Teni Explores The Power Of Ambition On Latest Single 'Money'

Teni (credit_ Rich Woods)

Money can’t always buy is a saying that feels like it’s lived forever. Everyone has heard it, and Nigerian-born, internationally acclaimed singer, and songwriter Teni comes to that conclusion on her latest earnest single ‘Money’.

Deeply personal, the thoughtful track is a product of time spent during lockdown, and finding inspiration during her solitude, allowing Teni the space to be able to reflect on what matters in life.

Money is something that allows freedom and movement as Teni alludes to as she muses on European City breaks. Humorous in tone in parts, she lists the materialistic objects, fashion brands, and luxurious cars that take her fancy, but ultimately the overlining message is a search for meaningful connection and purpose over financial ambition as she overcomes rough beginnings.

Time seems to slow down on the downtempo instrument as TENI flows seamlessly on the emotive piano-based instrumental.

She sings the hook sweetly, “Money doesn’t buy you happiness, money can’t buy you love, money doesn’t feel this emptiness but I want all the money in the world.”

"Money is a very special song", she says speaking about the single. "I wrote money at the beginning of Covid, during lock down. The world was shutting down, and everyone was afraid and uncertain. I had just flown back to Nigeria from a crazy tour and all of a sudden, we couldn’t go out and people were dying.

Almost like the universe wanted all of us to pause and give us a reset. I remember how hard it was for people to feed themselves and their families and I wish I could have helped everybody, and I couldn’t. I also saw wealthy people die, money couldn’t save them, so I said, "money don’t buy you happiness, it can’t buy you love, it can’t feel this emptiness but I want all the money in the world." 

The accompanying music video creatively shot, follows close-up frames of Teni around a City, dressed in the latest fashion, taking in her surroundings.

She has also announced that she is working on an EP which will be released later this year. 

Listen here