About the song
In the early 1980s, a song emerged that would resonate deeply with millions of people around the world, capturing the frustrations, dreams, and aspirations of the everyday worker. “9 to 5”, written and performed by the legendary Dolly Parton, became a cultural phenomenon, serving as a powerful anthem for office workers everywhere.
Parton’s infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics painted a vivid picture of the daily grind, highlighting the challenges and monotony faced by those trapped in the corporate world. The song’s title itself, “9 to 5,” symbolized the typical workday, a relentless cycle that often left employees feeling unfulfilled and trapped.
The song’s lyrics, filled with humor, empathy, and a touch of rebellion, resonated with listeners on a profound level. Parton’s iconic line, “I’m gonna get a gun, and I’m gonna shoot up the place,” served as a cathartic expression of frustration for many who felt powerless in their jobs. However, the song’s message was ultimately one of hope and empowerment, encouraging listeners to dream of a better life and to find the strength to overcome adversity.
Released in 1980, “9 to 5” quickly became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Country Singles chart and reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s popularity was fueled by its relatable lyrics and Parton’s charismatic performance. The accompanying music video, which featured footage from the film and Parton’s live performance, further solidified the song’s cultural impact.
“9 to 5” earned Parton an Academy Award nomination and four Grammy Award nominations, winning her the awards for Best Country Song and Best Country Vocal Performance, Female.
The song’s enduring popularity has ensured its place in music history, and it continues to inspire and uplift listeners of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
Tumble out of bed
And stumble to the kitchen
Pour myself a cup of ambition
And yawn and stretch and try to come to lifeJump in the shower
And the blood starts pumpin’
Out on the streets, the traffic starts jumpin’
For folks like me on the job from 9 to 5Workin’ 9 to 5
What a way to make a livin’
Barely gettin’ by
It’s all takin’ and no givin’They just use your mind
And they never give you credit
It’s enough to drive you
Crazy if you let it9 to 5
For service and devotion
You would think that I
Would deserve a fat promotionWant to move ahead
But the boss won’t seem to let me
I swear sometimes that man is
Out to get me, hmmmThey let you dream
Just a watch ’em shatter
You’re just a step on the boss man’s ladder
But you got dreams he’ll never take awayIn the same boat with a lot of your friends
Waitin’ for the day your ship’ll come in
And the tide’s gonna turn
And it’s all gonna roll you awayWorkin’ 9 to 5
What a way to make livin’
Barely gettin’ by
It’s all takin’ and no givin’They just use your mind
And you never get the credit
It’s enough to drive you
Crazy if you let it9 to 5
Yeah, they got you were they want you
There’s a better life
And you think about it, don’t you?It’s a rich man’s game
No matter what they call it
And you spend your life
Putting money in his wallet9 to 5
Oh, what a way to make a livin’
Barely gettin’ by
It’s all takin’ and no givin’They just use your mind
And they never give you credit
It’s enough to drive you
Crazy if you let it9 to 5
Yeah, they got you where they want you
There’s a better life
And you dream about it, don’t you?It’s a rich man’s game
No matter what they call it
And you spend your life
Putting money in his wallet9 to 5