In January 2014, in a review for Cruel Sun, Kurt Keefner said that "the African vocal riff from 'Send Me on My Way' is bad Ladysmith Black Mambazo",[5] whereas Chris Baker of Syracuse.com said "The song's pep and lightheartedness is undoubtedly responsible for its success.

Unlike the fervor found in songs like 'Ecstasy' or 'Lost in a Crowd,' 'Send Me on My Way' is unbridled optimism – perfect for a children's movie.

"[6] Directed by Sean Alquist, the music video was filmed in the badlands of South Dakota in late 1994.

Despite not being an immediate commercial success, it has since become an "iconic track of the 1990s", mainly due to its prominence in several movies and TV series, including Pie in the Sky, Matilda, Party of Five, Ice Age, Race the Sun and New Girl.

[13][14] NASA engineers chose "Send Me on My Way" as "wake up" music for the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity, for Sol 21.