Highway 62 is a song by Eric Burdon that tells the story of a man who is seeking peace and freedom from pain. The lyrics depict a protagonist who decides to say goodbye to a friend by scattering his ashes into the desert wind. This act is a way for him to fulfill a promise to his old friend and find closure. The song also delves into the protagonist's personal struggles and experiences. He is portrayed as a rebellious figure, constantly tempted by the allure of Hollywood and its vices. The use of drugs and the dangerous lifestyle associated with it are mentioned, as well as the protagonist's desire to make it home and see the age of 31, despite being on the wrong side of the law. The song hints at the idea that faith can cure all ills, as the protagonist encounters people who may be considered eccentric but still have unwavering faith. This is exemplified by a woman with a glass eye who slips him methamphetamine pills. The lyrics also touch on the protagonist's weariness with life and his readiness to embrace death. He expresses a desire to be buried with his motorcycle and take his "long last ride." This suggests that he sees death as a way to find peace and escape from the pain and troubles of his life. The story takes a tragic turn as the protagonist dies in a car accident caused by a cold desert breeze. The imagery of the grinding of metal and the spinning of wheels creates a sense of anticipation and foreshadowing. The woman he meets earlier takes a pickup truck and a backhoe to dig his grave, and the song ends with a mention of a blackened stain at the foot of Joshua Tree, symbolizing his tragic demise. Overall, "Highway 62" explores themes of mortality, seeking peace, and the struggles faced by those living on the edge. It portrays a life filled with danger, temptation, and a constant search for solace.
