We all have our favorite day of the week – not many choose Monday, though :). As you’re about to see, days of the week have always inspired songs. Each day has a “different vibe,” and many of these songs capture that vibe perfectly.
So here’s our pick of the best songs about days of the week. Which is your favorite (song and/or day!)?
Contents
- Monday, Monday – The Mamas & the Papas
- Ruby Tuesday – The Rolling Stones
- Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting – Elton John
- Eight Days A Week – The Beatles
- Sunday Morning – Maroon 5
- Working For The Weekend – Loverboy
- Manic Monday – The Bangles
- Last Friday Night – By Katy Perry
- Sunday Bloody Sunday – U2
- Thursday – Pet Shop Boys
- Tuesday Afternoon – The Moody Blues
- Saturday Love – Cherrelle And Alexander O’Neal
- Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. – Simon & Garfunkel
- Sunday Kind of Love – Etta James
- Finally Friday – George Jones
- Waiting All Day For Sunday Night – Carrie Underwood
- Friday I’m In Love – The Cure
- Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon – Queen
- Saturday Nights – Khalid
- 7 Days – Craig David
Monday, Monday – The Mamas & the Papas
Ok, perhaps we should have started with ‘Blue Monday’ by New Order, but this one just edged it. ‘Monday, Monday’ is a classic example of ’60s folk-pop and perfectly captures the absolute downer the first day of the week can often be. Released in 1966, it quickly resonated with audiences, showcasing the distinctive California sound that the group is celebrated for. Penned by John Phillips, the song is notable for its harmonious melodies that exemplify the band’s mastery of harmony, highlighting their ability to blend voices in a way that is both smooth and emotionally compelling. The lyrics reflect a sense of melancholy and the mixed emotions that the first day of the week can bring. However, despite these melancholic themes, the melodic structure provides a soothing contrast, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance.
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Ruby Tuesday – The Rolling Stones
“Yesterday don’t matter if it’s gone.” Released as a single in 1967, ‘Ruby Tuesday’ quickly became a hit showcasing the band’s versatility and the songwriting prowess of Jagger and Richards. The song stood out for its melancholic melody and reflective lyrics, often interpreted as exploring themes of nostalgia and the fleeting nature of relationships. The Stones’ multi-instrumentalist Brian Jones contributed the distinctive recorder part, which complements the piano to provide a Baroque-influenced sound that was somewhat atypical for The Stones. Despite the song’s departure from their typical blues-influenced rock sound, it cemented their reputation as musical chameleons capable of genre-hopping.
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Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting – Elton John
A vibrant track entrenched in the glam rock movement of the 1970s. Performed by Elton John, with lyrics penned by his long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin, the song stands out as a quintessential party anthem. Securing its place in music history, it showcases Elton John’s dynamic piano skills and flamboyant stage persona. The song’s energetic vibe is characterized by its aggressive guitar riffs and pounding piano, a departure from John’s more mellow hits. Released as a single in 1973, it was featured on his critically acclaimed album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” and exemplifies the rebellious spirit of the decade, encouraging listeners to let loose and revel in the weekend’s festivities.
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Eight Days A Week – The Beatles
“Ooh, I need your love, babe, guess you know it’s true.” Another staple of 1960s pop rock, the track was penned by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, showcasing their collaborative songwriting genius. It’s characterized by its catchy melody and innovative use of studio effects for the time, such as fading in the song’s opening – a technique not commonly used in the pop genre. The song’s lyrics express an exuberant, almost hyperbolic declaration of love, suggesting that even eight days in a week would not be enough to fully express the protagonist’s affection for their lover. It’s a bright, energetic track, contributing to its enduring appeal as a love song. “Eight Days a Week” helped solidify their position as a groundbreaking force in popular music. Its reception was positive, hitting the top of the charts in the United States and becoming a popular hit among fans of the group.
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Sunday Morning – Maroon 5
Released as the fourth single from their debut album, ‘Songs About Jane,’ the track demonstrates Adam Levine’s smooth vocal delivery that perfectly complements the song’s easy-listening vibe. Levine’s performance, paired with the band’s mellow sound, evokes a relaxed Sunday vibe, resonating with audiences seeking a musical reprieve from the hectic weekday pace. The success of “Sunday Morning” is partly attributed to its broad appeal and radio-friendly sound, paving the way for its ascent on the Billboard charts. Listeners are treated to a warm blend of instruments, with a piano riff that hooks you, accompanied by a subtle bassline and understated drum patterns that testify to Maroon 5’s ability to weave pop sensibilities with jazz elements.
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Working For The Weekend – Loverboy
Released in 1982, this rock anthem by the Canadian rock band Loverboy quickly became synonymous with the arena rock sound that dominated that era. Loverboy’s energetic blend of hard-driving guitar riffs and anthem-like choruses caught the attention of both radio listeners and the burgeoning MTV audience. The song is often characterized as a workweek anthem, capturing the feeling of anticipation for the weekend that many people experience. Its lyrics focus on the common desire to break free from the Monday-to-Friday slog. With a punchy beat and catchy hook, it encourages listeners to push through their workweek with their eyes set on upcoming chill time. The song’s popularity is evident in its frequent use in films, television shows, and commercials, serving as a cultural touchstone for the 1980s and an ode to the universal longing for the weekend.
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Manic Monday – The Bangles
Here’s an enduring 80s pop anthem performed by the all-female band The Bangles. Written by the legendary Prince, the track encapsulates the workweek blues many experience at the start of their week. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics helped propel the song to success, becoming a pivotal piece of 80s pop culture. Somewhat ironically, the song was held from the top spot by another Prince hit, “Kiss.” The lyrics depict the common feelings of a rushed and overwhelming Monday, juxtaposing the relaxation of Sunday with the manic rush back to work. The Bangles brought a distinctive female perspective to the track, with their harmonious vocals and pop-rock sensibilities adding depth to weekday woes.
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Last Friday Night – By Katy Perry
Released as part of her third studio album, “Teenage Dream,” in 2010, ‘Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)’ encapsulates the spirit of a wild teenage party. The lyrics narrate the events of a Friday night filled with mischief and revelry, a common theme in Perry’s repertoire that resonates with the exuberance of youth. The music video for “Last Friday Night” features a humorous and colorful portrayal of a teenage bash gone awry, with Katy Perry starring as her alter ego, Kathy Beth Terry. It’s filled with cameo appearances and a storyline that echoes the song’s lyrics, further enhancing its appeal. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics contributed to its popularity, making it a staple on pop radio stations, helping to solidify Katy Perry’s status as a pop music sensation and a voice of contemporary youth culture.
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Sunday Bloody Sunday – U2
A song by the Irish rock band U2 and the opening track from their 1983 album War was released as the album’s third single. This song is one of U2’s most notable works, recognized for its politically charged lyrics and harsh critique of the violence during The Troubles in Northern Ireland. Bono, the lead singer of U2, emphasizes a message of non-violence in the lyrics. The title of the song refers to the Bloody Sunday incident in Derry, where British troops shot and killed unarmed civil rights protesters and bystanders. The event was a significant moment in the conflict, galvanizing public attention and increasing tensions. The song features martial drumming, fiery guitar riffs, and emotive lyrics, making it a staple of rock music. It not only showcases U2’s musical prowess but also their commitment to political and social issues. Despite its specific historical context, “Sunday Bloody Sunday” resonates with listeners worldwide and has become a universal anthem for peace.
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Thursday – Pet Shop Boys
‘Thursday’ plays with themes of anticipation and the passage of time as it pertains to romantic encounters, a narrative angle that’s been explored throughout various genres but finds a unique home within Pet Shop Boy’s electronic territory. Upon release, it received accolades from music critics for its catchiness and lyrical depth. It earned its place on the UK Singles Chart, further solidifying the Pet Shop Boys’ longstanding influence in the British music industry. The track exemplifies the Pet Shop Boys’ adeptness at melding thoughtful lyrics with danceable beats. This hallmark has allowed them to remain relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of synthpop.
Tuesday Afternoon – The Moody Blues
A classic track by The Moody Blues, emblematic of the progressive rock movement of the late 1960s. The song was part of their seminal concept album, Days of Future Passed, released in 1967. This piece was one of the first successful fusions of rock with classical music, marking a significant leap in the genre’s evolution. The Moody Blues were pioneers in integrating these elements that defined progressive rock. They crafted “Tuesday Afternoon” to reflect the moods and attitudes during the 1960s – a period marked by musical experimentation – and the song has since become an iconic representation of this ethos. ‘Tuesday Afternoon’ continues to be a staple on classic rock stations, showcasing the enduring legacy of the band and their creative conquest during the heyday of psychedelia and progressive rock.
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Saturday Love – Cherrelle And Alexander O’Neal
‘Saturday Love’ is a classic representation of the 1980s R&B era. Sung as a duet by Cherrelle and Alexander O’Neal, the song is celebrated for its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics about a nostalgic weekend love affair. The track was produced by the legendary duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis known for crafting the distinctive Minneapolis sound—a mix of electronic, funk, and rock elements that became prevalent during the 1980s. “Saturday Love” was a dance hit upon its release, climbing various music charts and resonating on dance floors due to its upbeat tempo and memorable synthesizer lines. The lyrics capture the essence of a romance tied to the weekends, highlighting the joy and anticipation for Saturday – often the pinnacle of a week’s relationship activities. This love-centered theme elicits a blend of fondness and wistfulness for enduring romantic moments within a relatable time frame. ‘Saturday Love’ remains a beloved track for fans of 1980s R&B.
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Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. – Simon & Garfunkel
‘Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.’ stands as the title track to the debut album of the folk duo Simon & Garfunkel. Released in October 1964, this acoustic song reflects the duo’s folk music roots and showcases the songwriting mastery of Paul Simon and the harmonizing vocals of Art Garfunkel. The composition is a pensive portrayal of an early morning setting, weaving a sense of tranquillity with the strumming of the guitar and the soft vocals. Its musicality belongs to the traditional folk genre, characterized by its clear, storytelling nature and use of simple, melodious acoustic arrangements. Expanding the reach of American folk music, Simon & Garfunkel’s piece provided an intimate atmosphere ideal for the quiet reflection that predawn hours evoke.
Sunday Kind of Love – Etta James
One of Etta James’s most captivating tracks, this track showcases her ability to blend classic soul vibes with hints of jazz. Etta James knocks it out of the park with this timeless standard, which carries a deep sense of romantic longing, demonstrating her pioneering influence on the soul and R&B genres. With her powerful voice and emotive delivery, she made it a love ballad that yearns for an enduring and comfortable kind of love, much as one would enjoy on a peaceful Sunday. Love ballads like this are often praised for their relatability and the raw emotion they evoke. The song encapsulates the feeling of searching for a love that is not fleeting but constant and reassuring. Etta James’s performance secures its status as a classic soul piece that resonates with audiences due to its heartfelt honesty and passion. A timeless standard, this song has not only withstood the changing trends in music but also continues to be cherished across generations, proving the lasting legacy of Etta James.
Finally Friday – George Jones
Released by George Jones, the venerable country music icon, “Finally Friday” is a high-spirited workweek anthem that resonates with many eagerly anticipating the weekend. The song’s rhythmic energy captures the widespread relief felt as the workweek gives way to leisure time. It became part of the 1990s country scene, bolstering Jones’ extensive repertoire with a more upbeat tempo contrasting with his often somber, heart-wrenching ballads. George Jones, affectionately known as “The Possum,” was renowned for his rich vocal expression, which Finally Friday showcases with a lively twist. His voice carries the celebratory mood of the song, epitomizing the joy of reaching the end of a long week. This track has served as a weekend kickoff staple on country radio stations, and its presence on jukeboxes in bars speaks to its enduring appeal.
Waiting All Day For Sunday Night – Carrie Underwood
The primetime theme song for Sunday Night Football, ‘Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,’ is energetically performed by Carrie Underwood. Since her debut as the voice of the NFL’s Sunday night theme in 2013, Underwood has become synonymous with the excitement that precedes the most anticipated matchups each week. Sunday Night Football, broadcast on NBC, occupies a prestigious spot in prime time television. The program’s theme song is central to its identity, setting a high-energy tone that resonates with sports fans across the country. Underwood’s rendition captures the adrenaline and enthusiasm of NFL enthusiasts who eagerly await the climax of the weekend’s sports broadcasts. Underwood’s interpretation not only adds a contemporary country flair to the broadcast but also helps to create a sense of continuity and anticipation for the night’s game.
Friday I’m In Love – The Cure
A superb track by indie rock band The Cure, this love song became one of their most renowned singles, charting across the globe. Robert Smith, the band’s lead singer and primary songwriter, crafted the tune with a notable departure from the band’s earlier, darker tone. The lyrics celebrate the joy of being in love, particularly on Fridays, lending the track an upbeat vibe that resonated with both critics and audiences. Its impact extended into the 1990s music scene, where it further established The Cure as a versatile band capable of producing hits across various emotional spectrums. Produced with a blend of guitar, bass, and synthesizer, “Friday I’m In Love” showcases Smith’s songwriting chops. It demonstrates his ability to create hooks that are both catchy and enduring. The track’s ongoing popularity is a testament to The Cure’s influence on the genre of alternative rock and the timeless appeal of well-written love songs.
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Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon – Queen
Showcasing the band’s British rock heritage, ‘Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon’ is a concise yet whimsical depiction of a leisurely weekend. The track is short, which is atypical for the often grandiose compositions associated with Queen. Infused with a Vaudeville style, the song diverges from typical rock music, reflecting Freddie Mercury’s eclectic songwriting. He employs a range of vocal techniques and piano-driven melodies that harken back to the music hall traditions of the early 20th century. The recording technique was innovative for the time, with Mercury’s voice being filtered through a tin can to achieve an old-time radio effect. Queen’s ability to blend rock with other musical styles is evident, providing a theatrical contrast to the album’s more bombastic hits. The song captures the essence of a leisurely weekend, painting a picture of the protagonist’s simple joys and mundane activities. It conveys the contentment of downtime, encapsulating the feel of a lazy Sunday afternoon.
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Saturday Nights – Khalid
A soulful track by Khalid showcases the artist’s seamless fusion of Contemporary R&B elements with introspective storytelling. The song paints a vivid emotional narrative revolving around the complexities of youth experiences. Khalid’s approach to songwriting often focuses on the inner lives of young individuals confronting the challenges of growth and self-discovery. This track is a testament to this style, with Khalid’s lyrics mirroring the raw feelings accompanying coming of age. His voice delivers each line with sincerity, reinforcing the emotional weight of the narrative. Upon its release, the song garnered attention for its authenticity and Khalid’s melodic prowess. It achieved notable placements on various Billboard charts, further cementing Khalid’s standing in the music industry.
7 Days – Craig David
A standout track by British singer Craig David, ‘7 Days’ encapsulates his smooth vocals and the distinctive UK garage sound. Released as part of his debut album, “Born to Do It,” in 2000, the song narratives a relationship story unfolding over a week. David’s musical creation became a chart-topping hit, securing a prominent position on UK music charts and gaining substantial international acclaim. The song starts with a chance encounter on a Monday, leading to a date on Tuesday and further romantic developments as the days progress. David employs his signature mix of rapped verses and sung choruses, weaving a narrative that resonates with listeners. The production, typical of the UK garage genre at the time, features a catchy beat and syncopated rhythms that helped establish the track as a defining song of the early 2000s.