The Beatles were not just a band, they were a cultural phenomenon that changed the face of music forever. Their catchy tunes and uplifting lyrics brought joy to millions of fans around the world.
However, the band also explored more serious themes in their music, including the subject of money. While they often advocated antimaterialism, they also wrote some of their most famous songs about wealth and financial success.
Baby, You’re a Rich Man
One of the most popular songs The Beatles made about money was “Baby, You’re a Rich Man.” The song is a mix of silly and introspective lyrics, with a touch of experimental music. It was the B-side of their hit song “All You Need Is Love,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Baby, You’re a Rich Man” reached No. 34 on the same chart. The song shows that even though the band members became very wealthy, they still had a sense of humor about it.
You Never Give Me Your Money
Another song that deals with money is “You Never Give Me Your Money,” which is part of the famous medley at the end of the album Abbey Road. The song starts off as a beautiful ballad before transitioning into an upbeat joke song. It encapsulates Paul McCartney’s two sides – the sentimental balladeer and the rock ‘n’ roll star with a sense of humor.
All You Need Is Love
“All You Need Is Love” is not explicitly about money, but it is implicitly about how money and power do not matter as much as love. George Harrison spoke about this in an interview in 1969, saying that each individual must tend to themselves and find their own peace. He explained that the whole society would then have peace, and the world would be a better place.
Finally, The Beatles covered Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want),” which is a song that suggests that cash is more important than love. The Beatles’ cover added some rock ‘n’ roll adrenaline to the original R&B tune. It’s funny to think that a band so well-known for love songs would cover a song about the importance of money, but it shows that The Beatles really were not afraid to tackle any subject matter. Money was one such subject that they explored in their music, despite their advocacy for antimaterialism.