About the song
Let’s dive into the rich tapestry of country music history with the timeless anthem “Forty Hour Week (For A Livin’)” by the legendary band Alabama. As we embark on this musical journey, let me regale you with the story behind this emblematic song.
“Forty Hour Week (For A Livin’)” made its debut in 1985 as part of Alabama’s album of the same name. The song was crafted by esteemed songwriters Dave Loggins, Don Schlitz, and Lisa Silver, each lending their talents to create a powerful ode to the hardworking individuals who form the backbone of society.
Alabama, comprised of Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry, Jeff Cook, and Mark Herndon, has long been revered for their contributions to the country music landscape. With their distinctive harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, Alabama has garnered widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Upon its release, “Forty Hour Week (For A Livin’)” ascended the country music charts, reaching the upper echelons and resonating with audiences across the nation. Its poignant portrayal of the everyday struggles and triumphs of blue-collar workers struck a chord with listeners, earning it a place among Alabama’s most beloved hits.
As you listen to the stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics of “Forty Hour Week (For A Livin’),” allow yourself to be transported to a time when hard work and perseverance were celebrated virtues. So sit back, relax, and let Alabama’s evocative music remind you of the resilience and determination that define the American spirit.
Video
Lyrics
There are people in this country
Who work hard every day
Not for fame or fortune do they strive
But the fruits of their labor
Are worth more than their pay
And it’s time a few of them were recognized.Hello Detroit auto workers,
Let me thank you for your time
You work a forty hour week for a livin’,
Just to send it on down the line
Hello Pittsburgh steel mill workers,
Let me thank you for your time
You work a forty hour week for a livin’,
Just to send it on down the line.This is for the one who swings the hammer,
Driving home the nail
Or the one behind the counter,
Ringing up the sale
Or the one who fights the fires,
The one who brings the mail
For everyone who works behind the scenes.You can see them every morning
In the factories and the fields
In the city streets and the quiet country towns
Working together like spokes inside a wheel
They keep this country turning around.Hello Kansas wheat field farmer,
Let me thank you for your time
You work a forty hour week for a livin’,
Just to send it on down the line
Hello West Virginia coal miner,
Let me thank you for your time
You work a forty hour week for a livin’,
Just to send it on down the line.This is for the one who drives the big rig,
Up and down the road
Or the one out in the warehouse,
Bringing in the load
Or the waitress, the mechanic,
The policeman on patrol
For everyone who works behind the scenes.With a spirit you can’t replace with no machine
Hello America, let me thank you for your time…