About the song
“On the Road Again” is a celebrated song by Willie Nelson that captures the essence of life on tour. Written specifically for the 1980 film *Honeysuckle Rose*, the song was Nelson’s ninth number one hit on the Country & Western charts and marked his sixth solo chart-topping single. Released in November 1980, it quickly became one of Nelson’s most recognizable and enduring tunes. The song also achieved notable success on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number 20, and peaked at number 7 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Its popularity was further cemented when it won a Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 1981.
The inspiration for “On the Road Again” came from Nelson’s involvement in the film *Honeysuckle Rose*, where he played an aging musician navigating the highs and lows of life on the road. The film’s executive producer asked Nelson to write a song that encapsulated the touring experience. Nelson, known for his creativity, wrote the song on a flight, using a barf bag as his makeshift notepad. The track features a lively “train beat” that perfectly complements the theme of travel and adventure.
The song’s impact extended beyond its initial release. It has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including *South Park*, *Shrek*, and *Forrest Gump*. A live version of the song appeared in the 2008 video game *Guitar Hero World Tour*, and its studio version was included in the *Rock Band Country Track Pack*. Notably, Conan O’Brien performed a parody version of the song, titled “My Own Show Again,” during his 2010 tour.
In 2016, “On the Road Again” was included in the promotional medley “Forever Country,” celebrating classic country hits. First Aid Kit released a cover of the song in 2020, with proceeds supporting Crew Nation, an organization aiding crew members affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“On the Road Again” remains a staple in Willie Nelson’s repertoire and is cherished for its joyful celebration of the touring lifestyle, showcasing Nelson’s talent for blending personal experience with universal appeal.
Video
Lyrics
Thank you
On the road again
I just can’t wait to get on the road again
The life I love is making music with my friends
And I can’t wait to get on the road again
On the road again
Goin’ places that I’ve never been
Seein’ things that I may never see again
And I can’t wait to get on the road again
Everybody sing
On the road again
Like a band o’ gypsies, we go down the highway
We’re the best of friends
Insisting that the world keep turning our way
And our way
Is on the road again
I just can’t wait to get on the road again
The life I love is makin’ music with my friends
And I can’t wait to get on the road again
On the road again
Like a band o’ gypsies, we go down the highway
We’re the best of friends
Insisting that the world keep turning our way
And our way
Is on the road again
Just can’t wait to get on the road again
The life I love is makin’ music with my friends
And I can’t wait to get on the road again
I can’t wait to get on the road again
I hear you, thank you very much