You found our list of fun songs about work.
Songs about work are pieces of music that focus on professional life. For example, ‘9 to 5’ by Dolly Parton, ‘Work’ by Rihanna, and ‘Working Man’ by Rush. The purpose of these songs is to provide relatable content that can motivate, inspire or offer solace during the workday. These songs are also known as “work songs,” “job songs,” and “songs about working.”
These songs about work are similar to trivia questions, guessing games, theater games, and virtual farewell party.
This list includes:
- modern songs about work
- songs about working hard
- going to work songs
- workplace songs
- daily grind songs
- rock songs about work
- rap songs about work
- country songs about work
- pop songs about work
Let’s get to it!
List of songs about work
From ‘9 to 5’ to ‘Hard Workin’ Man’, here is our list of the best songs about work.
1. 9 to 5
Dolly Parton’s song “Nine to Five” is a timeless anthem that portrays the challenges of traditional work life. This dity is one of the most iconic daily grind songs. The lyrics empower listeners to strive for improved workplace conditions and equality. The song promotes balance, respect, and fair treatment in one’s professional pursuits, connecting with listeners of all generations.
2. Work
Rihanna’s “Work” is a surprisingly fitting anthem for the daily grind. Its rhythmic repetition of the word “work” and the laid-back Caribbean beat create a balance of relaxation and focus, which can energize anyone tackling a long to-do list. While more about relationships than actual job tasks, the lyrics echo a sense of determination and resilience, qualities we all need at work. The song’s catchy, hypnotic refrain can be a reminder that persistence and effort eventually pay off no matter the ups and downs. Playing “Work” in the office can add a motivational, fun vibe that helps get you into a productive flow without taking everything too seriously. The tune is one of the most popular modern songs about work.
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3. Working Man
The song “Working Man” by Rush is a classic rock anthem expressing the hectic nature of the nine-to-five. The track is one of the top rock songs about work.The strong music and lyrics of the song connect with listeners, who also relate to the lyrics about work being hectic and having no time to live. Its powerful guitar riffs and relentless energy make it a motivating tribute to those who put in the effort every day, and a call to action to find a better way of living.
4. She Works Hard
The song “She Works Hard” motivates many listeners, women especially. The empowering words encourage individuals to overcome obstacles and concentrate on their objectives, highlighting the significance of determination in attaining success and emphasizing that hard work and financial stability demand respect.
5. Take This Job
Johnny Paycheck’s Take This Job and Shove It is a classic country song that expresses frustration with unfulfilling work. The song’s rebellious spirit and catchy tune resonate with individuals seeking career fulfillment, highlighting the significance of aligning work with passion and values. The song is also the quintessential anthem for quitting.
6. Shiftwork
Shiftwork by Kenny Chesney is one of the most beloved country songs about work. The tune is an ode to blue-collar workers with irregular hours. The heartfelt lyrics and melody connect with individuals managing non-traditional work schedules, showcasing the difficulties of balancing work and personal life and the struggles of hard work.
7. Car Wash
The song “Car Wash” celebrates hard work in manual labor with its upbeat tone. The funky vibes and enjoyable lyrics have made it a popular option for work-related playlists, serving as a reminder that there can be enjoyable parts of any job even if it is not your dream role.
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8. Morning Train
“The Morning Train” by Sheena Easton is one of the catchiest going to work songs. The tune alludes to the monotony of early commutes and long workdays. The singer talks about how slowly the work day can creep by for her partner, but as soon as they are together again everything is alright. While the focus of this song is more about the couple and hints at work as tiresome, the singer never says that the schedule should change, but just that the time they do have together is wonderful. Having to work all week likely makes the time together seem even more precious. This song is a testament to having a healthy work-life balance and recharging while spending time with loved ones during your off time.
9. Factory Girl
“Factory Girl,” a track by The Rolling Stones, reflects the gritty reality of labor in its narrative. Released on their 1968 album “Beggars Banquet,” the song describes a worker’s infatuation with a factory girl, weaving love and toil. The tune is a love song to salt of the earth women who work in manual labor, portraying them as rowdy, feisty, and worth the wait.
10. Money for Nothing
The song “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits criticizes the music industry from the viewpoint of a blue-collar worker, showing envy towards wealthy musicians. It raises questions of how society sees wealth and success and what actually qualifies as work, since the imaginary narrator concludes “that aint workin'” and implies that rockstars have easy lives. Although the song is satire, it does highlight class and professional discrepancies that persist today. Not to mention, many folks occasionally entertain rockstar, millionaire fantasies as a way to escape the drudgery of wage work.
11. Chain Gang
“Chain Gang” by Sam Cooke portrays the struggles of hard work and feeling stuck in a repetitive job. The song highlights the resilience in persevering through tough work situations, resonating with individuals familiar with the grind of long work hours. Plus, the song is upbeat and catchy.
12. Let’s Work
The song “Let’s Work” by Mick Jagger is an energetic anthem motivating listeners to tackle tasks enthusiastically. The song urges listeners not to be lazy, make excuses, or get caught up in petty drama, but rather to focus on the work and keep grinding until you achieve your goals. The upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics make it popular for work-related playlists, embodying productivity and determination through pulsating rhythm and dynamic vocals.
13. Cleanin’ Women
“Cleanin’ Women” from the musical “Working” resonates deeply with the often-overlooked narratives of domestic workers. This blues-inflected track portrays the resilience and daily grind of a cleaning woman, offering a poignant glimpse into their life and struggles through gripping lyrics and soulful melodies.
