Money has been a ubiquitous theme in music throughout history, inspiring countless artists to write songs about the struggles, triumphs, and contradictions of wealth and poverty. From rock to blues, hip-hop to country, songs about money have been a part of popular music since its inception. These songs can provide a window into the social and economic issues of their time, offering insight into the cultural landscape and the human experience. In this context, we present 20 old songs about money, spanning several decades and genres, each with its own unique take on the topic of wealth and its impact on society. From the 1930s to the 1990s, these songs capture the hopes, fears, and aspirations of their respective eras, while also showcasing the enduring power of music to capture the complexities of human life. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, blues, or hip-hop, these old songs about money offer a glimpse into the soul of music and the role it has played in shaping our understanding of wealth, power, and the human condition.
1. “For The Love Of Money” by The O’Jays
“For the Love of Money” is a funk and soul classic by American vocal group The O’Jays, released in 1973. The song has a distinctive bassline and a catchy chorus that repeats the phrase “For the love of money” several times. Lyrically, the song warns against the dangers of greed and the pursuit of wealth at all costs, highlighting how it can corrupt individuals and society. The track was a commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard R&B chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100. It has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials.
2. “Money (That’s What I Want)” by The Flying Lizards
“Money (That’s What I Want)” is a rock and roll classic originally recorded by Barrett Strong in 1959 and covered by The Flying Lizards in 1979. The Flying Lizards’ version is characterized by its minimalist, post-punk sound and deadpan vocals, featuring lead singer Deborah Evans-Stickland delivering the lyrics in a detached, monotone style. The song’s message is straightforward – it’s all about the pursuit of money and the desire for material wealth. The track was a commercial success, reaching number five on the UK singles chart and helping to establish The Flying Lizards as an influential band in the emerging post-punk scene.
3. “Money” by Pink Floyd
“Money” is a progressive rock classic by Pink Floyd, released in 1973 as part of their highly acclaimed album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song is known for its distinctive bassline, time signature changes, and sound effects, including the sound of a cash register and coins clinking together. Lyrically, the song explores the corrupting nature of money and its impact on society and individuals, with themes of materialism, greed, and the struggle for power. “Money” was a commercial success, becoming Pink Floyd’s first US hit and peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become one of their most popular and enduring tracks.
4. “Money For Nothing” by Dire Straits
“Money for Nothing” is a classic rock song by British band Dire Straits, released in 1985. The track is known for its distinctive opening guitar riff and its innovative use of computer-generated animation in its music video. Lyrically, the song is a satire on the excesses of the music industry, focusing on the experiences of a working-class man who resents the wealthy, successful musicians he sees on MTV. The song was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and earning Dire Straits a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. It has since become one of their most well-known and iconic tracks.
5. “First I Look At The Purse” by The Contours
“First I Look at the Purse” is a classic R&B and soul song by American vocal group The Contours, released in 1965. The song is notable for its catchy chorus and its humorous take on the relationship between men and women. The lyrics suggest that, while love and affection are important, financial stability and material possessions are also significant factors in a successful relationship. The track was a moderate commercial success, reaching number 57 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, and has since been covered by various artists. It remains a popular and enduring example of 1960s soul music.
6. “Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots Of Money)” by The Pet Shop Boys
“Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots of Money)” is a synth-pop and dance-pop classic by British duo The Pet Shop Boys, released in 1985. The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and ironic lyrics about the pursuit of wealth and success. The track was a commercial success, reaching number 11 on the UK Singles Chart, and its music video, which features the duo in a range of absurd scenarios, has become an iconic example of 1980s music videos. “Opportunities” helped establish The Pet Shop Boys as one of the most innovative and popular bands of the era.
7. “Your Cash Ain’t Nothin’ But Trash” by The Clovers
“Your Cash Ain’t Nothin’ But Trash” is a classic R&B and rock and roll song by American vocal group The Clovers, released in 1954. The song is known for its lively rhythm and blues sound, with a driving beat and a catchy saxophone riff. Lyrically, the song is a playful warning to a potential lover, with the title suggesting that the protagonist is not impressed by material wealth or status. The track was a commercial success, reaching number 20 on the US Billboard R&B chart, and has since been covered by various artists. It remains a popular example of 1950s rock and roll music.
8. “Money Changes Everything” by Cyndi Lauper
“Money Changes Everything” is a pop and rock classic by American singer Cyndi Lauper, released in 1983. The song is known for its catchy melody and its lyrics about the power of money to change people and relationships. The track was a commercial success, reaching the top 30 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and helping to establish Lauper as a major pop star. The song has been covered by various artists and was included on Lauper’s debut album, “She’s So Unusual,” which is considered a landmark of 1980s pop music. It remains a popular and enduring example of Lauper’s unique musical style.
9. “Busted” by Ray Charles
“Busted” is a classic blues and soul song performed by the legendary Ray Charles. Released in 1963, the song tells the story of a man who is down on his luck, struggling to make ends meet and pay his bills. Despite his best efforts, everything seems to be going wrong for him. Charles’ powerful vocals and soulful piano playing perfectly capture the frustration and desperation of the song’s protagonist, creating a deeply emotional and powerful performance. The song’s relatable themes and catchy melody have made it a beloved classic in the decades since its release, cementing Ray Charles’ status as one of the greatest musicians of all time.
