Fridays. The very word conjures images of freedom, fun, and the sweet relief of the work week coming to an end. It’s a universal feeling, celebrated across cultures and generations. This anticipation and joy have made Fridays a rich source of inspiration for musicians across genres. From classic rock anthems to modern pop hits, songs about Friday capture the unique energy of this pivotal day.
Whether you’re seeking the perfect soundtrack to kick off your Friday night celebrations, or just want to revel in the Friday feeling, this curated list of iconic Friday Songs has you covered. We’ll explore 22 tracks that perfectly embody the spirit of Friday, offering a diverse range of musical styles and perspectives on this beloved day of the week. Get ready to amplify your Friday feeling with these amazing friday songs!
1. Genesis – “Get ‘Em Out by Friday” (1972)
Genre: Progressive Rock
Album: Foxtrot (2007 Stereo Mix)
Release Year: 1972
Key Lyric: “Get ’em out by Friday. You don’t get paid Till the last one’s well on his way.”
Genesis, a cornerstone of progressive rock, released “Get ‘Em Out by Friday” on their 1972 album Foxtrot. Penned by the theatrical frontman Peter Gabriel, this track is a sharp satire wrapped in complex musical arrangements. It delves into a dystopian future where ruthless landlords exploit tenants, forcing them out of their homes in the name of profit. The song’s narrative unfolds with shifting time signatures and Gabriel’s dramatic storytelling, a hallmark of Genesis’s early sound. “Get ‘Em Out by Friday” is not just a musical journey; it’s a critique of corporate greed and social injustice, reflecting urban anxieties prevalent in 1970s Britain. It showcases Genesis at their creative zenith, blending social commentary with their signature musical experimentation.
2. Kelis – “Friday Fish Fry” (2014)
Genre: Funk, Soul, Retro-Groove
Album: Food
Release Year: 2014
Key Lyric: “Give me what I want, give me what I need. I’m beggin’ you please, I’m down on my knees.”
From her album Food, Kelis’s “Friday Fish Fry,” released in 2014, is a soulful and vibrant celebration of community and culinary tradition. Co-written with Dave Sitek, the song is an infectious blend of funk, soul, and retro vibes. It paints a vivid picture of the Friday night fish fry, a communal gathering filled with warmth, delicious food, and family spirit. Kelis, who attended culinary school during the making of this album, draws directly from her passion for cooking and communal dining. “Friday Fish Fry” is more than just a song; it’s an invitation to a cultural experience, reflecting Kelis’s artistic evolution and her deep appreciation for the connections forged through food and shared traditions. It’s a unique addition to the canon of friday songs, moving beyond the typical weekend party anthem.
3. Bell and James – “Livin’ It Up (Friday Night)” (1978)
Genre: Disco, Funk
Album: Bell & James
Release Year: 1978
Key Lyric: “Livin’ it up, livin’ it up, oh yeah. Friday night.”
“Livin’ It Up (Friday Night)” by Bell and James, released in 1978, is pure disco energy. This track, crafted by the duo LeRoy Bell and Casey James, became an instant hit with its irresistible fusion of disco, funk rhythms, and smooth, soulful vocals. It perfectly captures the exhilarating feeling of Friday night, the moment the work week fades and the weekend explodes into life. The lyrics are simple yet effective, celebrating the pure joy of weekend freedom and the anticipation of letting loose after a long week. Emerging during the peak of the disco era, Bell and James aimed to create the ultimate anthem for Friday nights in clubs and on dance floors worldwide. “Livin’ It Up” resonated deeply with the late 70s generation, becoming a defining track of disco culture and a classic friday song that still ignites dance floors today.
4. Lil Dicky ft. Chris Brown – “Freaky Friday” (2018)
Genre: Pop Rap, Comedy Hip Hop
Album: Freaky Friday
Release Year: 2018
Key Lyric: “I woke up in Chris Brown’s body (Oh yeah). Somehow this shit turned into Freaky Friday (Oh).”
