Shopping, buying stuff, showing our style and taste, these are all undeniable expressions of who we are. We shape our own identity with how we dress up, what we own, and how we present ourselves.
Shopping is almost a daily activity for some. Sometimes we just want to listen to songs about shopping and what money can buy. Here are the 10 Best Songs About Shopping.
21. Shoplifters of the World Unite by The Smiths
This song is a catchy tune that talks about borrowing ideas and beliefs for personal gain. But don’t worry, it’s not about stealing physical items! The song’s title is a nod to the famous communist slogan, “workers of the world, unite!” Although the song’s message may not be crystal clear, some people interpret it as a call to share ideas and thoughts with others, while others view it as a critique of capitalism.
Interestingly, the single’s vinyl sleeve featured a picture of none other than Elvis Presley, which underscores the idea of “shoplifting” ideas to benefit oneself.
20. Lost in the Supermarket by The Clash
‘Lost In The Supermarket’ by Joe Strummer is not just any song about shopping. In fact, it’s actually a critique of our society’s obsession with consumerism.
Basically, the song talks about how buying stuff may make you happy at first, but eventually, it becomes overwhelming and loses its charm. Joe Strummer, the songwriter, was feeling exactly like this when he wrote the song while lost in a supermarket. So, it’s pretty clear what he was trying to convey here.
But wait, there’s more! Some people interpret the song as a metaphor for loneliness, too. Being lost in a supermarket can represent the feeling of being lost in the world, searching for your place. Deep stuff, right?
So, next time you listen to ‘Lost In The Supermarket,’ keep in mind that it’s not just a catchy tune. It has a message that is relevant even today, in our world of constant consumption.
19. Shopping by Pet Shop Boys
“S-H-O-P-P-I-N-G” by Pet Shop Boys might make you want to go on a shopping spree, but the lyrics tell a different story. This fun song actually critiques the privatization of businesses, which was a common occurrence in the 1980s.
What is privatization, you ask? It’s when public services are sold off to private businesses, and in the case of “Shopping,” it’s the House of Commons doing the selling. While it may seem like a good way to make some extra cash, the song points out that it often ends up hurting the people who rely on those services and results in them paying more money.
The irony is not lost on the Pet Shop Boys, who find it amusing that their song has been used in TV and movies during shopping scenes. But beneath the playful melody, there’s a serious message about the impact of privatization on society.
18. Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da by The Beatles
If you’re a Beatles fan, you’ve probably heard of “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da”. It’s a song that divides opinions – some people love it, while others can’t stand it. Interestingly, John Lennon fell into the latter camp. Nevertheless, the song had a significant impact on the UK and US music scene by popularizing reggae-style music.
The title of the song was inspired by a catchphrase that someone used to say at the clubs where The Beatles played. They eventually paid the person to relinquish their rights to the phrase, as they demanded payment for its use. The song has a cheerful and carefree tone, as it follows the story of a man and woman who fall in love and build a life together.
Despite the controversy surrounding the song, it was a groundbreaking hit. It became the first reggae-style song to reach #1 in the UK, paving the way for other reggae artists to break into the mainstream. So whether you love it or hate it, “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” left a lasting impact on the world of music.
17. Nan You’re a Window Shopper by Lily Allen
Lily Allen’s song “Nan You’re a Window Shopper” is a hilarious parody of 50 Cent’s “Window Shopper” that takes a lighthearted look at her grandmother’s frugal ways. While 50 Cent’s original song was all about people envying his wealth, Lily’s take on it is a playful jab at her grandmother’s thriftiness.
The song is filled with amusing lyrics that poke fun at her nan’s shopping habits. For example, Lily sings about her nan’s tendency to buy Christmas gifts way before the holiday shopping season begins, which is a testament to her thriftiness. She also mentions her nan’s obsession with bingo, which adds to the comical nature of the song.
Overall, “Nan You’re a Window Shopper” is a fun and entertaining parody that celebrates the joys of thrift shopping. It’s a catchy tune that will have you singing along in no time, and it’s sure to put a smile on your face.
16. Shopping Cart by Parallel Dance Ensemble
At first listen, it’s a fun tune that’ll get you tapping your feet and swaying to the rhythm. But as you dive deeper into the lyrics, you’ll realize that there’s more to it than meets the ear.
The song is about a woman who seems to only care about money and material possessions. Her “part-time heart” suggests that she’s only in the relationship for love to a certain extent, but her main focus is on receiving gifts and other luxuries. Once the money runs out, she’s quick to move on to the next source of wealth.
