Ah, Monday—a day that often receives mixed reviews. Some people dread its arrival, while others embrace it as a fresh start to a new week.
Regardless of your stance on Mondays, one thing is clear: music influences our moods and helps us navigate the day.
In this blog post, we delve into the world of Monday-themed songs, exploring tunes that capture the essence of this notorious day and get us moving.
21 Songs About Monday
1. “Manic Monday” by The Bangles
“Manic Monday” by The Bangles, released in 1986, quickly became an anthem for anyone who dreads the workweek’s start. Penned by Prince under the pseudonym Christopher, the song follows a relatable storyline of a young woman longing for the weekend while feeling overwhelmed by the demands of Monday.
The catchy pop-rock tune, accompanied by the distinctive harmonies of the all-female band, perfectly captures the frustration and sense of chaos that can accompany the beginning of the week. Despite the song’s lightheartedness, it resonates with listeners who understand the struggles of facing a hectic Monday morning.
2. “I Don’t Like Mondays” by The Boomtown Rats
“I Don’t Like Mondays” by The Boomtown Rats, released in 1979, delves into the chilling subject of a school shooting. Written in response to a tragic incident, the song explores the mind of a teenager who commits the act on a Monday, providing a haunting commentary on society.
Despite its somber topic, the song gained popularity for its infectious melody and relatable chorus. It captures the sentiment of those who feel a general disdain or unease towards Mondays, even if not to such extreme measures.
3. “Monday Morning” by Fleetwood Mac
“Monday Morning” is a lively and energetic track from Fleetwood Mac’s critically acclaimed album “Rumours,” released in 1977. The song perfectly embodies the band’s signature sound, blending elements of rock and blues with Stevie Nicks’ enchanting vocals and Lindsey Buckingham’s masterful guitar work.
“Monday Morning” uplifts listeners into the groove, escaping the Monday routine. With infectious rhythm and musical chemistry, it’s a standout track in Fleetwood Mac’s discography.
4. “Rainy Days and Mondays” by Carpenters
“Rainy Days and Mondays,” released by Carpenters in 1971, combines the soothing vocals of Karen Carpenter with heartfelt lyrics that evoke a sense of introspection and longing.
This soft rock ballad embraces the melancholy of rainy Mondays, providing solace through music. Karen Carpenter’s velvety voice and gentle melody create a tranquil atmosphere, offering comfort to those navigating the emotional landscapes of Mondays.
5. “Monday Morning” by Melanie Fiona
“Monday Morning” by Melanie Fiona, featured on her 2009 debut album “The Bridge,” infuses a contemporary R&B flavor into our Monday playlist. The track explores the complexities of love and self-reflection, capturing the bittersweet moments that Monday mornings often hold.
Fiona’s expressive vocals and infectious rhythm create an irresistible blend that urges listeners to groove along. With its soulful delivery and relatable lyrics, “Monday Morning” adds a touch of modernity to the canon of songs about Mondays.
6. “Blue Monday” by New Order
“Blue Monday” by New Order, released in 1983, is a groundbreaking synth-pop masterpiece that has become an iconic genre representation. With its pulsating electronic beats and hypnotic melodies, the song’s title and melancholic undertones evoke the feeling of starting the week on a sad note.
Though not explicitly mentioning Monday, the track’s mood and atmosphere encapsulate the essence of a blue Monday when the upcoming week feels especially burdensome. “Blue Monday” is a timeless classic that continues to influence and inspire musicians today.
7. “Monday Morning” by Death Cab for Cutie
“Monday Morning” by Death Cab for Cutie appears on their 2003 album “Transatlanticism.” The song explores the theme of longing and missing someone, and Mondays serve as a symbolic backdrop for these emotions. The introspective lyrics and the band’s indie rock sound create a sense of vulnerability and melancholy.
As listeners are swept away by the melancholy melodies and lead singer Ben Gibbard’s passionate vocals, they can’t help but reflect on the complexities of relationships and the transient nature of time, making “Monday Morning” a poignant addition to any Monday playlist.
8. “Monday, Monday” by The Mamas & The Papas
“Monday, Monday” was released by The Mamas & The Papas in 1966 and became an instant hit. This folk-rock gem captures the transition from the carefree days of the weekend to the responsibilities of Monday.
The song’s harmonies and catchy melodies transport listeners to a nostalgic era while addressing the universal struggle of letting go of leisure and facing the reality of a new week. “Monday, Monday” remains a beloved classic that captures the essence of the Monday blues.
9. “Just Another Manic Monday” by Shawn Colvin
Shawn Colvin’s rendition of “Manic Monday,” originally written by Prince, offers a fresh interpretation of the beloved 80s hit. Colvin infuses her folk-pop style into the song, showcasing her unique vocal prowess and lyrical interpretation.
Her delicate yet powerful delivery brings new depth to familiar lyrics, resonating with listeners on a challenging Monday. Colvin’s rendition of “Manic Monday” showcases the versatility of music and the ability of artists to make a song their own, breathing new life into its sentiments.
10. “Miserable Monday” by Electric Light Orchestra
“Miserable Monday” by Electric Light Orchestra, from their 1977 album “Out of the Blue,” delves into the melancholy of Mondays. The song’s slow tempo, Jeff Lynne’s distinctive vocals, and the band’s symphonic rock sound vividly depict the weariness that often comes with the start of the week.
The lyrics touch on the monotony and frustrations of everyday life, making “Miserable Monday” a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the blues when the workweek begins. This lesser-known gem from Electric Light Orchestra encapsulates the Monday mood with a touch of melancholy.
