The Meaning Behind The Song: Money’s Too Tight (To Mention) by Simply Red
Simply Red’s 1985 hit “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” is a song that reflects the financial difficulties experienced by many people during the economic recession of the early 1980s. Written by John Valentine and William Valentine, the song’s lyrics resonated with people struggling to make ends meet during a time of high unemployment and inflation.
The Inspiration Behind the Song
One of the most significant challenges of the 1980s was the widespread economic recession that affected many parts of the world. With high unemployment rates and inflation, people struggled to maintain their lifestyles, and many were unable to make ends meet. It was this economic hardship that inspired John Valentine and William Valentine to write “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)”.
The song reflects the challenges faced by people who were struggling to make ends meet. It resonated with a generation of young people who were struggling to find work and support themselves in an environment of economic uncertainty.
The Lyrics of the Song
The lyrics of “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” are poignant and evocative, reflecting the difficulties of the times:
“I been laid off from work my rent is due
My kids all need brand new shoes
So I went to the bank to see what they could do
They said son – looks like bad luck got a hold on you”
The lyrics express the frustration and desperation of people who were unable to support themselves and their families. They paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by many during the economic recession, and the emotional toll that financial instability can take on individuals and families.
The Success of the Song
Despite its somber subject matter, “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” was a hit. The song reached the top 40 in both the UK and the US, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. The song’s success was due in part to its relatable lyrics and catchy melody, but it also spoke to a generation of people who were struggling with economic hardship.
FAQs About Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)
1. What was the inspiration behind the song’s title?
The song’s title, “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention),” was inspired by a comment made by a friend of John Valentine and William Valentine. The friend remarked that “money was tight,” but then quickly corrected himself, saying that “money was too tight to mention.”
2. Is “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” a political song?
While the song touches on political themes, such as the challenges of economic recession and the difficulties of supporting oneself and one’s family, it is not explicitly political.
3. What is the meaning behind the lines “I’ve been laid off from work my rent is due”?
This line reflects the hardships faced by many people during the economic recession of the 1980s. People who were laid off from work often struggled to pay their bills and support themselves and their families.
4. Was “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” written by Simply Red?
No, the song was written by John Valentine and William Valentine. Simply Red covered the song and had a hit with it in 1985.
5. How did “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” become a hit?
The song’s success was due in part to its relatable lyrics and catchy melody, but it also spoke to a generation of people who were struggling with economic hardship. The song’s popularity was further boosted by the fact that it was released during a time when many people were struggling to make ends meet.
6. What impact did “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” have on popular culture?
The song helped to shine a light on the economic hardships faced by many people during the 1980s. It spoke to a generation of young people who were struggling to support themselves and their families, and it remains a beloved classic to this day.
7. Was Simply Red the first band to cover “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)”?
No, the song was originally recorded by The Valentine Brothers in 1982. Simply Red covered the song in 1985 and had a hit with it.
8. What other songs did Simply Red release around the same time as “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)”?
Around the same time as “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention),” Simply Red also released the hit songs “Holding Back the Years” and “Come to My Aid.”
9. Was Simply Red influenced by any other bands or musicians?
Simply Red was heavily influenced by the soul music of the 1960s and 1970s. Lead singer Mick Hucknall has cited artists such as Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder as major influences on his music.
10. What message did Simply Red hope to convey with “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)”?
Simply Red wanted to shine a light on the economic hardships faced by many people during the 1980s. They hoped that the song would help to raise awareness of these issues and encourage people to support one another during difficult times.
11. Was “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” criticized for being too political?
No, the song was not criticized for being too political. While it touches on political themes, it is not overtly political.
12. What impact did “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” have on Simply Red’s career?
“Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” helped to establish Simply Red as a major force in popular music. The song’s success was followed by a string of other hits, including “Holding Back the Years” and “If You Don’t Know Me By Now.” The band went on to become one of the most popular and successful acts of the 1980s and 1990s.
