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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

A work song—literally a “labor song”—refers to songs that were actually sung on the job, such as during farm work or in factories.

Folk songs kept in time with handclaps while tilling the fields, and work songs sung to the rhythm of factory machinery, have been passed down alongside the history of labor.

This article introduces classic Western work songs—both old and new—born from the popular music scene that take “work” and “labor” as their themes.

These masterpieces, which sing about work and workers from various perspectives, are sure to resonate with those of us who face our daily jobs.

[2025] Western work songs: A roundup of classic tracks about work (51–60)

Working OvertimeNew Order

Japanese people are very serious and hardworking.

They don’t mind working overtime, so as soon as you go past the scheduled time, play this song to boost morale.

It’s an up-tempo number with a true New Order spirit that will help you work hard.

Raise the rankinglower

In conclusion

We’ve shared the appeal of Western work songs that stay close to everyday life and at times carry social messages.

These are songs that, across eras and cultures, help set the rhythm of our lives and energize both mind and body, letting us feel the power of music.

Time spent with music will make your days richer and more comfortable.

Be sure to listen while checking the Japanese translations with a translation tool.