How does it feel to be
One of the beautiful people?
Now that you know who you are.
What do you want to be?
And have you travelled very far?
Far as the eyes can see
How does it feel to be
One of the beautiful people?
How often have you been there?
Often enough to know
What did you see when you were there?
Nothing that doesn’t show
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man too
You keep all your money in a big brown bag inside a zoo
What a thing to do
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man too
How does it feel to be
One of the beautiful people?
Tuned to a natural E
Happy to be that way
Now that you’ve found another key
What are you going to play?
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man too
You keep all your money in a big brown bag inside a zoo
What a thing to do
Baby, baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man too
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby you’re a rich man
Baby, baby you’re a rich man too (fade out)
Exploring the World of the ‘Beautiful People’
“Baby, You’re A Rich Man” by The Beatles is a playful yet thought-provoking journey into the concept of wealth and belonging. The lyrics pose rhetorical questions about what it means to be one of the “beautiful people”—a phrase often associated with fame, fortune, and social privilege. By asking “How does it feel to be one of the beautiful people?” and contrasting outward appearance with inner identity, the song challenges listeners to reflect on the true value of riches—material versus spiritual or emotional wealth.
Irony and Social Commentary
The repeated line, “You keep all your money in a big brown bag inside a zoo, what a thing to do,” cleverly satirizes the absurdity of hoarding wealth. The Beatles suggest that merely possessing riches isn’t enough to grant fulfillment or authenticity. The song’s lighthearted tone, paired with insightful lyrics, creates a nuanced commentary on the culture of celebrity and the pursuit of happiness.
Song Credits
Songwriters: John Lennon, Paul McCartney
Release Year: 1967
Label: Parlophone