17 Best Songs about Greed and Wanting More Than Our Fair Share

Throughout history, human greed has been a constant theme, and music has been no exception in addressing this topic. Whether it’s wanting more money, power, or fame, the allure of greed can be both intoxicating and destructive.

In this list, we will explore 17 of the best songs about greed and wanting more than our fair share.Some of the songs on this list take a critical look at the societal structures that create and perpetuate inequality and greed. For example, ‘Society’ by Eddie Vedder critiques the capitalist system and the ways in which it perpetuates greed and inequality. Similarly, ‘Age of Greed’ by Killing Joke highlights the dangers of unchecked capitalism and corporate greed.

Other songs on this list take a more introspective approach, exploring the personal toll that greed can take. ‘I Want It All’ by Queen speaks to the all-consuming desire for wealth and success, while ‘Mercedes Benz’ by Janis Joplin pokes fun at the materialism and shallowness of consumer culture.

Overall, these songs serve as a reminder of the dangers and pitfalls of unchecked greed, and the importance of striving for balance and fairness in our personal and societal lives. Through their lyrics and music, these artists encourage listeners to question their own desires and values, and to work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all.

1. ‘I Want It All’ – Queen

‘I Want It All’ by Queen is an electrifying rock anthem about unapologetically striving for success and seizing opportunities. Freddie Mercury’s powerhouse vocals and the band’s signature guitar riffs make this an empowering song that inspires listeners to chase their dreams. The lyrics touch upon themes of ambition, drive, and determination, with an underlying message that everyone deserves to achieve greatness.

2. ‘Give Give Give Me More More More’ – The Wonderstuff

‘Give Give Give Me More More More’ by The Wonderstuff is a catchy, upbeat track with a punk-inspired edge. The song’s lyrics are all about wanting more out of life, with lead singer Miles Hunt singing about the desire for material possessions and experiences. The upbeat tempo and sing-along chorus make this a fun and energetic song that captures the restlessness and longing of youth. The track’s frenzied instrumentation and Hunt’s raw vocals combine to create an infectious energy that will have listeners tapping their feet and wanting more.

3. ‘Greed and Gold’ – Seth Lakeman

‘Greed and Gold’ by Seth Lakeman is a haunting folk song that explores the corrupting influence of money and the pursuit of wealth. Lakeman’s rich vocals and the song’s atmospheric instrumentation create a sense of unease that perfectly captures the dark themes of greed and materialism. The lyrics touch upon the dangers of greed and the consequences of pursuing wealth at all costs. The song’s melancholic tone and introspective lyrics make it a poignant reflection on the complexities of human nature.

4. ‘Society’ – Eddie Vedder

‘Society’ by Eddie Vedder is a powerful and socially conscious ballad that speaks to the struggles of modern society. Vedder’s soulful voice and the song’s stripped-down acoustic arrangement create a raw and intimate sound that emphasizes the lyrics’ emotional weight. The song’s lyrics touch upon themes of alienation, conformity, and the search for meaning in a world that often seems to lack it. Vedder’s lyrics highlight the stark realities of modern society, making this an emotionally charged and thought-provoking song that resonates with listeners.

5. ‘I Wanted Everything’ – The Ramones

‘I Wanted Everything’ by The Ramones is a punk rock classic that speaks to the reckless abandon and rebellious spirit of youth. The song’s driving guitar riffs and pounding drums create an energetic sound that perfectly captures the band’s signature style. The lyrics touch upon themes of desire and longing, with lead singer Joey Ramone singing about his insatiable hunger for success and the thrill of taking risks. This is a high-energy anthem that celebrates the power of ambition and the freedom of youth

6. ‘The Endless Plain Of Fortune’ – John Cale

‘The Endless Plain of Fortune’ by John Cale is a haunting and introspective song that explores themes of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. Cale’s emotive vocals and the song’s atmospheric instrumentation create a sense of melancholy that perfectly captures the song’s reflective tone. The lyrics touch upon the inevitability of change and the uncertainties of the future. This is a poignant and emotionally charged song that encourages listeners to embrace the present moment and live life to the fullest.

7. ‘Age of Greed’ – Killing Joke

‘Age of Greed’ by Killing Joke is a hard-hitting and politically charged song that speaks to the dangers of unchecked greed and materialism. The song’s pounding drums and aggressive guitar riffs create a sense of urgency that perfectly captures the band’s punk-inspired sound. The lyrics touch upon themes of corruption, inequality, and the destructive influence of money on society. This is a powerful and confrontational song that encourages listeners to question the status quo and fight against the injustices of the world.

