Fame and Wealth cover

Fame and Wealth

Loudon Wainwright III · 1983

38 min · 12 tracks · blues

Wainwright blends sharp wit and folk melodies with a touch of blues, crafting narratives that oscillate between humor and introspection.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Reader and Advisor Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    The Grammy Song — This track cleverly critiques the music industry’s obsession with awards, showcasing Wainwright's signature blend of humor and social critique.
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    Five Years Old — In this poignant reflection on childhood, Wainwright captures the simplicity and complexity of growing up, making it a standout emotional moment on the album.
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    Fame and Wealth — The title track succinctly embodies the album's themes of ambition and irony, using brevity to deliver a powerful statement on societal values.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • quirky storytelling with humor
  • steady pacing for relaxed listening
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • lighthearted reflections on life

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy anthems
  • prefer lengthy immersive experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Offers a satirical take on fame; not widely recognized but appreciated by fans.
Themes
music industry critique· childhood nostalgia· societal ambition
Career context
By the time 'Fame and Wealth' was released in 1983, Loudon Wainwright III was firmly established in the singer-songwriter scene, following his critically acclaimed album 'Final Exam' from 1980. This period marked a continued exploration of personal themes and social observations, as he navigated both his career trajectory and family life.

Tracklist

  • 1 Reader and Advisor Start here 5:28
  • 2 The Grammy Song 2:41
  • 3 Dump the Dog 2:08
  • 4 Thick & Thin 2:47
  • 5 Revenge 2:39
  • 6 Five Years Old 3:19
  • 7 Ingenue 3:40
  • 8 IDTTYWLM 4:06
  • 9 Westchester County 2:56
  • 10 Saturday Morning Fever 2:17
  • 11 April Fool’s Day Morn 4:30
  • 12 Fame and Wealth 1:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata