“Songs About Thursday” dives into the anticipation and promise of the weekend, blending reflections on the week past with a sense of excitement for what lies just around the corner.
As we inch closer to the weekend, Thursday takes on a unique energy.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the most notable Songs About Thursday, delving into their lyrics and meanings while providing a soundtrack for your pre-weekend vibes.
It’s no longer just another day of the workweek but also the gateway to relaxation and fun.
Many musicians have captured this feeling in their songs, making us tap our feet and sing along as we eagerly await Friday.
So whether you need something upbeat to get through that final push at work or want to wind down with some mellow tunes after a long day, these songs will surely make your Thursdays all the more memorable.
Let’s dive in!
1. “Thursday’s Child” by David Bowie (1999)
About this song:
- Album: ‘hours…’
- Released: 1999
- Artist: David Bowie
- Genre: Metal, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Only for you I don’t regret. That I was Thursday’s child.”
Released as part of David Bowie’s album ‘hours…’, “Thursday’s Child” marked a shift in his sound, embracing a more introspective and melancholic tone.
Bowie co-wrote the song with his longtime collaborator, Reeves Gabrels, during a time of reflection on his life and career.
The title references a nursery rhyme about being born on a Thursday, implying that the person will face challenges.
Bowie’s lyrics delve into themes of regret, nostalgia, and the passage of time, capturing a sense of longing for lost opportunities.
The song was a commercial success and is often highlighted as a standout track for its emotional depth and haunting melody.
2. “Thursday” by Morphine (1993)
About this song:
- Album: Cure for Pain
- Released: 1993
- Artist: Morphine
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “We used to meet every Thursday Thursday Thursday in the afternoon.”
“Thursday” was released in 1993 on Morphine’s album Cure for Pain, showcasing the band’s unique blend of rock, jazz, and blues.
The song, written by frontman Mark Sandman, tells a story of forbidden love and secrecy, with Thursday representing the clandestine nature of the affair.
Morphine’s signature sound, driven by Sandman’s baritone vocals, two-string bass, and Dana Colley’s saxophone, creates a dark and moody backdrop for the lyrics.
The song’s narrative unfolds with a sense of urgency and tension, reflecting the dangerous and thrilling nature of the relationship described.
“Thursday” remains a fan favorite, illustrating Morphine’s ability to craft musically innovative and emotionally gripping songs.
3. “Thursday in the Danger Room” by El-P, Killer Mike (2016)
About this song:
- Album: Run the Jewels 3
- Released: 2016
- Artist: El-P, Killer Mike
- Genre: Nigerian Street Music, Hip-Hop/Rap, Afrobeats
- Key Lyric: “And I guess I’d say I’ll see you soon (I’ll see you soon). But the truth is that I see you now (I see you now).”
Released on the 2016 album Run the Jewels 3, “Thursday in the Danger Room” features El-P and Killer Mike reflecting on loss and grief, a departure from their typically aggressive style.
The song was written during a period of personal loss for both artists, with Thursday symbolizing a day of reckoning or confrontation with painful memories.
The haunting beat and introspective lyrics create a somber atmosphere, making it one of the most emotionally powerful tracks on the album.
The title suggests a moment of vulnerability, with the “Danger Room” metaphorically representing the emotional space where one confronts their deepest fears.
“Thursday in the Danger Room” has been praised for its raw honesty and how it balances the duo’s signature sound with profound, heartfelt storytelling.
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4. “Thursday” by The Weeknd (2011)
About this song:
- Album: Thursday
- Released: 2011
- Artist: The Weeknd
- Genre: R&B/Soul
- Key Lyric: “Not on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. But on Thursday, make sure.”
“Thursday” was released as part of The Weeknd’s critically acclaimed mixtape Thursday, contributing significantly to his rise to fame.
The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, wrote the song, reflecting his hedonistic lifestyle and the emotional detachment that often accompanied it.
The song captures the fleeting and transient nature of relationships in the context of his fame, with Thursday symbolizing a moment of escape.
Musically, it blends R&B, alternative, and atmospheric sounds, creating a dreamy yet melancholic vibe that became a hallmark of The Weeknd’s early work.
The song resonated with listeners for its raw and honest portrayal of the darker side of romance and success.