8. ‘Disease of Conceit’ – Bob Dylan

‘Disease of Conceit’ by Bob Dylan is a soulful and introspective song that explores the dangers of arrogance and self-importance. Dylan’s weathered vocals and the song’s bluesy instrumentation create a raw and emotional sound that perfectly captures the song’s reflective tone. The lyrics touch upon themes of vanity, pride, and the illusions of power. This is a poignant and thought-provoking song that encourages listeners to reflect on their own flaws and limitations, reminding us that humility and compassion are the true keys to happiness and fulfillment.

9. ‘Big Yellow Taxi’ – Joni Mitchell

‘Big Yellow Taxi’ by Joni Mitchell is a classic folk song that has become an anthem for environmental activism. The song’s bright guitar melody and Mitchell’s sweet vocals create a catchy and memorable sound that perfectly captures the song’s message. The lyrics touch upon themes of environmentalism and conservation, with Mitchell singing about the need to preserve the natural world and protect it from destruction. This is a timeless song that reminds listeners of the importance of taking care of the planet and the consequences of neglecting our responsibilities.

10. ‘Calling To You’ – Robert Plant

‘Calling to You’ by Robert Plant is a haunting and atmospheric rock song that speaks to the power of longing and desire. Plant’s distinctive vocals and the song’s ethereal instrumentation create a sense of otherworldliness that perfectly captures the song’s mystical themes. The lyrics touch upon themes of love, spirituality, and the search for meaning in life. This is a powerful and emotive song that encourages listeners to embrace their passions and follow their hearts, reminding us that the pursuit of happiness is a journey that is worth taking.

11. ‘Déjà Vu’ – Roger Waters

‘Déjà Vu’ by Roger Waters is a haunting and introspective song that speaks to the cyclical nature of life and the constant cycle of change. The song’s slow and brooding sound creates a sense of melancholy that perfectly captures the song’s reflective tone. The lyrics touch upon themes of regret, loss, and the search for meaning in life. This is a poignant and emotional song that encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the moments that have shaped them into the people they are today.

12. ‘Little King’ – Johnny Marr

‘Little King’ by Johnny Marr is a bright and upbeat indie rock song that speaks to the power of perseverance and the strength of the human spirit. The song’s jangly guitar riffs and infectious melody create a catchy and memorable sound that perfectly captures the song’s message. The lyrics touch upon themes of resilience, determination, and the power of hope. This is an uplifting and motivational song that encourages listeners to keep pushing forward, reminding us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

13. ‘Mercedes Benz’ – Janis Joplin

‘Mercedes Benz’ by Janis Joplin is a bluesy and soulful song that speaks to the empty promises of material wealth and consumer culture. The song’s sparse and simple instrumentation creates a sense of intimacy that perfectly captures Joplin’s raw and emotional vocals. The lyrics touch upon themes of greed, excess, and the illusion of happiness that comes with material possessions. This is a powerful and poignant song that encourages listeners to question their own values and priorities, reminding us that true happiness cannot be bought.

14. ‘Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots Of Money)’ – Pet Shop Boys

‘Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots Of Money)’ by Pet Shop Boys is a catchy and upbeat synth-pop song that speaks to the ambition and drive of the human spirit. The song’s pulsing electronic beats and catchy hooks create a memorable and infectious sound that perfectly captures the song’s message. The lyrics touch upon themes of ambition, success, and the pursuit of happiness through hard work and determination. This is a motivational and uplifting song that encourages listeners to chase their dreams and never give up on their goals, reminding us that with the right mindset and attitude, anything is possible.

15. ‘Piggies’ – The Beatles

‘Piggies’ by The Beatles is a satirical and playful song that speaks to the greed and materialism of modern society. The song’s lighthearted melody and witty lyrics create a humorous and ironic tone that perfectly captures the song’s message. The lyrics touch upon themes of consumerism, inequality, and the corrupting influence of money. This is a clever and insightful song that encourages listeners to question the values and priorities of the world around them, reminding us that true wealth and happiness cannot be measured in material possessions.

16. ‘Take the Money and Run’ – Crosby & Nash

‘Take the Money and Run’ by Crosby & Nash is a classic rock song that speaks to the allure and dangers of a life of crime. The song’s driving guitar riffs and catchy melody create an energetic and exciting sound that perfectly captures the song’s message. The lyrics touch upon themes of temptation, danger, and the consequences of one’s actions. This is a thrilling and suspenseful song that encourages listeners to think about the choices they make in life, reminding us that the pursuit of money and power can lead down a dangerous path.

17. ‘Money Don’t Matter 2 Night’ – Prince and The New Power Generation

‘Money Don’t Matter 2 Night’ by Prince and The New Power Generation is a soulful and reflective song that speaks to the emptiness and futility of material wealth. The song’s smooth and groovy rhythm creates a laid-back and contemplative atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s message. The lyrics touch upon themes of inequality, corruption, and the illusion of happiness that comes with material possessions. This is a thought-provoking and introspective song that encourages listeners to rethink their priorities and values, reminding us that true happiness and fulfillment come from within, not from external sources like money and possessions.