About the song
“For the Love of Money” is a soulful and funky masterpiece that has become a timeless classic in the world of music. Written and composed by the legendary songwriting duo Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, along with Anthony Jackson, the song was recorded by the Philadelphia soul group The O’Jays for their album Ship Ahoy. Produced by Gamble and Huff for Philadelphia International Records, “For the Love of Money” was released as a single in late 1973, with “People Keep Tellin’ Me” as its B-side.
The song’s title is inspired by a well-known Bible verse, 1 Timothy 6:10, which warns against the dangers of coveting money. The song’s message is a powerful commentary on the corrupting influence of wealth and the importance of staying true to one’s values. The song’s catchy melody and infectious beat, combined with The O’Jays’ signature harmonies, make it a standout track that has stood the test of time.
The song’s production is also noteworthy, with Anthony Jackson’s bass guitar playing a key role in its creation. The song’s iconic bassline was created by Jackson using a wah-wah pedal and a phaser, which gave it a unique and memorable sound. The song’s final mix was also influenced by Kenny Gamble’s impulsive decision to add echo to Jackson’s opening riffs.
“For the Love of Money” has been recognized for its excellence, earning a nomination for the 1975 Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance – Duo, Group or Chorus. Although it lost to “Tell Me Something Good” by Rufus, the song has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2016, a testament to its enduring impact on the music industry. With its timeless themes and unforgettable melody, “For the Love of Money” remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire new generations of music lovers.
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Lyrics
Money money money money, money [Repeat: x 6]
Some people got to have it
Some people really need it
Listen to me why’all, do things, do things, do bad things with it
You want to do things, do things, do things, good things with it
Talk about cash money, money
Talk about cash money- dollar bills, why’all
For the love of money
People will steal from their mother
For the love of money
People will rob their own brother
For the love of money
People can’t even walk the street
Because they never know who in the world they’re gonna beat
For that lean, mean, mean green
Almighty dollar, money
For the love of money
People will lie, Lord, they will cheat
For the love of money
People don’t care who they hurt or beat
For the love of money
A woman will sell her precious body
For a small piece of paper it carries a lot of weight
Call it lean, mean, mean green
Almighty dollar
I know money is the root of all evil
Do funny things to some people
Give me a nickel, brother can you spare a dime
Money can drive some people out of their minds
Got to have it, I really need it
How many things have I heard you say
Some people really need it
How many things have I heard you say
Got to have it, I really need it
How many things have I heard you say
Lay down, lay down, a woman will lay down
For the love of money
All for the love of money
Don’t let, don’t let, don’t let money rule you
For the love of money
Money can change people sometimes
Don’t let, don’t let, don’t let money fool you
Money can fool people sometimes
People! Don’t let money, don’t let money change you,
It will keep on changing, changing up your mind.