Introduction
“Life Is a Highway” is a song originally written and performed by Canadian musician Tom Cochrane. It was released in 1991 as the lead single from his second solo album, Mad Mad World. The song became a number-one hit in Canada in late 1991 and peaked at number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in August 1992.
In 1998, American country singer and former rodeo champion Chris LeDoux covered “Life Is a Highway” for his album One Road Man. LeDoux’s rendition introduced a country flair to the rock original, incorporating changes such as a modified intro, adjusted timing of vocal entrances on the chorus, and alterations to location names between the first and second chorus. His version was released as a single the following year and peaked at number 64 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart during the week of June 12, 1999, remaining on the chart for nine weeks.
A music video was produced to accompany LeDoux’s version, featuring scenes of him performing in various settings, including roads and highways, as well as a blue-red static-themed room. The video concludes with LeDoux appearing on a flip-down television inside a car, transitioning back to the static room before fading to black.
LeDoux’s adaptation of “Life Is a Highway” reflects his signature blend of country music and rodeo culture, offering a unique take on Cochrane’s hit that resonates with fans of both genres.