If freelancing was a soundtrack: song titles that best describe what it’s like to be a freelancer
Manic days when you need to let your hair down at the end of the day are why songs like “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett were written.
If you have been freelancing for some time or are new to it, you will soon experience a mixed bag of feelings. That happens when you are trying to keep multiple clients happy at the same time as your family and friends. That’s why one day you could be singing your heart out like Julie Andrews in a scene of The Sound of Music and the next like a country music crooner when things get so bad they’re funny. “You’re The Reason Our Kids Are Ugly” by Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty comes to mind.
So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, or alone or have landed an amazing new client and need some music to celebrate, we’ve put together a list of songs that can accompany your mood. These are a bit tongue-in-cheek, but there’s always a nugget of truth in there.
💸When money is tight
“Money’s too tight to mention” by Simply Red: This 1980s hit could resonate with many people today trying to make ends meet in the cost of living crisis. But there is one reassuring thing about it, we are all feeling it, so you’re not alone: “I been laid off from work. My rent is due. My kids all need Brand new shoes…So I went to the bank To see what they could do. They said son – looks like bad luck Got-a hold on you…Money’s too tight to mention…”
“Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty: This song perfectly captures the feeling of being a freelancer. You’re on the edge if you’re not sure where your next paycheque is coming from.
“I’m Free (But I’m Still in Debt)” by The Clash is another.
😔Feeling lonely or isolated? It’s time to get social
“Alone Again (Naturally)” by Gilbert O’Sullivan and “Alone” by Heart: These songs remind us that it can be lonely being a freelancer. You spend a lot of time working by yourself, and it can be hard to find the time to meet friends and make easy connections. Or you’ve just been so focused on a project that you have become a hermit in your home office and haven’t made the effort to be social. Get out of the sweats and belt this one out in the car on your way to meet a friend or a freelance community meeting.
Others include “No One” by Alicia Keys, “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel and “I’m on My Own” by LeAnn Rimes are also a few to listen to.
🫂When you need support
“Lean on Me” by Bill Withers: This song is about the importance of having a support system, which is something that freelancers can often lack. However, there are plenty of community groups you can find on social media to join in person in your local area or online.
💗When you need inspiration to overcome challenges
“I’m a Survivor” by Destiny’s Child: This song is about overcoming challenges, which is something that freelancers have to do on a daily basis.
“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor: This song is about picking yourself up after a fall, which is something that freelancers have to do all the time.
“Roar” by Katy Perry: This song is about being strong and independent, which are two qualities that freelancers need in spades.
“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift: This song is about not letting the haters get you down, which is something that freelancers have to do when clients are being unreasonable or over-demanding.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell is a classic, too.
“99 Problems (But a Client Ain’t One)” by Jay-Z and “Can’t Get No Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones are also a few that may fit your mood.
💻Sometimes it’s all about the work, work work
“9 to 5” by Dolly Parton: This song is about the hustle and bustle of work, which is something that freelancers know all about even if they don’t keep traditional 9 to 5 office hours!
“Work” by Rihanna: This song is about putting yourself out there to bring in more clients and finding new ways to earn income to give you the financial freedom freelancers strive for.
“I’m So Tired” by The Beatles is another especially when you are trying to make ends meet and taking on more projects and clients.
📻Some more songs to add to your freelancer playlist
Of course, there are many other songs that could be on this list. But these songs capture the highs and lows of being a freelancer.
“Lose Yourself” by Eminem: This song is about the power of determination, which is something that freelancers need to have in order to succeed.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen: This song is about the importance of following your dreams, which is something that freelancers should never forget.
“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen: This song is about the beauty of life, which is something that freelancers can appreciate even more when they’re working on their own terms.
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA: This song is about having fun and letting loose, which is something that freelancers can definitely do when they’re not working.
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams: This song is about finding happiness in the everyday, which is something that freelancers can do when they’re grateful for the freedom and flexibility that their work allows them.
If you’re a freelancer, you can probably relate to at least a few of these songs. And if you’re not a freelancer, you can at least appreciate the funny side.