Road Trip “Rakista” Ultimate Playlist
If you are from the Philippines, you know that a “Rakista” is someone who listens to rock music but not only that; being a rakista is a state of mind. It’s not only about wearing leather or Doc Marten’s boots or being tough. It’s a lifestyle; it’s listening to rock music and understanding the meaning of those songs deep within your heart.

And if you’re going on a road trip and of course you don’t want to play Katy Perry songs; here are the new and old rock music (with sub-genre) that you should be listening to and singing your heart out to.
Dream On by Aerosmith
Okay, so this song has also been revived by Eminem with his own unique rap rendition included. But the original version can bring goose bumps to any rock and roll fans. The chorus is magical, the instruments are well played especially the drums and the way Joe Perry played his guitar ghostly. While it doesn’t talk about travel, singing to a song this high can literally up your vacation mood.
Where the Streets Have No Name by U2
I wanna feel sunlight on my face. I see the dust-cloud. Disappear without a trace. I wanna take shelter from the poison rain. Where the streets have no name… Where the streets have no name… Where the streets have no name. Just by reading the lyrics, you can already feel your spirit being inspired; what more when you hear the song? There are no extraordinary instruments being played here, just the fact that it is an engaging song and it makes any heart skip a beat.

Drive by Eraserheads
Although this band no longer makes albums, we can’t deny that their music is legend. Ely Buendia’s songwriting skills together with his bandmates’ exceptional instruments handling are what catapulted this band to success in the late 90s. Almost all their songs are popular and relatable and Drive talks about, well, road tripping to different parts of our country which is very timely since you’re going on a road trip.
It’s a Beautiful Day by U2
You can never have too much U2 on your playlist besides when you’re out driving; a song that describes a sunny day and that you have to live in the moment and take it all in simply pushes you to feel the sunshine on your cheeks and listen to what nature is telling you and that is to be happy.
Good Goodbye by Linkin Park
You can play this song particularly if you are pissed off with someone but instead of him saying goodbye to you, it’s the other way around. It’s you saying goodbye to the things that give you heartaches and headaches and it’s definitely a good, goodbye.

Seize the Day by Avenged Sevenfold
Seize the day or die regretting the time you lost. It’s empty and cold without you here, too many people to ache over. I see my vision burn, I feel my memories fade with time but I’m too young to worry. These streets we travel on will undergo our same lost past. This is not a happy song at all but who needs happy? This is the playlist of a rock fan so it’s just natural that there will be rather sad songs being played at times.
The Passenger by Iggy Pop
This song by The Stooges frontman talks about the sky, the city, the stars, the ride and someone whom he takes the ride with. Iggy Pop’s deep voice partnered with a somewhat upbeat music makes this song different. It is addictive and best to play when it’s near sundown.
Highway to Hell by AC/DC
It’s got good intro. Bon Scott’s voice is a split between Aerosmith’s front man and Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses. This song is a little dramatic in the beginning turning livelier and louder as it goes on. While you’re not really going to hell because who wants that; this can jumpstart your music session as you drive.
Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi
If you’ve got the strong urge to just run away, this song is for you. Just wait for the right time and it will all come to you. Not only is Bon Jovi good-looking but more importantly, he’s got a striking voice too. This song is quite catchy and you’ll want to bang your head while singing it in the car.

Summer of ’69 by Bryan Adams
It’s summer and you just want to drive out of the city. Bring your guitar with you and play it while listening to Bryan Adams retell the past summer through his song. Munch some chips and drink vanilla Coke and just enjoy the ride.
Also Read:
- 5 Out of Manila Road Trip Destinations
- How to Prepare Your Family Vehicle for a Long Trip across America