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Pink Floyd’s “Money”: A Progressive Rock Critique of Capitalism
Released in 1973 on their landmark album The Dark Side of the Moon, Pink Floyd’s “Money” is one of the band’s most iconic and commercially successful tracks. With its distinctive 7/4 time signature, clinking cash register sound effects, and biting lyrics, the song delivers a sharp critique of consumerism, greed, and the illusions of wealth in modern society.
Written by bassist Roger Waters, “Money” opens with a loop of coins, paper tearing, and a ringing cash register—setting the tone for a song that’s as much about capitalism’s hypnotic pull as it is about its dangers. David Gilmour’s bluesy vocals and searing guitar solos carry the song, while the unconventional rhythm adds to its edgy, almost mechanical feel—echoing the repetitive grind of chasing profit.
Lyrically, the song exposes the contradictions of wealth: “Money, it’s a gas / Grab that cash with both hands and make a stash.” It mocks the empty promises of riches while highlighting how money divides people and distorts values. The irony becomes even more striking as the song became one of Pink Floyd’s biggest hits—selling millions and earning the band considerable wealth.
Despite its age, “Money” remains timeless, resonating with listeners in every era of economic disparity. It stands as both a musical innovation and a philosophical statement, blending progressive rock with social commentary. For many, it’s not just a song—it’s a reflection of the world’s ongoing struggle between wealth, power, and meaning.
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