About The Song
Released in 1985, “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” by Alabama is a powerful and heartfelt anthem that pays tribute to the hardworking men and women of America who dedicate their lives to providing for their families and communities. Written by Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry, and Jeff Cook, the song was featured on their album The Touch and quickly became one of the band’s most beloved hits. With its relatable themes of work, family, and pride in one’s labor, “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” resonates deeply with listeners from all walks of life.
The lyrics of “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” celebrate the sacrifices and dedication of the blue-collar worker. The song highlights the hard work that goes into earning a living, with the narrator reflecting on the challenges and rewards of putting in a forty-hour workweek. The chorus, “We do it for a livin’, do it for a livin’,” emphasizes the pride that comes with working hard, providing for one’s family, and making an honest living. The song is a tribute to the value of labor, the dignity of hard work, and the sense of fulfillment that comes from earning your keep. It acknowledges the often overlooked contributions of everyday workers and shines a light on their importance to the fabric of society.
Musically, “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” features a classic country-rock arrangement with electric guitar, steel guitar, drums, and bass, creating a rhythm that is both driving and anthemic. The song’s arrangement complements the themes of hard work and perseverance, with a melody that is uplifting and empowering. Randy Owen’s lead vocals, filled with passion and sincerity, deliver the message of the song with conviction, while the harmonies from Teddy Gentry and Jeff Cook add depth and richness to the track.
When “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” was released, it became a major hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and further solidifying Alabama’s place as one of the most popular and influential country bands of the 1980s. The song resonated with audiences across the country, particularly those in blue-collar communities, who felt a personal connection to the message of hard work and pride in one’s labor.
Today, “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” remains a fan favorite and a staple in Alabama’s live performances. Its timeless tribute to hardworking Americans continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding them of the value of hard work and the pride that comes with it. The song has become a classic anthem of the working class and is still played at events and gatherings to celebrate the dedication and perseverance of everyday workers.
“Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” is a perfect example of Alabama’s ability to blend powerful lyrics with a catchy, anthemic melody. The song’s heartfelt tribute to blue-collar life, work ethic, and pride in providing for one’s family ensures that it remains an enduring classic. With its universal themes of hard work, family, and community, “Forty Hour Week (For a Livin’)” continues to be one of Alabama’s most cherished songs, capturing the spirit of the working man and woman and honoring their contributions to society.