15 Classic Rock Songs To Hype You Up For Work

Rocking out to some classic tunes can be the perfect remedy for a mundane workday. Whether you’re battling the clock or navigating the demands of a boss, these classic rock songs capture the essence of the working experience. Let the music energize your day and transport you to a time when rock legends understood the grind.

Let these classic rock anthems be the soundtrack to your workday, providing the motivation and energy needed to conquer the challenges ahead. Rock on!

Here are 15 classic rock songs to hype you up for work:

15. “She Works Hard for the Money,” Donna Summer (1983)

Donna Summer’s anthem, inspired by a compassionate moment at a Grammys afterparty, celebrates the hard work of everyday individuals, resonating with the sacrifices made in day-to-day life.

14. “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights),” Styx (1978)

Styx pays tribute to the blue-collar spirit in this hard-hitting single, inspired by a friend’s experience with unemployment. The song channels grit and determination, echoing the resilience of those facing challenges in the workforce.

13. “Working Man,” Rush (1974)

Rush’s salute to the working-class spirit resonated deeply, especially in factory towns. The speaker-rattling rocker became an anthem for those who felt the daily grind, with lyrics sung by Geddy Lee that reflect the wisdom of a seasoned worker.

12. “Working for the Weekend,” Loverboy (1981)

Loverboy captures the universal sentiment of eagerly awaiting the weekend to escape the monotony of the workweek. With loud guitars, ’80s synths, and a catchy chorus, this hit perfectly encapsulates the yearning for leisure.

11. “Summertime Blues,” The Who (1970)

The Who’s cover of this classic reflects the struggle between the desire for fun and the responsibilities of the workday. The young narrator faces off against parents and bosses, highlighting the conflict between personal freedom and work obligations.

10. “Synchronicity II,” The Police (1983)

The Police paint a vivid picture of middle-class anxiety in “Synchronicity II.” The song explores the unsettling aspects of the 9-to-5 grind, portraying the struggles of an average Joe dealing with work-related stress and a literal monster from a Scottish lake.

9. “Maggie’s Farm,” Bob Dylan (1965)

Bob Dylan’s “Maggie’s Farm” is a classic work song that critiques societal class structures. It delves into the challenges of working for oppressive bosses and the toll the workday takes on an individual’s psyche.

8. “Career Opportunities,” The Clash (1977)

The Clash’s “Career Opportunities” solidifies their status as working-class punk heroes. In under two minutes, Joe Strummer takes on thankless jobs, providing a punk anthem for those resisting societal expectations.

7. “Manic Monday,” The Bangles (1986)

Prince penned this hit, perfectly capturing the Monday blues. The Bangles’ rendition resonates with anyone feeling the weight of the workweek, expressing the desire to escape the daily grind.

6. “Money for Nothing,” Dire Straits (1985)

Dire Straits’ “Money for Nothing” reflects on the divide between blue-collar workers and rock stars. Inspired by a conversation about MTV videos, the song became a commercial success, catapulting the band into mainstream recognition.

5. “Working Class Hero,” John Lennon (1970)

John Lennon’s scathing critique of social class structures, “Working Class Hero,” remains a revolutionary anthem. It serves as a warning to those navigating the challenges of the working class, with Lennon expressing solidarity with the common people.

4. “Welcome to the Working Week,” Elvis Costello (1977)

Elvis Costello’s “Welcome to the Working Week” introduces My Aim Is True with jagged but direct songwriting. The track captures the weariness of the workweek in under a minute and a half, setting the tone for the album.

3. “Takin’ Care of Business,” Bachman-Turner Overdrive (1973)

Inspired by the Beatles’ “Paperback Writer,” Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s classic draws parallels between the life of a rock star and a working man. With a catchy hook, the song became a commercial success and resonated with those managing the dualities of life.

2. “The Load-Out,” Jackson Browne (1977)

Jackson Browne’s “The Load-Out” pays tribute to the unsung heroes of the touring industry—the crew members. The song expresses gratitude for their hard work, acknowledging the tireless efforts that ensure a seamless performance.

1. “A Hard Day’s Night,” The Beatles (1964)

The Beatles’ “A Hard Day’s Night” captures the essence of a busy work schedule. Ringo Starr’s accidental phrase inspired the title, and the song marked a new era for the band, holding the No. 1 spot in both the U.S. and U.K. simultaneously.