“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Growing up, my father’s vinyl collection was my gateway to the classics of rock, but it was “Money for Nothing” that stood out with its commanding guitar riff and vivid storytelling, crafting a narrative that felt both rebellious and revealing.
About The Composition
- Title: Money for Nothing
- Composer: Mark Knopfler, Dire Straits
- Premiere Date: 1985
- Album/Opus/Collection: Brothers in Arms
- Genre: Rock
Background
Crafted from an overheard conversation in a retail store, “Money for Nothing” captures the zeitgeist of the 1980s, echoing the public’s fascination and criticism of pop culture and media influence. It quickly soared to the top of the charts, bolstered by its innovative music video that was among the first to be heavily rotated on MTV.
Musical Style
Mark Knopfler’s use of a Gibson Les Paul guitar to create the song’s iconic riff exemplifies the technical mastery and innovative spirit of the era. The song’s structure—a blend of rock and electronic influences—helped redefine the genre’s boundaries.
Lyrics/Libretto
The song’s lyrics serve as a societal critique, delivered through the lens of an ordinary worker. This narrative technique provides a grounding contrast to the glamorous life depicted in the music videos of the time.
Performance History
“Money for Nothing” has been performed in countless venues worldwide, each performance reinforcing its status as a classic, resonating with diverse audiences for its authentic reflection of social dynamics.
Cultural Impact
The song’s reflection on media and celebrity culture remains relevant, offering insights into the changing landscapes of music, fame, and media consumption.
Legacy
“Money for Nothing” is not just a song; it’s a historical document that continues to influence musicians and listeners, encouraging a critical look at the narratives we consume.
Conclusion
“Money for Nothing” is more than a musical masterpiece; it’s a critical lens through which to view the past and its echoes in the present. For those looking to understand the power of music as social commentary, this song remains a must-hear.
Video
Lyrics
Now look at them yo-yos, that’s the way you do it
You play the guitar on the MTV
That ain’t workin’, that’s the way you do it
Money for nothin’ and your chicks for free
Now that ain’t workin’, that’s the way you do it
Lemme tell ya, them guys ain’t dumb
Maybe get a blister on your little finger
Maybe get a blister on your thumb
We got to install microwave ovens, custom kitchen deliveries
We got to move these refrigerators, we got to move these color TVs
See the little faggot with the earring and the make up
Yeah, buddy, that’s his own hair
That little faggot got his own jet airplane
That little faggot, he’s a millionaire
We got to install microwave ovens, custom kitchen deliveries
We got to move these refrigerators, we gotta move these color TVs
We got to install microwave ovens, custom kitchen deliveries
We got to move these refrigerators, we got to move these color TVs
Looky here, look out
I shoulda learned to play the guitar
I shoulda learned to play them drums
Look at that mama, she got it stickin’ in the camera man
We could have some
And he’s up there, what’s that?
Hawaiian noises?
Bangin’ on the bongos like a chimpanzee
That ain’t workin’, that’s the way you do it
Get your money for nothin’, get your chicks for free
We got to install microwave ovens, custom kitchen deliveries
We got to move these refrigerators, we gotta move these color TVs
Listen here
Now that ain’t workin’ that’s the way you do it
You play the guitar on the MTV
That ain’t workin’, that’s the way you do it
Money for nothin’ and your chicks for free
Money for nothin’, chicks for free
Get your money for nothin’ and your chicks for free
Ooh, money for nothin’, chicks for free
Money for nothin’, chicks for free (money, money, money)
Money for nothin’, chicks for free
Get your money for nothin’, get your chicks for free
Get your money for nothin’ and the chicks for free
Get your money for nothin’ and the chicks for free
Look at that, look at that
Get your money for nothin’ (I want my, I want my)
Chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Money for nothin’, chicks for free (I want my, I want my, I want my MTV)
Get your money for nothin’ (I want my, I want my)
And the chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Get your money for nothin’ (I want my, I want my)
And the chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Easy, easy money for nothin’ (I want my, I want my)
Easy, easy chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Easy, easy money for nothin’ (I want my, I want my)
Chicks for free (I want my MTV)
That ain’t workin’
Money for nothing, chicks for free
Money for nothing, chicks for free