There’s something about a great song that just makes you feel good. And when it comes to songs about work, they can be the perfect pick-me-up to help you get through a tough day.
Whether you’re facing a challenging project or just feeling down in the dumps, these 60 songs about work will motivate you to get the job done. So put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and let these tunes inspire you to achieve great things!
61 Songs About Work That Will Motivate You To Get The Job Done
40 Hour Week by Alabama.
This classic ’80s anthem is the perfect song to jam out to when you’re pushing through your 9-5. The bright and encouraging lyrics are sure to get you in the mood for a productive day at work, no matter what job you have.
With its easy-going country melody and heart-warming message, it’s no wonder “40 Hour Week” is a fan favorite.
6 inch by Beyoncé.
This song is about the hard work and dedication that Beyoncé puts in to be successful. It includes lyrics about rising above the grind, working for her own money, and being independent.
The song also touches on issues of income inequality, with lines like “I’m livin’ off borrowed time, the clock tick faster for the lesser”.
This song captures the feeling of working hard to get ahead and the struggles of balancing life while trying to make your dreams come true.
9 To 5 by Dolly Parton.
This classic song has become an anthem for the working class, expressing the feelings of those who toil day in and day out. The lyrics tell of a woman who is stuck in her job, feeling unfulfilled and wishing she could escape it.
The chorus proclaims “Workin’ 9 to 5, what a way to make a livin’ / Barely gettin’ by, it’s all takin’ and no givin’” and paints a vivid picture of the struggle that many faces.
Despite her unhappiness, Dolly Parton sings with determination and hope of one day becoming free from her job. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Loretta Lynn and Thelma Houston, and has been featured in films such as 9 to 5.
Additionally, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2019. All of this shows just how much this song resonates with people who have worked hard for a living.
A Hard Day’s Night by The Beatles.
This song was released in 1964 and quickly shot to fame for its catchy beat. The song celebrates a hard working day, with the lyrics “Workin’ like a dog for my pay”.
It has become an anthem for employees who put in long days at their jobs and come home exhausted but still singing along.
Assembly Line by Randy Montana.
This song is about a factory worker who puts his heart and soul into his job. He loves the feeling of providing for his family but hates the monotony of working on an assembly line.
The lyrics powerfully express the tension between wanting to provide for oneself and one’s family, yet being stuck in a grueling job with no end in sight.
The chorus of the song brings this message to life with the lyrics, “Ain’t no job gonna last forever/But I’ll do it ’til I find a better way/Workin’ on an assembly line.”
Assembly Line is an anthem for anyone struggling to make ends meet in a job they don’t love. It is an ode to the hard work and dedication of everyday working people all over the world.
Beer On The Table by Josh Thompson.
This song celebrates the hardworking life. It tells a story of a man whose father always taught him to appreciate and value honest work, no matter how much he makes from it. He’s proud of his job and works hard for what he has.
The chorus goes, “I’m taking home my paycheck/ I don’t mind ’cause I earned it/ I don’t mind when I’m tired but it’s alright/ ‘Cause beer on the table tonight”.
With its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and meaningful lyrics, Beer On The Table is a great tribute to those who work hard for what they have.
Bell Boy by The Who.
This song is about a bell boy from the band’s hotel. The lyrics tell of his daily life, from putting on his uniform in the morning to his thoughts of what life could be like if he had more money and freedom.
The song paints a vivid picture of the struggles that come with working hard for little pay. The Who were known for their hard-hitting rock and roll, but this song is a poignant reminder of the lives that so many struggle to make ends meet.
Blowin’ Smoke by Kacey Musgraves.
This song speaks to the mundane and unfulfilling nature of work. The narrator in the song is a waitress, and she sings about how she would much rather be doing something else with her life than serving up food all day long.
She dreams of running away and finding freedom from her job. But for now, she’s stuck “blowin’ smoke and tellin’ lies.” The song has a catchy tune and sing-along chorus that makes it fun to listen to, despite its somber message about the struggles of working life.
Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) by Styx.
This classic rock hit tells the story of a hardworking, blue-collar man who loves his job and puts in long hours to support his family.
Although he struggles with exhaustion and the physical demands of his work, he is steadfastly loyal to his company and job, describing himself as “the one they all depend on.”
