About the song
**Introduction to “Money, Money, Money”**
“Money, Money, Money” stands as one of ABBA’s most iconic tracks, showcasing the Swedish pop group’s unique blend of catchy melodies and sharp social commentary. Released on November 1, 1976, as the second single from their fourth studio album, *Arrival*, the song solidified ABBA’s position as one of the foremost pop acts of the era. Written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with Anni-Frid Lyngstad delivering the compelling lead vocals, the track explores themes of financial struggle and aspiration through a lively, engaging melody.
Originally titled “Gypsy Girl,” the song is narrated from the perspective of a woman who dreams of escaping her financial woes by finding a wealthy partner. The song’s lyrics humorously yet poignantly capture the frustration of working hard with little financial reward and the allure of a more affluent lifestyle. The narrative, set against a backdrop of infectious pop hooks and a distinctive music-hall style, is accentuated by Andersson and Ulvaeus’s expert production.
“Money, Money, Money” quickly became a global hit, reaching number one in several countries, including Australia, Belgium, France, West Germany, The Netherlands, Mexico, and New Zealand. In the UK, it peaked at number three, marking a slight dip in ABBA’s otherwise impeccable streak of chart-topping singles between “Mamma Mia” and “Take a Chance on Me.” Despite this, the track remains a fan favorite and is regarded as one of ABBA’s defining hits.
The song’s success was not just confined to its chart performance. The accompanying music video, directed by Lasse Hallström, drew inspiration from the film *Cabaret*, featuring Anni-Frid Lyngstad in a 1920s-inspired setting. The video effectively contrasts Lyngstad’s determined presence with imaginative dream sequences about wealth and luxury. Hallström later cited this video as one of his best works with ABBA.
In addition to its success in the charts, “Money, Money, Money” has enjoyed enduring popularity, as evidenced by its placement at number 22 in a British poll of “The Nation’s Favourite ABBA Song” in 2010. As of September 2021, it remains ABBA’s 16th-biggest song in the UK, reflecting its lasting appeal. With impressive sales figures, including over 300,000 units in Germany by September 1979 and 500,000 in France by April 1977, the song has left a significant mark on the music industry.
Overall, “Money, Money, Money” exemplifies ABBA’s ability to craft memorable pop songs that resonate with listeners, combining lyrical wit, compelling performances, and innovative production to create a timeless classic.
Video
Lyrics
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
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
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
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