19 Songs About Monday

Exploring songs about Monday reveals a diverse array of music that captures the essence of starting a new week, from the dreaded Monday blues to the promise of new beginnings. These tunes, spanning different genres and decades, offer unique perspectives on a day that often gets a bad rap in popular culture.

1. “Manic Monday” by The Bangles

“Manic Monday” by The Bangles is a quintessential anthem for anyone who’s ever faced the abrupt transition from the freedom of the weekend to the structured demands of a workweek. Written by Prince under the pseudonym “Christopher,” this 1986 hit resonates with listeners for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about the all-too-familiar Monday morning rush.

The song not only solidified The Bangles as a staple in 80s pop culture but also captured the universal sense of longing for just “one more day” of weekend. Its impact on listeners has endured over the decades, making “Manic Monday” an iconic reflection of the weekly grind.

2. “Blue Monday” by New Order

“Blue Monday” by New Order stands as a monumental track in the evolution of synth-pop, pioneering the use of electronic instruments to create a sound that was groundbreaking at its 1983 release. The song’s driving beat and synthesizer-based melody represented a significant departure from the post-punk era, cementing New Order’s place in music history.

Despite its title suggesting a dreary start to the week, “Blue Monday” doesn’t directly address the theme of Mondays but rather conveys a general sense of melancholy and longing. Its association with Mondays perhaps stems from its ability to echo the collective sigh as the workweek begins, resonating with listeners for its emotive electronic landscape.

3. “I Don’t Like Mondays” by The Boomtown Rats

“I Don’t Like Mondays” by The Boomtown Rats delves into a chilling narrative, inspired by a true and tragic event. The song was written by Bob Geldof in 1979 after he learned of a school shooting in California, where the teenage perpetrator claimed her motive was simply, “I don’t like Mondays.” This dark backstory lends the song a haunting resonance, contrasting with its seemingly upbeat melody.

The critical reception of “I Don’t Like Mondays” highlighted its provocative nature, stirring considerable attention and debate. Despite or perhaps because of its grim inspiration, the song achieved significant commercial success, becoming one of The Boomtown Rats’ most iconic tracks. Its unsettling origin story and the band’s handling of such a sensitive topic continue to be discussed in music circles today.

4. “Monday Morning” by Fleetwood Mac

“Monday Morning” by Fleetwood Mac captures the essence of facing a new week with its upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics. From the album “Fleetwood Mac” (1975), the song serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of time and relationships, with Monday symbolizing both endings and fresh starts. Its harmonious blend of vocal and instrumental elements showcases the band’s signature sound that resonates with listeners gearing up for the week ahead.

The musical composition, characterized by Lindsey Buckingham’s distinctive guitar work and the harmonized vocals, provides a buoyant backdrop to lyrics that touch on themes of resilience and renewal. This combination makes “Monday Morning” a timeless piece that offers a motivational soundtrack for anyone stepping into a new week, encapsulating the hopeful promise that Monday brings.

5. “Rainy Days and Mondays” by The Carpenters

“Rainy Days and Mondays” by The Carpenters beautifully captures the melancholic mood that many people associate with the start of the work week. Released in 1971, this ballad intertwines Karen Carpenter’s expressive vocals with lush arrangements to convey a sense of longing and emotional depth. Its lyrics resonate with anyone who finds Mondays particularly challenging, offering a sense of communal understanding and empathy.

The song’s connection to the universal dread of Mondays is articulated through its reflective lyrics and the somber tone of its melody. This musical masterpiece by The Carpenters has stood the test of time, solidifying its place as an iconic representation of how rainy days and Mondays can both bring feelings of sadness and introspection.

6. “Come Monday” by Jimmy Buffett

“Come Monday” by Jimmy Buffett offers a more optimistic view of Mondays, standing out among songs that traditionally lament the start of the week. Released in 1974, this melody reflects Buffett’s laid-back style and knack for storytelling, encapsulating a sense of longing and anticipation for reuniting with a loved one. Its light-hearted approach to facing a new week appeals to Buffett’s fanbase, who find joy and warmth in his coastal-inspired tunes.

Buffett’s ability to spin a tale of hope and looking forward sets “Come Monday” apart, making it a beloved track among fans. The song’s cheerful disposition and Buffett’s signature sound provide a refreshing perspective on Mondays, demonstrating the day’s potential for new beginnings and happy reunions.

7. “Monday, Monday” by The Mamas and The Papas

“Monday, Monday” by The Mamas and The Papas is renowned for its unique harmony and the existential mood it encapsulates regarding the start of a new week. Released in 1966, this song quickly stood out for its complex vocal harmonies and the melancholic yet hopeful mood it evokes. The distinct blend of voices among the group members creates a rich, layered sound that beautifully complements the song’s reflections on the unpredictability and often fleeting happiness associated with Mondays.

