fan of folk music, socially conscious lyrics, or just great songwriting, “Fast Car” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates powerful and moving music.
18. “Pink Cadillac” by Natalie Cole
“Pink Cadillac” is a lively and upbeat song by Natalie Cole. The song is a cover of a Bruce Springsteen tune, but with a more soulful and R&B twist. The lyrics describe a carefree road trip in a pink Cadillac, with the singer cruising down the highway, enjoying the freedom and adventure of the open road. Natalie Cole’s powerful and soulful voice, backed by a grooving horn section and tight rhythm section, creates a feel-good and celebratory atmosphere. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and sing-along chorus make “Pink Cadillac” a crowd-pleaser and a perfect driving anthem. Natalie Cole’s version of “Pink Cadillac” is a standout track from her extensive discography and a testament to her skills as a singer, performer, and arranger. Whether you’re a fan of classic R&B, road trip anthems, or just great music, “Pink Cadillac” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates upbeat and energetic tunes.
19. “Black Limousine” by The Rolling Stones
“Black Limousine” is a haunting and melancholic song by The Rolling Stones. The song is a ballad about the loss of innocence, the passage of time, and the end of an era. The lyrics describe a nostalgic ride in a black limousine, with the singer reflecting on his life and the experiences he’s had. The Rolling Stones’ signature bluesy rock sound, with its atmospheric guitar riffs, shuffling beat, and melancholic lyrics, creates a moody and introspective atmosphere. The song’s haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and powerful delivery make “Black Limousine” a standout track in the Stones’ extensive discography. The song is a testament to the band’s versatility and ability to create timeless and moving pieces of music that continue to resonate with audiences today. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, introspective ballads, or just great music, “Black Limousine” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates powerful and thought-provoking tunes.
20. “Cars” by Gary Numan
“Cars” by Gary Numan is an electrifying and influential synth-pop classic. The song, which was released in 1979, is a futuristic and dystopian anthem about the role of technology in our lives. Numan’s cold, mechanical delivery and the song’s driving electronic beats create an unsettling atmosphere, capturing the anxiety and unease of a rapidly changing world. The lyrics, which describe a world in which machines have taken over and humans are disconnected from each other, are a commentary on the impact of technology on our lives and our relationships. With its ground-breaking electronic production and thought-provoking lyrics, “Cars” remains an enduring and relevant piece of music, influencing countless artists and paving the way for the synth-pop and alternative music scenes. Whether you’re a fan of electronic music, alternative rock, or just innovative and groundbreaking tunes, “Cars” by Gary Numan is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates genre-defining music.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
