"We're Only in It for the Money" is the third studio album by American rock band The Mothers of Invention, led by Frank Zappa. It was released on March 4, 1968, by Verve Records. The album is considered an experimental rock as well as a comedy rock album.
The work is a satirical expression of Zappa's critique of the hippie subculture, the commercialization of popular music, and consumer culture at large. This includes parodying many of the prevailing musical trends at the time, such as psychedelic rock. Zappa extensively used tape editing and manipulation techniques to create unique sonic collages, which indicates his innovative approach to music creation.
Recorded between August and October 1967, the album also covers social themes with a sarcastic and humorous tone. These themes include hippiedom, the psychedelic movement, and response towards governments, education systems, and society. The iconic album cover is a parody of The Beatles' album cover of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.
Throughout the years, "We're Only in It for the Money" has been noted for its stylistic and thematic innovations. It's been subject to both critical acclaim and controversy, with several songs getting banned for their controversial content. In a testament to its enduring literary and musical significance, the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and is considered a significant milestone in Zappa's discography.
