Music has always been a source of motivation, and when it comes to hard work, certain songs strike a chord with those who push through challenges every day.
From rock anthems to pop hits, Songs About Working Hard capture the grit and determination needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
These tracks not only inspire but also serve as a reminder that persistence pays off, no matter how tough the journey might be.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most iconic and relatable Songs About Working Hard, highlighting the stories and messages behind them.
1. “She Works Hard for the Money” by Donna Summer (1983)
About this song:
- Album: She Works Hard for the Money
- Released: 1983
- Artist: Donna Summer
- Genre: R&B/Soul, Disco
- Key Lyric: “She works hard for the money. So hard for it, honey.”
Released in 1983, “She Works Hard for the Money” by Donna Summer became an instant hit, drawing attention to the dedication of hardworking women.
The song was written by Summer and Michael Omartian after Summer encountered a woman working tirelessly at a restaurant.
The lyrics emphasize the sacrifices many women make to provide for themselves and their families.
Composed during a period of increasing awareness about women’s rights and economic independence, it struck a chord with listeners worldwide.
This anthem has remained a classic, recognized for its empowering message and tribute to the labor of working women.
2. “Hard Workin’ Man” by Brooks & Dunn (1993)
About this song:
- Album: Hard Workin’ Man
- Released: 1993
- Artist: Brooks & Dunn
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “I’m a hard, hard-workin’ man. I got it all on the line for a piece of the promised land.”
“Hard Workin’ Man” was released in 1993 by the country duo Brooks & Dunn, showcasing their signature honky-tonk style.
Written by Ronnie Dunn, the song is an ode to the relentless efforts of blue-collar workers who keep America running.
Its lyrics focus on the pride that comes with earning an honest living through physically demanding jobs.
The song was inspired by the hard-working ethos of everyday people, especially those in rural and small-town America.
With its upbeat tempo and relatable message, “Hard Workin’ Man” became an anthem for country fans who value grit and determination.
3. “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)” by Styx (1978) – Working Hard Anthem
About this song:
- Album: Pieces of Eight
- Released: 1978
- Artist: Styx
- Genre: Pop, Rock
- Key Lyric: “I’ll take those long nights, impossible odds. Keeping my back to the wall.”
Released in 1978, “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)” by Styx is a rock anthem that celebrates the struggles of hardworking individuals.
The song was written by Tommy Shaw, reflecting the frustrations of unemployment and the desire to contribute meaningfully to society.
The lyrics convey the story of a man willing to work long hours to achieve self-reliance and personal dignity.
It was composed during a time of economic uncertainty in the United States, resonating with many who faced job insecurity.
The song remains a powerful anthem for the working class, symbolizing perseverance and pride in one’s labor.
4. “9 To 5” by Dolly Parton (1980) – Work Day Struggles
About this song:
- Album: 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs
- Released: 1980
- Artist: Dolly Parton
- Genre: Classic Country
- Key Lyric: “Workin’ nine to five, what a way to make a livin’. Barely gettin’ by, it’s all takin’ and no givin’.”
“9 To 5,” released in 1980, became one of Dolly Parton’s most iconic hits and served as the theme song for the film of the same name.
Parton wrote the song about the daily grind of office workers, capturing the frustrations of underappreciated employees.
The song highlights themes of empowerment and change, reflecting the growing feminist movement of the time.
Inspired by Parton’s experience working regular jobs before her fame, it offers a relatable message for anyone working tirelessly for little recognition.
“9 To 5” is a beloved anthem for working people everywhere, providing both humor and a call for fairness in the workplace.
5. “Started From The Bottom” by Drake (2013) – Work and Success
About this song:
- Album: Nothing Was the Same
- Released: 2013
- Artist: Drake
- Genre: HIP-HOP/RAP, Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Nigga, I was tryna get it on my own. Workin’ all night, traffic on the way home.”
Released in 2013, “Started From The Bottom” by Drake recounts the rapper’s journey from humble beginnings to global success.
The song was written by Drake and Noah “40” Shebib, chronicling Drake’s struggles and perseverance in the music industry.