He celebrates the satisfaction that comes from a hard day’s work and is proud of the man he has become. A staple of 1970s rock radio, Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) speaks to the pride and dedication that goes into manual labor.
Busy Man by Billy Ray Cyrus.
This country anthem celebrates the hardworking individual who finds no time to rest and just keeps working. It speaks of the struggles faced by blue-collar workers, while also giving them a sense of pride in their work ethic.
The lyrics are uplifting, as Cyrus sings of having “hands that calloused from labor with sweat on my brow” but still being able to “keep on going”. The song is an ode to those who rise each morning and head off to their job, no matter how tiring it may be.
Working hard isn’t always easy, but this song provides a reminder that you can make it through the day with a positive attitude. It’s perfect for anyone feeling unmotivated or overwhelmed by their workload.
Cardiac Arrest by Madness.
This hilarious single from Madness’ second album, Absolutely was released in 1980. It’s about a man who is so fed up with his job that he takes drastic action – faking a heart attack to get out of it!
The lyrics reference the monotony and “soul-destroying” nature of office work, as well as the struggles of the working class to make ends meet.
The song is a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the mundane nature of work and its impact on people’s mental health, making it a perfect addition to any playlist about work and jobs.
Career Opportunities by The Clash.
This iconic punk rock band’s song is a call to action for those who feel stuck in their job. The chorus of the song captures its spirit perfectly: “Career opportunities are the ones that never knock, every job they offer you is to keep you out the dock…”
It encourages listeners to take an active role in their lives and look for better work opportunities. The song also speaks to the need for economic and social justice, as well as a critique of the class system.
It is a powerful anthem that speaks to those who feel trapped in their current job situation and want something better.
Carwash by Rose Royce.
This song was released in 1976 and was not only a hit but an anthem for the everyday worker. The lyrics perfectly describe the drudgery of working at a car wash, from getting up early in the morning to dealing with unsatisfied customers.
Despite these hardships, the narrator is determined to make his job fun by singing while he works and finding joy in the monotony.
The infectious beat and cheerful chorus make it a song everyone can relate to, whether they work at a car wash or not. Working hard is tough but with this song, Rose Royce reminds us to find joy in our job even when times are tough.
Cat’s In The Cradle by Harry Chapin.
This song highlights the struggles of balancing work life with family life. It tells the story of a father who is constantly too busy for his son and when he does have time, his son no longer needs him.
The song serves as a reminder to cherish the precious moments spent with our loved ones and not get overwhelmed by work demands.
Chain Gang by Sam Cooke.
Released in 1960, this classic song chronicles the day-to-day struggles of labor and working as part of a team. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of chain gangs working on the railroad tracks and share an important message about perseverance and hope in the face of hardship.
With its powerful lyrics and infectious melody, Chain Gang has become one of the most iconic songs about the working class. “You know it seems like, I could work all night,” Cooke sings in the chorus, highlighting the never-ending nature of hard labor and dedication to a job.
The song speaks to the strength of workers and their ability to persevere even when the conditions are difficult. It’s a reminder that no matter how tough things may seem, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Chain Gang has inspired countless covers and tributes in the years since its release, and it’s still just as relevant today.
Cleaning Windows by Van Morrison.
This upbeat folk-rock song pays homage to the hard work of window cleaners. Written by Van Morrison and originally released on his 1970 album Moondance, Cleaning Windows paints a cheery, lighthearted picture of working for one’s daily bread.
The narrator looks at the bright side of life, even when he’s stuck cleaning windows in the rain. He chooses to make the most of his situation and finds humorous moments, such as when he says “I got no money, but I got style as I was washing those windows with a smile”.
The song is an inspiration for anyone who works hard at whatever job they have, no matter how menial or difficult it might be. It’s a reminder that no job is too small and can help bring joy in the darkest of times.
Cumberland Blues by Grateful Dead.
This classic rock song tells the story of a man looking for a job in Cumberland, Maryland. He is tired from working hard and carrying his load and just wants someone to give him a chance.
The song speaks to all people searching for work, hoping for something that will bring them purpose and stability in life.
It’s a reminder that no matter how hard the struggle may be, perseverance will eventually pay off. Ultimately, it’s a reminder to never give up and keep on working.
Dear Mama by Tupac Shakur.
This classic hip-hop song is an ode to Tupac’s mother, who worked hard as a single parent to support her family.
