It was written by The Kinks' primary songwriter, Ray Davies.

Described as "a chronicle of the band's typical touring experiences" by AllMusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine, "The Road" mentions the singer's experiences in with "bed and breakfasts and the greasy spoons ... loser bars and the noisy rooms ... [and] the casualties who did too many lines.

"[1] This topic of touring has been addressed by Ray Davies multiple times prior to the writing of this song, from "This Time Tomorrow" from Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One to "Life on the Road" from the album Sleepwalker.

It has since appeared on the compilation albums Lost & Found (1986-1989) and Picture Book.

Despite citing the song as a highlight from both Live: The Road and Lost & Found (1986-1989), Stephen Thomas Erlewine said that "like the rest of [Live: The Road], the song wasn't anything special.