“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” It’s an important lesson for everyone, whether your name is Jack or not. Life can’t be all about work. In fact, it certainly shouldn’t be all about work. If you don’t take a second to stop and smell the roses—or stop to listen to music—then what is all the work for? Here below, we wanted to explore three songs that display this message in an uncanny way. These songs are a trio of rollicking 80s classic rock tracks that explicate the central idea that you should be having more fun. Indeed, these are three classic rock songs from the 80s that remind listeners that life is about more than just working hard, day in and day out.
Videos by American Songwriter
“I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll” by Joan Jett (1982)
Originally a cover of a song by the band Arrows, this is a prime example of another artist taking a track that already existed and making it their own. This is Joan Jett’s song now! And in it, she sings about, well, her love of rock music. It’s a love that shines through in every bar and every guitar chord. It’s a love we believe. And it’s a love we try to imitate on our own as we listen to it. “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll” is the perfect offering for a local bar. Put it on as others drink their beer and play their games of pool, and you’ll be the favorite patron.
“Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard (1987)
This song is about enjoying yourself. It’s carnal. It’s flirtatious. And it’s not about clocking in for your 9-to-5, that’s for darn sure. It’s about lust and pleasure and celebrating both. And it’s a song that an entire crowd can get behind. Who doesn’t want some sweet, sweet loving? That’s what the bombastic classic rock band Def Leppard sings about here. As big drum beats hit and guitar riffs soar, lead vocalist Joe Elliott reminds us that it’s okay to get a little sticky when you’re having fun.
“You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC (1980)
There is a bit of a progression happening here. First you’re in a bar and you declare that you love rock. Then you get a little frisky with another and share some sweet flirtations. Then, if you’re both lucky, you might go home together and, well… shake each other all night long! Yes, we go from Joan Jett to Def Leppard to AC/DC and their wild, unabashed declaration of enjoyment. Don’t let a good thing go to waste. So, forget the expense reports and the Monday meetings and instead dive into an all-night escapade with someone who puts a smile on your face.
Photo by Mediapunch/Shutterstock
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