There’s something about Monday that stirs up a range of emotions in people. It’s a day often associated with the end of relaxation and the start of responsibility, making it a prime subject for music. Artists from various genres have crafted songs about Monday that capture the essence of what the day represents, from the bluesy start to the workweek to moments of renewal and new beginnings. In this post, we’ll dive into the most popular Monday songs that have resonated with listeners over the years.
Arguably one of the most iconic songs about Monday, "Monday, Monday" by The Mamas & the Papas perfectly captures the bittersweet and unpredictable nature of the day. Released in 1966, this classic tune quickly climbed to the top of the charts, becoming the band's first and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song begins with a gentle, uplifting melody, almost tricking listeners into thinking Monday might not be so bad after all. But as the lyrics unfold, it paints a picture of the unpredictability and challenges that Mondays often bring, making it a timeless anthem for the beginning of the week.
When people think of Monday songs, "Manic Monday" by The Bangles is likely to come to mind. Written by Prince under the pseudonym Christopher, this 1986 hit encapsulates the stress and chaos that often accompanies the start of the workweek. The catchy pop-rock tune expresses the frustration of wishing it were still Sunday while grappling with the responsibilities that Monday demands.
With lines like “I wish it was Sunday, 'cause that’s my fun day,” "Manic Monday" speaks to the universal experience of dreading the early morning alarm and the grind of a new week.
A defining song for the synth-pop era, "Blue Monday" by New Order takes a more abstract approach to the Monday blues. Released in 1983, it became one of the best-selling 12-inch singles of all time and is often associated with the feeling of disillusionment and melancholy that Mondays can bring.
While the lyrics of "Blue Monday" don’t directly reference the day of the week, the song’s title and moody, electronic sound make it a fitting addition to any list of songs about Monday. Its pulsating beat and layered synths give the song an ethereal quality that captures the disconnection and detachment many feel at the start of the workweek.
Karen Carpenter’s rich, melancholic voice paired with her brother Richard’s arrangement brought many hits to life, but few evoke the same sense of sadness as "Rainy Days and Mondays." Released in 1971, the song talks about the feeling of being down and unmotivated, perfectly capturing the sluggishness that can accompany a gloomy Monday.
“Rainy days and Mondays always get me down” has become an iconic line that anyone who’s felt the weight of a rainy Monday morning can relate to. This track is a must-listen for those who want a slow, reflective start to the week.
Unlike many other Monday songs, "I Don’t Like Mondays" by The Boomtown Rats was inspired by a tragic real-life event. Released in 1979, the song was written in response to a school shooting in San Diego, California. The shooter infamously claimed, “I don’t like Mondays” as her reasoning for the attack.
While the context of the song is dark, it became a huge hit, topping the charts in the UK. The haunting piano melody combined with the chorus, “Tell me why, I don’t like Mondays,” speaks to the frustration and bleakness often associated with the start of the week.
Fleetwood Mac’s "Monday Morning," featured on their self-titled 1975 album, brings a more upbeat and optimistic take on Monday. Written by Lindsey Buckingham, the song’s lively guitar riffs and catchy melody stand in contrast to many other Monday songs that focus on the negatives.
"Monday Morning" reflects on the ups and downs of relationships, using Monday as a metaphor for the emotional rollercoaster of love. While the lyrics touch on uncertainty, the overall sound of the song is bright and energizing, making it a great track to kick off your week.
Duran Duran’s 1984 hit "New Moon on Monday" combines their signature new wave sound with a slightly mysterious narrative. The song is less about the trials of a typical Monday and more about hope and renewal. The "new moon" is often associated with fresh starts, making this track a metaphor for new beginnings that can come with the start of the week.
The upbeat tempo and smooth vocals give "New Moon on Monday" a distinctive, forward-looking feel, making it a great choice for those who want to embrace Monday with optimism and energy.
For those who associate Mondays with longing and the end of a relaxing weekend, Jimmy Buffett’s "Come Monday" is a perfect fit. Released in 1974, this laid-back country song reflects on missing someone and the anticipation of reunion.
“Come Monday, it’ll be all right” is a reassuring line that speaks to the idea that while Monday may be tough, better things lie ahead. With its mellow vibe and easygoing rhythm, "Come Monday" is a great track for anyone looking for a calm, reflective song to start their week.
Wilco’s "Monday" from their 1996 album Being There brings a rock-infused energy to the list of songs about Monday. With its energetic guitar riffs and lively tempo, the song captures the chaos and intensity that can come with the start of a busy week.
Though the song doesn’t dive deep into the meaning of Monday, it offers a high-energy beat perfect for shaking off the weekend and gearing up for the tasks ahead.
Canadian singer Melanie Fiona offers a soulful take on Monday songs with her 2009 hit "Monday Morning." This upbeat track blends R&B and pop influences to create a song about resilience and overcoming challenges. The lyrics tell the story of someone determined to push through difficulties, making it a motivating anthem for anyone facing a tough Monday.
From reflective ballads to upbeat rock anthems, songs about Monday span across genres and decades, capturing the wide range of emotions that this day can evoke. Whether you’re looking for a song to match your Monday blues or one to help you tackle the start of the week with renewed energy, these Monday songs offer something for every mood.
For more suggestions, check out our full playlist of Monday Songs to find the perfect track to soundtrack your start to the week.