In Pixar’s Cars, which song plays over the opening highway montage?

In Pixar’s Cars, “Real Gone” plays over the opening highway montage.

The song opens the film as Lightning McQueen travels toward the Piston Cup finale. Its energetic rock sound establishes the speed, confidence, and competitive attitude of the rookie racer before the story shifts to his separation from Mack and his arrival in Radiator Springs.

“Real Gone” was written by Sheryl Crow, who also performs the recording used in the film. It appears on the Cars soundtrack alongside songs by artists including Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, and John Mayer. The soundtrack mixes original songs with music chosen to support the film’s road-trip and racing identity.

“Life Is a Highway,” performed by Rascal Flatts, is another prominent song from Cars, but it is associated with a later travel sequence rather than the opening montage. “Our Town,” performed by James Taylor, accompanies a reflective section connected with Radiator Springs.