About the Song
Roy Orbison, the man with the velvet voice. We all know him for those powerful ballads that could make a grown man weep. But Orbison wasn’t afraid to delve into other territory, and that’s exactly what he did with his 1962 song, “Working for the Man.”
Released as a double A-side with “Leah,” “Working for the Man” might surprise some folks familiar with Orbison’s usual melancholic crooning. This song is a whole different animal. It’s a driving rock and roll tune, with a strong backbeat and a touch of that signature Orbison drama.
Now, this song came out in the early 60s, a time of great change. The post-war economic boom was in full swing, and the American worker was the backbone of that prosperity. But there was also a growing sense of frustration with the daily grind, the feeling of being stuck in a never-ending cycle of work, sleep, and repeat.
That’s where “Working for the Man” comes in. It’s the voice of a man who’s tired of punching the clock, tired of answering to the boss. It’s a relatable sentiment, even for folks who haven’t clocked in at a factory in decades. We’ve all felt that weight of obligation, that yearning for something more.
So, if you’re looking for a different side of Roy Orbison, a side with a bit more grit and a whole lot of rock and roll energy, then look no further than “Working for the Man.” It’s a song that captures a specific time period, but the themes of work, frustration, and the desire for freedom are timeless.
cuong