The Ultimate Cabaret Pop Anthem
Released on ABBA's seminal 1976 album Arrival, "Money, Money, Money" is a theatrical masterpiece sung by Anni-Frid Lyngstad. Unlike standard pop songs of the era, it draws heavily from cabaret and Schlager music, requiring a vocalist who can act the song as well as sing it.
To perform this track successfully, you need to master your lower register. The song is famous for its deep, almost menacing verses that contrast sharply with the bright, explosive chorus. Let's break down the technique required.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Low Notes
Many singers slip into "vocal fry" (a creaky sound) when hitting the low E3. Try to keep the sound connected and resonant in your chest, even at low volume, to match Anni-Frid's richness.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 0:48)
The song opens in A Minor with a distinct staccato piano line. The vocal melody sits very low, touching E3 on lines like "I work all night." This is challenging for Sopranos.
The Technique: Do not push air to make these notes louder; that will cause pitch instability. Instead, rely on chest resonance. Think of speaking the lyrics with a dark, dramatic tone rather than "singing" them in a traditional pop sense.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (0:48 - 1:07)
As the lyrics move to "And in my dreams I have a plan," the pitch rises and the intensity builds. The rhythm changes to triplets.
- Diction: Enunciate clearly. This section tells the story and needs to be crisp.
- Dynamics: Gradually increase your volume here to prepare the listener for the explosion of the chorus.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (1:07 - 1:35)
The release! "Money, Money, Money" hits a powerful C5. The key to the ABBA sound here is a bright, "forward" placement.
The vowels should be open. On "sunny" and "funny," avoid closing your mouth too much. Smile while you sing (literally) to brighten the tone and help you reach the pitch without straining your throat. This creates that classic "Swedish Pop" brilliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal hits a C5 in the chorus. However, the backing harmonies (sung by Agnetha) go higher.
The verses go down to E3. This is quite low for a female pop song, which is why it suits Altos and Mezzo-Sopranos best.
Yes! If the verses are too deep for you, use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the track up +2 semitones to make the low notes more accessible.
