About the song
“Take This Job and Shove It” is a classic country song performed by Johnny Paycheck that resonates deeply with many listeners, especially those who have ever felt the frustration and disillusionment of a thankless job. Released in 1977, this song quickly became an anthem for the working class, capturing the spirit of rebellion against oppressive work environments.
The song was written by David Allan Coe, another iconic figure in country music. Coe’s knack for storytelling and his own experiences with various jobs lend authenticity and raw emotion to the lyrics. Johnny Paycheck, known for his distinctive voice and outlaw image, was the perfect artist to bring this song to life.
“Take This Job and Shove It” is the title track from Paycheck’s album of the same name. The album, also released in 1977, showcases Paycheck’s gritty vocal style and features a mix of honky-tonk tunes and heartfelt ballads. The song’s success helped the album reach the top of the Billboard country albums chart, cementing Paycheck’s place in the country music pantheon.
The single itself was a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in early 1978 and remaining there for two weeks. Its popularity was not just limited to country music fans; it also crossed over into mainstream awareness, becoming a cultural touchstone for anyone who has ever dreamed of telling their boss off.
Over the years, “Take This Job and Shove It” has been covered by various artists and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, underscoring its enduring appeal. The song’s catchy chorus and relatable message continue to resonate with new generations of listeners, making it a timeless classic in the country music genre.
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Lyrics
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t working here no more
My woman done left and took all the reason
I was working for
You better not try to stand in my way
As I’m a-walkin’ out the door
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t working here no more
I’ve been workin’ in this factory
For now on fifteen years
All this time I watched my woman
Drownin’ in a pool of tears
And I’ve seen a lot of good folk die
That had a lot of bills to pay
I’d give the shirt right offa’ my back
If I had the guts to say
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t working here no more
My woman done left and took all the reason
I was workin’ for
You better not try to stand in my way
As I’m a-walkin’ out the door
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no more
Well that foreman, he’s a regular dog
The line boss, he’s a fool
Got a brand new flattop haircut
Lord, he thinks he’s cool
One of these days I’m gonna’ blow my top
And that sucker, he’s gonna’ pay
Lord, I can’t wait to see their faces
When I get the nerve to say
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t working here no more
My woman done left and took all the reason
I was workin’ for
You better not try to stand in my way
As I’m a-walkin’ out the door
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no more
Take this job and shove it