Labor Day is coming up quickly, and these six country songs would make the perfect playlist for celebrating the hard-working Americans who keep this country running. Let’s take a look!
1. “Amarillo By Morning” by George Strait
This 1982 classic was popularized by George Strait but written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser in 1973. The song is about a rodeo cowboy who is making the long touring trek to the country fair in Amarillo, Texas. The song shines a light on how rodeo workers suffered the same rough touring schedule as rock stars, or George Strait himself.
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2. “It’s 5′ O Clock Somewhere” by Alan Jackson feat. Jimmy Buffett
While many wouldn’t think of Jimmy Buffett when they think of hard work (he is the king of chillin’, after all), this collaboration with Alan Jackson is still one of the best Labor Day country songs. By the time Friday rolls around, most labor workers and office workers alike are ready to have a margarita or two on their lunch break. The 2003 track “It’s 5′ O Clock Somewhere” is a celebration of being a bit naughty before the weekend starts.
3. “Working In The Coal Mine” by The Judds
This song was originally recorded by Lee Dorsey back in 1966. It’s been covered by quite a few musicians, namely Devo and The Judds. We think The Judds’ 1985 version is a real country classic. The tune pays tribute to Appalachian miners and the hard work they did for decades.
4. “The Factory” by Kenny Rogers
While this country song is on the overproduced side, Kenny Rogers’ 1988 song “The Factory” is nevertheless a solid tune about the hopes, dreams, and difficulties of being a factory worker. The song was written by Bud McGuire, and the song is actually about his own father’s experiences working in a factory.
5. “Workin’ Man (Nowhere To Go)” by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
This delightful genre-crossing outfit put together this little ditty in 1988. “Workin’ Man (Nowhere To Go)” by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band was a huge hit when it was released. Many consider it to be heavily inspired by Merle Haggard’s tune “Workin’ Man Blues”, which would also make an excellent addition to a playlist of Labor Day country songs.
6. “Sawmill” by Mel Tillis
Mel Tillis’ vocal abilities are in overdrive on this beautiful tune about sawmill workers who struggled to pay their bills. Released in 1976, “Sawmill” by Mel Tillis features the Nashville star’s best songwriting in action.
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