“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Sometimes a song captures the collective spirit of its time, echoing the frustrations and aspirations of a generation. Such is the case with “Take This Job and Shove It,” a song that became an anthem for the working class’s struggles during the economic downturns of the 1970s.
About The Composition
- Title: Take This Job and Shove It
- Composer: David Allan Coe
- Premiere Date: October 1977
- Album/Opus/Collection: Album titled “Take This Job and Shove It”
- Genre: Country
Background
David Allan Coe penned “Take This Job and Shove It,” and Johnny Paycheck’s rendition turned it into a chart-topping hit. This song encapsulates the bitterness and defiance of an overworked individual facing underappreciation and lack of reward. It’s a vivid narrative of workplace disillusionment that resonated widely, becoming Paycheck’s only number-one hit on the country charts (Wikipedia).
Musical Style
The song’s straightforward country style, characterized by its classic instrumentation and Paycheck’s emotive vocals, underpins its potent message. The simplicity of the musical arrangement allows the lyrics to stand out, emphasizing the song’s thematic weight and the common sentiment of frustration in the workforce.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Take This Job and Shove It” convey a strong message of defiance and liberation from oppressive work conditions. The song’s chorus became a popular catchphrase, symbolizing the frustration of many workers with their jobs and bosses. The song speaks directly to anyone who has felt unappreciated in their professional life.
Performance History
Johnny Paycheck’s rendition of the song not only topped the charts but also inspired a 1981 film of the same name. Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, further cementing its place in American musical and cultural history (Wikipedia) (Wikipedia).
Cultural Impact
“Take This Job and Shove It” transcended music to become a cultural symbol. Its title phrase has been adapted into various forms, influencing titles of books and articles, and becoming a part of the American lexicon as a phrase used to express job dissatisfaction (Wikipedia).
Legacy
The song’s continued relevance is evidenced by its persistent use in popular media and its resonance with audiences facing similar workplace frustrations today. It remains a poignant reminder of the power of music to reflect and influence societal sentiments.
Conclusion
“Take This Job and Shove It” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural statement that continues to resonate with listeners. It encourages us to demand respect and dignity in our professional lives. For those interested in exploring this track further, I recommend listening to Johnny Paycheck’s original version for a full appreciation of its gritty charm and bold message.
Video
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