Money Made
AC/DC
The Allure and Illusion of Wealth in AC/DC's 'Money Made'
AC/DC's song 'Money Made' delves into the seductive yet often deceptive nature of wealth and the relentless pursuit of money. The repetitive chorus, 'Work, work, money made,' underscores the constant grind and effort required to achieve financial success. This repetition mirrors the monotonous and unending cycle of working for money, highlighting how the pursuit of wealth can become an all-consuming endeavor.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a glamorous lifestyle, particularly in Los Angeles, where the protagonist is drawn into a world of luxury and excess. Lines like 'Champagne life, high on display' and 'Her swimming pool is the biggest about' emphasize the opulence and superficial allure of this lifestyle. However, there's an underlying sense of entrapment and loss of freedom, as seen in 'She couldn't get away' and 'There's no burning out amount of money made.' This suggests that while the wealth and luxury are enticing, they come at a significant personal cost.
The song also touches on the societal pressures and expectations associated with wealth. The protagonist is encouraged to 'keep it up, you get it made,' implying that continuous effort and adherence to societal norms are necessary to maintain this lifestyle. The mention of 'recommendations all around' and 'come taste the sweet life' reflects the external validation and approval that often accompany financial success. Yet, the repeated emphasis on 'that money made' serves as a reminder that this validation is ultimately tied to material wealth, which can be fleeting and unfulfilling.
AC/DC's 'Money Made' is a critique of the relentless pursuit of wealth and the superficiality of a life centered around money. It highlights the sacrifices and pressures that come with this pursuit, questioning whether the glamorous lifestyle is truly worth the personal cost.