About the song
Let’s dive into the iconic song “King of the Road” by the talented Roger Miller. Written and performed by Miller himself, this timeless classic was released in 1965 as part of his album “The Return of Roger Miller.”
Roger Miller, born in 1936, was a prolific singer-songwriter known for his witty lyrics and unique musical style that blended country, folk, and pop influences. “King of the Road” quickly became one of his most recognizable songs, celebrated for its catchy melody and clever wordplay.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a carefree wanderer who embraces a nomadic lifestyle, finding contentment in the simple pleasures of life despite lacking material wealth. This theme resonated deeply with listeners, propelling “King of the Road” to number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to the pop charts where it reached the top 5.
Roger Miller’s delivery of “King of the Road” exudes charm and charisma, showcasing his storytelling prowess and distinctive vocal style. The song earned Miller multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Country & Western Solo Vocal Performance, Male, in 1966.
Throughout his career, Roger Miller continued to enjoy success with other hits and received recognition for his contributions to music. His impact extended beyond his solo career, as he also wrote songs for other artists and contributed to the broader landscape of American popular music.
“King of the Road” remains a classic example of Roger Miller’s enduring talent and his ability to capture the essence of wanderlust and freedom through his music. Its continued popularity underscores its timeless appeal and the lasting legacy of Roger Miller as a beloved figure in country music history.
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…