10 Best Songs About Money
This music playlist features the ten-best songs about money—a universal topic that has been explored musically for centuries.
These songs explore the many different effects money can have on people. Some are a celebration of wealth and material possessions, while others offer a more critical perspective on the role of money in our lives. Some songs are funny, while others are serious.
Best songs about money
No matter what your perspective on money, there is likely a song out there that speaks to you. Here are ten of our favorite songs about money:
Classic rock songs about money
1. Money by Pink Floyd
This classic song from the album “The Dark Side of the Moon” is a dark and disturbing look at the power of money. The lyrics describe money as a “root of all evil,” and it suggests that money can lead to greed, materialism, and a loss of humanity. The song also criticizes the way in which money is often used to control and manipulate people.
2. Money for Nothing by Dire Straits
This 1985 hit song from Dire Straits is a more lighthearted look at money. The lyrics describe how money can buy all sorts of things, but it can’t buy love or happiness. The song is catchy and fun, but it also has a message about the importance of not letting money become your whole life.
3. The Pretender by Jackson Browne
Jackson Browne’s classic rock song from 1976 is about a man who has given up on his dreams and is now living a life of routine monotony in order to accumulate money. He is the pretender. The song’s lyrics are powerful and thought-provoking, examining the role money plays our lives. They examine our relationship with wealth and what is truly important to us.
Pop songs about money
4. Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots of Money) by Pet Shop Boys
This 1985 song from the Pet Shop Boys is full of exaggeration and absurdity, and the song’s overall tone is one of satire about becoming rich. The song’s famous lyrics “I’ve got the brains, you’ve got the looks, let’s make lots of money” are silly but upbeat and danceable, creating a sense of excitement and possibility.
5. She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer
This 1979 hit song from Donna Summer is a disco anthem that celebrates the working woman. Its lyrics are empowering and defiant, reflecting the growing women’s liberation movement of the 1970s. This upbeat song is also easy to dance to, which made it popular on the dance floor during the disco era.
Oldies songs about money
6. For the Love of Money by The O’Jays
This 1974 song from The O’Jays’ “Ship Ahoy” album is a classic soul ballad about the destructive power of greed. The powerful lyrics describe how money corrupts and can ruin lives—a message still relevant today, as the gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen.
7. Can’t Buy Me Love by The Beatles
This 1963 classic pop hit song by The Beatles is about the importance of love over money. The lyrics are heartfelt and the music is catchy and upbeat, creating a sense of hope and optimism.
The song hit the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number two in the UK. It has been certified Gold, selling over 1 million copies in the US.
8. Money (That’s What I Want) by The Flying Lizards
This 1970 song by The Flying Lizards is a satirical look at the materialistic values of the time. Its irreverent, tongue-in-cheek lyrics are catchy and the melody is infectious, but the song’s message is anything but lighthearted.
Hip hop songs about money
9. Mo Money Mo Problems by The Notorious B.I.G.
In a world where wealth and fame are often seen as the ultimate goals, the song “Mo Money Mo Problems” is a reminder that money can’t buy happiness. The 1997 hip-hop hit by The Notorious B.I.G. is a cautionary tale about the dangers of wealth and fame. The lyrics are raw and honest and the music is gritty and intense. The song featuring vocals from rapper Mase and a sampled track from Diana Ross’ song “I’m Coming Out”.
10. It’s All About the Benjamins by Puff Daddy & The Family
This ode to money by Sean Combs (with help from Jadakiss and The Notorious B.I.G.) is from his debut album, “No Way Out.” It’s about the importance of money and how it can be used to achieve success. The song’s title refers to Benjamin Franklin, who is depicted on the $100 bill. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
These are just a few of the many great songs about money. If you’re looking for a song to help you think about your relationship with money, or if you just want to sing along to a catchy tune, check out one of these classics.
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By Greg Johnson | Published 6/8/2023
