Barrett Strong – Money (That’s What I Want): A Powerful Anthem of Desire and Aspiration
Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want)” is a defining moment in the history of Motown, a track that captures the raw energy of ambition and the primal urge for financial independence. Released in 1959, this song was not only a commercial breakthrough for Strong but also an early example of the power of Motown’s unique blend of soulful rhythm and sharp, memorable lyrics.
From the very first note, “Money (That’s What I Want)” explodes with an infectious intensity. Driven by a propulsive rhythm and a straightforward, unrelenting desire for financial gain, the song’s opening piano chords immediately grab attention, setting the tone for what would become an anthem of ambition. Strong’s voice, filled with a deep sense of yearning, cuts through the energetic backing, his delivery embodying the universal hunger for wealth and the freedom it promises.
The lyrics, simple yet direct, tap into a core desire that resonates across time and cultures: the need for money to achieve independence and escape life’s struggles. With lines like, “The best things in life are free, but you can keep ’em for the birds and bees. Now, give me money,” Strong makes no pretense about the importance of material wealth, bluntly declaring it as the key to everything he wants in life. This candidness struck a chord with audiences, particularly in the 1960s, when issues of class, race, and economic opportunity were central to the national consciousness. The song’s message was both personal and political, representing not just individual ambition but a collective yearning for a better life.
Musically, “Money” is a perfect reflection of the Motown sound—sharp, upbeat, and irresistibly catchy. The rhythm section pulses with energy, while the backing vocals add an extra layer of soul, creating a rich, full sound that has remained iconic. The integration of piano and drums, the melodic hooks, and Strong’s powerful vocal performance all come together to make “Money” a song that is as much a call to action as it is a testament to the power of music as social commentary.
The song’s success laid the groundwork for the Motown empire, signaling that the label wasn’t just about romance and ballads, but also about creating music that spoke to the everyday struggles and aspirations of ordinary people. “Money (That’s What I Want)” also marked the beginning of Strong’s collaboration with the famed songwriting duo Holland-Dozier-Holland, who would go on to create some of the most enduring hits in the Motown catalog.
Ultimately, Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want)” is more than just a song about the pursuit of wealth—it’s a declaration of intent, an anthem for those seeking a way out, a way up, and a way forward. Its driving energy and unwavering message continue to resonate, not just as a Motown classic, but as a timeless reflection of human ambition.