57 Best Songs About Working Hard

She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer

Song Year: 1983

In a way, Donna Summer's song is a feminist anthem that demands respect for all hard-working women. The song's inspiration came to the singer when she was at a party and stumbled on Odetta, who was taking a nap at her job.

They talked, and she told the singer she was tired because she was working two jobs. Right there and then, she had the idea of the song and believed it would be a hit.

Working-Class Hero by John Lennon

Song Year: 1970

Working-Class Hero is one of the best solo songs by John Lennon outside of The Beatles. Its main theme is sticking it to the man as it highlights the plight of the common hardworking man. The song caused a bit of controversy as some listeners said the singer could not relate to the working-class man as he is from the upper middle class.

Workin' Man Blues by Merle Haggard

Song Year: 1969

Haggard as a tribute to all his working-class fans, a majority of them are blue-collar workers. It is a celebration of their work, toiling every week for a paycheck. The song has an amazing electric guitar instrumental signifying his signature sound. It received positive critical reviews and enjoyed massive success on the airwaves.

Working Girl by Cher

Song Year:

Though most Cher fans assume the song's title is a euphemism for an escort, it is really about a woman working hard for her independence. So if you need inspiration for your hard work to get what you want in life, this is a track you need to blast regularly. It will give you the boost to keep you going.

Hard Workin’ Man by Brooks & Dunn

Song Year: 1993

Hard Workin' is a tribute song by two of the best country singers for the working man. The duo exhibits their exemplary guitar skill through some of the best guitar riffs I have ever listened to. The lyrics paint the working men and women as the country's heroes, and the sacrifices they make for their families shouldn't go unnoticed.

Let It Rock by Chuck Berry

Song Year: 1959

Let it Rock is from the perspective of a railroad worker trying to make ends meet and get through his workday. The story also shows at the end of the day, all the railroad worker wants to do is relax and play dice with his fellow workers. Though the song's title is not mentioned in the lyrics, most music critics believe the hymn is also a tribute to rock ‘n' roll.

Five O'clock World by The Vogues

Song Year: 1965

The best part of working hard in your job is there is an end to the shift. The vocal quartet from Pennsylvania, The Vogues, tells a story about a worker who comes alive when it's 5 O'clock. In a way, it is a celebratory tribute to the end of the standard work day as it describes the joy that comes with it.

Working Man by Rush

Song Year: 1974

Working Man is a relatable song to most working people about the struggle and monotony of work. The lyrics start the story by narrating how the main character starts his work day. Though he deserves to earn more because he is a hard worker, he realizes he is stuck in the same cycle with limited time available to make changes.

When I’m Cleaning Windows by George Formby

Song Year: 1936

The humorous song tells the story of a window cleaner who, other than working hard, is able to observe other people's lives through the same windows he cleans.

George Formby's song cover was once performed to the royal family under special request. His double-entendre verses were amended to create a cleaner version. The song first appeared in the Keep Your Seat; Please film.

Career Opportunities by the Clash

Song Year: 1977

This iconic track by the punk band, The Clash, is a call to action for all those in menial jobs with no way of advancement in life. The song also is a criticism of the culture of demonizing the unemployed. It was written by Mick Jones, a band member of The Clash who found inspiration from holding several part-time jobs.

Factory by Bruce Springsteen

Song Year: 1978

In the past, the value of working hard was passed down from generation to generation. Bruce Springsteen captures the essence of apprenticeship in his song by watching his working-class father. He comes to appreciate the work his father did for his family because he never has a job and only lives making movies.