Rebel Rhythms of Resistance | 9 To 5 | Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton's 1978 hit song "9 to 5" has become an anthem for working women everywhere. The song tells the story of three female coworkers who are tired of being mistreated by their sexist boss, Franklin Hart Jr.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the daily grind, with the working girls facing all manner of injustices and indignities at the hands of their demanding employer. "Tumble outta bed and stumble to the kitchen / Pour myself a cup of ambition" Parton sings, capturing the exhaustion and frustration that comes with being overworked and underappreciated.
The song's chorus, "Workin' 9 to 5, what a way to make a livin'," has become iconic, with its catchy melody and memorable lyrics making it a staple of popular culture. But beneath the upbeat tune lies a powerful message about the struggles faced by working women in the late 1970s.
Parton herself was no stranger to these struggles, having grown up poor in rural Tennessee and worked multiple jobs as a young woman to support her family. Her experience and empathy for her fellow working women shine through in the song's lyrics, which are both humorous and incisive in their critique of patriarchal attitudes towards women.
The song has also been praised for its portrayal of female friendships and solidarity, with the three main characters - Judy, Violet, and Parton herself as Doralee - forming a bond that helps them cope with the stresses of their job. The song's message of female empowerment and support is just as relevant today as it was when the song was first released.
In 1980, "9 to 5" inspired a feature film of the same name, starring Parton alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. The movie tells the story of three coworkers who turn the tables on their sexist boss by taking revenge on him during his absence from work. While the movie received mixed reviews, the song remains one of Parton's most beloved and enduring hits, a testament to her skill as a songwriter and her commitment to telling stories that matter.
