“Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits isn’t just a catchy 80s rock anthem; it’s a sharp, satirical commentary on fame, fortune, and the burgeoning music television era, MTV. Released in 1985, the song, with its iconic guitar riff and memorable “I want my MTV” hook, quickly climbed the charts and became one of Dire Straits’ signature tracks. But beyond the surface appeal, the lyrics offer a glimpse into the perspective of working-class individuals observing the seemingly effortless wealth and celebrity of music stars. Let’s delve into the full lyrics and explore the meaning behind this classic song.
Full Lyrics of “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits
I want my, I want my MTV
I want my, I want my MTV
I want my, I want my MTV
I want my, I want my MTV
Now look at them yo-yos, that's the way you do it
You play the guitar on the MTV
That ain't working, that's the way you do it
Money for nothing and your chicks for free
Now that ain't working, that's the way you do it
Lemme tell ya, them guys ain't dumb
Maybe get a blister on your little finger
Maybe get a blister on your thumb
We got to install microwave ovens
Custom kitchen deliveries
We got to move these refrigerators
We got to move these colour TVs
See the little faggot with the earring and the make-up?
Yeah buddy, that's his own hair
That little faggot got his own jet airplane
That little faggot, he's a millionaire
We got to install microwave ovens
Custom kitchen deliveries
We got to move these refrigerators
We got to move these colour TVs
Hoover mover, uh
Got to install microwave ovens
Custom kitchen deliveries
He's gotta move these refrigerators
Got to move these colour TVs
Looky here, look out
I should a learned to play the guitar
I should a learned to play them drums
Look at that mama, she got it sticking in the camera
Man, we could have some
And he's up there, what's that? Hawaiian noises?
He's banging on the bongos like a chimpanzee
Oh, that ain't working, that's the way you do it
Get your money for nothing, get your chicks for free
We got to install microwave ovens
Custom kitchen deliveries
We got to move these refrigerators
We got to move these colour TVs
Listen here
Now that ain't working, that's the way you do it
You play the guitar on the MTV
That ain't working, that's the way you do it
Money for nothing, and your chicks for free
Money for nothing, chicks for free
Get your money for nothing, chicks for free
Money for nothing, chicks for free
Money for nothing, chicks for free
Money for nothing, chicks for free
Money for nothing, chicks for free
Ow, money for nothing, yeah
And the chicks for free
What's that?
Get your money for nothing, and your chicks for free
Look at that, look at that
Get your money for nothing (I want my, I want my) Bozos
Chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Money for nothing (I want my, I want my)
And chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Get your money for nothing (I want my, I want my)
Chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Ah, money for nothing (I want my, I want my)
Chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Easy, easy money for nothing (I want my, I want my)
Easy, easy, chicks for free (I want my MTV)
Easy, easy money for nothing (I want my, I want my)
Chicks for free (I want my MTV)
That ain't working
Money for nothing, chicks for free
Money for nothing, chicks for freeDecoding the Meaning: Satire and Social Commentary
The genius of “Money for Nothing” lies in its satirical perspective. The lyrics are sung from the viewpoint of a working-class man, possibly a delivery worker, observing MTV and commenting on the perceived ease with which musicians earn their living. The famous opening lines, “Look at them yo-yos, that’s the way you do it / You play the guitar on the MTV,” immediately set the tone. The speaker is watching music videos and expressing a mix of envy and cynicism towards these rock stars.
“Money for Nothing and Your Chicks for Free”: The Core Message
The recurring phrase, “Money for nothing and your chicks for free,” encapsulates the song’s central theme. It’s a sarcastic take on the perceived glamorous and effortless lifestyle of MTV musicians. The phrase “money for nothing” suggests that these artists are getting rich without doing any “real work,” contrasting sharply with the speaker’s own labor-intensive job of “install[ing] microwave ovens” and “mov[ing] refrigerators.”
Working Class Perspective vs. MTV Glamour
The verses vividly depict the speaker’s mundane, physical labor: “We got to install microwave ovens / Custom kitchen deliveries / We got to move these refrigerators / We got to move these colour TVs.” This repetitive work is juxtaposed with the image of the MTV musician who seemingly just “play[s] the guitar” and reaps immense rewards. This contrast highlights the social and economic divide between the working class and the perceived elite of the entertainment industry.
Controversial Language and Context
It’s important to acknowledge the controversial language in the lyrics, particularly the use of a homophobic slur. Mark Knopfler, the songwriter, has explained that these words were intentionally used to reflect the uneducated and prejudiced viewpoint of the song’s persona. The intention was to create a realistic portrayal of a working-class man’s thoughts and language, not to endorse homophobia. Understanding this context is crucial for interpreting the song’s satire and avoiding misinterpretations of the artist’s own views.
“I Want My MTV”: The Cultural Impact
The repeated chant, “I want my MTV,” ironically became a hugely successful marketing slogan for MTV itself. While the song critiques the very phenomenon of music television and its perceived superficiality, it simultaneously amplified MTV’s popularity. This paradoxical outcome further underlines the song’s complex relationship with the subject it satirizes.
“Money for Nothing”‘s Lasting Legacy
“Money for Nothing” remains a significant song for several reasons. It’s a musically compelling track with a distinctive sound, thanks to its groundbreaking use of guitar synthesis and the iconic riff. Lyrically, it offers a fascinating snapshot of the 1980s cultural landscape, reflecting anxieties about class, wealth, and the burgeoning influence of media. The song’s satirical edge and relatable working-class perspective have ensured its enduring appeal, making “Money for Nothing” more than just an 80s hit – it’s a commentary that continues to resonate.
