There is nothing quite like the relationship between music and driving. Every song has a meaning and a story, so does a car, and this blend makes for a unique connection. We all have memorable stories involving our automobiles and this makes everyone’s playlist unique in some way. That said, there are some tunes that can only enhance your journey. Let’s take a look.
Photo by William Warby
The classics
When you start any road trip playlist, it’s only right to start with the past masters. The classics that are never too far from mind when contemplating the latest list beats to grace your car are old favourites, so get a pen and paper ready for these (or hit ctrl +P):
Hit The Road Jack, Ray Charles – We start with an icon, a master. Charles wrote a number of classics but this upbeat jam is a catchy beat that is perfect for starting off any journey. Hit the road and get those fingers clicking.
Born to Run, Bruce Springsteen – It might be cliché, but that is because it’s a fist-pumping, car playlist classic. Synonymous with road trips, the coarse vocals of The Boss play to your rebellious side and will get you opening up your Mercedes on the open road.
Little Red Corvette, Prince – You certainly aren’t driving a little red corvette, and probably don’t have the swagger or the dance moves of Prince, but that doesn’t stop you from having a sing-along with the musician.
Cars, Gary Newman – Here in my car, I feel safest as all. Apparently, this song was inspired by road rage but the classic new wave tune doesn’t instigate that feeling. It is unforgettable, in fact the bass line and lyrics linger in your mind for so long you’re not sure you’ll think of anything else again. Enjoy.
Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car, Billy Ocean – A more direct chorus you couldn’t wish to hear, and you can stop dreaming of driving your Mercedes as you slip into sixth whilst listening to this blast from the past.
German influence
One of the big three German automakers, with BMW and Audi, Mercedes boasts an illustrious history and we should pay homage to these roots. So, with that in mind, here are a few songs with a German theme to tap your feet to.
Autobahn, Kraftwerk – If you’re feeling particularly hardcore then you listen to the 22 minute 43 second album version; though the 3:28 single edit is plenty. The main lyrics are translated as “we drive drive drive on the Autobahn’, so you get the picture and it’s obviously perfect when driving.
Fur Immer, Neu – Another lengthy epic, this was apparently created with long stretches of the Autobahn in mind, and is ideal for motorway driving.
99 Luftballons, Nena – Originally an anti-nuclear protest song, this is an (in)famous track to listen to while cruising in your Mercedes. As long as you embrace the synth, this classic is a welcome addition to your playlist.
From the adverts
No one knows what makes Mercedes tick better than the people on the inside. Over the years, there have been some great ads, here are some of the beats that have made them what they are.
Changes, Faul & Wad Ad vs Pnau – June 2014’s advert had the summer tune from Faul & Wad Ad vs Pnau as the backdrop. A great electronic song that encapsulates summer and gives you the urge to find a country road, roof down.
Tidal Wave, Sub Focus – From electronic we go to drum and bass. From the E63 advert, this tune gets the heart racing and is the perfect accompaniment to cruising around in your Mercedes.
Upside Down, Diana Ross – Remember the chicken advert? Diana Ross, of World Cup blooper fame, provided the backing music to that with her 1980 classic Upside Down. Get this disco anthem on your playlist!
A couple more essentials
Big Jet Plane, Angus & Julia Stone – The sense of freedom when you’re cruising along is blissful but a big jet plane can take that running away to a different level. An uplifting, if slow track, is revved up by the remix and is a soothing part of the playlist.
Road Trippin’, Red Hot Chili Peppers – We end on an acoustic tune from the amazing funk rock band. It is a little known track but perfect for those days when driving around. A calming song, as you free your mind and tune into paradise.