15 Songs About Greed And Wanting More

As someone who’s felt the insatiable pull of desire, I’ve often found myself reflecting on the fine line between ambition and greed. We live in a world that constantly bombards us with messages to want more, achieve more, and be more. It’s a sentiment that’s deeply ingrained in our culture, and unsurprisingly, it’s a theme that’s been explored time and time again in music.

In this playlist, I’ll take you on a journey through 15 songs that shine a spotlight on greed and the insatiable hunger for more. Some criticize this aspect of human nature, while others revel in it. But all of them offer a unique perspective on a driving force that shapes so much of our world. 

1. “Society” by Eddie Vedder

“Society” is a contemplative critique of materialism and societal pressures. Eddie Vedder questions the notion that acquiring more possessions leads to freedom, suggesting instead that this endless desire traps individuals in a cycle of dissatisfaction. The chorus, “Society, you’re a crazy breed / Hope you’re not lonely without me,” expresses Vedder’s disengagement from societal norms and the collective obsession with material wealth.

The song challenges the idea that accumulating achievements is the way to measure success, highlighting the emptiness that results from constant comparison and competition. Vedder’s lyrics serve as a call for introspection and a critique of the societal pressures that push individuals towards an unending quest for more, often at the expense of their happiness and sense of self.

2. “Material Girl” by Madonna

“Material Girl” is an iconic pop song that embraces materialism while simultaneously critiquing it. The lyrics identify with materialism, with Madonna portraying a character who seeks a rich and affluent life, only wanting to date men who can offer her luxury. The chorus, “We are living in a material world, and I am a material girl,” became a cultural touchstone, encapsulating the materialistic ethos of the 1980s.

The song’s narrative presents a woman who values financial stability and material possessions over romantic gestures, stating “the boy with the cold hard cash is always Mister Right.” While some interpret the song as empowering for women, others debate its meaning and impact on popular culture. Madonna herself has expressed regret over recording the song, as it led to her being labeled the “Material Girl” in the media.

3. “Have A Cigar” by Pink Floyd

“Have A Cigar” is a scathing critique of the music industry’s greed and cynicism. The lyrics are written from the perspective of a manipulative record company executive, encouraging the band to “ride the gravy train” by following a proven formula for success. The iconic line “Which one’s Pink?” highlights the executive’s ignorance and lack of genuine interest in the artists.

Interestingly, the vocals were performed by Roy Harper, a respected English folk singer, rather than Pink Floyd members. This choice adds to the song’s critique, as it represents an outsider’s voice commenting on the industry’s practices. The track serves as a powerful commentary on the commercialization of art and the disconnect between creative integrity and financial success in the music business.

4. “I Wanted Everything” by The Ramones

“I Wanted Everything” captures the raw essence of youthful disillusionment and the relentless pursuit of unattainable dreams. The song’s protagonist starts with childhood fantasies of Christmas presents and the Easter Bunny, only to face the harsh realities of adulthood, including parental absence and financial struggles.

The repeated refrain “I wanted everything” underscores an insatiable desire for a better life, a common theme in punk rock. The narrative takes a dark turn as the protagonist’s frustration leads to robbery, signifying the extreme measures one might take when aspirations are continually thwarted. Through this song, The Ramones deliver a powerful commentary on the disillusionment of the American Dream and the lengths to which people will go to attain it.

5. “Money (That’s What I Want)” by Barrett Strong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeVx1C73o8k&pp=ygUuIk1vbmV5IChUaGF0J3MgV2hhdCBJIFdhbnQpIiBieSBCYXJyZXR0IFN0cm9uZw%3D%3D

This 1959 hit is considered the first major success for the Motown record label. Written by Berry Gordy and Janie Bradford, “Money (That’s What I Want)” is a straightforward, bluesy R&B classic that unabashedly expresses the desire for wealth. The song’s simple yet powerful message is encapsulated in its memorable refrain: “The best things in life are free / But you can give them to the birds and bees / I want money (that’s what I want).”

The track features a driving piano riff and raw, energetic vocals from Barrett Strong. Its honest portrayal of materialistic desires struck a chord with audiences and has since become a staple of rock and R&B, covered by numerous artists including The Beatles. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its universal theme of financial ambition, making it a perfect addition to a playlist about greed and wanting more.

