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Released in 1969

Thumbin' A Ride

Written by Jerry Leiber • Mike Stoller

Last updated on March 9, 2025

Album This song officially appears on the New Day / Thumbin' A Ride 7" Single.

Timeline This song was officially released in 1969

Timeline This song was recorded in 1969

Related sessions

This song was recorded during the following studio sessions:

Other songs recorded by Jackie Lomax

“Thumbin’ a Ride” is a song written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller and recorded by The Coasters. It was released as a single in 1961, with “Wait a Minute” as the B-side.

In 1969, Jackie Lomax recorded a cover of “Thumbin’ a Ride,” which was released as the B-side to “New Day.” This version featured Paul McCartney as both the drummer and producer.

In 1999, during the sessions for his album “Run Devil Run,” Paul McCartney recorded his own version of “Thumbin’ a Ride,” though it remains unreleased.

Lyrics

I had myself a day job

Pumpin' gasoline

A dollar a day is all they pay

And I just can't make that scene

That's why I'm thumbin' a ride

Thumbin' a ride, thumbin' a ride

On the road

If I could find some money

I'd straighten out right quick

But every time I get a dime

I spend it on some chick

That's why I'm thumbin' a ride

Thumbin' a ride, thumbin' a ride

On the road

That's why I'm thumbin' a ride

Thumbin' a ride, thumbin' a ride

On the road

I'm walkin' down the highway

Sweatin' like salt pork

I'm puttin' down this country town

'Cause my soul's up in New York

That's why I'm thumbin' a ride

Thumbin' a ride, thumbin' a ride

On the road

Thumbin' a ride, thumbin' a ride

Keep on thumbin' a ride

Thumbin' a ride on the road

Yes, I'm thumbin' a ride

Somebody just gotta get me a lift soon

Ooh, my achin' feet

But I'm gonna make it home soon

I gotta woman waitin'

Ah, keep on thumbin'

Keep on thumbin' a rode

Officially appears on

Paul McCartney writing

Talk more talk, chat more chat

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