Dolly Parton – 9 To 5

About the song

Few songs have captured the spirit of working-class resilience and female empowerment quite like **Dolly Parton’s** iconic **“9 to 5.”** Released in 1980, this infectious, upbeat anthem is not only a high point in **Parton’s** illustrious career but also a cultural landmark that resonates just as powerfully today as it did over four decades ago. Written for the film of the same name, in which **Parton** also starred alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, the song became a clarion call for fairness in the workplace, particularly for women who were—and still are—fighting for recognition, equal pay, and respect.

Musically, **“9 to 5”** is pure pop-country brilliance, a seamless blend of **Parton’s** rootsy Southern charm with mainstream appeal. The instantly recognizable typewriter-inspired rhythm, mimicking the clatter of office work, sets the tone with playful wit. Layered atop this is **Dolly’s** clear, exuberant vocal performance—rich with personality, warmth, and conviction. The lyrics cut through the gloss with razor-sharp commentary: “**It’s a rich man’s game no matter what they call it / And you spend your life putting money in his wallet**.” Lines like these captured the frustration and fatigue of millions who felt overlooked and underappreciated, especially women navigating the rigid, male-dominated corporate world.

What elevates **“9 to 5”** beyond mere catchy protest is **Parton’s** knack for pairing a serious message with buoyant optimism. Rather than sounding bitter or jaded, the song is full of vitality and hope—an energetic reminder that solidarity and determination can lead to change. In this way, **Dolly Parton** managed to craft a protest song that people could dance to, sing along with, and feel empowered by.

In the broader arc of **Parton’s** career, **“9 to 5”** remains a standout, emblematic of her talent not only as a performer but as a storyteller and cultural voice. It’s a song that speaks truth, makes you smile, and reminds you that the everyday grind doesn’t have to define your worth. It’s no wonder that decades later, it still inspires listeners to stand tall and speak up. Would you like a similar introduction for another **Dolly Parton** song?

Video

Lyrics

Tumble out of bed and I stumble to the kitchen
Pour myself a cup of ambition
And yawn and stretch and try to come to life
Jump in the shower and the blood starts pumpin’
Out on the street, the traffic starts jumpin’
With folks like me on the job from nine to five

Workin’ nine to five, what a way to make a livin’
Barely gettin’ by, it’s all takin’ and no givin’
They just use your mind and they never give you credit
It’s enough to drive you crazy if you let it
Nine to five, for service and devotion
You would think that I would deserve a fair promotion
Want to move ahead but the boss won’t seem to let me
I swear sometimes that man is out to get me
Mmmm

They let you dream just to watch ’em shatter
You’re just a step on the bossman’s ladder
But you’ve got dreams he’ll never take away
In the same boat with a lot of your friends
Waitin’ for the day your ship’ll come in
And the tide’s gonna turn an’ it’s all gonna roll your way
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