“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“King of the Road” is a classic tune that has traveled through time, touching listeners with its carefree, wanderer’s spirit. Originally written and performed by Roger Miller in 1964, it’s the kind of song that feels like a window into a simpler, more honest world. It’s one of those rare gems that never loses its shine, no matter how many times you hear it. With this version, we get something truly special—a collaboration between Josh Turner and Randy Travis. These two powerhouses of country music bring their unique flavors to this beloved track, and the result is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Listening to Turner and Travis sing “King of the Road” feels like taking a road trip with old friends. There’s a warmth and nostalgia in their voices that draws you in, and the song’s iconic lyrics take on a new depth with their rich, country tones. Josh Turner’s deep, resonant voice captures that free spirit perfectly, making every line feel grounded and real. Randy Travis, with his timeless voice, adds a touch of soul that gives the song a classic, timeless feel. Together, they embody the essence of the track—the joy and struggles of life on the road, living free and unburdened, even if it means having little to call your own.
“King of the Road” has always been about more than just a drifter’s tale. It’s about finding freedom in simplicity, about having stories rather than things. It’s a song that celebrates life’s small pleasures and speaks to anyone who’s ever dreamed of packing up and hitting the open road. And Turner and Travis pay homage to this message beautifully. They don’t try to overdo it or make it their own—they respect the song’s original spirit while adding just enough of their own style to make it fresh and engaging.
There’s a reason “King of the Road” has been covered by so many artists over the years—it’s a song that feels universal. When Turner and Travis sing it, you can feel that shared connection. It’s as if they’re tipping their hats to all the drifters, dreamers, and wanderers who came before them and those who will come after. Their rendition captures the joy, resilience, and heart that make this song a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever felt the call of the road.
If you’re a fan of country music or just appreciate songs that tell a story, this version of “King of the Road” is a must-listen. It’s a reminder of how music can bring people together, bridging generations and connecting us through shared experiences. So, take a moment, let the music play, and allow yourself to get lost in the timeless charm of “King of the Road” with two of country’s finest as your guides.
Video
Lyrics
Trailer for sale or rent
Rooms to let, fifty cents
No phone, no pool, no pets
I ain’t got no cigarettes
Ah, but, two hours of pushin’ broom
Buys an eight by twelve four-bit room
I’m a man of means by no means
King of the road
Third boxcar, midnight train
Destination, Bangor, Maine
Old worn out suit and shoes
I don’t pay no union dues
I smoke old stogies I have found
Short, but not too big around
I’m a man of means by no means
King of the road
I know every engineer on every train
All of their children, and all of their names
Every handout in every town
And every lock that ain’t locked
When no one’s around
I sing, trailers for sale or rent
Rooms to let, fifty cents
No phone, no pool, no pets
I ain’t got no cigarettes
Ah, but, two hours of pushin’ broom
Buys an eight by twelve four-bit room
I’m a man of means by no means
King of the road
I know every engineer on every train
All of their children, and all of their names
Every handout in every town
And every lock that ain’t locked
When no one’s around
I sing, trailers for sale or rent
Rooms to let, fifty cents
No phone, no pool, no pets
I ain’t got no cigarettes
Ah, but, two hours of pushin’ broom
Buys an eight by twelve four-bit room
I’m a man of means by no means
King of the road
Trailers for sale or rent
Rooms to let, fifty cents
No phone, no pool, no pets
I ain’t got no cigarettes
Two hours of pushin’ broom
Buys an eight by twelve four-bit room
I’m a man of means by no means
King of the road
King of the road
King of the road