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Money, That’s What I Want: A Raw Anthem of Desire and Reality
When The Beatles recorded “Money (That’s What I Want)” in 1963, they took Barrett Strong’s Motown original and gave it a loud, electrifying twist. As the final track on their debut album Please Please Me, the song showed the world that The Beatles weren’t just charming pop singers—they were also a fierce, energetic rock band with deep roots in American rhythm and blues.
The song’s famous hook—“The best things in life are free, but you can give them to the birds and bees. I need money, that’s what I want”—struck a chord with listeners across generations. It stripped away romantic idealism and laid bare the economic realities of life, especially for working-class people trying to get by.
At a time when most popular songs focused on love and relationships, “Money (That’s What I Want)” stood out for its unapologetic focus on financial survival. Its raw honesty made it a hit, and it has since been covered by numerous artists, including The Beatles and The Flying Lizards, each bringing their own interpretation to its timeless message.
The song remains relevant today as a reflection of a society where economic pressure continues to shape lives, dreams, and choices. Whether seen as cynical or realistic, “Money (That’s What I Want)” captures a sentiment that still resonates: love may matter, but money often makes the world go round.
Learn More: For the Love of Money