Mike Wass of Idolator commented, the "slick set-ups of your typical hip-hop video are represented but there’s a much deeper message here".
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On July 1, a lyric video was released for the single, described as "suitably righteous" for the "gospel-tinged soul ballad" by Mike Wass of Idolator who also commented that "it’s a simple concept with a stylish, content-appropriate color scheme but the clip really excels when it emphasizes the song’s inspirational message".
Review site Idolator said that the song's music video is the "hottest rave to hit Middle Earth, " referencing the works of J. R. R. Tolkien due to Kerli's elfin appearance in the video and the forest setting.
"Highway 85" was then picked up by Global 14, Idolator, Centric, Rap-Up, Singers Room, Ryan Seacrest’s AXS Live, Huffington Post and USA Today.
The video received very positive reviews from Sam Lansky, of Idolator and Perez Hilton.
Mike Wass of Idolator called the track "an infectious mid-tempo pop song with urban roots" comparing it to Ariana Grande's hit single The Way "with an edge", and added that the track "seems to be an ode to her man. “You’re my lover, you’re my friend, you’re my gangsta,” she purrs over tinny synths and piano. It takes a couple of listens but the multitude of hooks pull you in and before you’re singing along. Always the sign of a great pop song".