The Irony of Fame and the Evita Phenomenon
Let’s step into the grand, theatrical world of the mid-1970s, a time when musical theatre was undergoing a vibrant resurgence, and a certain English performer was capturing hearts on both stage and screen. David Essex was a true phenomenon – a pop idol with a soulful voice, a charismatic actor, and a songwriter of considerable talent. While many remember him for his own chart-topping hits like “Gonna Make You a Star,” it’s his pivotal role in a groundbreaking musical that brought us the fascinating and sharply observational song we’re examining today: “And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out).”
“And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)” is a critical component of the iconic 1976 concept album for “Evita,” the Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. This album, featuring David Essex in the role of Che (alongside Julie Covington as Eva Perón), was a massive commercial success. Released in November 1976, the “Evita” concept album itself was a global phenomenon, soaring to the top of album charts worldwide. In the UK, it reached number 1 on the Official Albums Chart, and in the US, it achieved a respectable number 49 on the Billboard 200. While “And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)” was not released as a standalone single, its prominent placement within the hugely popular double album ensured it reached millions of listeners. Indeed, the track is integral to the narrative flow of the musical, serving as a biting commentary on the very public and often controversial financial dealings of Eva Perón’s charitable foundation. David Essex’s performance of Che, and by extension this song, contributed significantly to the album’s critical acclaim and its widespread commercial triumph.
The story behind “And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)” is inextricably linked to the narrative of “Evita” itself, the musical biography of Eva Perón, Argentina’s influential first lady. Written by the powerhouse duo Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, the song serves a crucial role in Che’s cynical and often sardonic commentary on Eva’s rise to power and her public image. Che, a character often seen as a revolutionary or the voice of the common people, questions the transparency and true motives behind Eva Perón’s vast charitable foundation. David Essex, already a household name and a pop star in his own right, was perfectly cast as Che in the original 1976 concept album (before the stage production debuted). His natural charisma and ability to convey both charm and a simmering cynicism made his interpretation of Che, and thus his delivery of this song, incredibly compelling. The track is placed in the musical to highlight the public’s unquestioning adulation of Eva, contrasting sharply with Che’s pointed observations about the vast sums of money flowing into—and often out of—her foundation, hinting at corruption or at least a lack of clear accountability.
The meaning of “And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)” is a sharp, satirical commentary on the financial dealings of public figures, particularly those involved in “charity,” hinting at potential corruption, lavish spending, or simply a lack of transparency. Through Che’s eyes, the song questions the true beneficiaries of the vast sums donated to Eva Perón’s foundation. It highlights the stark contrast between the public’s perception of her as a selfless benefactor and the reality of enormous, perhaps unmanaged, wealth flowing through her hands. The repeated phrase “and the money kept rolling in (and out)” cynically suggests that while funds were certainly being collected, their ultimate destination or purpose was often unclear, implying that much of it was used for personal gain or extravagant lifestyles rather than pure philanthropy. For older listeners, this song resonates with a mature understanding of how power and celebrity can sometimes intersect with wealth, and the inherent skepticism that often accompanies grand public displays of charity. It’s a reminder that not everything is always as it appears on the surface, urging a deeper, more critical look at where money truly goes.
Listening to “And the Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)” today, it’s the sheer theatricality and David Essex’s biting delivery that truly stand out. The music, typical of Lloyd Webber’s dramatic flair, builds tension and provides a dynamic backdrop to Rice’s pointed lyrics. Essex, with his distinctive voice, brings Che’s cynical charm to life, making the listener both captivated by the narrative and provoked by its implications. The song serves as a powerful reminder of the intricate blend of politics, power, and perception, themes that remain highly relevant. More than just a show tune, it’s a timeless piece of social commentary, delivered with a dramatic flourish that perfectly showcases David Essex’s remarkable talent within the context of a truly groundbreaking musical work.