Released in 2011, Jessie J's hit single 'Price Tag' became an instant anthem challenging society's obsession with materialism. Featuring rapper B.o.B, the song blends catchy pop melodies with sharp social commentary, urging listeners to reconsider the true meaning of happiness. Its opening lines—'Seems like everybody's got a price / I wonder how they sleep at night'—immediately set the tone for a critique of consumer culture.
The music video amplifies this message through vibrant visuals, depicting Jessie J in a carnivalesque environment filled with gold props and exaggerated wealth symbols. A standout scene shows her tearing apart a giant price tag, symbolizing liberation from societal pressures. The track's bridge, 'It's not about the money, money, money / We don't need your money, money, money,' serves as a rallying cry against transactional relationships.
Interestingly, 'Price Tag' achieved commercial success while criticizing commercialism—a paradox Jessie J acknowledged in interviews. The song topped charts in 18 countries and became a staple at global charity events. Music critics praised its clever juxtaposition of upbeat production and thought-provoking lyrics, noting how the reggae-inspired rhythm creates accessibility for deeper conversations about economic inequality.
Beyond its surface appeal, the track's longevity lies in its universal themes. During economic recessions and social movements like Occupy Wall Street, 'Price Tag' resurged as a protest song. Academics have analyzed its lyrics as a critique of late-stage capitalism, particularly the line 'Why is everybody so obsessed? / Money can't buy us happiness.' This duality of danceable pop and philosophical inquiry explains why the song remains relevant in TikTok-era discussions about mindful consumption.