Money makes the world go round – at least, that’s what many people will tell you. And it turns out that this adage has been true for centuries, as some of our favorite music artists have written countless songs about the topic of making money.
Whether it’s the thrill of the hustle or the struggle to get by, there is something to be learned from every one of these hits.
Here are 20 of the best songs about making money, each one offering a unique perspective on this timeless theme
1. Hustlin’ by Rick Ross
When it comes to songs about making money, few artists have been more prolific than Rick Ross. His 2006 debut single “Hustlin'” captures his signature swagger and bravado as he brags about the rewards of hard work and dedication. It’s a classic anthem for anyone striving to get ahead in life.
2. Major Distribution by 50 Cent Ft. Snoop Dogg & Jeezy
Major Distribution celebrates the illicit lifestyle of making money through illegal means and glamorizes the dangers and risks involved. But the message of the song is clear: no matter how hard you work, you can still get ahead if you’re willing to take risks. With over 28 million views on Youtube, it’s one of the most popular songs about making money.
3. About The Money by T.I. featuring Young Thug
Unlike the above two songs, “About The Money” is not about making money through criminal activity but instead focuses on the role of money and material possessions play in the narrator’s life. In simple words, it celebrates the luxurious lifestyle and the pursuit of more money.
4. Billionaire by Travie McCoy and Bruno Mars
“Billionaire” is the perfect song for those who love to daydream! It’s all about Travie McCoy and Bruno Mars imagining the lavish lifestyle they would live if they became billionaires. Even if you can’t actually become one, you can still enjoy the flashy visuals and infectious beat of this song.
5. Rich Girl by Gwen Stefani ft. Eve
Just like Travie McCoy and Bruno Mars, Gwen Stefani sings of all the things she would do if she were a rich girl in this song.
The song also features verses from Eve, in which she raps about her own success and style.
However, the song also explores the idea that money cannot buy love or happiness as Stefani sings “all the riches, baby, won’t mean anything,” and that her lover’s love is “better than gold.”
6. Money by Michael Kiwanuka and Tom Misch
In contrast to the predominant theme of accumulating wealth, this song delves into the intricate relationship between love and money.
Accompanied by a glitzy instrumental inspired by funk and disco, Michael Kiwanuka and Tom Misch explore how money can often deceive and manipulate people’s emotions, leading them to acquire items they never even desired.
In a nutshell, this song encourages listeners to consider the deeper meaning and value of love rather than relying on material possessions and financial resources to create and maintain relationships.
7. Money Changes Everything by Cyndi Lauper
Released on her debut studio album, She’s So Unusual, this song by Cyndi Lauper talks about the transformative but often negative effect money could have on relationships.
It tells the story of a woman who chooses to leave her current partner for someone with more wealth.
Where most songs about making money glorify the concept, this track serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of wealth on people’s behavior.
8. 7 Rings by Ariana Grande
7 Rings is all about Ariana’s lavish lifestyle and her love for material possessions.
As she describes, she enjoys indulging in expensive items and activities, such as breakfast at Tiffany’s and buying designer clothes and accessories.
However, the song also touches on themes of independence and self-worth, as the singer asserts her agency in making her own decisions and acquiring what she desires.
9. Make the Money by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
Macklemore is known for his lyricism, and this song is no exception. The main lesson that this song imparts is the importance of staying true to oneself and maintaining one’s integrity, even in the face of external pressures and temptations.
The chorus repeats the refrain “make the money, don’t let the money make you / change the game, don’t let the game change you.” This suggests that it is possible to be successful and achieve financial success without compromising one’s values or allowing external factors to influence one’s character.
10. Grindin’ by Clipse
One of their biggest and most popular songs, this track by Clipse describes the hustle and determination required to achieve financial success, as well as the lifestyle that comes with it. The chorus of the song repeats the word “grindin'” to emphasize the drive and dedication required to achieve one’s goals.
12. Opportunities by Pet Shop Boys
Here’s a bit of 80s cheese for you! This lighthearted track from the British synthpop duo is about two people looking for a partnership to make money together.