The song celebrates her determination and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, with lyrics like “We used to fuss when I was young/But somehow we’d manage/Make a little money for the rent/Make a better place to stay.”
Tupac pays tribute to the hardworking mothers of the world and acknowledges that without them, many would be lost.
He also encourages people not to take their parents for granted and to show appreciation for all that they do. Working hard no matter the circumstances is an important lesson we can learn from this song.
Door To Door by Creedence Clearwater Revival.
This classic from the band’s 1970 album Cosmos Factory is a song about a man who has worked hard all his life, and finds himself going door to door in search of work.
The lyrics evoke feelings of desperation and sadness at his hardships, giving listeners an insight into the struggles faced by many workers in their daily lives.
With its driving rhythm and blues melody, this song is an anthem for anyone who has ever had to scrape and fight just to make ends meet.
Epiphany by Taylor Swift.
This song is an anthem for those who feel like they are stuck in the same job and don’t know how to make it better. In the chorus, Taylor sings “I made up my mind, I ain’t wasting no more time/Here I come, I’m a light up this dark highway/Sometimes you have to get lost to be found.”
This song is perfect for anyone who wants to feel empowered and motivated to work hard and make a change in their life.
Family Man by Craig Campbell.
This song is about hard work and the life of a family man. A classic country beat, it tells the story of a dad who works long hours to provide for his children and keep food on the table.
The lyrics also touch on themes of faith, hope, perseverance, and success. Despite all that he sacrifices, the father in this song loves his job and takes pride in it.
It’s an inspirational song about the importance of hard work and determination, which resonates with working families all over the world.
Five O’Clock World by The Vogues.
This classic 1960s hit is about a woman who works hard in the office all day and can’t wait for five o’clock.
She eagerly anticipates going home to her family and getting away from the grind of work. The song captures the feeling of wanting to escape from your job at the end of a long day.
God Bless Saturday by Kid Rock.
This song celebrates the joys of having a day off after a hard week of work. It is an upbeat, catchy tune that encourages listeners to take advantage of the time off and enjoy life.
The chorus states “Workin’ all week long, livin’ for the weekend, God bless Saturday morning…” This anthem is sure to put a smile on the face of anyone who has worked hard all week long.
Got a Job by The Miracles.
This classic Motown hit was released in 1961 and features the quintessential rags-to-riches story. The song follows a struggling young man who works hard to make his dreams come true, no matter how difficult it may seem.
He just “got a job, working for my pay” and he knows that if he continues to work hard, he will achieve success. The song is an inspirational reminder of the power of perseverance, determination, and hard work.
Hands of a Workin’ Man by Zane Williams.
An upbeat and motivational song about hard work. The chorus sings, “I got the hands of a workin’ man, puttin’ in the days like I know that I can. And when it looks like the world’s gonna break me down, I get back up again.”
It’s an empowering message for those who may be struggling to stay motivated or for those who are working hard to achieve their dreams. It’s a reminder that no matter what, you can keep going and push through to success.
Hard Hat And A Hammer by Alan Jackson.
This song celebrates the everyday hardworking man who wears a hard hat and wields a hammer. He puts his back into everything he does, whether it’s constructing homes, bridges, or roads.
Alan Jackson paints a vivid picture of the American spirit in this upbeat tune. It reminds listeners that there’s no job too big or small for those who work with their hands and have a positive attitude.
It is a tribute to the tradesmen, who proudly wake up each morning and put their own special touch on whatever they build.
Hard Way To Make An Easy Living by Toby Keith.
Toby Keith is often known for his fun, upbeat songs but this one is a bit different. It’s about how hard it can be to make ends meet and how working hard often isn’t enough.
The song talks about the long, strenuous hours people have to put in during their jobs and acknowledges that money doesn’t buy happiness, but it does buy peace of mind.
It’s a great reminder to appreciate the hard-working people in your life and take time to thank them for all that they do.
Heigh Ho by The Seven Dwarfs.
This timeless classic from Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a beloved song about hard work. The dwarves sing this cheery tune as they go off to work in the diamond mine, singing of the joys of working together and appreciating all their hard labor.
This fun and upbeat song serves as an ode to the value of hard work, and how it can bring people closer together as they accomplish their tasks.