Its lyrics reflect the idea of self-made success, focusing on the determination needed to rise from obscurity.
Inspired by his own life, Drake’s story resonates with anyone who has worked their way up despite obstacles.
“Started From The Bottom” became a defining track for Drake, symbolizing the rewards of persistence and hard work.
6. “Work” by Iggy Azalea (2014)
About this song:
- Album: The New Classic
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Iggy Azalea
- Genre: UK R&B, Hip-Hop/Rap, UK Rap
- Key Lyric: “Milked the whole game twice, gotta get it how I live. I’ve been work-work-work-work-workin’ on my shit.”
Released in 2014, “Work” is Iggy Azalea’s autobiographical track, describing her journey to fame after emigrating from Australia to the U.S.
The song was written by Azalea as a reflection of the challenges she faced, from poverty to achieving success in the music industry.
Its lyrics emphasize the grind, sacrifices, and resilience needed to achieve her dreams, making it relatable to anyone striving for success.
Inspired by Azalea’s personal struggles, the song shows how hard work and dedication can lead to monumental achievements.
“Work” became a motivational anthem, particularly for those pursuing success against all odds.
7. “Workin For A Livin” by Huey Lewis and the News (1982)
About this song:
- Album: Picture This
- Released: 1982
- Artist: Huey Lewis and the News
- Genre: Rock, Pop
- Key Lyric: “Workin’ for a livin’, livin’ and a-workin’. I’m taking what they giving ’cause I’m working for a livin’.”
Released in 1982, “Workin’ For A Livin'” by Huey Lewis and the News is an upbeat track that celebrates the determination of the everyday worker.
Written by Huey Lewis and guitarist Chris Hayes, the song captures the fast-paced, sometimes frustrating, routine of daily labor.
The lyrics reflect the exhaustion and effort that come with working just to make ends meet.
It was composed during a period when economic challenges were prevalent, making it relatable for many working-class listeners.
The energetic melody, combined with its honest portrayal of working life makes this a timeless tribute to the hustle.
8. “All The Way Up” by Fat Joe and Remy Ma (2017) – Working Hard for Success
About this song:
- Album: Plata O Plomo
- Released: 2017
- Artist: Fat Joe, Remy Ma
- Genre: R&B/Soul, Afroswing, Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Nothin’ can stop me, I’m all the way up. All the way up.”
“All The Way Up,” released in 2017, is a triumphant anthem by Fat Joe and Remy Ma that highlights their rise to success.
Written by Fat Joe, Remy Ma, and several other collaborators, the song reflects a story of persistence and overcoming obstacles.
The lyrics celebrate achieving success after enduring countless hardships, representing the rewards of dedication and hard work.
Created in the wake of Remy Ma’s return to the music industry after legal challenges, it symbolizes resilience.
“All The Way Up” resonates as a motivational track for those who keep pushing despite challenges, embodying the spirit of perseverance.
9. “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” by Alabama (1985) – Tribute to Hard Work
About this song:
- Album: 40-Hour Week
- Released: 1985
- Artist: Alabama
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “You work a 40 hour week for a livin’. Just to send it on down the line.”
Released in 1985, “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” by Alabama pays tribute to the hard work of everyday Americans.
Written by Dave Loggins, Lisa Silver, and Don Schlitz, the song acknowledges the essential contributions of blue-collar workers.
The lyrics honor the often-unseen efforts of people who labor tirelessly to support their families and communities.
Composed during a time when American workers faced economic pressures, the song struck a chord with listeners.
With its heartfelt message and recognition of the value of hard work, it remains a beloved anthem for the working class.
10. “Work Hard, Play Hard” by Wiz Khalifa (2012)
About this song:
- Album: O.N.I.F.C.
- Released: 2012
- Artist: Wiz Khalifa
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “The bigger the bill, the harder you ball. Well I’m throwing mine, cause my money long.”
Released in 2012, “Work Hard, Play Hard” by Wiz Khalifa captures the balance between striving for success and enjoying the fruits of one’s labor.
The song was written by Khalifa, Benny Blanco, and Stargate, reflecting his journey through the music industry.
