My Gen X Playlist: Manic Monday – The Bangles

There are so many professions that I admire – doctors, lawyers, teachers and first responders, to name a few. I’m also in awe of creative types. I’ve spent most of my life in an analytical career and have always admired those who use their creative energies everyday. Above all, though, the question for me is not what profession I admire the most, but who I admire the most. I appreciate people who are honest, work hard and care, regardless of profession. It sounds like an overly simplistic criteria, but think about it. How does it feel when a customer service representative goes the extra mile to resolve your issue? What about when a doctor takes the time to answer all of your questions and concerns to alleviate your fears? How many know an honest auto mechanic that you have 100% confidence in? These are the types of people that deserve the kudos. They have busy lives and problems just like the rest of us, but they wake up every morning and continue to care and do their best. To them, a big thank you.

I was trying to decide what work-type song to add to the playlist. A few contenders that almost made the list:

• Working in a Coal Mine – Devo
• Working for the Weekend – Loverboy
• Hard Day’s Night – The Beatles

Pretty diverse list. But then I was reminiscing about a concert I went to back in 1987 – Mexfest. My friends and I crossed the border to go to a music festival in Tijuana, Mexico that headlined Oingo Boingo, The Bangles, The Fixx, Squeeze and Hoodo Gurus. All great bands. When I think about The Bangles, I can’t help remember Susanna Hoffs on stage singing Manic Monday and giving that side eye glance. I think many guys may know what I’m talking about. That look was mesmerizing. I think that side eye glance tipped the scale and Manic Monday gets the nod. We’ve all had our share of crazy Mondays to begin the week. This song just makes the day a little easier.

Last comment on my teenage crush – Here is a recent version of Susanna Hoffs singing Manic Monday. It’s difficult to imagine she is now in her 60s. The crush lives on.

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For a complete playlist, please click here.

For the Spotify playlist, please click here.

Six o'clock already
I was just in the middle of a dream
I was kissin' Valentino
By a crystal blue Italian stream
But I can't be late
'Cause then I guess I just won't get paid
These are the days
When you wish your bed was already made

It's just another manic Monday
I wish it was Sunday
'Cause that's my fun day
My "I don't have to run" day
It's just another manic Monday

Have to catch an early train
Got to be to work by nine
And if I had an airplane
I still couldn't make it on time
'Cause it takes me so long just to figure out
What I'm gonna wear
Blame it on the train
But the boss is already there

It's just another manic Monday
Wish it was Sunday
'Cause that's my fun day
My "I don't have to run" day
It's just another manic Monday

All of my nights
Why did my lover have to pick last night
To get down?
(Last night, last night)
Doesn't it matter
That I have to feed the both of us
Employment's down
He tells me in his bedroom voice
"C'mon honey, let's go make some noise"
Time it goes so fast
(When you're having fun)

It's just another manic Monday
I wish it was Sunday
'Cause that's my fun day
"I don't have to run" day

It's just another manic Monday
I wish it was Sunday
'Cause that's my fun day
It's just a manic Monday