Even though it’s sung by a group of cartoon dwarfs in an animated movie, Heigh Ho conveys an important message about the power of hard work and the satisfaction that comes from doing one’s best.
Hey, Mister (I Need This Job) by Shenandoah.
This song from 1989 is all about the struggles of finding a job and working hard to make ends meet.
Singer Marty Raybon sings about how he’s willing to do whatever it takes to find decent employment, even if that means dealing with an unpleasant boss: “Hey, mister / I need this job / Tell me what you want done / And I’ll do it…/ I’m gonna work all day and night / If you need it done right.”
The song speaks to the struggles people face when searching for a job, and how important it is to stay motivated and never give up.
It’s My Job by Jimmy Buffett.
Written by Buffett himself and released on his 1996 album, Barometer Soup, this fun-loving tune is all about the joys of working hard. The singer brags about how he’s “got a job and I’m gonna do it right/ And if you don’t like it that’s alright.”
It’s a celebration of work and the satisfaction it brings, as well as a reminder to stay humble even when you do great things.
With its catchy chorus that encourages people to “Gonna get up in the morning just to see what I can do/ Don’t worry about tomorrow cause I got something better for me and you”, it’s no wonder this song is a fan favorite. So if you need some motivation to get up and work hard, crank up It’s My Job by Jimmy Buffett!
Let It Rock by Chuck Berry.
This classic blues-rock tune celebrates the joys of hard work, with Chuck singing about how “hard work and dedication will set you free.” The lyrics are full of imagery of physical labor in factories and fields, with bales of hay and loads of stone as backdrops.
Alongside the hard work, Chuck also packs a message of hope that by doing the right thing, you can make a better life for yourself. With its catchy guitar riffs and timeless lyrics, Let It Rock is a song that will get you pumped to tackle any task ahead of you!
Lord Have Mercy On The Working Man by Travis Tritt.
This 2000 song captures the struggles of the working man. Tritt sings of a father who works two jobs just to make ends meet, while mostly going unnoticed and unappreciated by society.
He sympathizes with the laboring man who is “working so hard just to stay alive” and hoping that his troubles will pass with time.
Manic Monday by The Bangles.
This song is about the feeling of dread that many people experience on Monday morning as they face another week of work. The lyrics describe how depressing it can be to go back to a mundane job after an enjoyable weekend.
It’s a classic case of the Monday Blues and a reminder for us all to take some time out of our busy lives and enjoy the simple things.
Money for Nothing by Dire Straits.
This song tells the story of a working man who watches music videos on MTV and wonders why he has to work so hard while those in the video get to have all the fun. The chorus is an ironic take on this sentiment with its memorable line “That ain’t working, that’s the way you do it”.
It’s an anthem for all those stuck in dead-end jobs, wishing they could find a way out. 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton is a classic song about having to work hard for an unappreciative boss.
This catchy tune has been covered numerous times and stands as an emblem of the daily grind that so many people experience. It speaks of the frustration and hopelessness that can come with long hours and low pay.
Morning Train (Nine To Five) by Sheena Easton.
This song is about a woman working hard to make her dreams come true. She works long hours while others are sleeping, and she’s determined to rise up the corporate ladder.
The lyrics emphasize the importance of focusing on one’s goals even if it means sacrificing sleep or leisure activities. It’s an uplifting ode to those who put in extra effort to get ahead.
Night Shift by Jon Pardi.
This song is about a long, hard night at work. Tired but determined, Pardi sings about the struggles of pulling off an all-nighter in order to make it through the week.
The song captures the feeling of pushing through exhaustion and finding comfort in knowing that after this shift ends, there’s only one more left before the weekend arrives.
Overworked And Underpaid by Quiet Riot.
This hard rock classic by Quiet Riot is a timeless anthem of frustration. It captures the sense of being undervalued and overworked and speaks to anyone who has experienced this feeling.
The song’s lyrics include lines like “I work hard every day / To get my pay but where it goes I don’t know,” making it a perfect pick-me-up for anyone feeling undervalued and overworked.
This song is sure to get the blood pumping and the fists shaking in solidarity with all those who feel like they are putting in hard work but not being fairly paid.
Poor Paddy On The Railway by The Pogues.
Poor Paddy On The Railway is a traditional Irish song about an agricultural laborer who decides to leave his job on the land and try his luck in London.
