Lyrics: Money Money Money by ABBA
I work all night, I work all day To pay the bills I have to pay Ain't it sad? And still there never seems to be A single penny left for me That's too bad In my dreams I have a plan If I got me a wealthy man I wouldn't have to work at all I'd fool around and have a ball Money, money, money Must be funny In the rich man's world Money, money, money Always sunny In the rich man's world Aha-aha All the things I could do If I had a little money It's a rich man's world It's a rich man's world A man like that is hard to find But I can't get him off my mind Ain't it sad? And if he happens to be free I bet he wouldn't fancy me That's too bad So I must leave, I'll have to go To Las Vegas or Monaco And win a fortune in a game My life will never be the same Money, money, money Must be funny In the rich man's world Money, money, money Always sunny In the rich man's world Aha-aha All the things I could do If I had a little money It's a rich man's world Money, money, money Must be funny In the rich man's world Money, money, money Always sunny In the rich man's world Aha-aha All the things I could do If I had a little money It's a rich man's world It's a rich man's world
The Struggle and Dream: An Analysis of “Money Money Money”
A Relatable Tale of Hard Work
“Money Money Money” captures the universal experience of working hard yet struggling to get ahead. The lyrics open with a candid confession: “I work all night, I work all day to pay the bills I have to pay.” This line instantly connects with anyone who has felt the pressures of financial responsibility. Despite relentless effort, the protagonist always finds herself with “never a single penny left,” a sentiment that is both timeless and deeply relatable.
Escaping Reality Through Dreams
The chorus shifts into a dreamlike fantasy, where wealth offers the promise of freedom and happiness. The repeated line, “If I had a little money, it’s a rich man’s world,” highlights the longing for a life where money is no longer a concern. The protagonist imagines the carefree lifestyle of the wealthy, emphasizing not just financial comfort but the emotional ease that comes with it. The song’s infectious melody adds a sense of irony—while the lyrics dwell on hardship, the music feels almost celebratory, underscoring the fantasy of escaping financial woes.
Chasing Fortune and Facing Disappointment
The story continues with the protagonist considering improbable solutions: winning big in Las Vegas or Monaco, or finding a wealthy partner. Yet, even these dreams are tinged with skepticism and self-doubt, as she admits, “A man like that is hard to find… I bet he wouldn’t fancy me.” In the end, the song circles back to the reality that most people’s fortunes do not change overnight. The repetition of “It’s a rich man’s world” serves as a bittersweet reminder of the divide between dreams and reality.
Why “Money Money Money” Resonates
ABBA’s “Money Money Money” remains a powerful anthem about economic aspiration and the desire for a better life. Its catchy hooks and relatable lyrics ensure its enduring popularity, as listeners across generations recognize themselves in the song’s story. Ultimately, the song balances a sense of humor with genuine emotion, making it one of ABBA’s most memorable tracks.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1976
Label: Polar Music