Lil Dicky’s 2018 hit “Freaky Friday,” featuring Chris Brown, took the concept of friday songs in a wildly comedic direction. Inspired by the body-swap movie Freaky Friday, this rap track is a humorous exploration of identity, fame, and self-perception. Lil Dicky and Chris Brown playfully trade places, comically navigating the other’s life and public image. The lyrics are witty and self-aware, satirizing celebrity culture and the often absurd nature of fame. Lil Dicky, known for blending comedy with rap, uses satire to deliver social commentary with a light touch. “Freaky Friday” went viral not only for its clever concept but also for its star-studded music video, which amplified its comedic storytelling and solidified its place as a unique and memorable friday song for the modern era.
5. We The Kings – “Friday Is Forever” (2011)
Genre: Pop Rock, Alternative
Album: Sunshine State of Mind
Release Year: 2011
Key Lyric: “Friday is forever, we belong together. So come on, come on. And don’t you say never.”
“Friday Is Forever,” released by We The Kings in 2011 from their album Sunshine State of Mind, is a pure burst of youthful, pop-rock energy. This anthem perfectly captures the feeling that Friday nights are boundless and full of possibility. The lyrics celebrate the excitement of Friday, symbolizing freedom, endless fun, and romantic possibilities. The catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it an irresistible feel-good track, ideal for blasting as the weekend begins. As We The Kings transitioned to a more mainstream pop-rock sound, “Friday Is Forever” became a standout track, resonating with a wide audience looking for an anthemic friday song that embodies the carefree spirit of youth and weekend revelry.
6. The Specials – “Friday Night, Saturday Morning” (1980)
Genre: Ska, Reggae, Alternative
Album: More Specials
Release Year: 1980
Key Lyric: “I go out on Friday night and I come home on Saturday morning.”
The Specials’ “Friday Night, Saturday Morning,” released in 1980 on More Specials, offers a starkly different take on Friday nights. This song provides a poignant glimpse into working-class nightlife in Britain, tinged with melancholy. Written by Terry Hall, it depicts the repetitive routine of pub culture as a temporary escape from the struggles of daily life. The song’s tone is more reflective than celebratory, highlighting the emptiness that can follow the fleeting excitement of a night out, especially against a backdrop of economic hardship. As The Specials moved beyond their ska roots, they began to explore darker, more socially conscious themes. “Friday Night, Saturday Morning” is a powerful snapshot of early 1980s British nightlife, resonating with listeners who understood its somber message about the realities behind the Friday night facade. It’s a friday song that acknowledges the complexities of life beyond the party.
7. Rhett Akins – “Friday Night in Dixie” (2002)
Genre: Country
Album: Friday Night in Dixie
Release Year: 2002
Key Lyric: “She said, “It’s Friday night in Dixie, it’s time to have some fun. Anything goes ’til the rooster crows and we see that southern sun.””
Rhett Akins’ 2002 country anthem, “Friday Night in Dixie,” is a vibrant celebration of Southern small-town life and Friday night traditions. Akins wrote this song as an ode to the simple pleasures of weekend gatherings in the American South. The lyrics paint a picture of bonfires, barbecues, and local hangouts, evoking a strong sense of Southern pride and community spirit. It’s a feel-good track that romanticizes the down-to-earth joys of rural life and the camaraderie of Friday nights in Dixie. Released during a time when country music emphasized regional identity, “Friday Night in Dixie” became a beloved anthem, celebrated for its relatable storytelling and its heartfelt tribute to Southern culture. This friday song is all about celebrating place and community.
8. The Easybeats – “Friday on My Mind” (1966)
Genre: Rock
Album: Good Friday
Release Year: 1966
Key Lyric: “I’ve got to get to night. Monday I’ll have Friday on my mind.”
The Easybeats’ 1966 global hit, “Friday on My Mind,” is a timeless classic that perfectly encapsulates the universal anticipation for the weekend. Written by band members Harry Vanda and George Young, the song is a straightforward expression of longing for Friday and the freedom it represents. Its infectious, rock-driven melody and relatable lyrics about counting down to Friday night have resonated with audiences across generations. Composed in London, the song was heavily influenced by the British Invasion, blending rock, pop, and R&B elements into a timeless anthem. “Friday on My Mind” remains a quintessential friday song, often cited as one of the greatest songs about the joy and relief of the weekend’s arrival.
9. Rascal Flatts – “Friday” (2012)
Genre: Country Pop
Album: Changed
Release Year: 2012
Key Lyric: “Let the good times roll when the guitars play. Here is to another week gone. Raise them up and sing along. Friday cannot come fast enough.”