One person has brains and the other has looks, and they believe that by combining their strengths, they can be successful and make a lot of money.
A very unique take on the concept of making money, and one that carries a message of collaboration.
13. C.R.E.A.M. by The Wu-Tang Clan
One of the most iconic hip-hop songs of all time, C.R.E.A.M by The Wu-Tang Clan talks about the struggles of living in poverty and how money is necessary for survival. Even if it is obtained through illegal means, the group suggests that money is an essential part of life and for exchanging goods and services.
The song’s opening lines introduce the theme of the song: “Cash rules everything around me, C.R.E.A.M. get the money, dollar dollar bill y’all”.
14. She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer
From one of her most successful albums, this song celebrates the resilience and determination of hardworking women and advocates for their respect and appreciation.
It is about a woman who works hard to earn money, often in a job that is physically demanding and doesn’t pay very well.
Despite the challenges she faces, she continues to work hard and do her best. This track became a massive hit propelling it to no. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
15. It’s All About the Benjamins by Diddy & The LOX, The Notorious B.I.G. & Lil’ Kim
If not the best then definitely one of the most complex money-making songs of all time, this song celebrates the pursuit of wealth and success in the rap industry and a reflection of the culture of materialism that exists in society.
The artists in the song talk about their desire for wealth and success and boast about their lavish lifestyles, including their cars, women, and jewelry. They also mention their involvement in illegal activities, such as drug dealing and evading law enforcement, in order to acquire these luxuries. Though, not the most inspiring message, it is an interesting and popular track.
16. Material Girl by Madonna
This classic Madonna track is a tribute to the idea of a woman who values wealth and material possessions over love and romance in relationships.
She is unimpressed by the affections of the boys who pursue her and only cares about the ones who can provide her with a luxurious lifestyle. The chorus repeats the line “we are living in a material world, and I am a material girl,” emphasizing the importance of material wealth in modern society.
17. Money Talks by Rick James
Money Talks is a thought-provoking song that suggests people should be mindful of the role that money plays in their lives and be mindful of its potential negative effects.
The song also highlights the struggles of those who are poor and struggling to make ends meet, suggesting that the pursuit of wealth can sometimes come at the expense of others.
It is a message that resonates today more than ever.
18. Got Money by Lil Wayne Feat. T-Pain
Wrapped up in a party vibe, this hip-hop song is a perfect anthem for those who love flaunting their wealth and living extravagantly.
Both Lil Wayne and T-Pain love to boast about their expensive cars, clothes, and jewelry, as well as the ladies they date. And this song is all about that.
Released as a single, this track was ranked number 19 in the best Hip-Hop songs category in 2008.
19. Money (That’s What I Want) by The Flying Lizards
Originally recorded by Barrett Strong in 1959, this tune has been covered by many artists over the years. But it is The Flying Lizards version that stands out and has become a classic.
In it, the narrator expresses a belief that money can buy anything, and states how the best things in life, like love and happiness, are free but cannot pay bills or meet material needs.
The chorus repeats the phrase “That’s what I want,” emphasizing the singer’s desire for money.
20. Mo’ Money Mo’ Problems by The Notorious B.I.G. Featuring Ma$e & Diddy
Rounding up this list with one of Biggie’s biggest hits, this song touches on themes about the difficulties and problems that can come with success and wealth.
The lyrics describe how, as one becomes more successful and acquires more money, one may also face more problems and criticism from others.
The verses, performed by Ma$e, Puff Daddy, and The Notorious B.I.G., discuss the artists’ own experiences with wealth and success and their determination to overcome any obstacles they may encounter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 songs about making money showcase the enduring appeal of the almighty dollar.
Whether they celebrate the joys of financial success, caution against the dangers of greed, or simply revel in the materialistic excesses that money can bring, these songs remind us that money has always been, and will always be, a central preoccupation in our culture.
We hope that you liked this post as much as we enjoyed making it. And now, if you can excuse us, we’re off to go cash in on our dreams!
Happy listening
