I’m here trying to make a living
I ain’t living just to die
Never getting back what I’m giving
Can someone somewhere help me justify
Why these strong hands are on the unemployment line
Now there’s nothing left
But what’s on my mind
Who’s gonna work for the working man
(Hurt) for the working man
(Work) Get your hands in the dirt
Who’s gonna work off the curse
(Work) Brother, I’ll be damned
(Work) If I don’t raise a hand
(Work) Who’s gonna work work work
For the working man, working man
Empty pockets full of worry
Had to get two jobs
And it was hard enough just getting by
With the grace of God, I’ll get us through
I only know what I know how to do
I’m the only one who’s got to look my family in the eye
Day after day
Night after night
Who’s gonna work for the working man
(Hurt) for the working man
(Work) Get your hands in the dirt
Who’s gonna work off the curse
(Work) Brother, I’ll be damned
(Work) If I don’t raise a hand
(Work) Who’s gonna work work work
For the working man, working man
I lost my pension
They took my I.D.
These were my friends
These were my dreams
These were my hopes
These are my streets
Can you hear me?
Who’s gonna work for the working man
(Hurt) for the working man
(Work) Get your hands in the dirt
Who’s gonna work off the curse
(Work) Brother, I’ll be damned
(Work) If I don’t raise a hand
(Work) Who’s gonna work work work
For the working man, working man
These were my friends
These were my dreams
These were my hopes
These are my… streets
Finding Hope in Hard Work
“Work For The Working Man” by Bon Jovi is a powerful anthem that captures the struggles and perseverance of everyday people. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with job insecurity and economic hardship, yet refusing to give up. Lines like “I’m here trying to make a living / I ain’t living just to die” reveal a deep desire for purpose, while the recurring question, “Who’s gonna work for the working man?” echoes the collective frustration of those who feel overlooked. Bon Jovi’s message is one of resilience—through lost pensions, empty pockets, and dashed dreams, the working man’s spirit remains unbroken, always ready to “raise a hand” and keep pushing forward for the sake of family and community.
Song Credits
- Artist: Bon Jovi
- Songwriters: Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Billy Falcon
- Release Year: 2009
- Label: Island Records