Iconic Samples: How ‘For The Love of Money’ Continues to Inspire Artists

Introduction

“The O’Jays – For The Love of Money” is an unforgettable musical masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the world of soul and R&B music. This timeless track, performed by the legendary American group, The O’Jays, was released in 1973 and remains a cherished classic even today.

Did You Know?

• The O’Jays, hailing from Canton, Ohio, were formed in 1958 and originally known as “The Triumphs” before adopting their iconic name. The group consists of Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, and William Powell.
• “For The Love of Money” was not only a musical hit but also featured in the soundtrack of the popular television series “The Apprentice,” hosted by Donald Trump.
• This iconic song has been sampled and covered by numerous artists, making it a staple in the world of hip-hop and contemporary music.
• The O’Jays have earned their place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a testament to their enduring influence on the music industry.

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Lyrics: For The Love of Money

Money, money, money, money, money [6x]
Some people got to have it
Some people really need it
Listen to me y’all, do things
Do things, do bad things with it
You wanna do things, do things
Do things, good things with it
Talk about cash money, money
Talk about cash money
Dollar bills, yall

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