Rascal Flatts’ “Friday,” from their 2012 album Changed, blends country and pop influences to create an upbeat celebration of the end of the work week. The song is pure, unadulterated Friday feeling, emphasizing the joy and relief of finally reaching the weekend. The lyrics focus on unwinding, relaxing, and letting loose after a long week. Rascal Flatts, known for their crossover appeal, crafted “Friday” during a period when they were experimenting with more radio-friendly, upbeat tracks. The result is a catchy and infectious friday song that resonates with both country and pop fans, perfectly capturing the universal desire to escape the weekday grind.
10. Nikki Williams – “Thank God It’s Friday” (2013)
Genre: Dance Pop, Pop Rock
Album: N/A
Release Year: 2013
Key Lyric: “Party party party, let’s just have some fun. Thank God it’s Friday, thank God it’s Friday.”
Nikki Williams’ “Thank God It’s Friday,” released in 2013, is a high-energy dance-pop anthem built for Friday night revelry. Co-written by Williams, the song is a direct expression of weekend euphoria and the desire to let loose after a stressful week. Its driving beat and celebratory lyrics are tailor-made for the party culture often associated with Fridays, targeting a younger, club-going audience. As Nikki Williams emerged as a pop artist, she aimed to create a quintessential feel-good friday song that would become a staple on party playlists. “Thank God It’s Friday” is pure, unadulterated weekend energy, perfect for kicking off the Friday night festivities.
11. Nancy Sinatra – “Friday’s Child” (1966)
Genre: Pop, Folk
Album: Nancy in London
Release Year: 1966
Key Lyric: “Friday’s child, good looks passed her by, oh. Friday’s child makes something look like nothing.”
Nancy Sinatra’s “Friday’s Child,” a 1966 single from her album Nancy In London, takes a more introspective and melancholic approach to friday songs. Penned by songwriter Lee Hazlewood, the song deviates from typical upbeat Friday anthems, exploring themes of loneliness and resilience. The lyrics delve into the struggles of someone born under the astrological sign of Friday, offering a more thoughtful and somber perspective on the day. During a period when Sinatra was exploring more complex and emotional ballads, “Friday’s Child” showcased her versatility as an artist. It stands out in her discography for its darker, more reflective exploration of personal hardship, offering a unique and poignant take on the Friday theme.
12. Flo Rida ft. Jason Derulo – “Hello Friday” (2016)
Genre: Pop, Hip-Hop
Album: My House
Release Year: 2016
Key Lyric: “Hello, Friday, I’ve been waiting for you for a long time. You just save me when my life came tumbling down.”
Flo Rida’s “Hello Friday,” featuring Jason Derulo, released in 2016, is another high-energy, feel-good anthem celebrating the arrival of the weekend. Co-written by both artists, the song is a straightforward ode to Friday as a time to party and shed the week’s stresses. Its catchy hooks and energetic beat made it a radio staple and a popular choice for weekend party playlists, aligning perfectly with Flo Rida’s signature dance-pop style. At a time when Flo Rida was consistently producing chart-topping hits, “Hello Friday” was designed to be a crowd-pleaser for his pop and hip-hop fanbase. This friday song is pure weekend excitement, praised for its infectious energy and universal appeal to Friday night revelers.
13. George Jones – “Finally Friday” (1992)
Genre: Traditional Country
Album: Walls Can Fall
Release Year: 1992
Key Lyric: “It’s finally Friday, I’m free again. I got my motor running for a wild weekend.”
George Jones’ “Finally Friday,” released in 1992, is a classic country take on the friday song theme, beloved by fans of traditional country music. Written by Earl Conley and Hank Cochran, the song perfectly captures the feeling of relief and joy that washes over you as the work week ends. The lyrics are simple and relatable, focusing on relaxation, cold beers, and enjoying time off with friends. George Jones, known for his deep connection to the working-class experience, recorded “Finally Friday” later in his career, creating a song that resonated deeply with his longtime fans. It’s a down-to-earth celebration of simple pleasures and the hard-earned reward of the weekend.
14. Lily Allen – “Friday Night” (2006)
Genre: Pop
Album: Alright, Still
Release Year: 2006
Key Lyric: “Friday night, last orders at the pub. Get in the car and drive to the club.”