5. “Thursday/froze over – “interlude”” by Blackbear (2017)
About this song:
- Album: Cybersex
- Released: 2017
- Artist: blackbear
- Genre: R&B/Soul
- Key Lyric: “Truth is all this shit we doin’ on your birthday, woah. To me, that’s just another Thursday, just another Thursday to me.”
“Thursday/froze over – “interlude”” was released in 2017 on Blackbear’s album Cybersex, when Blackbear gained recognition for his moody, R&B-influenced sound.
The song serves as a brief but impactful interlude, exploring themes of emotional numbness and the passage of time, with Thursday representing a moment of cold detachment.
Blackbear, known for his introspective lyrics and contemporary production style, uses this interlude to convey a sense of emotional paralysis enhanced by minimalist instrumentation.
The title suggests a moment where time seems to stand still, possibly reflecting the artist’s struggles with mental health and the pressures of fame.
Though short, “Thursday/froze over – “interlude” adds a significant emotional layer to the album, offering a glimpse into the darker moments punctuating the artist’s narrative.
6. “Thursday at the Blue Note” by White Town (1997)
About this song:
- Album: Women in Technology
- Released: 1997
- Artist: White Town
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Dance/Electronic
- Key Lyric: “This isn’t the way things were meant to be. Now he’s waiting outside with his mates for me. “Thursday at the Blue Note.””
Released as a lesser-known track from White Town’s album Women in Technology, “Thursday at the Blue Note” reflects Jyoti Mishra’s eclectic influences.
The song’s title suggests a scene at a jazz club, possibly inspired by Mishra’s admiration for jazz and its improvisational nature.
Mishra, the sole member of White Town, composed this piece during experimentation with electronic and acoustic elements.
The lyrics and mood of the song convey a sense of loneliness and introspection, fitting the overall melancholic tone of the album.
Despite not achieving the same level of fame as his hit “Your Woman,” this song is appreciated by fans for its unique atmosphere and emotional depth.
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7. “(Thursday) Here’s Why I Did Not Go to Work Today” by Harry Nilsson (1976)
About this song:
- Album: Personal Best: The Harry Nilsson Anthology
- Released: 1976
- Artist: Harry Nilsson
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Yeah, Thursday’s such a crazy, lazy day, let’s go have a picnic.”
Released in 1976, this quirky track is a prime example of Nilsson’s wit and unconventional approach to songwriting.
Nilsson, known for his playful lyrics and genre-blending style, wrote this song as a humorous take on procrastination and the desire to escape mundane responsibilities.
The song’s title alone captures the listener’s curiosity, setting the stage for a narrative that is both relatable and entertaining.
Musically, the track features Nilsson’s signature blend of pop, rock, and baroque elements, making it a lighthearted yet musically sophisticated piece.
“(Thursday) Here’s Why I Did Not Go to Work Today” is a delightful example of Nilsson’s ability to infuse humor into his music while still delivering a catchy and memorable tune.
8. “I Lost Thursday” by They Might Be Giants (2020)
About this song:
- Album: Secret Music, Vol. 1
- Released: 2020
- Artist: They Might Be Giants
- Genre: Children’s Music
- Key Lyric: “I lost Thursday, I had it somewhere. It’s supernatural how spaced out we can be.”
“I Lost Thursday” was released in 2020 on They Might Be Giants’ album Secret Music, Vol. 1, showcasing the band’s continued creativity and playfulness.
Written by John Flansburgh and John Linnell, the song features a blend of quirky lyrics and catchy melodies.
The song’s lyrics explore the disorienting feeling of losing track of time, with Thursday symbolizing a missing day or a disruption in routine.
It reflects the confusion and unpredictability many people experienced during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, though its themes are universally relatable.
The song received praise for its clever wordplay and for lightheartedly capturing a sense of collective disorientation.
9. “Thursday’s Child” by Eartha Kitt (1956)
About this song:
- Album: My Greatest Songs
- Released: 1956
- Artist: Eartha Kitt
- Genre: Jazz, Blues, Pop
- Key Lyric: “I never know which way I’m bound, I’m Thursday’s child.”
Eartha Kitt released “Thursday’s Child” in 1956, showcasing her unique vocal style and theatrical delivery while solidifying her place in the entertainment industry.
The song, much like David Bowie’s later release of the same name, references the nursery rhyme about being born on a Thursday, with Kitt infusing it with her characteristic flair.
