Written by Peter Gabriel and produced by Peter Gabriel and Brian Eno, Road to Joy features Soweto Gospel Choir, a string arrangement from John Metcalfe and contributions from a number of Gabriel's current touring band; long-time collaborators Tony Levin (bass), David Rhodes (guitar) and Manu Katché (drums) as well as two newer members Don E (bass keys), 'he did the funkiest bass line that you can imagine' and Josh Shpak (trumpet), 'beautiful playing, a super musical guy.'

The song was recorded at Real World Studios, Bath, The Beehive and British Grove, London and High Seas Studios, South Africa.