Everyone has a song that reminds them of their first love, or maybe a song that really captures the spirit of summertime. Some people even have songs that they consider their own personal theme songs (we’re talking to you, Mr. Eye of the Tiger Played on Repeat).
But what about work? There are a few songs that have become staples of the working public and their feelings about their professions. Here are some of the obvious and not-so-obvious choices that many employees have turned to at least ones in the course of their careers.
Workin’ for a Living – Huey Lewis and the News: A song about working hard with that catchy and sometime pop-frantic tone that only Huey Lewis could deliver…what’s not to like? The line that really drives this song home for most working people (particularly in the small business community) is: “I get my check on Friday but it’s already spent.”
She Works Hard for the Money – Donna Summer: If ever there was a women’s empowerment song for the workday, this is it. If you want to see just how serious working class ladies take this song, try to catch one signing the chorus and then check out they steely gaze in her eyes when she hits the “…so you better treat her right,” line.
9 to 5 – Dolly Parton: This song would have been equally powerful if a man had sung it, but there’s something about that southern twang in Parton’s voice that lets us know that she’s experienced it all before—and not only did she work from 9-5 but she worked hard.
Take This Job and Shove It – Johnny Paycheck: Whatever If you can claim you’ve never had this thought run through your head, you’re probably not the most honest person in your company.
Working for the Weekend – Loverboy: Sure we hate ourselves for mentioning this overplayed and generic 80s tune. But it’s a perfect fit. And sometimes on Friday morning, it’s the perfect kick in the rear to help us finish out the workweek…unless, of course, you’re actually having to work on the weekend. In this case, the song probably just annoys the hell out of you.
How about you? Are there any songs about work that strike a chord with you?