Song meaning of And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out) by Antonio Banderas

"And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)" from the musical "Evita" by Andrew Lloyd Webber tells the story of Eva Peron, the iconic First Lady of Argentina, and her rise to power and influence. The song is performed by the character Che, who serves as a narrator and critic of Eva's actions. The lyrics depict how Eva was able to amass wealth and support from various sources, and how she used her charisma and charm to manipulate the masses.

In the first verse, Che describes how money flowed in from all directions due to Eva's influence and outreach efforts. He highlights the idea that people were willing to contribute to Eva's cause, even if it may not have been entirely voluntary. This is evident in the lines, "Now you may feel it should have been a voluntary cause, But that's not the point my friends, When the money keeps rolling in, you don't ask how." The repetition of "Rollin' rollin' rollin'" in the chorus emphasizes the continuous influx of money and support for Eva's foundation.

The second verse shifts to how Eva promises to fulfill the dreams and desires of the people, offering them opportunities for education, homeownership, and leisure. The lyrics, "Eva and her blessed fund can make your dreams come true, Here's all you have to do my friends" showcase Eva's ability to captivate and inspire the masses. The chorus changes to "Rollin' on out" to signify the distribution of wealth and resources to those in need.

The final verse addresses the criticism and skepticism surrounding Eva's handling of funds, with Che acknowledging that some money may have gone astray. However, he argues that the impact and positive change brought about by Eva's actions outweigh any financial discrepancies. The lines, "Now cynics claim a little of the cash has gone astray, But that's not the point my friends, When the money keeps rolling out you don't keep books" highlight the theme of prioritizing the greater good over financial accountability.

Overall, "And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)" delves into the complexities of power, influence, and manipulation, showcasing how Eva Peron was able to amass wealth and support while also facing criticism and scrutiny. The song captures the essence of Eva's controversial yet impactful legacy, portraying her as a figure who was both loved and criticized for her actions.