Out on the road, a good playlist can make the difference between a long haul that drags and one that flies by. For truck drivers who spend countless hours behind the wheel, music becomes more than just background noise—it’s a companion, a motivator, and sometimes even a lifeline.
To find out what’s really playing in the cabs of America’s truckers, we turned to the Truck Drivers USA community and asked:
“What’s the number one song on your road trip playlist? Share your haul jams.”
What came back was a flood of honest, entertaining, and seriously diverse responses. From rock and metal to classic country and trucking anthems, here’s what real drivers are listening to—and why it matters.
The All-Time Trucking Classics
Some songs have stood the test of time on the highway. They speak to the lifestyle, the freedom of the open road, and the long days and nights that define trucking.
- “Convoy” by C.W. McCall — A clear fan favorite, mentioned by Mark Ryan, Jason Willis, and Craig Dwyer. It’s one of the most iconic trucking songs ever recorded.
- “Six Days on the Road” by Sawyer Brown (and the Dave Dudley original) — Picked by Craig Dwyer, Rick Brunson, and Paul Currier. It is a song that speaks directly to the experience of being out on the highway.
- “Eastbound and Down” by Jerry Reed — Selected by Chase Austin, Craig Dwyer, and Mark Grossmeier. It’s a fast-paced anthem with a strong connection to trucker culture.
- “Phantom 309” by Red Sovine — A haunting classic picked by Craig Dwyer and Shelly Sparrow.
These tracks tell stories. They’re more than just music—they’re part of the trucking tradition.
Rocking the Highway: High-Energy Picks for Long Drives
When it’s time to push through a long stretch or power through the night, drivers reach for songs that bring energy and attitude.
- “Radar Love” by Golden Earring — Picked by Remo Jenkins and Rick Weyant. It’s a song literally about driving and feeling the connection across the miles.
- “I Can’t Drive 55” by Sammy Hagar — Eric Makris’ go-to, especially relatable on wide-open highways.
- “Black Betty” by Ram Jam — Freddie Sturdivant’s pick when it’s time to hammer down.
- “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” by the Beastie Boys — Clifton B Stahl brings the energy into New York with this one.
- “Sweet Hitchhiker” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, “Rockin’ Down the Highway” by The Doobie Brothers, and “Slow Ride” by Foghat — Part of Russell Smothermon’s rotation for staying sharp behind the wheel.
For many drivers, these songs are more than just head-bangers—they’re part of the rhythm of the road.
Country Roots and Sentimental Favorites
Not all haul jams are about speed and grit. Some choices reflect the personal side of trucking—the memories, the solitude, the connection to home.
- “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson — Daniel Cartwright’s pick. It’s a true classic for anyone who lives life on the move.
- “Amarillo by Morning” by George Strait — A favorite of Russell Smothermon, capturing life’s tough, quiet dignity on the road.
- “Running on Empty” by Jackson Browne — Art Dutt’s selection reflects those moments when fatigue sets in, but the job’s not done.
- “Take It to the Limit” by The Eagles — Susie Williams’ favorite, bringing nostalgia and honesty to the cab.
- “White Line Fever” by Merle Haggard — John Harbeck’s pick, another track that hits close to home for many drivers.
These are songs that resonate deeply, especially when you’re hundreds of miles from the nearest exit.
Personal Picks and Playlist Diversity
Drivers don’t just stick to one genre. Some lists were full of surprises, showing the wide range of musical tastes behind the wheel.
- Eric Cutrer listed everything from Iron Maiden and Judas Priest to Duran Duran and Fleetwood Mac. His playlist proves that variety can help break up the monotony of the road.
- Bill Theresa Edgar couldn’t pick just one song—anything by Carlos Santana made the cut.
- James Hilliker has 668 country songs downloaded and said, “They’re all my favorites.”
- Jason Bradshaw jokingly picked “Baby Shark”—a funny reminder that sometimes, whatever gets stuck in your head ends up on repeat.
- Al Salazar made it clear that the right song depends on the kind of day you’re having: “Depends on how hard I need to run to get there on time and how long I’ve been awake.”
- Bob Taylor went with “Sweet Home Alabama,” while JT Nicholson repped “Weatherman” by Hank Williams Jr.
And then there are those like Guy Man, who mixes The Kinks with Slayer, or Kyle Yadon, who picked “Sincerely With Love” by Lordi. It just goes to show—truckers aren’t all listening to the same thing, and that’s what makes it interesting.
Why Music Matters on the Road
When you’re covering hundreds of miles a day, music becomes part of your routine, your mood, even your identity. It keeps you awake, keeps you grounded, and sometimes keeps you company. Whether it’s an upbeat tune to stay alert or a slow one that hits home, every driver’s playlist tells a story.
Music also helps drivers maintain focus, reduce stress, and bring a sense of normalcy to a life spent constantly moving. In a career built on long hours, changing scenery, and solitude, the right song at the right time can make all the difference.
Join the Conversation
What’s your go-to haul jam? Got a favorite artist or a playlist that keeps you moving?
Join the Truck Drivers USA community to connect with drivers from across the country, share your favorite road songs, and get real stories, tips, and advice from others who live life behind the wheel.