Its lyrics emphasize the duality of hard work leading to moments of celebration, making it relatable for ambitious individuals.
The track became an anthem for those who push through challenges but know how to reward themselves afterward.
With its energetic beats and motivational message, it inspires listeners to stay focused while reminding them to enjoy life.
11. “Hustlin’” by Rick Ross (2006) – Relentless Work Anthem
About this song:
- Album: Port of Miami
- Released: 2006
- Artist: Rick Ross
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “I touch work, like I’m Convertible Burt (Burt). I got distribution, so I’m convertin’ the work (Work).”
Rick Ross released “Hustlin’” in 2006, and it quickly became a signature track that cemented his place in the hip-hop world.
The song was written by Ross and showcases the relentless pursuit of success in an often unforgiving environment.
The repeated line “Everyday I’m hustlin'” highlights the dedication and perseverance required to thrive in tough circumstances.
Composed during a time when Ross was trying to break into the mainstream, the track is a testament to his hard work and ambition.
It remains a classic anthem for those who embrace the hustle and refuse to settle for mediocrity.
12. “Workin’ Man Blues” by Merle Haggard (1969)
About this song:
- Album: Okie From Muskogee
- Released:
- Artist: Merle Haggard
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “I’ll drink a little beer that evening. Sing a little bit of these working man blues.”
Released in 1969, “Workin’ Man Blues” by Merle Haggard is a country tribute to the hardworking blue-collar workers of America.
Haggard wrote the song himself, capturing the spirit of the laborers who dedicated their lives to earning an honest living.
The lyrics reflect the pride and dignity that come from working long hours, even if the rewards are modest.
Written during a time of economic unrest, the song resonated deeply with the working class and rural communities.
Its authentic portrayal of the working man’s life makes it a timeless anthem for those who value hard work and perseverance.
13. “A Hard Day’s Night” by The Beatles (1964)
About this song:
- Album: A Hard Day’s Night
- Released: 1964
- Artist: The Beatles
- Genre: Rock, Pop music, Pop rock
- Key Lyric: “It’s been a hard day’s night. And I’ve been working like a dog.”
“A Hard Day’s Night,” released in 1964 by The Beatles, became the title track for both their album and the movie of the same name.
Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the song captures the feeling of exhaustion after a long day of work.
The lyrics focus on the desire to return home to a loved one after working hard all day, a relatable theme for many.
It was composed during the height of Beatlemania, adding a playful take on the idea of balancing work and life.
With its catchy rhythm and universal message, the song stands as an ode to those who put in long hours yet look forward to relaxation and love.
14. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor (1982) – Motivational Work Anthem
About this song:
- Album: Eye of the Tiger
- Released: 1982
- Artist: Survivor
- Genre: Hard rock, Arena rock, Classic Rock
- Key Lyric: “It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight. Risin’ up to the challenge of our rival.”
Released in 1982, “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor became widely known as the theme song for Rocky III.
Written by Frankie Sullivan and Jim Peterik, the song was composed specifically to match the film’s theme of relentless perseverance.
Its lyrics emphasize focus, determination, and the fight to overcome obstacles, themes central to hard work and success.
Inspired by the underdog story of Rocky Balboa, the song’s powerful energy motivates listeners to push themselves to the limit.
“Eye of the Tiger” has since become an anthem for those facing challenges, offering encouragement through its bold and empowering lyrics.
15. “Work from home” by Fifth Harmony (2016)
About this song:
- Album: 7/27
- Released: 2016
- Artist: Fifth Harmony
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “You don’t gotta go to work. Work, work, work, work, work, work.”
“Work from Home,” released in 2016 by Fifth Harmony, became a chart-topping hit with its playful yet driven message.
The song was written by a team of songwriters, including Joshua Coleman and Dallas Koehlke, blending pop with themes of working hard even outside traditional spaces.
Its lyrics suggest that productivity and success can come in various forms, even when working remotely or in unconventional ways.
Released during a time when remote work was becoming more prevalent, the song’s message resonated with modern-day hustlers.
