Fresh from releasing their new single “Money,” Dukes of Roots is putting an island spin on a rock classic. Originally by the legendary Pink Floyd, this refresh can be found in laid-back reggae grooves while remaining true to the song's tune, a biting critique of wealth and greed. Dukes of Roots uses their distinct sound, marrying it with the timelessness of the original, reinvigorating a song that might even be more relevant now than when it was released.
The reggae band’s take on “Money” mellows out the heavy rock eventualities, exchanging them for silky rhythms, warmly rolling melodies, and a joyous energy that feels bright and natural. Their method radically alters the song’s sonic terrain while elevating its lyrical force, letting the message hit differently and surprisingly. Like the pairing of classic rock instrumentation with reggae's warmth and depth, few other combinations come close to the band’s combined musical versatility and artistic vision on display here as they take a small but mighty leap to another genre.
This version powerfully demonstrates the power of musical reinvention, showing that great songs can fight genre while still conveying their central message. The instrumentation, heavy with rhythmic electric guitar strumming and a grooving bass line, meshes perfectly with the song’s original ideas about materialism and societal values.
Dukes of Roots, aka Jammin J and Jvrg, have been known for pushing each other's limits through their artistry, and "Money" is no exception. They have proven themselves time and again as artists who can uphold classics while remaining true to their reggae roots. This single brings a new generation to Pink Floyd’s classic catalog and reinforces reggae’s timeless adaptability and transformation.