It tells the story of a poor man struggling with grueling work conditions and long hours, only to be met with disappointment and little reward.
With its simple yet powerful lyrics, Poor Paddy On The Railway encapsulates the struggles of those trying to make a living through hard work and the harsh realities of life in rural Ireland.
Rich in history, Poor Paddy On The Railway is about working hard for little return; it speaks to any person who has ever felt the pain of unrelenting labor with no reward.
This classic song captures the struggles of a generation and serves as a reminder that hard work can often be thankless, but should never go unrecognized.
Poor Paddy On The Railway is an emotional tribute to the resilience and strength of those working hard for their future.
She Works Hard For The Money by Donna Summer.
This classic hit from 1983 reflects the struggles of working women everywhere. The lyrics paint a picture of a working mother who is putting in long hours and struggling to make ends meet. Through it all she keeps her head up, believing that she will eventually get ahead.
This song celebrates the resilience and determination of hardworking women everywhere and has become an anthem for female empowerment.
Singing along to the catchy chorus can help motivate and inspire anyone who is enduring challenging times.
Shiftwork by Kenny Chesney feat George Strait.
Released in 2008, this song is a tribute to those who work night shifts and don’t get to share in all the activities that other people do during the day.
The two Country singers banter back and forth as they sing about working hard and being proud of it despite not having time for regular family life. Chesney sings “you can be a hero in the morning light, get your rest while you can, and fight the good fight”.
The song reflects the reality of shift work but also speaks to those who may be struggling with an unconventional lifestyle.
It’s an ode to hardworking people all over the world that sometimes have to make sacrifices for their jobs and families. This song is a great reminder that although hard work isn’t always easy, it can be incredibly rewarding.
Six Days On The Road by Sawyer Brown.
This classic country song tells the story of a hardworking truck driver who has been out on the road for six days with no end in sight.
The singer longs to be back home and away from the grueling routine of life on the highway. With its upbeat melody and catchy lyrics, it’s no wonder this song is often featured in movies and television shows.
Slave To The Wage by Placebo.
This song is about the day to day grind and how it can consume one’s life. It talks about being a slave to the wage, stuck in a rut, and never having enough money no matter how hard you work.
The lyrics “And I’m still on the take, too scared to break” emphasize just how entrenched and powerless the protagonist feels in their situation.
The song speaks to anyone who has ever felt the exhaustion of working hard with no reward or respite, making it a very relatable song for those that work long hours and still feel like they’re not getting ahead in life.
It resonates even more so today due to the increasing number of people living in a gig economy or with unstable job security.
Smoke Break by Carrie Underwood.
This song is about the hard work and dedication it takes to make ends meet, no matter how long or hard your job may be. The lyrics tell of a woman who works her fingers to the bone in order to provide for her family, yet still finds time for a “smoke break.”
This song paints a vivid picture of what many hard-working individuals go through on a daily basis and serves as an ode to all those who put in the extra effort.
The chorus of this song is especially powerful, as it speaks to the importance of taking a break from time to time even when times are tough: “And I’m gonna get my smoke break/ And I’m gonna take my smoke break / ‘Cause the world can wait a minute, yeah/ Take that load off me.”
This song is an excellent reminder to those who work hard every day that it’s important to take a break and appreciate your efforts from time to time.
Take This Job and Shove It by Johnny Paycheck.
This classic country song is all about having a job that you hate and being so fed up with it that you want to quit.
The song tells the story of a man who worked hard for years and was never appreciated, so he finally decides to stand up for himself and tell his boss “take this job and shove it.”
Johnny Paycheck’s song has become a popular anthem for workers fed up with their jobs and it can be appreciated by anyone who has ever felt like quitting.
Taking Care Of Business by Bachman Turner Overdrive.
This song by classic rockers Bachman Turner Overdrive is a tribute to the hardworking individual who takes care of business and isn’t afraid to put in the time and effort it takes to get things done.
The lyrics are an ode to those who never give up, encouraging them not to forget that they will be rewarded for their dedication.
The upbeat tempo makes this song a fun way to motivate yourself and remind yourself of the value of hard work. Just like its title suggests, Taking Care Of Business is sure to get you in the right frame of mind for tackling whatever comes your way.
We Work the Black Seam by Sting.