With its catchy hook and fun beat, it became a motivating anthem for those embracing flexibility in their work lives.
16. “Successful” by Drake, Trey Songz, Lil Wayne (2009) – Work for Achievement
About this song:
- Album: Ready
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Drake, Trey Songz, Lil Wayne
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “I want the money (Money), money and the cars. Cars and the clothes (Clothes), the hoes. I suppose.”
“Successful,” released in 2009, was a collaboration between Drake, Trey Songz, and Lil Wayne, becoming an anthem for ambition.
Written by all three artists, the song explores the desire for success and the sacrifices one must make to achieve it.
Its lyrics reflect a deep hunger for fame, fortune, and recognition, encapsulating the drive behind hard work in the music industry.
Composed during Drake’s rise to fame, it captures the mindset of an artist striving to make it big.
With its introspective tone, “Successful” remains a relatable anthem for anyone driven by goals of wealth and achievement.
17. “Takin’ Care Of Business” by Bachman–Turner Overdrive (1973) – Daily Work Success
About this song:
- Album: Bachman–Turner Overdrive II
- Released: 1973
- Artist: Bachman–Turner Overdrive
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “And I’ve been takin’ care of business, every day.”
Released in 1973, “Takin’ Care Of Business” by Bachman–Turner Overdrive is a rock anthem celebrating the daily grind of work.
Randy Bachman wrote the song inspired by the hard-working individuals who go through their routines with pride.
The lyrics emphasize the idea of making work a part of life’s rhythm and taking pride in doing it well.
The song was composed during a time when rock and roll celebrated both rebellion and the everyday worker.
Its infectious energy and positive message have made it a timeless anthem for people who take pride in their labor and hustle.
18. “Work Bitch” by Britney Spears (2013)
About this song:
- Album: Britney Jean
- Released: 2013
- Artist: Britney Spears
- Genre: Dance/Electronic, Pop, Dance Pop
- Key Lyric: “You want a hot body? You want a Bugatti? You want a Maserati? You better work bitch.”
Released in 2013, “Work Bitch” by Britney Spears is a bold and empowering track emphasizing the need for hard work to achieve success.
The song was co-written by Spears, Will.i.am, and several others, drawing on themes of ambition and self-determination.
Its lyrics suggest that nothing worthwhile comes without effort, pushing listeners to work harder for their dreams.
Composed during a time when Spears was reasserting her place in the music industry, it reflects her own career perseverance.
With its energetic beats and direct message, “Work Bitch” has become a modern anthem for those unafraid to hustle.
19. “Shiftwork” by Kenny Chesney, George Strait (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Kenny Chesney, George Strait
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “I’m talkin’ ’bout a bunch of shift work. A big ol’ pile of shift work.”
“Shiftwork,” released in 2007, is a collaboration between country music icons Kenny Chesney and George Strait, paying tribute to those who work in rotating shifts.
The song was written by Troy Jones and reflects the struggles and exhaustion of working irregular hours in jobs that demand constant effort.
Its lyrics acknowledge the physical and emotional toll that shift work takes on individuals, making it a relatable anthem for many workers.
The track highlights the dedication required to manage tough work schedules, with both Chesney and Strait lending their voices to honor these workers.
“Shiftwork” stands as a unique country song that celebrates the sacrifices and perseverance of those who work around the clock to keep things running.
20. “Run This Town” by Rihanna, Jay-Z, Kanye West (2009) – Working Hard to Dominate
About this song:
- Album: The Blueprint 3
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Rihanna, Jay-Z, Kanye West
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Life’s a game, but it’s not fair (Yeah). I break the rules, so I don’t care (Uh-huh).”
Released in 2009, “Run This Town” brought together Rihanna, Jay-Z, and Kanye West in a powerful collaboration about ambition and dominance.
Jay-Z’s lyrics, co-written with West and Rihanna, center on the drive to take control of one’s life and career, illustrating resilience in the face of adversity.
The song reflects the trio’s shared theme of striving for power, success, and respect within the highly competitive music industry.
