The Everly Brothers – Man With Money

About the song

“Man With Money” by The Everly Brothers is an upbeat, energetic track that delves into themes of material wealth, desire, and the competition for love. Originally released in the mid-1960s, this song showcases the duo’s ability to blend rock ‘n’ roll with their signature harmony-rich vocals. The track stands out for its driving rhythm, catchy melody, and relatable lyrical content that captures the essence of youthful ambition and the allure of wealth.

The song’s title, “Man With Money,” encapsulates the central theme: a man’s belief that money holds the power to win over the object of his affection. Throughout the song, the narrator laments that despite all his qualities, it’s the man with wealth who seems to have the upper hand. This concept reflects societal perceptions that material wealth is often a determining factor in relationships and success. In this way, the song touches on the universal struggle between genuine affection and superficial attraction based on status or wealth.

Lyrically, the song is straightforward but effective. The protagonist acknowledges his feelings of inferiority when compared to a rival who has money, highlighting lines like “Some guys have all the luck, and others just don’t” and “He’s a man with money, and I’m just another guy”. These lyrics resonate with anyone who has felt the frustration of competing with someone who seems to have all the advantages. Despite the playful and lively tone, there’s a deeper sense of yearning and frustration beneath the surface as the protagonist realizes that his affection alone may not be enough.

Musically, “Man With Money” combines driving rock ‘n’ roll energy with the smooth harmonies for which The Everly Brothers are famous. The song is propelled by a steady beat, vibrant guitar riffs, and their tightly woven vocal harmonies, which create a dynamic and exciting sound. The uptempo rhythm gives the song an infectious energy, making it feel like a danceable hit, while the lyrics add a touch of tension and emotional complexity. The contrast between the upbeat music and the slightly cynical lyrics creates an interesting juxtaposition that draws listeners in.

The guitar work in the song is particularly notable, with a sharp, jangly sound that fits well within the mid-60s rock soundscape. It’s a track that bridges the gap between early rock ‘n’ roll and the emerging rock sound of the era, showing that The Everly Brothers were able to stay relevant as musical styles evolved. The rhythmic guitar and drums drive the song forward, giving it a relentless momentum that mirrors the intensity of the narrator’s emotions.

In terms of vocals, The Everly Brothers deliver another flawless performance. Their harmonies are tight and perfectly balanced, creating a rich, layered sound that adds depth to the song. The interplay between their voices captures the frustration and determination of the protagonist, with the smoothness of their vocals contrasting against the raw emotion conveyed in the lyrics. This balance is one of the key elements that make The Everly Brothers so iconic—they can make complex emotions feel effortless.

“Man With Money” is a fun, energetic track that touches on themes of competition, desire, and the influence of wealth. It’s a song that captures the frustration of feeling like you’re at a disadvantage when compared to someone with more material wealth, but it does so in a way that’s playful and relatable. The combination of rock ‘n’ roll energy and rich harmonies makes it a standout track in The Everly Brothers’ catalog, showing their ability to evolve with the times while staying true to their signature sound.

Video

Lyrics

“Man With Money”