Money Money Money

Lucky Dube's song "Money Money Money" delves into the pervasive influence of money in contemporary society. The lyrics challenge the old adage that love makes the world go round, suggesting that in today's world, money has taken over as the primary driving force. Dube highlights how essential money has become for obtaining not just material goods but also intangible aspects of life such as love and justice. The repetition of the phrase "these days we're living in, everything needs a dollar" underscores the omnipresence of financial transactions in everyday life, painting a picture of a world where monetary value supersedes all else.

In the second verse, Dube introduces a courtroom scenario where the protagonist faces a judge, referred to as Judge Dread. The protagonist acknowledges their wrongdoing but implies that money can influence the outcome of their trial. The line "the wheels of justice, they turn so slow, but with this we can make them turn faster" suggests that bribery or financial incentives can expedite and sway the judicial process. This verse serves as a critique of the corruption and moral decay that can arise when money becomes the ultimate arbiter of justice.

The chorus, with its repetitive chant of "Money money money," acts as a stark reminder of the song's central theme. It emphasizes the relentless and inescapable nature of money's influence. Lucky Dube, known for his reggae music that often addresses social and political issues, uses this song to provoke thought about the ethical implications of a society driven by financial gain. The song serves as a poignant commentary on the erosion of values and the commodification of essential human experiences in the face of economic pressures.