Kitt’s performance is sultry and captivating, blending jazz, pop, and cabaret influences, making the song a standout in her early catalog.
The lyrics play on destiny and fortune, with Kitt’s expressive interpretation adding layers of meaning and emotion to the piece.
“Thursday’s Child” remains a classic example of Kitt’s ability to turn any song into a theatrical experience, full of personality and charm.
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10. “Jersey Thursday” by Donovan (2003)
About this song:
- Album: Catch the Wind
- Released: 2003
- Artist: Donovan
- Genre: Singer-Songwriter
- Key Lyric: “And the gulls were wheelin’, spinnin’ on Jersey Thursday.”
Originally written and recorded in the 1960s, “Jersey Thursday” was re-released by Donovan in 2003 as part of a compilation album.
The song is a gentle, folk-inspired ballad reflecting Donovan’s characteristic poetic lyricism and ability to evoke a sense of place.
Written during the height of the folk music revival, the song captures a specific moment in time, painting a picture of a quiet Thursday in Jersey.
Donovan’s soft vocals and the simple acoustic arrangement contribute to the song’s nostalgic and introspective mood.
Though not one of his most famous songs, “Jersey Thursday” is appreciated for its delicate beauty and evocative storytelling.
11. “Thursday’s Keeper” by The Orb (2001)
About this song:
- Album: Cydonia
- Released: 2001
- Artist: The Orb
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Dance/Electronic, Pop
- Key Lyric: This is an instrumental song
“Thursday’s Keeper” was released in 2001 on The Orb’s album Cydonia, an experimental record that blends ambient, electronic, and dub influences.
The Orb, known for their pioneering work in ambient house music, composed this track during a period of exploration into more complex and layered soundscapes.
The title suggests a sense of responsibility or guardianship associated with the day, adding a mysterious and enigmatic quality to the song.
Musically, “Thursday’s Keeper” is characterized by its atmospheric synths, deep basslines, and a sense of spatial depth that invites listeners into a meditative state.
The track stands as a testament to The Orb’s ability to push the boundaries of electronic music while maintaining a sense of cohesion and thematic resonance.
12. “Like a Summer Thursday” by Townes Van Zandt (1969)
About this song:
- Album: Our Mother the Mountain
- Released: 1969
- Artist: Townes Van Zandt
- Genre: Folk, Country
- Key Lyric: “So like a summer Thursday, I cry for rain to come and turn the ground to green again.”
“Like a Summer Thursday” was released in 1969 on Townes Van Zandt’s album Our Mother the Mountain, a record known for its haunting and poetic songs.
Van Zandt, one of the most revered singer-songwriters in American folk and country music, wrote the song with intense creativity.
The song’s lyrics compare a fleeting love to a summer Thursday, emphasizing the ephemeral nature of both.
Van Zandt’s melancholic delivery and the sparse, delicate arrangement underscore the song’s themes of impermanence and loss.
Though it wasn’t a commercial hit, the song is cherished by fans for its lyrical depth and Van Zandt’s emotive performance.
13. “Sweet Thursday” by Johnny Mathis (1963)
About this song:
- Album: Johnny’s Newest Hits
- Released: 1963
- Artist: Johnny Mathis
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Making it a sweet Thursday. Not like any other day I’d known.”
“Sweet Thursday” was released in 1963 as a part of Johnny Mathis’ album Johnny’s Newest Hits, when Mathis was a prominent figure in the pop and easy-listening genres.
The song was inspired by a novel by the same name, John Steinbeck, reflecting themes of love and new beginnings that resonate with the gentle and romantic mood of the track.
Mathis’ smooth and emotive voice brings a tender warmth to the lyrics, making it a favorite among fans of his early work.
The orchestral arrangement, typical of Mathis’ recordings from this era, provides a lush backdrop that enhances the song’s nostalgic feel.
“Sweet Thursday” is a perfect example of Mathis’ ability to convey deep emotion through his music, making it a memorable entry in the catalog of Songs About Thursday.
14. “Thursday Girl” by Mitski (2016)
About this song:
- Album: Puberty 2
- Released: 2016
- Artist: Mitski
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “Somebody, please tell me no, tell me no.”
Released on Mitski’s critically acclaimed album Puberty 2, “Thursday Girl” explores isolation, self-doubt, and the search for identity.
