Donna Summer – She Works Hard For The Money

About the song

“She Works Hard for the Money” by Donna Summer is an iconic anthem celebrating the strength and resilience of working women everywhere. Released on May 10, 1983, as the lead single from her album of the same name, the song quickly became one of Summer’s most memorable hits. Its compelling message, energetic rhythm, and empowering lyrics solidified her place not just as the Queen of Disco, but as an artist capable of crossing genres and addressing socially relevant themes.

Written by Donna Summer and Michael Omartian, “She Works Hard for the Money” was inspired by a real-life encounter. Summer reportedly met a hardworking bathroom attendant named Onetta at a restaurant, and the brief interaction sparked the idea for a song that would pay tribute to women like her—those who labor tirelessly to make ends meet, often without recognition or reward. The song’s narrative taps into universal experiences, particularly resonating with working-class women who juggle multiple roles and responsibilities in their daily lives.

Musically, the track combines elements of pop, R&B, and post-disco, showcasing Summer’s versatility as an artist. The song’s opening features a dramatic drumroll and striking synthesizer line, setting a determined and urgent tone. Summer’s powerful vocals carry the song, conveying both grit and grace as she delivers lyrics like “It’s a sacrifice working day to day / For little money, just tips for pay.” The production, guided by Omartian, blends sharp beats with melodic hooks, ensuring the song’s commercial appeal while staying true to its heartfelt message.

“She Works Hard for the Money” was a massive success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a rallying cry for women’s empowerment. It also garnered critical acclaim, earning Summer a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The accompanying music video, which was a staple on MTV during its early years, depicted various hardworking women in roles ranging from waitresses to nurses, amplifying the song’s social impact. This visual representation underscored the respect and admiration Summer had for women’s contributions across industries.

Beyond its chart performance, “She Works Hard for the Money” became a cultural touchstone. It was embraced by feminist movements and working-class communities alike, serving as a symbol of perseverance and dignity. The song’s relevance endures, as its themes of labor, sacrifice, and empowerment continue to resonate in today’s world.

Donna Summer’s ability to infuse her music with meaning while maintaining its infectious appeal is on full display in this track. “She Works Hard for the Money” is not just a danceable anthem—it’s a tribute to unsung heroes and a reminder of the enduring power of music to shine a light on societal issues. For many, it remains a defining moment in Summer’s illustrious career, cementing her legacy as an artist who not only entertained but inspired.

Video

Lyrics

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

Onetta there in the corner stand
And she wonders where she is
And it’s strange to her
Some people seem to have everything

Nine a.m. on the hour hand
And she’s waiting for the bell
And she’s looking real pretty
Just wait for her clientele

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

Twenty-eight years have come and gone
And she’s seen a lot of tears
Of the ones who come in
They really seem to need her there

It’s a sacrifice working day to day
For little money, just tips for pay
But it’s worth it all
Just to hear them say that they care

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

Already knows
She’s seen her bad times
Already knows
These are the good times

Never sell out
She never will
Not for a dollar bill
She works hard

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

Hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right, alright

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works so hard for the money
So you better treat her right, alright

She works hard for the money
So hard for it, honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right