Roger Miller – King of the Road – 1965

About The Song

“King of the Road” is a classic country and folk song by Roger Miller, released in 1965. Known for its catchy melody and clever lyrics, the song became one of Miller’s signature tunes. Here are five facts about “King of the Road”:

1. Chart Success: “King of the Road” was a commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 1 on the country charts in the United States. The song’s popularity extended beyond the country music audience, making it a crossover hit.
2. Songwriting and Inspiration: Roger Miller wrote “King of the Road” himself. The lyrics tell the story of a carefree and resourceful drifter who embraces a simple, vagabond lifestyle. The song’s protagonist takes pride in his ability to make do with very little.
3. Awards: The song won several awards, including Grammy Awards for Best Country & Western Song and Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. Its success contributed to Roger Miller’s reputation as a skilled songwriter and performer.
4. Cultural Impact: “King of the Road” has become a classic in the country music genre and has been covered by various artists over the years. Its enduring popularity is evident in its continued use in films, television shows, and commercials, making it a timeless piece of American music.
5. Whistle Solo: The distinctive whistle solo in “King of the Road” is one of its most memorable elements. This simple yet catchy whistle became an integral part of the song’s charm and contributed to its widespread appeal.

Video

Lyrics

Trailer’s for sale or rent
Rooms to let, 50 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
And every handout in every town
Every lock that ain’t locked, when no one’s around

I sing, trailers for sale or rent
Rooms to let, 50 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, 50 cents
No phone, no pool, no pets
I ain’t got no cigarettes
Ah, but, two hours of pushin’ broom buys…