About the song
Bachman Turner Overdrive’s “Roll On Down the Highway” is a timeless rock anthem that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1970, the song became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying the band’s status as one of the most influential rock groups of their generation.
The song’s intro immediately sets the stage with a powerful guitar riff and a driving rhythm. Bachman Turner Overdrive’s vocals then come in, delivering the lyrics with a sense of energy and enthusiasm. The lyrics celebrate the freedom and excitement of the open road, painting a vivid picture of life on the highway.
One of the song’s most memorable aspects is its infectious chorus, which features the line, “Roll on down the highway.” The chorus’s repetitive refrain further reinforces the song’s central theme of adventure and exploration.
The song’s production is simple yet effective, with the band’s guitars and drums providing the primary accompaniment. The arrangement allows the music to take center stage, creating a raw and energetic atmosphere.
“Roll On Down the Highway” is a testament to the enduring power of rock music. Its timeless melody, catchy lyrics, and the band’s energetic performance have made it a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Bachman Turner Overdrive’s talent and their ability to create music that transcends time and genre.
Video
Lyrics
We rented a truck and a semi to go
Travel down the long and the winding road
Look on the map, I think we’ve been there before
Close up the doors, let’s roll once more
Cop’s on the corner, look he’s starting to write
I don’t need no ticket so I screamed out of sight
Drove so fast that my eyes can’t see
Look in the mirror, is he still following me?
Let it roll down the highway
Let it roll down the highway
Roll, roll
Look at the sign, we’re in the wrong place
Move out boys and let’s get ready to race
Four fifty-four’s coming over the hill
The man on patrol is gonna give us a bill
Time’s real short, you know the distance is long
I’d like to have a jet but it’s not in the song
Climb back in the cab, cross my fingers for luck
We gotta keep moving if we’re going to make a buck
Let it roll down the highway
Let it roll down the highway
Roll
Roll on
Let it roll
Let it roll
Let it roll
Let it roll
Let it roll down the highway
Let it roll down the highway
Roll, roll, (let it) roll
Down the highway
Let it roll down the highway
Roll, roll, roll
Let it roll down the highway (whoa)
Let it roll down the highway
Roll, roll, roll