Created during a time when all three artists were at the peak of their careers, it conveys an assertive and confident message.
Its combination of bold verses and a commanding chorus makes it an anthem for those determined to rise to the top through hard work.
21. “Manic Monday” by The Bangles (1986) – Monday Work
About this song:
- Album: Different Light
- Released: 1986
- Artist: The Bangles
- Genre: New Wave/Post-Punk
- Key Lyric: “It’s just another manic Monday (Ooh-oh). Wish it were Sunday (Ooh-oh).”
“Manic Monday,” released in 1986, was written by Prince under the pseudonym Christopher and became a major hit for The Bangles.
The lyrics humorously capture the chaos of rushing to work at the beginning of the week, making it a relatable anthem for workers everywhere.
Its theme revolves around the frustrations of the typical workday grind, particularly on Mondays when time seems to run away.
Written during a prolific period for Prince, the song reflected his ability to blend pop sensibilities with real-world scenarios.
With its catchy melody and witty lyrics, “Manic Monday” remains a classic track that speaks to the universal experience of workweek stress.
22. “Bang the Drum All Day” by Todd Rundgren (1982) – Avoiding Work
About this song:
- Album: The Ever Popular Tortured Artist Effect
- Released: 1982
- Artist: Todd Rundgren
- Genre: Children’s Music, Rock
- Key Lyric: “I don’t want to work. I want to bang on the drum all day.”
Released in 1982, “Bang the Drum All Day” by Todd Rundgren is a humorous take on the desire to avoid work altogether.
Rundgren wrote the song with the intention of creating an upbeat, lighthearted tune that serves as an escape from the responsibilities of the workday.
The lyrics playfully express the narrator’s wish to spend time doing anything but working, capturing a rebellious spirit.
Composed during a time when pop songs often addressed work in a serious tone, this song stood out for its carefree attitude.
Its infectious rhythm and carefree message make it a fun anthem for those dreaming of leaving work behind for something more enjoyable.
23. “Everyday Struggle” by The Notorious B.I.G. (1994) – Work and Survival
About this song:
- Album: Ready to Die
- Released: 1994
- Artist: The Notorious B.I.G.
- Genre: Hip Hop
- Key Lyric: “I don’t wanna live no more. Sometimes I hear death knockin’ at my front door.”
Released in 1994, “Everyday Struggle” by The Notorious B.I.G. reflects the hardships of street life and the daily grind to survive.
The song, written by Biggie Smalls and his team, presents a gritty narrative of working hard in an environment of constant adversity.
Its lyrics depict the relentless fight to make ends meet, capturing the harsh reality of striving for success in difficult circumstances.
Composed during a period of rising tensions in urban America, the track resonates with those facing struggles on the path to a better life.
The raw honesty in the song’s lyrics has made it a powerful anthem for listeners who relate to the ongoing challenges of survival and hustle.
24. “Working Man” by Rush (1974)
About this song:
- Album: Rush
- Released: 1974
- Artist: Rush
- Genre: Metal, Rock
- Key Lyric: “They call me the workin’ man. I guess that’s what I am.”
“Working Man,” released in 1974 by Rush, became an anthem for the labor force with its hard-hitting rock sound and relatable lyrics.
Written by Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, the song speaks to the monotony and routine of the 9-to-5 work life.
Its powerful riffs and lyrics capture the frustrations of working long hours with little reward, resonating with blue-collar workers.
Released during a period of industrial decline, the song’s themes of hard labor and perseverance made it an instant classic.
With its driving beat and evocative message, “Working Man” has remained a timeless tribute to the efforts of everyday laborers.
25. “Working for the Weekend” by Loverboy (1981)
About this song:
- Album: Get Lucky
- Released: 1981
- Artist: Loverboy
- Genre: Pop, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Everybody’s workin’ for the weekend. Everybody wants a new romance.”
Released in 1981, “Working for the Weekend” by Loverboy became a hit anthem celebrating the anticipation of freedom at the end of the workweek.
Written by band members Paul Dean and Matt Frenette, the song captures the excitement of escaping the work grind to enjoy life on the weekends.
