Work songs split into two moods: the grind you can't wait to escape, and the quiet pride of doing the job anyway. These cover the clock-watchers, the factory floor and everyone counting down to Friday.
Updated 2026
9 to 5 by Dolly Parton 1980
A typewriter rhythm and a clear-eyed take on who really keeps the office running.
Working for the Weekend by Loverboy 1981
Five days of grind for two days of freedom, shouted at full volume.
Take This Job and Shove It by Johnny Paycheck 1977
The quitting fantasy everyone has rehearsed in their head.
She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer 1983
A tribute to the worker who is owed a little respect.
Sixteen Tons by Tennessee Ernie Ford 1955
A coal miner who owes his soul to the company store.
A Hard Day's Night by The Beatles 1964
Working like a dog all day to come home to someone worth it.
Working Class Hero by John Lennon 1970
A bitter look at how the system grinds people into place.
Manic Monday by The Bangles 1986
Wishing it were Sunday, that one day you don't have to run.
Allentown by Billy Joel 1982
A factory town watching the work, and the promises, dry up.
Maggie's Farm by Bob Dylan 1965
A flat refusal to keep working a job that takes everything.
Working Man by Rush 1974
Long shifts, a cold beer after and not much time for anything else.
Car Wash by Rose Royce 1976
Making a dead-end shift feel like a party while the cars roll through.