Lily Allen’s “Friday Night,” from her debut album Alright, Still released in 2006, brings a witty and cheeky perspective to the friday song genre. Written by Allen, the song explores the chaotic realities of Friday night nightlife, highlighting themes of frustration, impatience, and the absurdities of the club scene. Its catchy melody is juxtaposed with playful, satirical lyrics, reflecting Allen’s signature blend of pop and social commentary. Emerging in the mid-2000s, Lily Allen’s observations of London nightlife and societal behaviors are sharply and humorously captured in this track. “Friday Night” became popular for its relatable narrative of navigating crowded clubs and awkward social dynamics, offering a more cynical yet humorous take on the Friday night experience.
15. Vigiland – “Friday Night” (2017)
Genre: Dance/Electronic
Album: Friday Night
Release Year: 2017
Key Lyric: “Friday night. Put my backpack on to do my thing. But the bouncer wouldn’t let me in.”
Vigiland, the Swedish DJ duo, released “Friday Night” in 2017, a quintessential electronic dance track designed for high-energy Friday night parties. The song is pure adrenaline, capturing the excitement and anticipation of heading out for a night of partying. The lyrics, though simple, emphasize the rush and energy of Friday night. Vigiland crafted this track to create an electrifying atmosphere, making it perfect for clubs and music festivals. During a period when electronic dance music dominated global charts, “Friday Night” capitalized on this trend with its infectious beat and party-ready vibe. It quickly gained popularity across Europe, becoming a go-to friday song for electronic music enthusiasts and partygoers.
16. Khruangbin – “Friday Morning” (2018)
Genre: Instrumental, Funk, Soul, World Music
Album: Con Todo el Mundo
Release Year: 2018
Key Lyric: “You get lonely when it’s cold. But you got fire, ooh. Find you, find me. Let’s go and burn forever, ooh.”
Khruangbin’s “Friday Morning,” the closing track from their 2018 album Con Todo El Mundo, offers a tranquil and mellow counterpoint to the typical high-energy friday songs. This instrumental track blends elements of funk, soul, and world music to create a soothing and contemplative atmosphere. Unlike most Friday anthems focused on Friday night partying, “Friday Morning” evokes the calm and peaceful feeling of a quiet Friday morning, offering a moment of reflection and relaxation. Khruangbin, known for their minimalist soundscapes, composed this track to emphasize ambiance and groove over lyrics. It’s a unique and beautiful friday song that celebrates the quieter, more introspective side of the weekend.
17. Justice Crew – “Friday to Sunday” (2013)
Genre: Pop
Album: Boom Boom
Release Year: 2013
Key Lyric: “From Friday to Sunday I make the girls go wild. From Friday to Sunday you know they like my style.”
Justice Crew, the Australian pop group, released “Friday to Sunday” in 2013, an energetic dance-pop track focused on non-stop weekend partying. The song celebrates the extended weekend revelry, from Friday night straight through to Sunday. Its fast-paced beat and catchy, boastful lyrics made it a hit in Australia, resonating with fans who embrace the full weekend party experience. As Justice Crew rose to fame in the Australian music scene, they crafted “Friday to Sunday” as a feel-good anthem for young party-goers. This friday song is all about maximizing the weekend, extending the Friday feeling as long as possible.
18. Cowboy Junkies – “Good Friday” (1998)
Genre: Alternative Country, Rock
Album: Miles from Our Home
Release Year: 1998
Key Lyric: “Sat at my window watched the world. Wake up this morning.”
Cowboy Junkies’ “Good Friday,” from their 1998 album Miles from Our Home, is a deeply melancholic and introspective friday song. Written by band member Michael Timmins, the song explores themes of loss, regret, and quiet reflection. The title “Good Friday,” traditionally associated with Christian mourning, sets a somber tone, contrasting sharply with the usual celebratory Friday vibe. Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics delve into deeper emotions, offering a poignant take on the day. Cowboy Junkies, known for their atmospheric and introspective style, crafted “Good Friday” to resonate with listeners who appreciate emotional depth and reflective storytelling in music. It’s a powerful and moving friday song for moments of contemplation.
