In 1980, Dolly Parton dropped what would become one of her most iconic songs: “9 to 5.” It’s just one of those Dolly Parton songs that demands a listen. And if you don’t, you’re definitely missing out.
The upbeat, country-pop song was written and recorded by the singer herself as the opening theme of a comedy film of the same name, which starred her—in her movie debut—along with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. The film hit number two at the box office, following “The Empire Strikes Back.” And the theme song went on to win her a People’s Choice Award for Favorite Motion Picture Song, a number-one hit on three different charts, and an Oscar nomination.
She later released it as the opening track and centerpiece of her album, 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs. The song scored more success then. Earning her an Academy Award nomination and four Grammy nominations of which she won two — Country Song of the Year and Female Country Vocal of the Year.
Here’s why.
Meaning Behind the Song
The song and the movie titles were owed to the 9 to 5 Boston-wide organization. Which was founded from the movement of women office workers in the ‘70s. One of those was Karen Naussbaum.
According to Nussbaum, being a woman in the office back then was a kind of job where they weren’t just seen. So, she and her friends got to talk about their frustrations. Which, in turn, led to a new organization with the mission of supporting women like them. Their story made its way to Fonda, and it inspired a revenge fantasy movie that showcased a satirical take on corporate America. And its theme song brilliantly narrated it in two minutes and forty-three seconds.
For You
The song starts with the scene of a corporate worker starting their day. (Stumbling out of bed, pouring themselves a cup of ambition, stretching, and jumping into the shower.)
Then it quickly shifts from a burst of energy and ambition into grievances. Singing, “Workin’ 9 to 5, what a way to make a livin’ / Barely gettin’ by, it’s all takin’ and no givin’.” And especially for women, there’s definitely a lack of recognition to the point of exploitation and unfair treatment where they’re most of the time underappreciated.
It also hits the topic of class conflict with the lines, “You’re just a step on the bossman’s ladder” and “It’s a rich man’s game no matter what they call it / And you spend your life puttin’ money in his wallet.” Nine-to-five of work, giving it all in, and you’d think there’d be a promotion, but they just got you where they want you to be: below them.
Again, for women, it’s a much more biased game. During that time, women faced systemic barriers where they often found themselves overlooked in favor of their male counterparts.
Musically, the sound of the typewriter clicking away—interestingly created by Parton’s nails—mimicking the rhythm of a busy office environment, along with the bouncy, upbeat tempo, made the song even more relatable. Aside from that, Parton also brought all the women down in the studio to record the song. Just women because the song is for the women.
Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” is not just one of those catchy tunes; it’s a powerful anthem for the working class and a champion song for women. Make sure you listen to it now. Just hit the play button in the video below.
