“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Have you ever found yourself humming a tune that resonates with the unsung heroes of everyday life? That’s exactly what Alabama did with “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” – a heartfelt tribute to the working class. It’s a song that strikes a chord with anyone who’s ever punched a time clock or labored behind the scenes. For me, it instantly brings back memories of long summer days watching my dad head out the door to work, carrying the weight of his job with quiet pride. This song speaks for those who rarely get the recognition they deserve.
About The Composition
- Title: Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)
- Composer: Dave Loggins, Don Schlitz, Lisa Silver
- Premiere Date: April 1985
- Album/Opus/Collection: 40-Hour Week
- Genre: Country
Background
“Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for the backbone of America—the everyday workers. Released in April 1985 as part of Alabama’s album 40-Hour Week, the song was a departure from typical country themes, focusing instead on the toil and grit of the working class. Written by Dave Loggins, Don Schlitz, and Lisa Silver, the song acknowledges the people who “keep the country turnin’ around,” from factory workers to those in the service industry. At the time of its release, America was seeing changes in labor dynamics, with economic shifts making the message all the more poignant. The song quickly climbed the charts, reflecting the deep connection it made with listeners who felt seen and appreciated.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” perfectly complements its message. It’s a mid-tempo country ballad, with Alabama’s signature harmonies at the forefront. The arrangement is straightforward yet powerful, using guitars, drums, and piano to drive the rhythm, symbolizing the steady beat of the workday. The simplicity of the instrumentation allows the lyrics to shine through, creating an emotional connection that feels both personal and universal. There’s a certain humility to the song’s structure, much like the people it honors, with no flashy solos or elaborate orchestration—just solid, heartfelt music.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” tell a story of gratitude, giving voice to those who rarely get to speak. It starts by naming the people who “work in the factories, run the machines,” and continues to highlight others from teachers to farmers. The chorus emphasizes, “This is for the one who drives the big rig, up and down the road,” acknowledging the diverse jobs that keep the country running. The lyrics are simple yet profound, reinforcing the idea that everyone’s work, no matter how big or small, is vital.
Performance History
Upon its release, “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” became an instant hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in July 1985. Alabama performed the song in numerous venues, and it was particularly well-received during live shows, where the audience would often cheer in recognition of the workers being honored. Over the years, it has become one of Alabama’s defining songs, often included in their setlists and appreciated by audiences who relate deeply to its message.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” is significant. It brought a much-needed acknowledgment of the working class into the mainstream, something that country music has always excelled at. Beyond the country music scene, the song has been used in various contexts to celebrate Labor Day and other events that honor workers. Its message has transcended the genre, resonating with people from all walks of life who understand the grind of a forty-hour week.
Legacy
“Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” continues to hold a special place in country music history. Its tribute to workers remains relevant in today’s world, where the dignity of labor is still a hot topic. Alabama’s ability to capture the essence of everyday life in their music has made the song timeless, and it’s often cited as one of the band’s most important contributions to the genre. The song reminds us of the value of hard work and the importance of recognizing those who do it, a message that is as meaningful now as it was in 1985.
Conclusion
“Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” is more than a song; it’s a tribute. It’s a reminder that the people who make the world go around often go unnoticed, and it celebrates their contributions with heartfelt sincerity. For anyone looking to appreciate the labor that keeps our society moving, I highly recommend listening to Alabama’s live performances, where the song’s impact is truly felt. This song has a way of grounding us, of making us reflect on the quiet heroes who work behind the scenes every day.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
There are people in this country
Who work hard every day
But 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
[Pre-Chorus]
Hello Detroit auto workers
Let me thank you for your time
You work a 40 hour week for a livin’
Just to send it on down the line
Hello Pittsburgh steel mill worker
Let me thank you for your time
You work a 40 hour week for a livin’
Just to send it on down the line
[Chorus]
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
[Verse 2]
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
[Pre-Chorus]
Hello Kansas wheat field farmer
Let me thank you for your time
You work a 40 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 40 hour week for a livin’
Just to send it on down the line
[Chorus]
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
[Outro]
Hello America, let me thank you for your time