Bang the Drum All Day

Todd Rundgren

About Bang the Drum All Day

"Bang the Drum All Day" is a 1983 song by Todd Rundgren. The lyrics describe, in the first person, the singer's drive to "bang on the drum all day" to the exclusion of everything else. All the instruments on this track are performed by Rundgren. The song has become popular as an anti-work anthem or anthem of celebration. Rundgren would re-record the song live for subscribers to his Patronet service. The new version was retitled "Bang the Ukulele Daily", referring to Rundgren's decision to perform it in a Hawaiian style, accompanied only by a ukulele. "Bang the Ukulele Daily" was included on his album One Long Year. 


Year:
2006
3:37
112 
#1

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I don't want to work
I want to bang on the drum all day
I don't want to play
I just want to bang on the drum all day

Ever since I was a tiny boy
I don't want no candy
I don't need toy
I took a stick and an old coffee can
I bang on that thing 'til I got
Blisters on my hand
Because

When I get older they think I'm a fool
The teacher told me I should stay after school
She caught me pounding on the desk with my hands
But my licks were so hot
I made the teacher want to dance
And that's why

Listen to this
Every day when I get home from work
I feel so frustrated
the boss is a jerk
And I get my sticks and go out to the shed
And i pound on that drum like it was the boss's head
Because

I can bang on that drum
Hey you want to a bang at it?
I can do this all day

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Todd Rundgren

Todd Harry Rundgren (born June 22, 1948) is an American multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and record producer. Hailed in the early stage of his career as a new pop star, supported by the certified gold solo double LP Something/Anything? in 1972, his career has produced a diverse range of recordings as solo artist, and during the seventies and eighties with the band Utopia. He has also been prolific as a producer and engineer on the recorded work of other musicians. more »

8 fans

Written by: Todd Rundgren

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


13 facts about this song

Release Information
"Bang the Drum All Day" was released as a single by American musician Todd Rundgren in 1983. It's the third track from his album "The Ever Popular Tortured Artist Effect."
Chart Performance
Despite its popularity, the song didn't chart high on Billboard Hot 100. Its highest position was only #63.
Usage in Popular Culture
The song has been used as a hype or victory song in various sporting events, notably by the Green Bay Packers during home games.
Instrumentation
Rundgren played all the instruments and performed all the vocals on the song.
Genre
The song falls under the pop rock genre and imbodies the new wave sound of the 80s.
Inspiration
Rundgren was inspired to write the song out of his desire not to work but just to bang on the drums all day, reflecting a universal sentiment.
Commercial use
The tune is also popularly used in commercials, especially for Carnival Cruise Lines.
Live performances
Rundgren often performs the song live in his concerts, with fans eagerly awaiting the infectious melody.
Use in Video Games
"Bang the Drum All Day" was featured in a commercial for the video game Madden NFL 10, demonstrating its enduring popularity.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by artists such as the Barenaked Ladies and Ringo Starr's All Starr Band, in which Rundgren was a member.
Iconic Hook
The catchy phrase "I don't want to work, I want to bang on the drum all day" is often all that's needed for people to recognize the song.
Over 30 Years of Popularity
Despite being released in the early '80s, the song still maintains its popularity due to its relatable lyrics and catchy tune.
Not Initially Popular
Despite its eventual success, the song was not immediately popular upon its release, only gaining widespread popularity years later.

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    Bang the Drum All Day

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1983

    Billboard #63


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