Get A Job

In the latest episode, we explore the world of work, expressed in song. Our first application comes from The Silhouettes, and their 1957 smash hit “Get A Job” (2:49). Rockin’ doo-wop backing here: an immortal vocable, plinky piano and crashy drums. The song is textbook early rock’n’roll – joyous, live-sounding, dumb – they’re on the payroll! Now it’s time to review the rookie Miracles, and Smokey Robinson’s inaugural song-writing effort, the 1958 answer song “Got a Job” (47:53). Man, is this guy ever a go-getter! But Smokey’s secretly snarking about the job behind the boss’s back. Don’t tell Berry Gordy!! Sadly, someone fired poor ol’ doleful Alex Chilton, whose 1985 tune “Lost My Job” both lauds and laments unemployment (1:22:33). He runs the gamut of emotions, befitting the blues and boogie of the song. Now everybody get back to work!!!