10. “Moneytalks” by AC/DC
“Moneytalks” is a hard rock anthem performed by the iconic Australian band AC/DC. Released in 1990, the song features catchy guitar riffs, thundering drums, and lead singer Brian Johnson’s signature gritty vocals. The lyrics center around the power of money and its ability to influence people and the world around them. With its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus, “Moneytalks” quickly became a hit for the band, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song remains a beloved classic in the AC/DC catalog and a testament to the band’s raw, no-nonsense approach to rock music.
11. “Can’t Buy Me Love” by The Beatles
“Can’t Buy Me Love” is an iconic pop rock song by The Beatles, released in 1964 as a single and later included on the album “A Hard Day’s Night.” The song features a catchy and upbeat melody with memorable guitar riffs and harmonies, accompanied by John Lennon’s lead vocals. The lyrics are about the idea that love and happiness can’t be purchased with money, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationships over material possessions. The song’s popularity helped solidify The Beatles’ status as one of the most influential bands of all time, and it remains a beloved classic in the canon of popular music.
12. “If I Had a Million Dollars” by The Barenaked Ladies
“If I Had a Million Dollars” is a playful and whimsical song by Canadian rock band The Barenaked Ladies, released on their 1992 album “Gordon.” The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus invite listeners to imagine what they would do if they had a million dollars, with humorous and absurd suggestions like buying a monkey or a lifetime supply of Kraft Dinner. The song’s lighthearted tone and witty lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows. “If I Had a Million Dollars” is a testament to the band’s unique style and irreverent sense of humor.
13. “She Works Hard for the Money” by Donna Summer
“She Works Hard for the Money” is a disco and dance-pop anthem performed by the legendary Donna Summer, released in 1983. The song is an ode to the struggles and hard work of women in the workforce, particularly those in blue-collar jobs. With its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and powerful vocals by Summer, the song quickly became a hit and a symbol of women’s empowerment. The accompanying music video, which features Summer as a waitress working long hours at a diner, also became a cultural touchstone. “She Works Hard for the Money” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Summer’s talent and influence in the music industry.
14. “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is” by Jet
“Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is” is a hard rock song performed by the Australian band Jet, released in 2006. The song features a driving guitar riff, thundering drums, and lead singer Nic Cester’s raw, powerful vocals. The lyrics challenge the listener to back up their words with action and take risks to achieve their goals. With its high energy and infectious groove, “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is” became a hit for Jet and remains a fan favorite. The song is a testament to the band’s classic rock influences and their ability to create catchy and powerful rock anthems.
15. “Money, Money Money” by ABBA
“Money, Money, Money” is a classic disco and pop song by the Swedish group ABBA, released in 1976. The song features upbeat melodies, catchy hooks, and the distinctive harmonies of ABBA’s vocalists, Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. The lyrics describe the struggles of a woman who dreams of escaping poverty and financial hardship, longing for a life of luxury and material possessions. The song’s message of the importance of money in modern society is conveyed with a playful and danceable tone, making it a beloved classic of ABBA’s catalog and a testament to their ability to create infectious pop anthems.
16. “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” by Bing Crosby
“Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” is a melancholy and poignant song recorded by Bing Crosby in 1932 during the height of the Great Depression. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a once-prosperous man who has fallen on hard times and is now homeless, wandering the streets and begging for help from his fellow man. The song’s somber tone and Crosby’s emotive vocals capture the desperation and suffering of the era, making it a powerful and enduring anthem of the Great Depression. “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” remains a beloved classic and a reminder of the hardships endured by many during that difficult time in American history.
17. “Eat The Rich” by Aerosmith
“Eat the Rich” is a hard rock song by the American band Aerosmith, released on their 1993 album “Get a Grip.” The song features a pounding beat, distorted guitars, and lead singer Steven Tyler’s signature raspy vocals. The lyrics are a satirical commentary on greed and the excesses of wealth, with Tyler singing about the corrupting influence of money and the disdain of the rich towards the poor. With its raw energy and social critique, “Eat the Rich” remains a popular and politically-charged anthem of the 1990s grunge and alternative rock scene, showcasing Aerosmith’s versatility as a rock band.
18. “Love or Money” by Sammy Hagar
“Love or Money” is a hard rock song by Sammy Hagar, released in 1981 on his album “Standing Hampton.” The song features a driving beat, electrifying guitar solos, and Hagar’s distinctive vocal style. The lyrics explore the age-old question of whether love or money is more important, with Hagar ultimately arguing that love is the only thing that truly matters in life. With its catchy hooks and powerful message, “Love or Money” became a fan favorite and remains a beloved classic of Hagar’s catalog. The song showcases Hagar’s talent as a songwriter and performer and his ability to create memorable and impactful rock anthems.
19. “Free Money” by Patti Smith
“Free Money” is a punk rock song by Patti Smith, released on her 1975 debut album “Horses.” The song features a distinctive and repetitive piano riff, driving drums, and Smith’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics are a passionate and political manifesto that denounces capitalism and calls for a world without the constraints of money. With its raw energy, provocative lyrics, and iconic sound, “Free Money” became a classic of the punk rock movement and a defining song of Smith’s career. The song is a testament to Smith’s artistic vision and her ability to use music as a form of social and cultural commentary.
20. “Easy Money” by Billy Joel
“Easy Money” is a rock song by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel, released on his 1983 album “An Innocent Man.” The song features a driving beat, funky guitar riffs, and Joel’s signature vocals. The lyrics are a social critique of the pervasive materialism and greed of the 1980s, with Joel singing about the corrupting influence of money and the temptation of easy wealth. With its catchy hooks and infectious groove, “Easy Money” became a hit for Joel and remains a fan favorite. The song showcases Joel’s talent as a songwriter and performer and his ability to craft memorable and relevant rock anthems.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