Mitski wrote and produced the song while grappling with the pressures of success and the expectations placed upon her.
The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and loneliness, with Thursday representing a mid-week lull, a metaphor for feeling stuck in life.
The song’s minimalist arrangement and Mitski’s haunting vocals create an atmosphere of quiet despair.
“Thursday Girl” has resonated with many listeners, especially young women, who find solace in its honest portrayal of emotional struggles.
15. “Rain Every Thursday” by Bobby Hutcherson (1972)
About this song:
- Album: Natural Illusions
- Released: 1972
- Artist: Bobby Hutcherson
- Genre: Jazz
- Key Lyric: This is an instrumental song
Released in 1972 on the album Natural Illusions, “Rain Every Thursday” showcases Bobby Hutcherson’s mastery of the vibraphone in a jazz context.
Hutcherson, known for his innovative contributions to jazz, composed this piece during a prolific period, blending traditional jazz with more experimental sounds.
The title evokes a sense of melancholy and routine, suggesting a pattern of recurring events, possibly a metaphor for life’s persistent challenges.
The composition is rich in texture and mood, with Hutcherson’s vibraphone creating a shimmering, rain-like effect that complements the title.
“Rain Every Thursday” stands out in Hutcherson’s discography for its emotive resonance and how it encapsulates the mood of a rainy day in musical form.
16. “Thursday” by Pet Shop Boys (2013)
About this song:
- Album: Electric
- Released: 2013
- Artist: Pet Shop Boys
- Genre: Dance/Electronic
- Key Lyric: “It’s Thursday night. Let’s get it right.”
“Thursday” was released as a single from the Pet Shop Boys’ album Electric, featuring British rapper Example in a notable collaboration.
The song was written by Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, the duo behind Pet Shop Boys while exploring new electronic sounds.
The lyrics depict the anticipation and excitement leading up to the weekend, with Thursday as the prelude to the freedom of Friday and Saturday.
Musically, the song blends synth-pop with contemporary electronic influences, creating an upbeat and infectious track.
“Thursday” was well-received by fans and critics, praised for its catchy melody and the successful fusion of different musical styles.
17. “Thursday Afternoon” by Brian Eno (1985)
About this song:
- Album: Thursday Afternoon
- Released: 1985
- Artist: Brian Eno
- Genre: Dance/Electronic
- Key Lyric: This is an instrumental song
“Thursday Afternoon” is a landmark piece in Brian Eno’s career. It was released in 1985 and is a continuous ambient track lasting over an hour.
Eno, an ambient music pioneer, composed this piece to explore sound as a medium for creating environments rather than traditional music.
The track was initially created as the soundtrack for a video art piece, and its serene, meditative quality invites listeners into a state of calm contemplation.
“Thursday Afternoon” challenges conventional song structures, offering a fluid, evolving soundscape rather than a defined melody or rhythm.
This work is often cited in discussions about ambient music, illustrating Eno’s innovative approach and influence on the genre.
18. “Thursday” by Jess Glynne (2018)
About this song:
- Album: Always In Between
- Released: 2018
- Artist: Jess Glynne
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “I won’t wear makeup on Thursday cause who I am is enough.”
Jess Glynne released “Thursday” as a single from her album Always in Between, and it quickly became a fan favorite.
Co-written with Ed Sheeran, the song conveys self-acceptance and empowerment, encouraging listeners to embrace themselves without trying to fit societal expectations.
The lyrics emphasize the importance of being comfortable in one’s skin, with Thursday symbolizing a day of self-reflection and authenticity.
The acoustic-driven arrangement allows Glynne’s powerful vocals to take center stage, sincerely delivering the song’s message.
“Thursday” was praised for its uplifting lyrics and became an anthem for many who related to its themes of self-love and vulnerability.
Conclusion
Thursday has inspired artists across genres and generations to delve into themes of routine, anticipation, and emotional complexity, from introspective reflections and melancholic moods to humorous anecdotes and poetic musings.
Whether it’s the anticipation of the weekend, a day of reckoning, or simply a marker of time, these songs collectively show how Thursday can be much more than just another day.
In music, Thursday becomes a canvas for storytelling, a moment for introspection, or even a metaphor for life’s ongoing rhythm.
As we’ve seen, Songs About Thursday captures a rich tapestry of human experience, proving that even the most unassuming day can hold profound meaning in the hands of talented artists.