Money, Material, Matters by Alutepena Hughes-John

Alutepena Hughes-John’s latest single, “Money, Material, Matters,” is a thought-provoking journey through the nuances of modern relationships and the societal pressures surrounding wealth and materialism. While including current production aspects that appeal to today’s listeners, the song offers a mix of contemplative lyrics and a nostalgic feel that reminds me of the golden days of 80’s rock.

With a distinct verse-chorus-verse style that lends the song an approachable, sing-along aspect, “Money, Material, Matters” structurally reminds me of classic 80’s rock songs. Reflective in nature, the songs build to a strong, almost anthemic chorus that perfectly embodies the lyrics’ frustrated and wondering attitude. The leisurely tempo of the song lets every component—be it musical or lyrical—breathe and have an effect.

From the alternative rock aesthetics of Blondie and Garbage to the punk-ska intensity of The Specials and Madness, a range of musicians shapes Hughes-John’s approach. Her music also has a little of the ethereal and avant-garde, suggestive of musicians like Kate Bush and Tori Amos, which gives her work a special dimension. Though these references are there, Hughes-John finds her place and skillfully combines them into something of her own.

Though minimal, the instrumentation in “Money, Material, Matters” truly is powerful. Hughes-John herself grounds the music with a repetitive, almost hypnotic bassline that accentuates the sharp, clean strumming of the ukulele. Without overpowering the other components, Karl’s professional, precise drumming gives the song depth and momentum.

The layers of guitar added by producer and guitarist Max give the song intensity and emotional resonance. The way the guitar and bass interact produces a contemporary but nostalgic sound scene.

Hughes-John gives a very honest and forceful performance. Her voice has a raw, emotional edge and bears the weight of the song’s themes—money, materialism, and the worth we value in our lives. Her voice has a certain fragility, especially in the verses, which gives the story she is spinning authenticity.

“Money, Material, Matters” has a certain rawness that maintains the tune sounding genuine. Recorded in Northampton’s The Lodge Recording Studio, the song gains from Max’s deft engineering and production. The mix is adjusted so that every instrument highlights without overpowering the vocals, which stays the primary point throughout.

Though it slights punk and alternative music, “Money, Material, Matters” certainly falls into the 80s rock genre. The 2-Tone movement’s ska-infused rhythms and socially concerned lyrics as well as the more experimental and varied sounds of artists like Kate Bush and Tori Amos shape the sound of the song. Still, the tune doesn’t seem derivative despite these obvious inspirations. Rather, Hughes-John investigates her musical ideas starting in these genres.

Lyrically, “Money, Material, Matters” looks at the conflict between financial commitment and love. Hughes-John’s own experiences—especially a former relationship in which financial worries dominated over emotional connection—have shaped the story of the song. The poignant and contemplative nature of the songs begs the issue of whether life is worthwhile without money, worldly possessions, or social level. Everyone who has ever questioned the function of money in their relationships or their life decisions will find resonance in this issue.

Alutepena Hughes-John’s “Money, Material, Matters” is a striking work of music with careful words mixed with a nostalgic yet modern tone. The way the song is structured, instrumentally, and produced all helps to tell a strong story about the part consumerism and money play in our lives. With its 80’s rock inspirations, robust vocals, and polished production, “Money, Material, Matters” is a song that not only highlights Hughes-John’s skills as a songwriter and performer but also speaks to the complexity of modern life in a way that is both interesting and provocative.