Meaning of "Money" by Ivy Levan

In the lyrics of "Money," Ivy Levan portrays a character who is unapologetically driven by a desire for money and material possessions. The protagonist is unashamedly focused on financial gain, indicated by her shooting a man down for not picking up the check and for not giving her the respect she expects. She sees cash as the ultimate necessity in life, insisting that it is everything she needs. This portrayal reflects the notion of materialism and the belief that wealth equates to power and happiness.

Levan's lyrics also touch upon the idea of social status. The protagonist dismisses those who criticize or judge her actions, claiming that they don't know the full story and suggesting that their opinions are irrelevant. She emphasizes her love for shiny diamonds, an emblem of wealth and luxury. This further reinforces the theme of materialism and the notion of outward appearances being an indication of one's worth.

The chorus of the song reinforces the protagonist's obsession with money and her demand for it to be given to her. It implies that her satisfaction and happiness are contingent upon receiving financial wealth, emphasizing the importance she places on monetary gain. The repetition of the phrase "show me the money" reflects her single-minded pursuit of wealth and her need for validation through material possessions.

The final verse adds a touch of irony, as the protagonist refers to her father's lack of money and his ultimate fate of going six feet deep, implying death. This could suggest that the protagonist's obsession with money stems from a fear of ending up like her father, lacking financial security. Therefore, her aggressive pursuit of wealth may be driven by a desire to avoid facing the struggles her father experienced.

Overall, "Money" by Ivy Levan explores themes of materialism, social status, and the pursuit of wealth. It highlights the protagonist's relentless quest for money and the belief that it is the key to happiness and power. However, beneath the surface, the song also hints at deeper fears and motivations underlying this obsession.