A new study has identified the top songs that are essential for your summer road trip playlist, with Noah Kahan’s Stick Season emerging as the season’s most beloved tune.
The research, conducted by student travel company Rustic Pathways, analyzed thousands of road trip playlists to uncover the most frequently featured tracks. By examining the most common songs in playlists titled 'road trip,' they ranked the top 100 based on their number of appearances across 1,000 playlists.
Leading the list is Stick Season by Noah Kahan, which appeared in 116 of the playlists analyzed. The track has captured the hearts of listeners, becoming a go-to anthem for summer drives.
Coming in second is the indie-folk hit Riptide by Vance Joy, which secured a spot in 100 playlists. This Australian singer-songwriter’s track has become a global favorite, perfect for creating that carefree road trip vibe.
Tied for third place are two iconic tracks: Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd and Mr. Brightside by The Killers, each making an appearance in 97 playlists. Both songs continue to be road trip staples, bringing energy and nostalgia to any journey.
In fourth place is Little Talks by Of Monsters and Men, featured in 84 playlists. This indie hit, with its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics, is a must-have for summer drives.
The fifth most popular song is Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People, which appeared in 83 playlists. Despite its controversial lyrics, this alt-pop anthem has remained a favorite for road trips.
Here’s a look at the top 10 road trip songs:
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Stick Season - Noah Kahan
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Riptide Vance Joy
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Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynyrd & Mr. Brightside - The Killers
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Little Talks - Of Monsters and Men
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Pumped Up Kicks - Foster The People
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Shut Up and Dance - WALK THE MOON
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Life is a Highway - Rascal Flatts
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Don’t Stop Believin’ - Journey & Africa - TOTO
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Unwritten - Natasha Bedingfield
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Hey, Soul Sister - Train
Shut Up and Dance by WALK THE MOON ranks sixth, appearing in 81 playlists. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics make it a modern-day classic for any road trip.
Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts, featured in 80 playlists, takes the seventh spot. This lively tune, a cover of Tom Cochrane’s 1991 hit, gained further popularity as part of Disney’s Cars soundtrack.
The eighth spot is shared by two timeless classics: Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey and Africa by TOTO, each appearing in 77 playlists. Both tracks continue to resonate with listeners and remain road trip essentials.
Natasha Bedingfield’s Unwritten ranks ninth, featuring in 73 playlists. This empowering anthem is perfect for setting the tone on any summer adventure.
Rounding out the top 10 is Train’s Hey, Soul Sister, a feel-good track that appeared in 72 playlists and continues to be a favorite for road trips.
Shayne Fitz-Coy, CEO of Rustic Pathways, commented on the study, saying, “There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a road trip. Traveling with loved ones allows you to explore the beauty of your country, and a great playlist can make the journey even more memorable. It’s no wonder these songs have become the soundtrack to countless adventures.”
So, before you hit the road this summer, make sure your playlist is stocked with these must-have tracks for an unforgettable journey.