The track’s ability to convey a sense of longing and resignation, paired with its memorable melody, has cemented it as a classic in the realm of songs about Mondays. “Monday, Monday” captures the bittersweet essence of the day, offering listeners a moment of introspection and recognition of the universal feelings Mondays can bring.

8. “Blue Monday” by Fats Domino

“Blue Monday” by Fats Domino dives deep into the roots of rock and roll, offering a blues-infused perspective on the struggles that come with the start of the week. Released in 1956, this track showcases Fats Domino’s signature piano playing and warm vocal style, which played a significant role in the development of rock and roll. The song’s rhythm and lyrics encapsulate the laborious routine of the workweek, resonating with anyone who’s ever felt weighed down by Monday’s arrival.

Domino’s rendition of “Blue Monday” captures the essence of the blues while injecting it with the upbeat energy of early rock and roll, creating a timeless piece that empathizes with the working individual’s plight. This track not only highlights Fats Domino’s influential musical contributions but also offers a relatable take on the universal case of the Monday blues.

9. “New Moon on Monday” by Duran Duran

“New Moon on Monday” by Duran Duran brings an upbeat perspective and vibrant energy that contrasts sharply with the typical Monday malaise. Released in 1984 as part of their third album, “Seven and the Ragged Tiger,” this track is infused with the quintessential sound of the 80s, combining catchy synths with an optimistic melody. The song’s lively tempo and positive lyrics provide a refreshing take on the new week, encouraging listeners to embrace change and possibility.

Duran Duran’s ability to craft a song that radiates hope and excitement has made “New Moon on Monday” a beloved hit among fans and a standout track of the era. Its spirited message and infectious rhythm showcase the band’s talent for creating music that not only resonates with the buoyant side of life but also energizes fans to tackle their weeks with renewed enthusiasm.

10. “Monday Morning Church” by Alan Jackson

“Monday Morning Church” by Alan Jackson delves into an emotional narrative of loss and longing, showcasing the depth of storytelling inherent in country music. Released in 2004, this song masterfully captures the heartbreak of losing a loved one, using the metaphor of a deserted church to express the emptiness and desolation the narrator feels. Alan Jackson’s poignant vocals convey a profound sense of grief that is both personal and universal, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar sorrows.

The song’s powerful storytelling and emotive composition highlight Jackson’s skill as a country music artist, painting vivid pictures of love, loss, and the struggle to find faith amidst despair. “Monday Morning Church” stands as a testament to the genre’s ability to tackle complex emotions with sincerity and depth, offering solace to those grappling with the absence of someone dear.

11. “Monday” by Wilco

“Monday” by Wilco explores the alt-country sound with a lively interpretation of the mundane aspects of Monday. Featured on their 1996 album “Being There,” this track blends elements of classic rock and country with a whimsical take on the weekly grind. The song’s energetic guitars and catchy chorus juxtapose the typically dreary connotations of Monday, offering a spirited and somewhat ironic celebration of the day’s routine monotony.

Wilco’s unique approach in “Monday” showcases their talent for merging genres and themes, creating music that resonates on multiple levels. The track stands out as an example of the band’s ability to inject humor and lightness into the otherwise mundane, capturing the essence of alt-country while engaging listeners with its upbeat rhythm and clever lyrics.

12. “Except for Monday” by Lorrie Morgan

“Except for Monday” by Lorrie Morgan offers a unique country perspective on the days of the week, with a special emphasis on Monday. Released in 1991, this track stands out for its clever lyrical twist, where Monday is depicted not as the week’s dreaded beginning but as a relief from the heartache of a weekend spent missing a lost love. Morgan’s emotive vocal delivery brings depth to the song, encapsulating the complexities of love, loss, and the passage of time.

The song’s playful approach to the traditional country theme of heartbreak showcases Lorrie Morgan’s knack for storytelling and her ability to connect with listeners on an intimate level. “Except for Monday” resonates with anyone who’s ever found solace in the routine of a new week, highlighting the lighter side of longing and the bittersweet nature of moving on.

13. “I Don’t Like Monday’s” by Garry Roberts & Bob Geldof performed by The Boomtown Rats

“I Don’t Like Monday’s” by Garry Roberts & Bob Geldof, performed by The Boomtown Rats, is a song steeped in a tragic backstory that starkly contrasts its catchy tune. Inspired by a distressing event in 1979, where a school shooting was rationalized by the shooter’s disdain for Mondays, the song’s creators crafted a narrative that delved into the darkness behind such an act. Bob Geldof’s poignant lyrics and the band’s engaging melody brought this contrast to the forefront, creating a hit that is both haunting and melodically captivating.

The song’s legacy in the catalog of songs about Monday is significant, highlighting how a day typically associated with mundane dread can also be a canvas for addressing more profound societal issues. This blend of pop sensibility with a tragic event has made “I Don’t Like Monday’s” an enduring piece, reflecting the complexity of human emotions and the varied ways artists can capture and express the nuances of our experiences.

