About The Song
“Working Man’s Ph.D.” is a song co-written and recorded by American country music artist Aaron Tippin. It was released in June 1993 as the lead-off single from his album Call of the Wild. It peaked at number 7 in the United States, and number 6 in Canada. It was written by Tippin, Philip Douglas, and Bobby Boyd.
“‘Working Man’s Ph.D.’ is an Aaron Tippin-type of meat-and-taters song. It’s what my career is based on,” Tippin told Songfacts of the #7 Country hit. “I think that ‘Ph.D.’ is a shining example of why my career is different from other entertainers. I never have done just the next love song. I definitely dug deep to find great songs that apply to more in life than just breaking up and kissing and hugging, making up. It’s what’s been the focus of this career.”
Tippin co-wrote the song – about a day in the life of a blue collar worker – with country songwriters Philip Douglas and Bobby Boyd.
The song describes the life of a working man with some Pride, Honor, and Dignity.
The music video was directed by Jon Small.
“Working Man’s Ph.D.” debuted on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks for the week of June 26, 1993.
Video
Lyrics
You get up every morning ‘fore the sun comes up
Toss a lunch box into a pickup truck
A long hard day sure ain’t much fun
But you got to get it started if you want to get it done.
You set your mind and roll up your sleeves
You’re workin’ on a Working Man’s Ph.D.
With your heart and your hands and the sweat on your brow
You build the things that really make the world go ’round
If it works, if it runs, if it lasts for years
You can bet your bottom dollar it was made right here
With pride and honor and dignity
From a man with a Working Man’s Ph.D.
Now, there ain’t no shame in a job well done
From driving a nail to driving a truck
As a matter of fact, I’d like to set things straight
A few more people should be pullin’ their weight
If you want a cram course in reality
You get yourself a Working Man’s Ph.D.
When the quittin’ whistle blows and the dust settles down
There ain’t no trophies or cheering crowds
You’ll face yourself at the end of the day
And be damned proud of whatever you’ve made
Can’t hang it on the wall for the world to see
But you’ve got yourself a Working Man’s Ph.D.
Now, there ain’t no shame in a job well done
From driving a nail to driving a truck
As a matter of fact, I’d like to set things straight
A few more people should be pullin’ their weight
If you want a cram course in reality
You get yourself a Working Man’s Ph.D.