Introduction
“Take This Job And Shove It” is a timeless classic in the world of country music, performed by the legendary Johnny Paycheck. Released in 1977, this song struck a chord with the working class, becoming an anthem of defiance and rebellion against the daily grind. In this article, we will dive into the history and significance of this iconic track, shedding light on Johnny Paycheck, the man behind the music.
Did You Know?
Johnny Paycheck, originally named Donald Eugene Lytle, was an American country singer and songwriter known for his rebellious and outlaw-style country music. He adopted the stage name “Johnny Paycheck” to pay homage to his hero, Johnny Cash. Paycheck’s career was marked by both success and turbulence, but he’s best remembered for “Take This Job And Shove It”, which became a crossover hit and is now considered one of the quintessential anthems of the genre.
The song was originally written by David Allan Coe and was inspired by an actual event in his life. Johnny Paycheck’s rendition brought this powerful message to a broader audience, striking a chord with people who had experienced the frustrations of the daily grind. This iconic tune even led to a film of the same name in 1981, further solidifying its place in American pop culture.
Video
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no more
My woman done left and took all the reasons
I was working for
Ya better not try to stand in my way
As I’m walkin’, out the door
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no moreI been working in this factory
For nigh 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
Who had a lot of bills to pay
I’d give the shirt right off of my back
If I had the guts to sayTake this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no more
My woman done left and took all the reasons
I was working for
Ya better not try to stand in my way
As I’m walkin’ out the door
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no moreWell, that foreman, he’s a regular dog
The line boss, he’s a fool
He got a brand new flat top 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 sayTake this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no more
My woman done left and took all the reasons
I was working for
Ya better not try to stand in my way
As I’m walkin’ out the door
Take this job and shove it
I ain’t workin’ here no moreTake this job and shove it