While the song has a catchy beat, its underlying message is quite grim. It implies that the woman can’t find genuine love and instead chooses to focus on superficial things like money. Despite having everything she could possibly buy, she’ll always feel empty inside.
So next time you find yourself bopping along to “Shopping Cart,” take a moment to think about the message behind the lyrics. It’s a reminder that there’s more to life than material possessions and that true happiness comes from within.
15. Man in the Corner Shop by The Jam
If you’re looking for a song that exposes society’s social class systems in a clever way, “Man in the Corner Shop” by The Jam is worth a listen. The song tells the story of a factory worker who envies the owner of the corner shop, assuming he must be wealthy. However, the tables turn when the factory owner buys cigars from the corner shop owner, who is actually less prosperous.
The song highlights the irony of the situation: despite attending the same church where they’re taught that everyone is equal in the eyes of God, in their everyday lives, social class still plays a role. Paul Weller, the songwriter, has said that he intended the song to be flippant about the system.
14. Liquor Store Blues by Bruno Mars & Damian Marley
If you’re feeling down and out, this song might just be for you. “Liquor Store Blues” by Bruno Mars and Damian Marley is all about finding comfort in drinking and smoking when life seems to be hitting you hard. The lyrics tell the story of a man stuck in a job he hates, with no money to spare, so he turns to alcohol and drugs to forget his problems for a while.
While the song offers a glimmer of hope that things will get better, it’s clear that the cycle of struggle and escape is hard to break. The reggae-style beat is catchy and fun, and with Damian Marley’s vocals adding to the mix, it’s no surprise that the song has an overall “don’t worry about it” vibe.
So if you’re in the mood for a laid-back tune that you can groove to while forgetting your worries, “Liquor Store Blues” might just be the perfect choice.
13. The Busy Girl Buys Beauty by Billy Bragg
In this tune, Bragg reflects on how women’s magazines can often mislead women into thinking they need to buy products to solve all their problems. He highlights the pressure that these publications put on women to conform to certain beauty standards, even if they are already considered beautiful.
Bragg also touches on how magazines create a sense of urgency for women to settle down and start a family, and even learn how to cook. These expectations can be overwhelming and create unnecessary stress for women who may not be ready or interested in those things.
Overall, the song is a commentary on the harmful messages that women’s magazines can perpetuate. It reminds us to take what we read with a grain of salt and to prioritize our own happiness and self-care over conforming to societal expectations.
12. Shopping Bags by De La Soul
Let’s talk about De La Soul’s song “Shopping Bags.” If you haven’t heard it yet, it’s worth a listen. The track serves as a warning about gold-diggers – you know, people who are only interested in rich partners for their money.
In “Shopping Bags,” De La Soul cautions against falling for someone who’s just in it for the money. The lyrics suggest that if you do, you’re just wasting your time and that everyone else will be laughing at you. Yikes!
Interestingly, this song was actually the first single from De La Soul’s seventh album, The Grind Date. It’s great to see artists using their platform to share important messages about relationships and money.
So, if you’re currently dating someone who’s only interested in your wallet, give “Shopping Bags” a listen and take De La Soul’s advice to heart. You deserve someone who likes you for you, not just your bank account!
11. I Am a Grocery Bag by They Might Be Giants
This playful tune is part of their 2002 children’s album called “No!”, which is filled with silly and nonsensical tracks that are perfect for young kids.
While there’s not much deeper meaning to be found in the song, it’s worth noting that “I Am a Grocery Bag” could be a nod to one of their earlier songs from 1990, “Dead,” which also references the idea of becoming a grocery bag.
Overall, “I Am a Grocery Bag” is a lighthearted and fun addition to They Might Be Giants’ collection of eccentric tunes, and it’s sure to bring a smile to the faces of both kids and adults alike.
10. Thrift Shop by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
This is probably the most refreshing song about shopping coming from rappers. It talks about shopping in thrift shops, saving money, even being grateful for hand-me-down items from a grandpa.
It also pokes fun at ridiculously priced luxury brands, saying buyers are being fooled by these businesses. You will pay an exorbitant amount for a simple yet branded T-Shirt and then there will be five of you in the club wearing the exact same thing. The song gave examples of the great finds in thrift shops such as fur coats but it does not wrongly glamorize thrift shopping.
