Route 66: The Legacy of Bobby Troup's Iconic Song and the Reality of Segregation
Route 66, a historic highway in the United States, gained iconic status thanks to songwriter Bobby Troup's famous song "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66." Troup, a young songwriter from Pennsylvania, embarked on a journey with his wife to Los Angeles in 1946, driving along Route 66. Inspired by his wife's suggestion, Troup crafted a catchy tune that highlighted various cities along the highway. The song, recorded by Nat "King" Cole, became a hit and peaked at #11 on the Billboard chart. Despite its popularity, the reality of segregation along Route 66 was a stark contrast to the carefree adventure depicted in the song.
The song's success propelled Troup's career, leading to more albums and songs recorded by various artists. Nat "King" Cole's rendition of "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66" helped popularize the highway, but the discriminatory practices prevalent at the time restricted the freedom of Black travelers. The Green Book, a guide used by African American travelers, provided some assistance, but segregation laws in several states along Route 66 limited access for Black motorists. Despite the challenges faced by Black travelers, the song continued to resonate with audiences and was covered by numerous artists over the years.
Bobby Troup's legacy lives on through his enduring song, which has been recorded by a diverse range of musicians. The impact of "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66" extended beyond Troup's personal success, shaping the way people perceive the famous highway. While the song captured the spirit of adventure and freedom associated with Route 66, it also serves as a reminder of the complex history and challenges faced by travelers during that era. Troup's creation not only became a musical map of the highway but also a symbol of American culture and nostalgia, immortalizing Route 66 as a legendary road that continues to inspire travelers and artists alike.