Working in the Coal Mine

Devo

About Working in the Coal Mine

"Working in the Coal Mine" is a song with music and lyrics by the American musician and record producer Allen Toussaint. It was an international hit for Lee Dorsey in 1966, and has been recorded by other musicians including Devo in 1981.


Year:
1990
2:49
119 

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Workin' in the coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down
Workin' in a coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down

Five o'clock in the mornin'
I'm already up and gone
Lord, I'm so tired
How long can this go on?

Workin' in the coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down
Workin' in a coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down

'Cause I make a little money
Haulin' coal by the ton
When Saturday rolls around
I'm too tired for havin' fun

Workin' in the coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down
Workin' in a coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down

Lord I'm so tired
How long can this go on?

Workin' in the coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down
Workin' in a coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down

Five o'clock in the mornin'
I'm already up and gone
Lord, I'm so tired
How long can this go on?

Workin' in the coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down
Workin' in a coal mine
Goin' on down, down
Workin' in a coal mine
Oops, about to slip down

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Devo

Devo ( /ˈdiːvoʊ/, originally /diːˈvoʊ/) is an American punk rock/New Wave band formed in 1972 consisting of members from Kent and Akron, Ohio. The classic line-up of the band includes two sets of brothers, the Mothersbaughs (Mark and Bob) and the Casales (Gerald and Bob), along with Alan Myers. The band had a No. 14 Billboard chart hit in 1980 with the single "Whip It", and has maintained a cult following throughout its existence. Their style over time has shifted between punk, art rock, post-punk, and New Wave. Their music and stage show mingle kitsch science fiction themes, deadpan surrealist humor, and mordantly satirical social commentary. Their often discordant pop songs feature unusual synthetic instrumentation and time signatures that have proven influ… more »

1 fan

Written by: ALLEN TOUSSAINT

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Composition
"Working in the Coal Mine" was originally written and produced by Allen Toussaint.
First Release
Lee Dorsey was the first artist to record "Working in the Coal Mine," releasing it in 1966.
Top of the Charts
The song reached number eight on the US pop chart and number five on the R&B chart.
Cover by Devo
In 1981, the American new wave band Devo performed a successful cover of the song for the animated film, "Heavy Metal."
Devo’s Hit
Devo's version of the song was their third-biggest hit, peaking at number 43 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Unique Sound
Known for their distinct sound and quirky music videos, Devo's rendition of "Working in the Coal Mine" turned it into a new wave dance track.
Influence
"Working in the Coal Mine" has been covered by numerous other artists and has surfaced in various commercials and television shows due to its catchy tune and relatable lyrics.
Lyrics’ Connection
The lyrics of the song talk about the hard life and work in the coal mines. It's universally celebrated as a worker's anthem.
Grammy Award
Though not for "Working in the Coal Mine," Allen Toussaint, the song's original writer, would go on to win the Grammy Trustees Award, further solidifying his place in music history.
Lee Dorsey's Return
The success of "Working in the Coal Mine" allowed Lee Dorsey to successfully return to the music industry after he had switched to running a car repair business.

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    "Working in the Coal Mine Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/1536819/Devo/Working+in+the+Coal+Mine>.

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    Working in the Coal Mine

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1981

    Billboard #43


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