Money

The song 'Money' by Easy Star All Stars delves into the complex relationship society has with wealth. The lyrics open with a straightforward directive: 'Money, get away. Get a good job with good pay and you're okay.' This line sets the tone for the song, highlighting the societal belief that financial stability equates to personal security and happiness. The pursuit of money is depicted as a 'gas,' something exhilarating and essential, urging listeners to 'grab that cash with both hands and make a stash.' The imagery of luxury items like a new car, caviar, and even the whimsical idea of buying a football team underscores the materialistic dreams fueled by wealth.

As the song progresses, it takes a more critical tone. The line 'Money, get back. I'm all right Jack keep your hands off of my stack' reflects a possessive attitude towards wealth, emphasizing the selfishness that often accompanies financial success. The dismissive attitude towards altruism is evident in 'Don't give me that do goody good bullshit,' suggesting a disdain for moralistic views on wealth distribution. The desire for high-status symbols, such as a Lear jet, further illustrates the obsession with maintaining a luxurious lifestyle.

The song also touches on the darker aspects of money, labeling it as a 'crime' and the 'root of all evil today.' The lyrics 'Share it fairly but don't take a slice of my pie' reveal the hypocrisy in the call for fair distribution of wealth while simultaneously refusing to part with one's own riches. The final lines, accompanied by a chaotic dialogue, highlight the irrational and often destructive behavior driven by the pursuit of money. This conversation, filled with confusion and aggression, serves as a metaphor for the disarray that money can bring into people's lives, ultimately questioning the true value of wealth in society.