Greed is a universal human trait that has been a recurring theme in art and literature for centuries. In music, this theme is no exception, with countless songs exploring the all-consuming nature of the desire for money, power, and material possessions. From rock and pop to folk and hip-hop, the topic of greed has been tackled by musicians of all genres, resulting in a diverse and rich musical legacy. In this article, we’ll take a look at the Top 20 Songs About Greed, highlighting the most memorable and impactful tracks that have explored this theme over the years. These songs range from critical indictments of the pursuit of wealth to tongue-in-cheek celebrations of excess, but they all offer a unique perspective on a timeless human failing. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, modern pop, or anything in between, there’s sure to be something in this list for everyone who loves music and is interested in exploring the theme of greed.
1. “Gold Digger” by Kanye West
“Gold Digger” by Kanye West is a catchy, upbeat hip-hop track that was released in 2005 as a lead single from his second studio album, “Late Registration.” The song features soulful vocals from Jamie Foxx, who sings the chorus in a smooth, soulful style. In the song, Kanye raps about women who are only interested in men for their money, warning listeners to be careful of these “gold diggers.” The upbeat instrumental, complete with horns and drums, creates a lively, party-like atmosphere, while the lyrics offer a cautionary tale about the dangers of being too trusting.
2. “Greedy” by Ariana Grande
“Greedy” by Ariana Grande is a playful, uptempo pop song that was released in 2016 as a single from her third studio album, “Dangerous Woman.” The song features a catchy, infectious beat and Ariana’s signature powerful vocals, as she sings about wanting more out of life and not settling for less. The lyrics are both empowering and playful, with Ariana declaring that she wants it all and won’t be satisfied until she gets it. The song is an anthem for anyone who wants to live life to the fullest and reach for their dreams.
3. “Material Girl” by Madonna
“Material Girl” by Madonna is a classic pop song from the 1980s that perfectly captures the excess and glamour of the era. Released in 1984 as the second single from her album “Like a Virgin,” the song features a catchy, upbeat melody and Madonna’s signature sultry vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a young woman who is focused on wealth and status, singing about how she’s a material girl living in a material world. The song became a massive hit, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100, and cementing Madonna’s status as a pop icon.
4. “Greedy Fly” by Bush
“Greedy Fly” by Bush is a hard-hitting alternative rock song that was released in 1996 as a single from their album “Razorblade Suitcase.” The song features powerful, crunching guitar riffs, thundering drums, and lead singer Gavin Rossdale’s raw, emotive vocals. The lyrics paint a picture of a world consumed by greed and materialism, with the “greedy fly” serving as a metaphor for this dark, corrupting force. The song was a hit, reaching the top 20 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, and becoming one of Bush’s most well-known tracks.
5. “I Want It All” by Queen
“I Want It All” by Queen is an energetic, anthemic rock song that was released in 1989 as a single from their album “The Miracle.” The song features driving guitar riffs, powerful drums, and lead singer Freddie Mercury’s soaring vocals, as he declares his desire to have everything he wants. The lyrics are bold and aspirational, with Mercury singing about how he wants it all, and he won’t settle for anything less. The song was a hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries, and becoming one of Queen’s most iconic tracks.
6. “Love Is Greed” by Passion Pit
“Love Is Greed” by Passion Pit is an upbeat, energetic indie pop song that was released in 2013 as a single from their album “Gossamer.” The song features shimmering synths, driving drums, and lead singer Michael Angelakos’s falsetto vocals, as he reflects on the complexities of love and desire. The lyrics explore the idea that love and greed can often be intertwined, with Angelakos singing about how love can become a destructive force when it becomes too intense and all-consuming. The song is both danceable and introspective, and it showcases Passion Pit’s signature blend of bright, catchy pop and introspective lyricism.
7. “Money (That’s What I Want)” by Barrett Strong
“Money (That’s What I Want)” by Barrett Strong is a classic soul song that was released in 1959 as a single on the Tamla label. The song features Strong’s powerful, soulful vocals and a simple, bluesy piano-driven melody. The lyrics are straightforward, with Strong singing about how all he wants is money, and how it can solve all of his problems. The song was a hit, reaching number two on the R&B charts, and it has since become one of the most well-known songs in the soul and R&B genres.
8. “Greed Killing” by Napalm Death
“Greed Killing” by Napalm Death is a brutal, grindcore song that was released in 1992 as a single from their album “Utopia Banished.” The song features fast, ferocious riffing, breakneck drumming, and lead singer Barney Greenway’s guttural growls. The lyrics are a searing indictment of greed and the corrupting influence of money, with Greenway singing about how greed is destroying the world and all that is good. The song is a powerful and cathartic expression of anger and frustration, and it showcases Napalm Death’s uncompromising and influential sound.
9. “Money” by Pink Floyd
“Money” by Pink Floyd is a seminal progressive rock song that was released in 1973 as a single from their album “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song features a funky, jazzy guitar riff, tight rhythm section, and Roger Waters’ acerbic lyrics, as he sings about the destructive nature of money and the ways it affects people’s lives. The song is both a biting critique of materialism and a darkly humorous commentary on modern life, and it has become one of Pink Floyd’s most well-known tracks.