14. “Monday Morning Blues” by Mississippi John Hurt

“Monday Morning Blues” by Mississippi John Hurt offers a deep dive into the historical context of blues music, encapsulating the genre’s rich legacy of expressing the human condition. This song, with its gentle guitar picking and Hurt’s soulful vocals, brings to life the traditional blues theme of lamenting life’s hardships, with Monday serving as a metaphor for recurring struggles. Mississippi John Hurt, known for his intricate fingerpicking style, delivers a poignant narrative on the weariness that comes with the start of the week, making “Monday Morning Blues” a timeless testament to the genre’s emotional depth.

The track resonates with the classic blues narrative, where personal pain and societal issues intertwine, reflecting the broader African American experience during the early 20th century. “Monday Morning Blues” not only fits into the narrative of dreading Monday but also elevates it, showcasing how blues music has historically served as a cathartic outlet for expressing deep-seated feelings of anguish and resilience.

15. “Call It Stormy Monday (But Tuesday Is Just as Bad)” by T-Bone Walker

“Call It Stormy Monday (But Tuesday Is Just as Bad)” by T-Bone Walker is heralded as a blues standard that has left a lasting influence on the genre, thanks to its soulful melody and lyrical depth. Released in 1947, Walker’s smooth vocals and pioneering electric guitar work set new standards for blues music, combining technical skill with emotional expression. The song’s unique take on the days of the week, lamenting not just Monday’s woes but the continuation of troubles into Tuesday, offers a nuanced perspective on the universal feeling of time dragging during a difficult week.

Walker’s masterpiece has inspired countless covers and adaptations, underscoring its significance within the blues genre and its impact on musicians across various music styles. “Call It Stormy Monday” is more than just a lament on weekly struggles; it’s a cornerstone of blues music that showcases the genre’s ability to capture the complexities of life and emotion, resonating with audiences for generations.

16. “Wake Up Boo!” by The Boo Radleys

“Wake Up Boo!” by The Boo Radleys represents a cheerful approach to starting the week, standing in stark contrast to the more common lamentations about Mondays. Released in 1995, this hit song is bursting with optimism, featuring upbeat melodies and lyrics that encourage listeners to embrace the day with a positive outlook. Its message about the joy of life and the potential that each new day—especially Monday—holds, provides a refreshing reminder to face the week ahead with enthusiasm and vigor.

The Boo Radleys’ infectious energy in “Wake Up Boo!” captures the essence of shaking off the Monday blues and finding happiness in the everyday. This track’s vibrant spirit and catchy refrain have made it an enduring anthem for those looking to start their week on a high note, highlighting how a positive mindset can transform the mundane into something extraordinary.

17. “Gotta Get Thru This” by Daniel Bedingfield

“Gotta Get Thru This” by Daniel Bedingfield captures the early 2000s pop perspective on overcoming the challenge of Mondays and the determination to push through difficult times. Released in 2001, this song became an anthem of resilience, combining Bedingfield’s soulful vocals with garage beats to convey a sense of urgency and perseverance. The track’s message, focused on pushing through the barriers that stand in one’s way, resonates deeply with the struggle of facing a daunting week ahead.

Bedingfield’s hit embodies the spirit of endurance and the will to overcome, making “Gotta Get Thru This” a motivational staple for anyone needing a boost to tackle the week, especially Monday. Its infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics offer a sense of companionship and hope, illustrating the early 2000s pop music’s ability to address everyday challenges with catchy, uplifting tunes.

18. “Monday Morning” by Death Cab for Cutie

“Monday Morning” by Death Cab for Cutie provides an indie perspective on the theme of Mondays and the concept of starting anew each week. From their 2011 album “Codes and Keys,” this song weaves together melodic harmonies and introspective lyrics, exploring the feelings of renewal and optimism that can accompany the start of a week. Death Cab for Cutie’s contemplative approach to songwriting shines through in “Monday Morning,” offering listeners a thoughtful reflection on the potential for growth and change that Mondays symbolize.

Through its gentle instrumentation and Ben Gibbard’s evocative vocals, “Monday Morning” captures the nuanced emotions that come with facing another week. This track stands as a testament to the indie genre’s capacity to delve deeply into everyday themes, presenting Mondays not just as a recurring challenge but as an opportunity for personal revival and reinvigoration.

19. “Monday” by The Living End

“Monday” by The Living End delves into the punk rock view of facing the mundane routine of starting another week, offering a high-energy critique of the monotony that can underline life’s weekly cycle. This track, featured on their 1998 self-titled album, combines aggressive guitar riffs with spirited vocals to express frustration and defiance against the grind of conventional expectations. The Living End encapsulates the essence of punk rock’s resistance to normativity, using “Monday” as a metaphor for the broader struggle against societal constraints.

The song’s vibrant energy and raw emotion serve as a rallying call for those who seek to break free from the repetitive patterns that Mondays represent. “Monday” by The Living End resonates with listeners who appreciate the genre’s ability to challenge the status quo, encouraging an embrace of individuality and a rejection of the mundane with each week’s start.