The Meaning Behind The Song: How To Be A Millionaire by ABC
ABC’s 1980s hit “How To Be A Millionaire” was an anthem for the excess of the era, a time when it seemed like anything was possible. The song is a high-energy celebration of the idea of becoming rich and famous. But what was the inspiration behind the song? What message is it trying to convey? And how has it stood the test of time? In this article, we’ll delve into the meanings behind “How To Be A Millionaire” and explore why it still resonates with audiences today.
Table of Contents
The Inspiration Behind The Song
“How To Be A Millionaire” was written in 1984 by ABC lead singer Martin Fry and keyboardist Mark White. According to Fry, the song’s inspiration came from the excess and celebrity culture of the 1980s. “It’s a satire on the whole idea of what a lot of people in the music business were trying to achieve at that time, which was global domination and commercial success,” Fry said in a 2010 interview with Ultimate Classic Rock.
The song’s main riff was inspired by the 1963 hit “Just One Look” by Doris Troy. Fry and White used a sample from the song and built the rest of the track around it. The result was a high-energy, danceable track that became one of ABC’s biggest hits.
The Message of the Song
At first glance, “How To Be A Millionaire” seems like a straightforward celebration of wealth and excess. The lyrics urge the listener to “ride the tiger” and “live the fantasy.” However, a closer look reveals a more nuanced message. Fry has said that the song is actually a satire of the music industry and the idea that success is defined by fame and fortune.
“Understanding that it was a satire was the key to understanding the song,” Fry said. “It was about what happens to you if you get what you want: it destroys you.”
The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “I’d love to be a millionaire,” is meant to be ironic. The verses describe the various things the narrator would do with his newfound wealth, including buying a villa in the south of France and a yacht. But the pre-chorus warns that “the greens are never greener” and the chorus reveals that the narrator doesn’t actually want to be a millionaire – he just wants the feeling of power and freedom that comes with it.
“It’s not about the money, it’s about the freedom,” Fry said in a 1986 interview with the Los Angeles Times. “The freedom to travel, not have to worry about bills, and go where you want.”
The Legacy of the Song
“How To Be A Millionaire” was a huge hit when it was released in 1985, reaching #3 on the UK charts and #20 on the US charts. It remains one of ABC’s most popular songs and a staple of 1980s playlists. The song has also been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements, cementing its place in popular culture.
Despite its popularity, the song’s message still resonates with audiences today. In a world where social media has made fame and fortune seem more attainable than ever, “How To Be A Millionaire” serves as a reminder that the pursuit of wealth and status can be a hollow one. As Fry said in a 2011 interview with The Guardian, “The song is as relevant now as it ever was. It’s talking about money not being the answer.”
FAQs
What was ABC’s inspiration for writing “How To Be A Millionaire”?
ABC lead singer Martin Fry has said that the song was a satire of the music industry and the idea that success is defined by fame and fortune. The excess and celebrity culture of the 1980s also served as inspiration for the song.
What is the message of “How To Be A Millionaire”?
At first glance, the song seems to celebrate wealth and excess. However, a closer look reveals a more nuanced message about the emptiness of pursuing fame and fortune. The song’s narrator doesn’t actually want to be a millionaire – he just wants the feeling of power and freedom that comes with it.
What role did Doris Troy’s “Just One Look” play in the creation of “How To Be A Millionaire”?
The main riff of “How To Be A Millionaire” was inspired by a sample from “Just One Look.” ABC lead singer Martin Fry and keyboardist Mark White used the sample as the foundation for the rest of the track.
How successful was “How To Be A Millionaire”?
The song was a huge hit when it was released in 1985, reaching #3 on the UK charts and #20 on the US charts. It remains one of ABC’s most popular songs and a staple of 1980s playlists.
What has been the song’s impact on popular culture?
“How To Be A Millionaire” has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements, cementing its place in popular culture. It remains a favorite of 1980s nostalgia enthusiasts.
What does Martin Fry think of the song’s legacy?
Fry has said that the song’s message is still relevant today, as it serves as a reminder that the pursuit of wealth and status can be a hollow one. However, he has also said that he never expected the song to have the longevity it has had.
What is the meaning behind the song’s chorus?
The chorus, which repeats the phrase “I’d love to be a millionaire,” is meant to be ironic. The narrator doesn’t actually want to be a millionaire – he just wants the feeling of power and freedom that comes with it.
How was the song received by critics when it was released?
Critical reception to the song was mixed. Some praised its energy and catchiness, while others criticized its perceived superficiality and lack of substance.
What other songs by ABC are similar to “How To Be A Millionaire”?
ABC’s other hits, such as “The Look Of Love” and “Poison Arrow,” share a similar high-energy, danceable sound and often explore themes of love, desire, and excess.
What other bands were popular in the 1980s?
The 1980s saw the rise of many popular bands, including Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, Madonna, and U2.
What impact did the 1980s have on popular culture?
The 1980s were a decade of excess and innovation in music, film, and fashion. Many iconic cultural touchstones, such as MTV, the Walkman, and the Rubik’s Cube, originated during this decade.
What other songs about wealth and status are worth listening to?
Other songs that explore themes of wealth and status include “Money” by Pink Floyd, “Gold Digger” by Kanye West, and “Royals” by Lorde.
