12 Songs About Working Hard (Great Music From Multiple Genres) (2025)

Some people glorify working hard and consider it a virtue.

Others hate it and consider it something to avoid at all costs.

Others still, like myself, agree with both of those sentiments.

And artists who agree with any of the above sentences have written songs about working hard.

Whichever camp you fall into, there is sure to be a song below that will appeal to you.

Keep reading for 12 great songs about hard work. Some celebrate it and some look forward to it ending. All sound great getting their message across.

Songs About Working Hard

I tried to include songs about working hard from as many different genres as possible. That wam, there are sure to be at least a few songs for everyone to enjoy.

9 To 5 by Dolly Parton

9 to 5 is a classic country-pop song by the legendary singer-songwriter Dolly Parton. Released in 1980 as the title track for the movie of the same name, the song became an instant hit and is a signature song for Parton.

The upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and relatable lyrics about the daily grind of the working world struck a chord with audiences, especially women. The song’s message of striving for a better life while navigating the challenges of the workplace still resonates today. 9 to 5 remains an anthem for anyone who has ever worked hard to make a living and dreams of a brighter tomorrow.

Work by Rihanna ft. Drake

Work is a sultry and seductive song by Barbadian pop star Rihanna, featuring Canadian rapper Drake. The song was released in 2016 as the lead single from Rihanna’s eighth studio album, Anti. The song’s infectious beat and sensual lyrics center around the idea of putting in hard work both in and out of the bedroom.

Rihanna’s powerful vocals and Drake’s smooth flow make for a captivating and memorable collaboration. Workbecame a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, and cementing Rihanna’s status as one of the biggest pop stars of her generation.

Eye Of The Tiger by Survivor

Eye of the Tiger is a rock anthem by American band Survivor, released in 1982. The song’s iconic guitar riff and uplifting lyrics made it an instant hit, and it remains a popular stadium anthem to this day.

Written as the theme song for the movie Rocky III, Eye of the Tigercaptures the feeling of determination and perseverance that is needed to overcome challenges and succeed.

The song’s lyrics, “rising up to the challenge of our rival”, have become synonymous with pushing through adversity and never giving up. Eye of the Tiger is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and motivate listeners to work hard.

Workin’ For A Livin’ by Huey Lewis and the News

Workin’ for a Livin’ is a classic rock song by American band Huey Lewis and the News, released in 1982. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a fun and energetic tune that celebrates the hard work and dedication required to make a living.

The song describes the daily grind of working-class life and the struggle to make ends meet. The song’s catchy hook, “workin’ for a livin’, livin’ and workin'”, has become a popular catchphrase for anyone who has ever felt the pressure of a demanding job. Workin’ for a Livin’is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of the American worker.

Work Hard, Play Hard by Wiz Khalifa

Work Hard, Play Hard is a rap song by American rapper Wiz Khalifa, released in 2012. The song’s title has become a popular catchphrase for the work-life balance philosophy that encourages hard work and dedication in order to achieve success.

The song is about the rewards of putting in the effort to achieve your goals, and the importance of taking time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The song’s catchy beat and Wiz Khalifa’s smooth flow make it an enjoyable listen that inspires listeners to work hard and enjoy life to the fullest.

Work Hard, Play Hard is a fun and motivational song that celebrates the benefits of hard work and determination. That makes it a step about the usual money-themed rap songs.

Working For The Weekend by Loverboy

Working for the Weekend is a rock song by Canadian band Loverboy, released back in 1981. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a popular party anthem that celebrates the freedom and fun of the weekend after a hard week of work.

The song’s lyrics tell of the anticipation for the weekend and the desire to let loose and have a good time. The song’s memorable hook, “everybody’s working for the weekend”, has become a popular catchphrase that captures the spirit of living for the moment and enjoying life to the fullest. Working for the Weekendis a classic rock song that continues to inspire and entertain listeners.

Hard Hat And A Hammer by Alan Jackson

Hard Hat and a Hammer is a country song by American singer-songwriter Alan Jackson, released in 2010. The song’s twangy guitar and catchy chorus make it a classic country hit that celebrates the working-class values of hard work and perseverance.

The song speaks of the experiences of a blue-collar worker who takes pride in his work and his ability to be a good man and provide for his family. The song’s memorable hook, “I don’t mind getting up early, working hard all day long”, reflects the grit and determination that are necessary to succeed in life.

Hard Hat and a Hammeris a powerful and relatable song that celebrates the dignity and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Working Man by Rush

Working Man is a hard rock song by the Canadian band Rush, released in 1974. The song’s driving rhythm and powerful vocals make it a classic rock anthem that celebrates the hard-working spirit of the common man.

The song’s words describe the struggles and frustrations of a blue-collar worker who dreams of a better life, but keeps pushing forward despite the odds.

The chorus, “I’m a working man, I gotta pay my bills”, has become a rallying cry for working-class people around the world. Working Man is a powerful and inspiring song that celebrates the strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

A Hard Day’s Night by The Beatles

A Hard Day’s Night is a classic rock song by the iconic English rock band, The Beatles. Released in 1964, the song was the title track of their movie of the same name, and became an instant hit. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody, combined with John Lennon’s distinctive vocals, make it a timeless classic.

The Beatles’ lyrics describe the rigors of life as a working musician, with the phrase “it’s been a hard day’s night” becoming a popular catchphrase. A Hard Day’s Nightcaptures the youthful energy and exuberance of The Beatles at the height of their fame, and remains a beloved classic to this day.

She Works Hard For The Money by Donna Summer

She Works Hard for the Money is a classic disco song by American singer Donna Summer, released in 1983. The song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus make it a timeless anthem for hardworking women around the world.

Donna Summer describes the struggles and sacrifices of a working-class woman who puts in long hours to make ends meet. The song’s memorable hook, “she works hard for the money, so hard for it honey”, has become a popular catchphrase that celebrates the determination and resilience of working women.

She Works Hard for the Money is one of the most powerful and inspiring songs about making money and it continues to inspire and motivate listeners to this day.

God Bless Saturday by Kid Rock

God Bless Saturday is a rock song by American singer-songwriter Kid Rock, released in 2010. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a fun and energetic tune that celebrates the freedom and joy of the weekend.

The lyrics talk of looking forward to the weekend and the desire to let loose and have a good time. The song’s memorable hook, “God bless Saturday, we’re gonna party all night long”, has become a popular catchphrase that captures the spirit of living in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest.

God Bless Saturday is a lively and entertaining song that encourages listeners to embrace the weekend and make the most of it.

Cleaning Windows by Van Morrison

Cleaning Windows is a folk rock song by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison, released in 1982. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a joyful tune that celebrates the simple pleasures of life.

Van Morrison describes the experiences of his younger self who worked hard as a window cleaner in Belfast. The song’s memorable hook, “I’m cleaning windows to earn a penny or two”, reflects the hard work and perseverance required to make a living in difficult circumstances. Cleaning Windows is a charming and nostalgic song that captures the spirit of hope and optimism that can arise even in challenging times.

Songs About Hard Work: Final Thoughts

As mentioned, my goal was to include as songs about working hard from as many different genres as possible. I wanted make sure everyone could find something they enjoy.

However, I know there are some genres I missed. If you have any additional suggestions for songs about hard work that should be on this list, please let me know in the comments below.

Some of the hardest workers out there are immigrants. To celebrate those who leave everything behind for a better life and who happily contribute far more than their share to their new country, musicians have written many great songs about immigrants and refugees.

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