One line said that he should have washed the item first before he wore it because it smells. The song is funny. The beat is so catchy and the message is so helpful.
9. 7 Rings by Ariana Grande
In true Ariana Grande fashion, the official video for this song is so sexy and provocative. It tells a story of a woman who had a recent ugly experience so she soothes herself by being glamorous and buying all the luxury she could afford.
It shares a message of empowerment. She did not need a man to buy her “favorite things.” It is entitled 7 Rings because she bought a ring for herself and six of her friends. Her ring does not mean she’s engaged. It means she can afford her bling.
If the song sounds familiar, it is because it has the same melody as “My Favorite Things” from the musical “The Sound of Music.” 90% of the song’s royalties was given to the Concord Music Company as this song was released.
8. Whatever You Like by T.I.
T.I.’s message is plain and simple. His woman can get whatever she likes. Money, bags, vacations in the tropics, a 5 million dollar home, a Bentley, anything she wants – he’ll buy it for her. This is his declaration of taking care of his woman. He thinks highly of her. He is so into her and thinks she’s smart and deserves all this luxury. Its music video has a somewhat comedic plot twist in the end though.
All that luxury was just part of the woman’s daydream after seeing T.I. He did not actually give her those things and experiences. He just gave a hefty tip. But who knows? Dreams sometimes come true, right?
7. Material Girl by Madonna
Make way for the queen! This is one of Madonna’s iconic songs. This song is so blunt and straightforward. Madonna wants a man who is rich and can take care of her.
He will spoil her with all the things this material world has to offer. She does not waste her time on broke men and unapologetically proclaims that she’s a “Material Girl.”
6. Vogue by Madonna
Vogue is synonymous to fashion and fashion is always linked to shopping. This song graced the movie “The Devil Wears Prada” when Anne Hathaway’s character, Andy, finally dresses up stylishly. She previously did not care about fashion at all and thought it was shallow and superficial.
After her transformation, she looked so impressively chic in her outfits which were personally hand-picked by her friend, Nigel. Several of her outfits were shown in succession as this song played and they all looked ultra chic! This is one song ladies can listen to for some shopping inspiration.
5. Shopping by Barenaked Ladies
This song sounds so fun and whimsical. It talks about shopping and thinking of nothing else but buying everything you want and need. “It’s gonna be alright” is mentioned so many times in the song. We usually say this exact line to ourselves whenever we shop for something a little bit extra or something way out of our budget. We comfort ourselves and continue shopping.
Come to think of it, Barenaked Ladies probably meant this to be a parody of something we are all guilty of – too much shopping.
4. Queen of the Supermarket by Bruce Springsteen
This is such a tender song from Bruce Sprinsteen. It’s a simple song of a man who fell in love while shopping for his groceries. He fell in love with the grocery attendant and she’s a total queen to his eyes.
He finds her so beautiful despite the fact that no one notices her. The lyrics sounded so heartfelt that it wouldn’t be surprising if this love story (or infatuation) happened to Mr. Springsteen in real life.
3. Rich Girl by Gwen Stefani
This upbeat song is about a girl who dreams about being so rich so she can buy everything she wants. She dreams of shopping for luxury dresses from Vivienne Westwood and John Galiano. She wants to own a Hollywood mansion and a fancy home in London. Of course, she flies first class. The music video features Gwen Stefani as a pirate dancing with her crew in a huge pirate ship.
We all know that pirates are always in search of treasure, right? The song progresses with her realizing that those riches wouldn’t matter without her loved one.
2. Throw it in the bag by Fabolous ft. The Dream
Here’s another song about shopping where the sky’s the limit when it comes to spending. Luxury brands such as Louboutin, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Mercedes Benz and the like are mentioned in this melodic song. “Just throw it in the bag” became a catchphrase, meaning anything Fabolous’ lady wants, it will be bought for her.
There is no need to check the price tags, she just needs to put it in the bag. One funny element mentioned in the song was that Fabololus said that he and the bank robber told the bank teller the same thing – “just throw it in the bag.”
1. Window shopper by 50 cent
The smooth beats that 50 Cent is known for are distinctly heard in this song. Easy on the ears, 50 Cent sings about all those men who hate him because he’s rich and they’re broke.
The music video is set in Monaco, one of the most expensive places in the world. People are frantic to see and approach 50 Cent. They are all watching through the shops’ windows as he goes around shopping for extremely high-end luxury items.
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