This song is about coal miners and the hard work they do to provide for their families. It paints a vivid picture of the harsh conditions underground and how grueling the job can be, with endless hours spent in darkness and danger.
The song also speaks of hope, as it encourages us to look towards a brighter future where we are not chained to this back-breaking work. The message of the song is simple: despite our current struggle, we can still aspire for a better life.
Welcome To The Working Week by Elvis Costello.
This song is a classic from the early days of punk rock. Costello pays tribute to those who work hard, often for little reward, and try to make it through each working week with dignity.
With its driving rhythm and catchy chorus, this track will get you fired up and ready to take on whatever comes your way.
When I’m Cleaning Windows by George Formby.
This British novelty song was released in 1936 and quickly became a classic. The song tells the story of a window cleaner who dreams of making it big with his music, but instead he finds himself still cleaning windows.
It’s a fun and lighthearted look at what life is like when you are stuck in a job that doesn’t fulfill you.
Whistle While You Work by Adriana Caselotti.
This classic Disney song was featured in the movie Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. It’s a fun and lighthearted reminder to stay positive and enjoy your work, no matter how hard it may seem. “Whistle while you work/Happiness will follow you” is an inspiring message for anyone struggling with a difficult job or project.
Whole Lotta Quit by Randy Houser.
This song talks about the protagonist’s desire to leave their job and do something different with their life, but the challenges of actually doing so.
The chorus has the protagonist singing: “I got a whole lotta quit in me, I just can’t find my way out / Gotta be more than these four walls that surround me now / ‘Cause I got a whole lotta quit in me, I’m sick of doin’ what they say / And it’s so hard to stay when you got a whole lotta quit”.
The somber melody and lyrics reflect the struggles of an individual that is stuck in their current job, but wanting something better.
Work Hard, Play Harder by Gretchen Wilson.
With hard-driving electric guitar and Wilson’s powerful vocal delivery, this anthem celebrates the idea of striving for success while still making time to enjoy life.
With lyrics like “I work my butt off all week long so I can party like a rock star on the weekend,” it speaks to anyone who believes in getting ahead through hard work and dedication.
For those moments when you need a little extra motivation to keep pushing forward, this song provides the perfect soundtrack.
Worker’s Song by Dropkick Murphys.
This rousing Celtic punk anthem is sure to get you motivated. It’s a celebration of the working class, filled with powerful guitars and communal chant-along choruses.
The song pays tribute to laborers who have been “worked down to skin and bone” in the pursuit of a better life for their families. Its unifying chorus of “Let’s go, Oh-Oh!” is a rousing invitation to rise up against corporate oppression.
Workin by Lynyrd Skynyrd.
This song speaks about a man’s dedication to his hard work and how he is constantly putting in the effort to make ends meet.
The lyrics go, “I’m working hard for my money, livin’ off of what I can earn/But I’ll never let ’em take away my pride”. This shows that even though times may be hard, he will continue to strive and persevere. The chorus says it all, “I’m workin’ – on my job from nine to five/And I’m workin’ – just to keep alive”.
This song is a reminder of the value of hard word and dedication. It celebrates those who are willing to put in the effort and reminds us of the importance of being persistent.
No matter what life throws our way, we should never give up on our dreams. We can learn from this song that hard work will pay off in the end.
Workin’ For A Livin by Huey Lewis & The News.
This classic song was written when Lewis was struggling to make ends meet, and he captures the essence of working hard for a living in this upbeat tune.
The lyrics talk about how hard it can be to pay the bills and keep your head above water while trying to get ahead. Other lines touch on the struggles of unemployment and having to take whatever job is available.
It’s an anthem for anyone who has ever struggled to make ends meet, and it’s a reminder that things can get better if you keep on working hard.
Workin’ Man Blues by Merle Haggard.
From its opening lyrics, “I’m a workin’ man, don’t have much money. I spend most all my time out in the sunshine” to its refrain of “Workin’ Man Blues” this song has become a classic anthem for hard-working people everywhere.
It celebrates the highs and lows that are part of the work life, from overtime pay to the struggles of staying afloat.
The song is an ode to the importance of hard labor and dedication, likely resonating with anyone who’s ever worked a hard job or gone without steady income in order to pursue their dreams.
It’s a reminder that “we got our pride, no matter how hard times get,” celebrating the working-class spirit and its inherent resilience.
