The Hustler’s Ultimate Labor Day Playlist
Good music that provides the soundtrack to our daily struggles will always be a vibe. From Stevie Wonder’s take on making ends meet to Drake’s private grind and Jill Scott’s reminder to find joy, these songs capture the highs, lows and realities of the hustle. While you take a break from the 9-to-5 this Labor Day, enjoy our playlist curated for the everyday hustler.
Stevie Wonder – “Living For The City”
Stevie Wonder’s soulful vocals did what they needed to do on this track, which is all about the grittiness of our everyday struggle. From trying to pay rent to managing the skyrocketing prices we face every day, this record will always be right on time. Besides, anytime is a good time to throw on a Steve Wonder record.
The O’Jays – “For The Love of Money”
The soul-funk record “For The Love Of Money” by The O’Jays is a classic anthem about what people will do when they’re on the paper chase. Inspired by the biblical proverb that “money is the root of all evil,” the song tells a story of how people will lie, cheat and betray their own families for financial gain. Even if you don’t get the message, the sounds will get you out of your seat.
Donna Summer – “She Works Hard For The Money”
Donna Summer’s “She Works Hard For the Money” is an anthem that makes getting to the bag sound glamorous. Summer had all the girls clocked in for work while empowering us to power through because bills are high and rent is due.
Dolly Parton – “9 To 5”
Dolly Parton had us romanticizing the grind while fighting the irritation of being in the workplace. Her upbeat country-pop record “9 To 5” gently reminded us that pouring into our jobs while fighting for equal pay can leave us all running on empty if we allow it. Chile, she ain’t never lied!
Related: The Perfect Playlist For Your Labor Day Cookout
Jay-Z – “Can’t Knock The Hustle”
When it comes to speaking about a hustler lifestyle, who better than Jay-Z to make an anthem for the streets? Framing economic survival and corporate ambition as a way to build a powerful empire, the Brooklyn rapper unapologetically shares the work ethic and resilience that allowed him to rise from the bottom. Now that we see where he is today, who can knock his hustle?
Marvin Gaye – “Inner City Blues”
Marvin Gaye’s soulful masterpiece is an exploratory record that touches on systemic poverty, economic troubles and the social injustice that Black folks have faced for decades. While the current state of the economy is taking an emotional toll on everyone these days, it’s only fitting that people would have this record on repeat.
Notorious B.I.G. – “Juicy”
Notorious B.I.G.’s classic 1990s hip-hop anthem proves that persistence and perseverance can lead to celebration. Biggie turned the dream of escaping poverty into one of hip-hop’s most iconic success stories. Everyone needs a reminder that something greater is coming, and “Juicy” is the one.
Nipsey Hussle – “Grinding All My LIfe”
Nipsey Hussle’s mentality on hustling remains a constant motivator for his fans. “Grinding All My Life” captures the discipline, patience, and aggressive work ethic that allowed him to make it in the world.
Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”
Hustling isn’t always about getting rich. Sometimes it’s just about getting by. Kendrick Lamar’s hit single quickly became an anthem for folks in the struggle, reminding all of us that “everything is going to be alright.”
Kanye West – “Spaceship”
Kanye West was on to something when he released a record that vividly captures the frustration of working long hours without seeing your efforts reflected in your paycheck. Listening to his single “Spaceship,” you can’t help but daydream about getting far away from a dead-end job. Hopefully, this record can provide an escape during your day off.
Rick Ross – “Hustlin’”
Ricky Rozay released this smash record for folks who live their life for the paper chase. If you have the “money-making” mentality, you’re going to want to turn this record all the way up.
Drake – “Tuscan Leather”
When it comes to building success, sometimes you have to fade into the background and grind in private. Drake’s “Tuscan Leather” captures the feeling of being on the brink of success and putting in the work while waiting for your big moment.
Jill Scott – “Golden”
Jill Scott gave us a reason to have some joy (and do a two-step) when we wake up to face the world. Listening to “Golden” reminds us that we can live the good life on our own terms.
Mista – “Blackberry Molasses”
Mista’s “Blackberry Molasses” remains a soulful gem for those moments when life gets hard. Setbacks, disappointments, and hard lessons are inevitable, but this record reminds us to keep pushing, even when it feels like the storm will never end.
Sounds of Blackness – “Optimistic”
The daily grind can test us, but our resilience is what keeps us going. The unofficial Black gospel anthem reminds us that no matter what life’s adversities may bring, we should remain faithful and believe that better days are ahead.