10. “Greatest Greed” by In Flames
“Greatest Greed” by In Flames is a powerful and intense heavy metal song that was released in 1994 as a single from their album “Lunar Strain.” The song features fast, crunching guitar riffs, thundering drums, and lead singer Anders Fridén’s abrasive growls. The lyrics explore the destructive nature of greed, with Fridén singing about how the desire for wealth and power can lead to the downfall of individuals and society as a whole. The song is a standout track from In Flames’ early discography, and it showcases their signature blend of punishing metal and thought-provoking lyrics.
11. “I Wanted Everything” by The Ramones
“I Wanted Everything” by The Ramones is a classic punk rock song that was released in 1980 as a single from their album “End of the Century.” The song features a fast, driving beat, short, snappy guitar riffs, and Joey Ramone’s distinctive, nasally vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who wanted everything he could get his hands on, only to realize too late that his greed was leading him down a path of destruction. The song is a perfect example of The Ramones’ straightforward, energetic style, and it has become a fan favorite over the years.
12. “Fools Gold” by The Stone Roses
“Fools Gold” by The Stone Roses is a classic indie rock song that was released in 1989 as a single from their self-titled album. The song features a slow, groovy beat, intricate guitar riffs, and Ian Brown’s smooth, soulful vocals. The lyrics explore themes of false success and materialism, with Brown singing about how people chase after money and status, only to find that it leads to emptiness and dissatisfaction. The song is a standout track from The Stone Roses’ discography, and it showcases their unique blend of psychedelic rock, soul, and hip-hop influences.
13. “Greed and Gold” by Seth Lakeman
“Greed and Gold” by Seth Lakeman is a traditional folk song that was released in 2011 as a single from his album “Hearts & Minds.” The song features Lakeman’s powerful, emotive voice, acoustic guitar, and strings, as he sings about the destructive nature of greed and the ways it can lead people astray. The lyrics are thoughtful and thought-provoking, with Lakeman exploring the darker side of human nature and the consequences of giving in to temptation. The song is a standout track from Lakeman’s discography, and it showcases his exceptional songwriting and musical abilities.
14. “Made Of Money” by Adam Ant
“Made of Money” by Adam Ant is a classic new wave song that was released in 1982 as a single from his album “Friend or Foe.” The song features a fast, upbeat beat, catchy keyboard riffs, and Ant’s distinctive, high-pitched vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is driven by materialism and greed, and who will do anything to get his hands on money, no matter the cost. The song is a perfect example of Ant’s quirky, eclectic style, and it has become a fan favorite over the years.
15. “Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots Of Money)” by Pet Shop Boys
“Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots Of Money)” by Pet Shop Boys is a classic synth-pop song that was released in 1985 as a single from their album “Please.” The song features a fast, upbeat beat, synthesizer riffs, and the Pet Shop Boys’ distinctive, robotic vocals. The lyrics are tongue-in-cheek and sarcastic, with the Pet Shop Boys singing about how people are always looking for opportunities to make money, regardless of the cost. The song is a perfect example of the Pet Shop Boys’ quirky, playful style, and it has become a fan favorite over the years.
16. “Greed” by Ann Wilson
“Greed” by Ann Wilson is a powerful rock song that was released in 2016 as a single from her album “Hope & Glory.” The song features Wilson’s powerful, emotive voice, driving guitar riffs, and intense drumming, as she sings about the destructive nature of greed and the ways it can ruin people’s lives. The lyrics are thought-provoking and thought-provoking, with Wilson exploring the darker side of human nature and the consequences of giving in to temptation. The song is a standout track from Wilson’s discography, and it showcases her exceptional songwriting and musical abilities.
17. “Take the Money and Run” by Crosby & Nash
“Take the Money and Run” by Crosby & Nash is a classic rock song that was released in 1976 as a single from their album “Whistling Down the Wire.” The song features a fast, upbeat beat, catchy guitar riffs, and the smooth, harmonious vocals of Crosby and Nash. The lyrics tell the story of a criminal who is always looking for an opportunity to make a quick buck, no matter the cost. The song is a perfect example of Crosby & Nash’s signature harmonies, and it has become a fan favorite over the years.
18. “Price Tag” by Jessie J
“Price Tag” by Jessie J is an upbeat and catchy pop song that speaks to the current generation and their love for money. The lyrics touch upon the idea that money is a driving factor behind many of our decisions, whether it be for the better or for the worse. Jessie J’s powerful and soulful voice adds a sense of gravitas to the message of the song, making it a memorable and thought-provoking piece.
19. “Disease of Conceit” by Bob Dylan
“Disease of Conceit” by Bob Dylan is a folksy ballad that reflects on the corrosive effects of greed and the dangers of pride. Dylan’s unique voice and storytelling ability bring to life the idea that the pursuit of wealth and power can lead us down a path of corruption and moral decay. The song’s acoustic guitar and harmonica accompaniment provide a timeless feel that makes Dylan’s message as relevant today as it was when the song was first released.
20. “Too Much” by Dave Matthews Band
“Too Much” by Dave Matthews Band is a soulful rock song that reflects on the idea of having too much of everything, including money and material possessions. The song’s melody is catchy and upbeat, but the lyrics carry a message of caution, warning against the dangers of obsession and greed. Dave Matthews’ powerful voice and the dynamic instrumentals of the band make this song a standout piece that will stay with listeners long after it’s over.
Samuel Moore 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.
