About The Song
Kenny Rogers, a name synonymous with heartfelt country music, has given us countless classics that have stood the test of time. While many of his songs explore themes of love, loss, and nostalgia, “Making Music for Money” offers a more candid and self-reflective perspective. Released in 1978 as part of his album The Gambler, this song delves into the complexities of the music industry and the pressures faced by artists.
The title, “Making Music for Money” is a straightforward statement that challenges the romantic notion of artists creating music purely for the sake of art. It’s a song that acknowledges the commercial realities of the music business and the compromises that artists often have to make. Rogers’ honest and introspective lyrics offer a glimpse into the mind of a musician who is grappling with the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success.
Musically, “Making Music for Money” is a departure from the traditional country ballads for which Rogers is known. The song has a more upbeat tempo and a rock-influenced sound, reflecting the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s. This stylistic shift adds a layer of complexity to the song and highlights Rogers’ versatility as an artist.
What sets “Making Music for Money” apart from other songs about the music industry is its honesty and vulnerability. Rogers doesn’t shy away from addressing the challenges and contradictions that come with being a successful musician. This candid approach allows listeners to connect with the song on a personal level, regardless of whether they are musicians themselves or simply fans of music.
For older listeners, “Making Music for Money” might evoke memories of a time when they were more actively engaged with the music industry. The song’s themes of commercialism and artistic integrity are still relevant today, and it can serve as a reminder of the complex relationship between artists and their audiences.
“Making Music for Money” is a thought-provoking and introspective song that showcases Kenny Rogers’ ability to tackle complex themes with honesty and vulnerability. It’s a song that offers a unique perspective on the music industry and the challenges faced by artists. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kenny Rogers or you’re simply interested in the business of music, “Making Music for Money” is a track that is worth exploring.
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Lyric
I woke up this morningI was tired as I could beI guess I was counting my moneyWhen I should have been counting sheepMy agent, he just called meAnd then told me what I should beHe said that I should make my music for moneyInstead of making my music for meAnd I said I know that it may sound funnyBut money don’t mean nothin’ to meI won’t make my music for moneyI’m gonna make my music for meNow people only like the love songsRock and rollin’ not too longHe said, kid you got to be commericalIf you wanna turn the people onNow turning on the peopleWhat a beautiful place to beBut if I spend my time makin’ memorable rhymeWho’s gonna turn on me?And I said I know that it may sound funnyBut money don’t mean nothin’ to meI won’t make my music for moneyI’m gonna make my music for meNow, I went up the countryAnd I’ll tell you about the sceneI found a place with much charm and much graceWas untouched by the music machineThe people where havin’ a good timeEverybody singing alongAnd nobody cared if nobody gaveOne more penny for singin’ a songAnd I said I know that it may sound funnyBut money don’t mean nothin’ to meI won’t make my music for moneyI’m gonna make my music for meI said I know that it may sound funny, yeahMoney don’t mean nothin’ to meI won’t make my music for moneyI’m gonna make my music for, make my music forMake my music for me