6. “Greedy Fly” by Bush

Released in 1997 as the second single from Bush’s album “Razorblade Suitcase,” “Greedy Fly” is a darker, more introspective take on desire and consumption. While not explicitly about financial greed, the song’s title and atmospheric sound convey a sense of insatiable want and emotional turmoil.

The track is notable for its gothic undertones and expensive, nearly seven-minute-long music video. Gavin Rossdale’s introspective lyrics and the band’s grunge-influenced sound create a moody, intense exploration of desire. The “greedy fly” metaphor suggests a creature that constantly consumes without satisfaction, paralleling human greed and the endless pursuit of more.

7. “I Want It All” by Queen

This 1989 rock anthem is a powerful declaration of ambition and the desire for success. Written by Brian May, the song was inspired by a phrase often used by his wife, Anita Dobson: “I want it all, and I want it now.” The track embodies the relentless pursuit of dreams and the refusal to settle for less.

With its bombastic sound and Freddie Mercury’s commanding vocals, “I Want It All” captures the essence of Queen’s larger-than-life approach to rock music. The lyrics speak to youthful ambition and the drive to achieve one’s goals without compromise. While the song can be interpreted as a positive motivational anthem, it also reflects the potentially greedy aspect of wanting everything immediately.

8. “Love Is Greed” by Passion Pit

This track from Passion Pit’s 2012 album “Gossamer” offers a cynical take on love, framing it as a form of selfishness or greed. The song’s lyrics challenge the notion of selfless love, suggesting that all love is ultimately rooted in personal desire and need.

With lines like “Love is just greed / A selfish little need,” the song presents a provocative view of relationships. It questions whether true selfless love is possible, or if all love is fundamentally about fulfilling one’s own emotional needs. The upbeat, synth-pop sound contrasts with the song’s darker lyrical content, creating an interesting tension that reflects the complexity of love and desire.

9. “Greedy” by Ariana Grande

“Greedy” is an upbeat, energetic pop track from Ariana Grande’s 2016 album “Dangerous Woman.” Despite its title, the song isn’t about material greed, but rather an insatiable desire for love and affection. Grande uses the term “greedy” to describe her intense passion and physical attraction to her partner.

The lyrics are boldly assertive, with Grande confidently expressing her desires. Lines like “You know that I’m coming tonight” and “Baby, you got lucky ’cause you’re rocking with the best” showcase her self-assurance in pursuing what she wants. The song’s disco-influenced production and Grande’s powerful vocal performance complement the theme of passionate, almost obsessive love.

“Greedy” gained renewed popularity when it was featured on RuPaul’s Drag Race and later trended on TikTok, demonstrating its enduring appeal and catchy nature.

10. “Déjà Vu” by Roger Waters

Released in 2017, “Déjà Vu” is a reflective and introspective track from Roger Waters’ album “Is This The Life We Really Want?” The song showcases Waters’ signature style, blending acoustic elements with orchestral arrangements to create a cinematic soundscape.

While not explicitly about greed, “Déjà Vu” explores themes of disillusionment and questioning one’s place in the world. The lyrics are contemplative, with Waters pondering what he would do if he were God, suggesting a desire for control and change. The song’s title and content imply a cyclical nature to human experiences and societal issues.

The track features Waters’ characteristic social commentary, touching on themes of power, morality, and the human condition. Its introspective nature and rich instrumentation make it a thought-provoking addition to a playlist about wanting more.

11. “Greed Killing” by Napalm Death

“Greed Killing” is a brutal and intense track by British grindcore pioneers Napalm Death. Released in 1995 on their album “Diatribes,” the song is a fierce critique of societal greed and its destructive consequences.

The lyrics are aggressive and direct, with lines like “The wrong time, the wrong place / Our smiling face of destruct” and “Instinct to mistrust / Instinct – the lust” highlighting the band’s view on the corrosive nature of greed. The repeated phrase “The greed killing” emphasizes the deadly impact of unchecked avarice.

Musically, the song is characterized by its relentless pace, distorted guitars, and harsh vocals, typical of Napalm Death’s grindcore style. This intense delivery perfectly complements the song’s scathing message about the destructive power of greed.

