Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want)”—Motown’s First Hit That Sparked a Musical Revolution
In 1959, a young Barrett Strong recorded Money (That’s What I Want), a song that would become Motown’s first major hit and lay the foundation for a musical empire. Co-written by Berry Gordy and Janie Bradford, the track’s raw energy and relatable lyrics resonated with a wide audience, reaching No. 2 on the R&B chart and No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1960. It wasn’t just a song—it was a declaration of ambition, a driving force that signaled the arrival of a new musical era.
Barrett Strong, born in Mississippi and raised in Detroit, was among the early artists to work with Berry Gordy at what would soon become Motown. His deep, emotive voice and skill as a pianist made him a standout in a city brimming with musical talent. When Gordy and Bradford wrote Money, Strong’s gritty, impassioned delivery turned it into something more than just another R&B track—it became an anthem for those striving for a better life.
The creation of Money happened almost by accident. While at the studio, Strong stumbled upon a piano riff that caught Gordy’s attention. The two began experimenting with lyrics, and in a matter of hours, they had crafted a song that captured the desires of an entire generation. The lyrics, simple yet powerful, spoke of a universal truth: money might not buy happiness, but it sure makes life easier.
Recorded at Motown’s now-legendary Hitsville U.S.A. studio, the song featured a minimalist yet infectious arrangement. Strong’s urgent piano playing drove the song forward, while a handclap rhythm and a pounding drumbeat gave it a raw, unfiltered energy. The call-and-response chorus made it instantly memorable, and his voice, filled with both longing and defiance, made it clear—this wasn’t just a plea, it was a demand.
Upon release, Money became an instant success. Radio stations played it relentlessly, and it soon climbed the charts. This breakthrough allowed Berry Gordy to finance and expand his fledgling record label, which would go on to become the legendary Motown Records. In many ways, Money wasn’t just a hit—it was the financial backbone of Motown’s future success.
The song’s impact extended beyond commercial success. It became an anthem of ambition, played in jukeboxes across the country, from smoky bars to teen dance halls. Its universal message resonated with a broad audience, crossing racial and economic lines, and making it one of the earliest examples of R&B music finding mainstream appeal.
For Barrett Strong, Money was both a blessing and a turning point. While it put his name on the map, he would later shift his focus toward songwriting rather than performing. This decision proved pivotal, as Strong became one of Motown’s most celebrated songwriters, co-writing legendary hits such as I Heard It Through the Grapevine, War, and Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone. Though he never achieved massive fame as a singer, his contributions behind the scenes were immeasurable.
Over the years, Money has been covered by numerous artists, most notably The Beatles, whose 1963 version introduced it to an entirely new audience. Their rendition kept the raw energy of the original but infused it with a rock ‘n’ roll edge that suited the British Invasion era. The Rolling Stones followed suit, cementing the song’s place as a rock and R&B staple. Decades later, The Flying Lizards’ stripped-down, robotic version in 1979 brought the song into the realm of new wave and post-punk.
At the time of its release, America was in the midst of economic and social shifts, and Money captured the ambition and struggles of a generation trying to carve out a better life. It was played at protests, parties, and clubs, resonating with anyone who understood the grind of working hard for a dream.
Decades later, Money remains one of the most recognizable and enduring songs of its time. It continues to be used in films, commercials, and television, ensuring its relevance across generations. Its message—straightforward, unapologetic, and universally understood—has helped it stand the test of time.
More than just a hit song, Money (That’s What I Want) was the spark that ignited Motown. It demonstrated the power of Berry Gordy’s vision, showcasing that Detroit’s music scene had something fresh and exciting to offer. It was the song that built the foundation for a label that would give the world artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, and The Temptations.
Looking back, Money was more than just the first big hit for Barrett Strong—it was the beginning of something much greater. It embodied the hunger, ambition, and drive that defined not only Motown but an entire era of music. Even today, its pounding piano, relentless beat, and commanding vocals serve as a reminder of the moment when a small Detroit label changed the face of popular music forever.
