[2025] Western Work Songs: A Collection of Classic Tracks About Work

Work Like You CanRoddy Woomble

Roddy Woomble – Work Like You Can

This is a solo work by Roddy Woomble, frontman of the Scottish band Idlewild.

Included on the album “The Impossible Song & Other Songs,” this track captivates with its profound themes that question the dignity of work and the meaning of life.

Set to a strongly folk-tinged melody, it speaks of the joy of accomplishing things and reminds us that there are more important things than money or status.

Released in March 2011, the album reached number 73 on the UK charts.

When you feel stuck with studying or work, listening to this song will surely help you find a new perspective.

Why not take a moment to reconsider what truly matters?

Don’t Worry Be HappyBobby McFerrin

Bobby McFerrin – Don’t Worry Be Happy (Official Music Video)

There are powerful, high-energy cheer-up songs, and there are also ones that tell you to relax and take it easy.

This song is the latter, and it really puts you at ease.

I think it’s especially effective for people who get nervous easily or before an important exam.

Come to think of it, I used to listen to this song a lot whenever I faced a major turning point in my life.

Bad DayDaniel Powter

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

Precisely because it’s titled “The Worst Day,” listening to it when you’re truly down should give you strength.

Even with cheer-up songs, it’s hard to know whether a bright or a somber track suits someone better.

However, this pop song fits both, and it makes you feel like you’re being cheered on from behind.

I’m Good (Blue)David Guetta & Bebe Rexha

David Guetta & Bebe Rexha – I’m Good (Blue) [Official Music Video]

“I’m Good (Blue),” a collaboration between David Guetta and Bebe Rexha, is perfect for getting work done.

After gaining popularity on TikTok, it spread widely and has become a familiar soundtrack to many people’s daily lives.

Its bright synths and catchy melody boost concentration and help keep various tasks moving rhythmically.

It’s an upbeat EDM track that can enhance productivity for both studying and work.

Blending Guetta’s polished production with Rexha’s captivating vocals, this is definitely a track you’ll want to add to your playlist.

ob-la-di,ob-la-daThe Beatles

The Beatles – Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da

CM songs such as Honda’s “Stepwgn” and Asahi Breweries’ “Asahi Off.” The title “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” is said to be a coined phrase by a musician acquaintance of Paul McCartney.

It’s a reggae-style pop and cheerful song.

HeroesDavid Bowie

David Bowie – Heroes (Official Video)

It’s a song I personally want to play when we’re at the peak of busyness—like at the end of the month or fiscal year—and need one last push.

The lyrics gently tell us that everyone is a hero, and listening to it naturally makes me feel like I can keep going.

It has a mysterious power, so I recommend it.

Working Class HeroJohn Lennon

WORKING CLASS HERO. (Ultimate Mix, 2020) – John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band (official music video HD)

When it comes to songs about working, this one is the closest to what I have in mind.

Originally, it sings about the dilemmas of different generations and classes in the UK, but now you could call it a workers’ song.

The irony is that John Lennon became very rich and is the one singing it.