14. Bang the Drum All Day
Todd Rundgren’s “Bang the Drum All Day” captures the joyous rejection of monotony in favor of music and celebration. On the surface, it is an anthem of disdain for work, expressing a longing to ditch daily responsibilities and just play drums. However, the song is more about identifying your drive and putting your time and energy towards those pursuits rather than things that don’t interest you. After all, the singer claims he wants to bang on the drums all day, not just for an hour or two occasionally. His passion and dedication to his craft is all-consuming, and he simply wants to devote his life to the kind of profession that brings him the most joy.
15. Factory
“Factory” by Bruce Springsteen encapsulates the relentless grind of industrial work. The song poignantly describes factory labor’s physical and emotional toll, set against Springsteen’s characteristic heartland rock style. The tune is a tribute to the working class’s resilience and the realities of hard, dangerous jobs. The sincere track is one of the most popular songs about working hard.
16. Breadwinner
“Breadwinner” by Kacey Musgraves delves into the shifting dynamics when one partner solely supports the household financially, specifically when the woman is the earner. The singer talks about the strain the relationship endures when the partner is insecure about his girlfriend out-earning him, while the singer also refuses to sacrifice her career or dim her shine. The song highlights a sad reality in many relationships but also encourages women to be independent and not compromise their careers over a partner’s insecurity.
17. Hard Workin’ Man
“Hard Workin’ Man” by Brooks & Dunn celebrates the grit and grind of the blue-collar American. The song’s energetic beat and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who’s ever worn a uniform or clocked in a long shift.
18. 16 Tons
The song “16 Tons” by Tenessee Ernie Ford (also commonly known as “Company Store”) portrays the challenges faced by workers in a company town, emphasizing their debt, reliance, and mistreatment. The tune underscores the importance of fair labor practices and reminds us of past labor injustices. The song is a stark reminder that workers should not have to give everything to their employers and that there should be work-life balance and adequate compensation.
19. Working for the Weekend
“Working for the Weekend” by Loverboy became an anthem for the 9-to-5 worker dreaming of weekend freedom. This 1981 hit captures the weekly grind’s essence, resonating with anyone counting down until Friday night. Its infectious energy and relatable lyrics spotlight the universal desire to balance work with fun-filled leisure time.
20. Banana boat (day-o)
Harry Belafonte’s song “Banana Boat (Day-O)” is a timeless melody depicting loading bananas onto ships. The chorus and melody are memorable, showcasing the essence of labor, collaboration, and companionship in a challenging setting. This resonates with audiences, emphasizing the commitment needed for physical work.
21. Workin for a Livin
Huey Lewis and the News is famous for their song “Workin’ for a Livin'”, which resonates with many people who face daily work struggles. The song reflects perseverance, dedication, and the typical challenges in professional life, offering listeners a relatable musical outlet. This tune is one of the most classic rock songs about work.
22. Work Work
The song “Work Work” by Britney Spears is a lively anthem that captures the daily routine with its cheerful rhythm and lyrics that many can relate to. It encourages listeners to overcome obstacles, transform ordinary duties into a favorable and invigorating situation, and embrace working hard and achieving results and rewards. This chart-topper is one of the top pop songs about work.
23. A Hard Day’s Night
The song “A Hard Day’s Night” by The Beatles is a classic that depicts the challenges of a lengthy workday, emphasizing the fatigue and commitment that accompany work. The singer expresses that work is draining, but being home with his lover makes him feel better. The memorable tune and lyrics that many can relate to serve as a reminder of the benefits of diligence, the importance of work-life balance, and having a “why” to work for.
24. Takin’ Care of Business
Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s 1973 classic, “Takin’ Care of Business,” embodies the spirit of working life with a rocking, upbeat tempo. Created during a jam session, its catchy tune and relatable lyrics have made it an enduring anthem celebrating workers’ everyday grind and resilience. This track is a fixture in popular culture for its portrayal of work and dedication.
25. Remember the Name
Fort Minor’s “Remember the Name” turns the journey to success into an anthem, emphasizing hard work and dedication as the core ingredients. With its catchy beat and motivational lyrics, the song resonates deeply with anyone striving to achieve their dreams in any field, especially the competitive music industry.
26. Till I Collapse
Eminem’s song “Till I Collapse” embodies perseverance and determination, striking a chord with numerous individuals in the workforce. The track’s forceful energy and raw lyrics motivate listeners to conquer challenges, remain dedicated to objectives, and exhibit resilience when facing hardships. This hit is among the most iconic rap songs about work.
Final Thoughts
Exploring this collection of songs about work offers a musical journey through different professions and industries. Each track not only reflects specific job-related themes but also enhances our appreciation for the diverse experiences within the workforce. Listening to these tunes might just make your daily grind a bit more enjoyable or at least provide a new perspective on your professional challenges.
Next, check out our posts on songs for work, teamwork songs, songs for conferences, and inspirational work quotes.
FAQ: Songs about work
Here are frequently asked questions about songs about work.
Why listen to songs about work?
Listening to songs about work can be incredibly motivating and relatable. They help listeners feel connected with others who might be experiencing similar workplace situations, providing a sense of camaraderie and understanding.
How do work songs enhance productivity?
Work songs often have rhythmic beats or inspiring lyrics that help enhance focus and productivity. They can energize listeners, helping them tackle tasks with renewed vigor and enthusiasm.
What are popular genres for songs about work?
Popular genres for songs about work span across rock, pop, country, and blues. Each genre brings its unique style and tone to portray the essence of working life in diverse ways.
Who sings the best work-related songs?
Artists like Dolly Parton with her iconic ‘9 to 5’, Bruce Springsteen with his reflective ‘Factory’, and Rihanna with her energetic ‘Work’ are renowned for their contributions to this theme in music.
Can music influence work atmosphere?
Yes, music significantly influences the work atmosphere by affecting mood and morale. Uplifting or motivational music can boost spirits while calming tunes might reduce stress levels during high-pressure periods.