12. “Fools Gold” by The Stone Roses

“Fools Gold” is an iconic track by The Stone Roses, released in 1989. The song is a metaphorical exploration of the pursuit of wealth and material success, using the concept of “fool’s gold” (pyrite) as a central theme.

The lyrics describe a long and arduous journey along a “gold road,” symbolizing the relentless chase for riches. The repeated mentions of physical discomfort (e.g., “the pack on my back is aching, the strap seems to cut me like a knife”) highlight the toll this pursuit takes on the individual.

Musically, “Fools Gold” is known for its distinctive groove, combining elements of rock, funk, and dance music. This creates an interesting contrast with the song’s somewhat cynical message about materialism and the futility of chasing after false promises.

The song’s enduring popularity and its inclusion in various “greatest songs” lists testify to its impact and the resonance of its message about the illusory nature of material wealth.

13. “The Endless Plain Of Fortune” by John Cale

“The Endless Plain Of Fortune” is a hauntingly beautiful track from John Cale’s 1973 album “Paris 1919.” The song explores themes of greed and the pursuit of wealth, particularly in the context of colonial exploitation. Set against a backdrop of lush orchestration and Cale’s distinctive vocals, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of the South African gold rush era around 1910.

The song’s central metaphor is encapsulated in the line “It’s gold that eats the heart and leaves the bones to dry,” highlighting the corrosive nature of greed. Cale weaves a narrative filled with enigmatic characters and evocative imagery, creating a sense of both historical specificity and timeless allegory. The “endless plain” of the title suggests the vast, unforgiving landscape where fortune-seekers gamble their lives and morals in pursuit of wealth.

Musically, the track features a mesmerizing blend of piano, strings, and subtle guitar work, creating a cinematic atmosphere that complements the song’s themes. The orchestral arrangement adds a layer of grandeur and melancholy to the narrative, underscoring the futility and tragedy inherent in the relentless pursuit of riches.

14. “Gold Digger” by Kanye West

Released in 2005, “Gold Digger” is one of Kanye West’s most iconic tracks, featuring Jamie Foxx. The song offers a modern, hip-hop perspective on greed and transactional relationships. West’s lyrics present a complex narrative that both critiques and somewhat sympathizes with women who pursue men for their wealth, while also examining the men who fear being taken advantage of financially in relationships.

The track is built around a sample of Ray Charles’ “I Got a Woman,” cleverly flipped to create the catchy hook “She take my money when I’m in need.” This sample, combined with West’s rapid-fire verses and Foxx’s soulful vocals, creates an irresistibly catchy sound that belies the song’s more serious themes.

“Gold Digger” explores the intersection of love, money, and power dynamics in relationships. West’s lyrics touch on issues of class, race, and gender, presenting various scenarios where financial motivations complicate romantic connections. The song’s popularity and controversial subject matter sparked numerous discussions about materialism and gender roles in modern relationships.

15. “Money” by Pink Floyd

“Money,” from Pink Floyd’s seminal 1973 album “The Dark Side of the Moon,” is a scathing critique of greed and capitalism. The song opens with its iconic sound collage of cash registers and coins, immediately setting the theme. This loop, combined with the distinctive 7/4 time signature (which later shifts to 4/4), creates a sense of relentless, cyclical pursuit that mirrors the song’s subject matter.

Lyrically, “Money” is both sardonic and philosophical. Lines like “Money, so they say / Is the root of all evil today” directly reference biblical teachings about greed, while other lyrics paint vivid pictures of the excesses and moral compromises that come with wealth. The song doesn’t just criticize the wealthy; it also examines how the pursuit of money affects everyone in society.

Musically, “Money” showcases Pink Floyd’s progressive rock prowess. The bass-driven groove, David Gilmour’s bluesy guitar solo, and the dynamic shift in the middle section all contribute to the song’s enduring appeal. The saxophone solo adds a touch of irony, evoking the sleazy glamour often associated with wealth.

“Money” stands as one of rock music’s most enduring commentaries on greed and materialism, its message remaining relevant decades after its release. The song’s commercial success also created an interesting irony, as Pink Floyd’s critique of greed became one of their biggest money-makers.

Submit Your Song to This Playlist

Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.

Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.