11. “Monday” by Wilco
Wilco’s “Monday,” featured on their 1995 album “A.M.,” is a gritty alt-country track that captures the essence of starting the week on a rough note. The song’s raw energy and lead singer Jeff Tweedy’s raspy vocals channel the frustrations and challenges that Mondays can bring.
With lyrics depicting a tale of longing and missed opportunities, “Monday” resonates with those who have experienced the struggle of finding motivation and navigating through the monotony of the first day of the week. Wilco’s honest and heartfelt portrayal of Monday blues offers a cathartic release for listeners.
12. “Monday Monday Monday” by Tegan and Sara
“Monday Monday Monday” is a song by Tegan and Sara that explores the emotions and complexities of a troubled relationship. The lyrics express a sense of detachment and indifference toward the week’s events, suggesting a loss of interest and care.
The repetitive chorus emphasizes the mundane repetition of Mondays, symbolizing the monotony and dissatisfaction experienced. The song delves into the singer’s inner turmoil, questioning the other person’s actions and expressing frustration with their unpredictable mood swings.
13. “Monday Morning” by Pulp
Pulp’s “Monday Morning,” from their 1995 album “Different Class,” explores relationship complexities and the emotional turmoil Mondays bring. The song’s alternative rock sound, led by Jarvis Cocker’s distinct vocals and the band’s guitar-driven melodies, intensifies the narrative.
“Monday Morning” resonates with those seeking deeper connections amidst workweek routines. Its introspective lyrics touch on desire, longing, and the challenges of meaningful relationships.
14. “Bombs on Monday Morning” by Melanie Martinez
“Bombs on Monday Morning” was an unreleased track originally planned for Melanie Martinez’s album Crybaby but didn’t make the final cut. Its removal was due to thematic differences from the rest of the album.
The song’s meaning is open to interpretation, with some linking it to the Hiroshima bombings on a Monday morning. Others view it as reflecting the loss or illness of a close family member, possibly facing a terminal disease like cancer. Though unofficially released, the song exemplifies Melanie Martinez’s thought-provoking and multi-layered musical style.
15. “Monday Without You” by Carole King
Carole King’s “Monday Without You” is a heartfelt ballad featured on her 1993 album “Colour of Your Dreams.” The song explores the emptiness and longing accompanying a Monday spent without a loved one. Carole King’s soulful vocals and piano-driven melodies create an emotionally charged experience for listeners.
“Monday Without You” reminds us of the profound impact that certain people have on our lives and how their absence can leave a void, even on the most ordinary days. The song captures the vulnerability and emotional depth that Mondays can sometimes bring.
16. “Monday Morning” by Peter, Paul and Mary
Peter, Paul and Mary’s “Monday Morning” is a folk-inspired gem from their 1966 album “Album 1700.” The song takes an optimistic approach to Mondays, celebrating the beginning of a new week and the potential for growth and change.
“Monday Morning” uplifts with harmonies and meaningful lyrics, reminding listeners that each Monday offers a fresh start and a chance to make a difference. It gently encourages embracing Mondays with hope and purpose, setting the tone for a fulfilling week.
17. “Morning Is My Destination” by Tift Merritt
“Morning Is My Destination” is a poignant song by Tift Merritt that finds solace in the promise of a new day. Amidst a rainy city evening, the lyrics express a longing for support and hope.
Merritt embraces morning as a symbol of fresh beginnings and overcoming challenges. The song acknowledges the difficulties of the night but seeks reassurance from a loved one. With passionate vocals and introspective lyrics, “Morning Is My Destination” captures the yearning for strength and the transformative power of each new day.
18. “They Call It Stormy Monday” by John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers
“They Call It Stormy Monday” by John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers is a classic blues song vividly capturing life’s struggles. The lyrics depict a series of challenging days, with Monday setting a difficult tone for the week, followed by progressively worse Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
However, the song takes a turn as the weekend approaches, with the eagle flying on Friday and the narrator finding solace and enjoyment on Saturday. Sunday shifts towards reflection and prayer as the narrator seeks mercy and longs for the return of their beloved.
19. “Monday Morning Church” by Alan Jackson
Released in 2004, Alan Jackson’s “Monday Morning Church” is a poignant country ballad exploring loss and grief. The song reflects on coping with the absence of a loved one, using Monday as a symbol of the stark reality and emptiness after a significant loss.
Jackson’s rich vocals and heartfelt storytelling lend a sense of authenticity and raw emotion to the song, touching the hearts of listeners who have experienced similar feelings of sorrow and longing on a Monday morning.
20. “Monday Morning Blues” by Mississippi John Hurt
Mississippi John Hurt’s “Monday Morning Blues” is a blues classic from the 1920s that showcases his virtuoso fingerpicking style and soulful vocals. The song delves into the hardships and challenges individuals face working hard to make ends meet.
The lyrics depict the struggles of beginning the week with a heavy heart, while Hurt’s skilled guitar playing adds hope and resilience to the song. “Monday Morning Blues” showcases the lasting power of the blues genre in expressing profound human emotions.
21. “Monday” by Matt Corby
“Monday” by Matt Corby, from his 2019 album “Rainbow Valley,” is a soulful track exploring self-discovery and personal growth. The song reflects on the inner struggles that arise at the start of a new week, symbolizing the opportunity for self-reflection.
Corby’s captivating vocals and uplifting melodies inspire listeners to embrace Monday’s challenges as stepping stones for personal transformation. The song evokes a sense of empowerment and optimism, encouraging self-improvement.
Concluding on Songs About Monday
Music has an incredible ability to capture the wide spectrum of emotions we experience on Mondays. Whether conquering the day or commiserating, these tunes are worth a listen. Let the music guide you through the highs and lows of the week’s first day. Remember, there’s a melody for every Monday mood.