Working 9-5 by Dolly Parton.
This classic ode to working hard was released in 1980 and is still seen as an anthem for those who work full-time jobs. The song tells the story of a woman struggling with her 9-5 job, but she finds joy and fulfillment in pushing on through despite her struggles.
It’s an inspiring reminder that no matter how difficult your job may be, hard work pays off. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy lyrics make it an uplifting and motivational anthem that will keep you going when times get tough.
Furthermore, it serves as a reminder that no matter how mundane your job may be, you can always find joy in the little things and take pride in the work you do.
Working Class Hero by John Lennon.
Released in 1970, this song is a biting critique of the British class system. It speaks to the idea that people born into poverty have no chance of advancing their lives due to the systemic inequality that exists in society.
The lyrics speak of how those without money are treated as second-class citizens and how they must work hard just to survive.
The song urges listeners to rise up, break free from the cycle of poverty and take control of their own destinies. This iconic song is a timeless anthem for the working class.
Working For The Weekend by Loverboy.
This classic 80s anthem encapsulates the feeling of working hard all week just so you can have a great weekend. It’s an upbeat, catchy song that has become an iconic part of pop culture.
The lyrics talk about dreaming of the future, and how it is worth it to keep pushing forward no matter what obstacles stand in your way.
Working Girl by Cher.
Written in 1987, this upbeat pop song celebrates the working women of the world. In it, Cher sings about the hard work and dedication it takes to be successful in a male-dominated career field.
She encourages other working girls to stand up for themselves, take risks and not let anyone keep them from achieving their dreams.
The chorus is especially powerful, as Cher declares, “I’m a working girl, and I do it all for me.” This song is an anthem of female empowerment and has been inspiring women to reach their goals ever since its release.
Working Man’s Ph.D. by Aaron Tippin.
This song is about the kind of hard manual labor that doesn’t get you a degree, but does give you a wealth of knowledge and experience. It speaks to the dignity inherent in any kind of skilled work, from construction sites to welding shops.
The lyrics express pride in having acquired so much wisdom through hands-on application rather than formal education.
What is a work song in music?
A work song is a popular genre of music that celebrates the hard labor and performance of manual workers. It usually has simple, repetitive lyrics that focus on themes such as camaraderie among workers, challenge of difficult tasks, and appreciation for the act of work itself.
The earliest known work songs were written during the Industrial Revolution in Europe and North America. They were used to help keep the workers motivated and in rhythm while performing repetitive, labor-intensive tasks such as mining or factory work.
The genre has seen a resurgence in recent years, with modern artists writing songs that celebrate working class life and explore social justice issues related to labor. Songs about work have been written from different cultural perspectives, as well as with a variety of musical styles.
How do I choose a song for work?
When it comes to choosing a song for work, the most important factor is finding something that will motivate and energize you. It should also be appropriate for the task at hand. Consider your workplace environment and culture when selecting music. It’s best to choose songs that are upbeat and uplifting, but not overly distracting or disruptive.
First and foremost, you should ensure the music is appropriate for your workplace. If it’s too loud or contains explicit lyrics, it should be avoided. You also need to consider how easy it will be to focus on the task at hand when listening to the song – some songs can be quite distracting!
Think about what type of music you enjoy and what type of energy it brings. Do upbeat, energetic songs make you feel motivated? Or do slower, calming songs help you stay focused? There are many different genres to choose from – find the one that best suits your mood and tastes.
When selecting a song, consider how long it is as well. Long, lyrically complex songs can be distracting, so shorter ones are generally better. It’s also important to consider the tempo – fast-paced songs can help you stay energized and focused, while slower songs may be more calming.
Finally, think about the lyrics of a song before selecting it for work. Lyrics that focus on success, motivation, and determination can provide a boost of energy. However, if the lyrics are too personal or make you feel uncomfortable, it may be best to find another song.
Conclusion
Songs about work, jobs and working hard have been around for centuries. Whether the songs are celebrating the joys of work or lamenting its difficulties, they remind us that a day’s labor can be both rewarding and challenging. They also provide motivation to keep on striving, even in difficult times. From traditional folk songs to modern-day rap and hip-hop, there is no shortage of songs that capture the realities of work. Whether you’re looking for a pick-me-up at the start of your workday or need some extra motivation to keep going, these songs are sure to give you just what you need
