The Road to Hell cover

The Road to Hell

Chris Rea · 1989

55 min · 11 tracks · pop rock · blues rock · soft rock

Soulful blues-infused rock weaves narratives of despair and hope against a backdrop of atmospheric instrumentation.

Why this album works

Best for
steady mid-tempo reflective journey narrative-driven atmospheric storytelling cathartic moments of introspection
Context
By the time 'The Road to Hell' was released in 1989, Chris Rea had already established himself with several albums. This record marked his commercial breakthrough, featuring a signature sound that blended blues rock with pop elements, leading to greater mainstream recognition in the UK and beyond.
If you like
pop rock, blues rock, soft rock

The Road to Hell is an album by Chris Rea, released in 1989. Soulful blues-infused rock weaves narratives of despair and hope against a backdrop of atmospheric instrumentation. 'The Road to Hell' achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 10 on the UK Albums Chart and earning multi-platinum status. Its title track became one of Rea's most enduring hits, often cited for its lyrical depth and narrative quality, influencing subsequent artists in the blues and rock genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Road to Hell sound like?

Soulful blues-infused rock weaves narratives of despair and hope against a backdrop of atmospheric instrumentation. Rooted in pop rock and blues rock.

What makes The Road to Hell by Chris Rea notable?

'The Road to Hell' achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 10 on the UK Albums Chart and earning multi-platinum status. Its title track became one of Rea's most enduring hits, often cited for its lyrical depth and narrative quality, influencing subsequent artists in the blues and rock genres. By the time 'The Road to Hell' was released in 1989, Chris Rea had already established himself with several albums. This record marked his commercial breakthrough, featuring a signature sound that blended blues rock with pop elements, leading to greater mainstream recognition in the UK and beyond.

Who is The Road to Hell for?

The Road to Hell works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective journey, narrative-driven atmospheric storytelling and cathartic moments of introspection.

How many songs are on The Road to Hell?

The Road to Hell has 11 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·55:09

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Road to Hell, Part 1 Standout 4:53
  • 2 The Road to Hell, Part 2 4:32
  • 3 You Must Be Evil Standout 4:21
  • 4 Texas 5:10
  • 5 Looking for a Rainbow Standout 8:04
  • 6 Your Warm and Tender Love 4:33
  • 7 Daytona 5:06
  • 8 That’s What They Always Say 4:28
  • 9 Let’s Dance 4:17
  • 10 I Just Wanna Be With You 3:41
  • 11 Tell Me There’s a Heaven 6:01

Release Date

January 1, 1989

Genre

blues rock, pop rock, soft rock

More albums in soft rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

55 min 9 sec