Classic Western songs you’ll want to listen to on a trip: Travel songs from around the world
Music is essential for long journeys.
Listening to nostalgic Japanese songs and soaking in memories is great, but every now and then, why not head toward your destination with a swelling sense of excitement for unknown places while listening to Western music?
For those of you who feel that way, we’ve selected classic Western tracks perfect for travel.
We’ve picked not only timeless staples but also the latest hits—and even songs themed around travel—curating numbers that fit your trip from a variety of angles.
Be sure to find the tracks that suit you!
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Classic Western songs to listen to while traveling: Travel songs of the world (41–50)
AfricaTOTO
Known as one of TOTO’s signature songs, this track features memorable lyrics that celebrate Africa’s vast landscapes and spirit.
Released in April 1982, it became a worldwide hit, reaching No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February of the following year.
Its unique sound blends the rhythms of world music with rock, making it perfect for the start of a journey.
The marimba refrain induces a dreamlike state, evoking images of Africa’s expansive terrain.
It adds depth to drives and backpacking trips, letting you feel the winds of Africa even from afar.
A recommended travel song that heightens your sense of adventure into the unknown.
Wake Me UpAvicii
The true charm of travel is the adventure into the unknown.
Boosting that heart-pounding excitement with music is this track by the legendary Swedish DJ Avicii.
Released in June 2013, the song reached number one in over 20 countries.
Its unique blend of folk and EDM heightens the sense of anticipation for new worlds.
The lyric “If you don’t open your eyes, life will pass you by” carries a message to cherish new discoveries on your journey.
Listen to it on a long drive or during a flight, and your spirits are sure to lift.
Travelin’ BandCreedence Clearwater Revival
One of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s signature songs, included on the album Cosmos Factory and later released as a single.
It has been covered by eminent artists such as Elton John and Bruce Springsteen.
CarouselIron&Wine
Iron & Wine is not a group but an individual—he’s a singer-songwriter.
Before his CD debut, he had an unusual background as a film studies professor at the University of Miami.
This song is included on the 2007 album The Shepherd’s Dog.
It has his characteristic mellow tone.
The Golden AgeBeck
A track included on Beck’s Sea Change, an unusual album for him in that it’s made up almost entirely of ballads.
He reportedly wrote most of the songs in about a week, shocked by a breakup with his longtime girlfriend.
This song opens the album and encapsulates its overall mood.
Mambo TaxiSly & Robbie
A vibrant track by Jamaican music heavyweights Sly & Robbie that weaves elements of Latin jazz and film music.
By layering their distinctive reggae sound over a passionate mambo rhythm, it brilliantly captures both the sunny cheer of the tropics and a sophisticated sensuality.
Featured on their 1997 album “Mambo Taxi,” the track includes top-tier musicians such as saxophonist Dean Fraser and trombonist Nambo Robinson.
It’s perfect for anyone looking to rediscover the allure of Latin music or interested in the fusion of reggae and jazz.
Up, Up and AwayThe 5th Dimension
The 5th Dimension was a chorus group that enjoyed great popularity in the United States.
Although this song only reached No.
7 on the Billboard chart, it swept the Grammy Awards by winning both Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
It has become one of their signature songs.