19. Megadeth – “Good Mourning / Black Friday” (1986)
Genre: Thrash Metal, Metal
Album: Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?
Release Year: 1986
Key Lyric: “I’m out to destroy and I will cut you down. Cut you down. I see you, and I’m waiting for Black Friday.”
Megadeth’s “Good Mourning / Black Friday,” released in 1986 on Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?, takes the concept of friday songs to its darkest extreme. This thrash metal track, written by frontman Dave Mustaine, is a brutal exploration of violence, death, and chaos. “Black Friday” is used metaphorically to symbolize a day of reckoning and destruction. Its aggressive, high-energy thrash metal sound is classic Megadeth, known for complex guitar riffs and intense musicality. As Megadeth established themselves as thrash metal pioneers, Mustaine crafted “Good Mourning / Black Friday” to be a raw and unapologetic exploration of dark subject matter. It’s a fan favorite for its sheer power and uncompromising approach, showcasing a very different, and very intense, Friday mood.
20. Katy Perry – “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” (2011)
Genre: Pop, Dance Pop
Album: Teenage Dream
Release Year: 2011
Key Lyric: “Last Friday night, yeah, we danced on tabletops. And we took too many shots, think we kissed, but I forgot.”
Katy Perry’s “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.),” from her 2011 album Teenage Dream, is an international pop sensation and perhaps the quintessential modern friday song. Co-written by Perry, this track is a fun, over-the-top celebration of wild and chaotic Friday night adventures. The lyrics humorously recount the hazy memories of a crazy party, from dancing on tables to questionable decisions. At the height of her pop career, Katy Perry crafted “Last Friday Night” to embody her playful, carefree persona and her knack for creating instantly catchy, radio-friendly hits. The song became a global anthem for weekend fun, amplified by its memorable music video featuring celebrity cameos, solidifying its place as a defining friday song of the 21st century.
21. Rebecca Black – “Friday” (2011)
Genre: Pop
Album: Friday
Release Year: 2011
Key Lyric: “It’s Friday, Friday. Gotta get down on Friday.”
Rebecca Black’s “Friday,” also released in 2011, is a unique phenomenon in the realm of friday songs. It became a viral sensation, infamous for its simple, repetitive lyrics and perceived low production quality. Despite the critical backlash, or perhaps because of it, “Friday” achieved massive internet fame. Written by Patrice Wilson, the song’s straightforward lyrics express the youthful anticipation for Friday and the start of the weekend in the simplest terms. Its popularity exploded through social media, becoming a meme and a cultural touchstone. While initially ridiculed, “Friday” has since gained a cult following, remembered for its unintentional humor and Rebecca Black’s resilience in the face of online criticism. It’s a friday song that, for better or worse, is undeniably iconic.
22. The Cure – “Friday I’m in Love” (1992)
Genre: Alternative Rock, Indie Pop
Album: Wish
Release Year: 1992
Key Lyric: “Saturday, wait. And Sunday always comes too late. But Friday, never hesitate.”
The Cure’s “Friday I’m in Love,” from their 1992 album Wish, is arguably the most beloved and enduring friday song for many. Written by frontman Robert Smith, this track is a pure, unadulterated celebration of love and the joy that Friday brings. Its upbeat, pop-rock sound was a departure from the band’s typically darker and more introspective work, showcasing their versatility. During a period when The Cure were experimenting with more accessible, radio-friendly sounds, they created a song that was both undeniably catchy and still distinctly The Cure. “Friday I’m in Love” became a worldwide hit, loved for its infectious melody, positive message, and Robert Smith’s instantly recognizable vocals. It remains a timeless anthem for the start of the weekend and a definitive friday song for generations.
Songs About Friday
Alt Text: A vibrant and diverse playlist image representing different genres of Friday songs, symbolizing the universal excitement for the end of the work week and the beginning of the weekend.
Conclusion
These friday songs, spanning genres and decades, collectively capture the multifaceted emotions and experiences associated with Fridays. From the anticipation and excitement to the relief and freedom, Friday has served as a powerful muse for musicians worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy party anthem, a reflective tune, or something in between, this playlist offers a diverse soundtrack to enhance your Friday feeling. So, as the week winds down, turn up these tracks and let the friday songs amplify your joy and excitement for the weekend ahead!
