Meaning of Hallelujah Money by Gorillaz

The song "Hallelujah Money" by Gorillaz, featuring Benjamin Clementine, delves into a plethora of thought-provoking themes. At its core, the song reflects on the power of money and its role in society. It explores the idea that while money is often associated with evil, it is not inherently bad. Instead, it is how humanity interacts with money that determines whether it will be a force for good or evil.One standout lyric in the song is, "Here is our tree, that primitively grows, and when you go to bed, scarecrows from the far east come to eat its tender fruits." This lyric paints a picture of a tree representing humanity and its growth. The scarecrows symbolize external forces that exploit and consume the fruits of human labor. This theme explores the notion that there are always forces ready to take advantage of people's vulnerability, emphasizing the struggle of the common man against exploitation.Another powerful lyric comes later in the song: "It is love that is the root of all evil, but not our tree." This line challenges the conventional notion that money is the root of all evil. It suggests that it is the misuse or misguided pursuit of love that corrupts individuals and societies, not money itself. This theme encourages listeners to reevaluate their perception of money and love, urging them to find a balance between the two.The chorus of the song, "Hallelujah money, past the chemtrails," introduces elements of conspiracy and skepticism. The reference to chemtrails, a controversial theory about aircraft emitting harmful chemicals, adds a layer of mystery and commentary on the distrust that some individuals have towards those in power. This theme suggests that money can be used to manipulate and deceive, making people question the intentions behind various actions and decisions.The song also voices concerns about walls and divisions, stating, "And I thought the best way to perfect our tree is by building walls, walls like unicorns in full glory and galore, and even stronger than the walls of Jericho." This lyric metaphorically explores the construction of barriers and their impact on society. It suggests that while walls may have initially been intended to protect, they also create divisions and hinder progress. The mention of unicorns adds a touch of whimsy, emphasizing the ironic and fantastical nature of building walls.The song's bridge, sung by 2-D, poses questions about humanity and its ability to retain its essence in a world driven by money and power. "When the morning comes, we are still human. How will we know? How will we dream? How will we love? How will we know?" These lines prompt introspection and contemplation, urging listeners to explore what it truly means to be human in the face of societal and economic challenges. It calls attention to the importance of maintaining one's humanity and values in a world that often prioritizes material wealth.Overall, "Hallelujah Money" presents a multifaceted exploration of money's influence on society. It challenges preconceived notions and encourages listeners to question the complex relationship between money, power, love, and humanity. Through its imaginative and thought-provoking lyrics, the song invites introspection and opens up the possibility for critical analysis of the world we live in.