Claim: Iggy Azalea released a work.

`` Work '' is a song recorded by Australian rapper Iggy Azalea for her debut studio album , The New Classic -LRB- 2014 -RRB- . It was released as Azalea 's debut single as a lead artist , and the album 's lead single on 17 March 2013 . The track was written by Azalea , Trocon Markous Roberts , Natalie Sims , and The Invisible Men who produced it with 1st Down of FKi . Hailed by Azalea as her most personal song , `` Work '' was developed with motivational and inspirational intentions to portray her life story ; specifically dealing with her struggle as an up-and-coming rapper , and her relocation from Mullumbimby , New South Wales to Miami at age 16 . In sequence with its lyrical story , the snap and trap track begins with a sad-stringed verse segment before significantly increasing in tempo at its drum and synth-heavy refrain .   A number of music critics consider the song to be among Azalea 's best output , namely praising her flow and the depth of the lyrical content . Commercially , `` Work '' became a sleeper hit ; it peaked at number 17 on the UK Singles Chart and number 54 on the US Billboard Hot 100 , but was certified silver and platinum by the British Phonographic Industry -LRB- BPI -RRB- and Recording Industry Association of America -LRB- RIAA -RRB- , respectively . `` Work '' became one of the lowest peaking songs to receive a sales certification in Australia where it reached number 79 and was certified gold by the Australian Recording Industry Association -LRB- ARIA -RRB- .   An accompanying music video was directed by Jonas & François and released on 13 March 2013 . Inspired by several films , it features Azalea performing twerking sequences and a recreation of Vanessa Ferlito 's lap dancing in the 2007 film , Death Proof . The video earned Azalea a nomination for Artist to Watch at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards , and was praised by critics for its fashion , and portrayal of the song 's lyrics . Among her live performance staples , Azalea promoted the single with live renditions on Britain & Ireland 's Next Top Model and Nikki & Sara Live . It was also included in the set list for her The New Classic Tour -LRB- 2014 -RRB- . A number of remixes were commissioned for the single 's release , including an official remix featuring American rapper Wale .