Its upbeat tempo and lyrics reflect the universal feeling of working through the week just to experience the joy of personal time off.
The song was composed during a time when the weekend was seen as the reward for enduring the weekly workload, making it instantly relatable.
Its energetic and fun vibe ensures it remains a popular anthem for those who eagerly count down the days until Friday.
26. “Allentown” by Billy Joel (1982) – Hard Work Tribute
About this song:
- Album: The Nylon Curtain
- Released: 1982
- Artist: Billy Joel
- Genre: Pop, Classic Rock, Adult Contemporary, Singer-Songwriter, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Well, we’re waiting here in Allentown. For the Pennsylvania we never found. For the promises our teachers gave. If we worked hard, if we behaved..”
Released in 1982, Billy Joel’s “Allentown” tells the story of a struggling town dealing with the collapse of the American steel industry.
Written by Joel, the song captures the difficulties faced by workers whose livelihoods were disappearing due to economic decline.
The lyrics offer a poignant narrative of factory workers and the disillusionment that comes with seeing the American Dream fall apart.
Composed during a period of significant industrial decline, “Allentown” resonated with many who were directly affected by job losses.
Its moving message and vivid portrayal of hard-working individuals make it a powerful anthem for those facing economic hardship.
27. “Take This Job and Shove It” by Johnny Paycheck (1977) – Work Rebellion
About this song:
- Album: Take This Job And Shove It
- Released: 1977
- Artist: Johnny Paycheck
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “Take this job and shove it. I ain’t workin’ here no more.”
“Take This Job and Shove It,” released in 1977, became an anthem for frustrated workers looking for a way out of difficult job situations.
Written by David Allan Coe and performed by Johnny Paycheck, the song expresses the anger and frustration of being undervalued in the workplace.
Its rebellious lyrics struck a chord with anyone who has felt trapped in a dead-end job, inspiring a sense of empowerment.
Composed during a period of rising dissatisfaction with labor conditions, it quickly became a rallying cry for workers ready to quit.
With its bold and unapologetic tone, the song remains an iconic expression of defiance against unfair working environments.
28. “Work REMIX” by A$AP Ferg (2013)
About this song:
- Album: Trap Lord
- Released: 2013
- Artist: A$AP Ferg
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Put in work, put in work. Put in work, put ’em in the dirt.”
Released in 2013, A$AP Ferg’s “Work REMIX” features several artists, including A$AP Rocky and Trinidad James, each telling their version of the hustle.
The song was written by Ferg and highlights the relentless pursuit of success in the music industry and the streets.
Its lyrics emphasize the idea that working hard is not just about a job but about surviving and thriving in challenging environments.
The remix was composed as a testament to the relentless grind, showing that success often requires overcoming significant obstacles.
With its high energy and diverse verses, “Work REMIX” resonates with listeners who value persistence and ambition in all walks of life.
29. “Till I Collapse” by Eminem (2002) – Relentless Work Ethic
About this song:
- Album: The Eminem Show
- Released: 2002
- Artist: Eminem
- Genre: Hip Hop
- Key Lyric: “’Til the roof comes off, ’til the lights go out. ‘Til my legs give out, can’t shut my mouth.”
Released in 2002, “Till I Collapse” by Eminem is a powerful anthem of endurance and determination in the face of adversity.
Written by Eminem, the song reflects his personal battles and the relentless pursuit of success, no matter how difficult the journey.
The lyrics highlight the importance of pushing through exhaustion and challenges, making it a motivational track for those facing struggles.
Composed during a critical point in Eminem’s career, the song symbolizes his unyielding commitment to his craft and to overcoming obstacles.
“Till I Collapse” remains a motivating anthem for athletes, professionals, and anyone striving to achieve their goals through hard work and resilience.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for motivation to tackle a tough day or simply want to celebrate the rewards of perseverance, these Songs About Working Hard offer the perfect soundtrack.
Each track on this list tells a unique story of ambition, struggle, and triumph, reminding us all of the value of hard work.
No matter the genre or era, these songs continue to inspire people to keep pushing forward and never give up on their goals.