"No Romance without Finance" 🎶

Lessons for Startup Founders from “Ain’t Nothing Going On But the Rent”

Have you heard this song before?

This classic anthem sums it up! Take a listen.

As entrepreneur we need to think more like what’s covered in this song. More importantly. we need to realize that others around us, often think like this as well…Failing to realize this can come at great loss, why?

Because every business is in the business of finance

If finance isn’t your thing, your “thing” might never be financially viable…for you nor for others.

“Ain’t no romance without finance”

Starting a business often feels like falling in love. You’re consumed by the passion for your idea, the excitement of building something new, and the thrill of chasing a dream. But let’s be honest: just like in relationships, passion alone doesn’t pay the bills.

As harsh as it gets “Ain't no romance without finance” is not just the chorus lyrics of this 80s anthem song from Gwen Guthrie, it’s to this day: a fact!

This iconic song, with its catchy rhythm and unapologetic lyrics, should be required listening for every budding entrepreneur. Why? Because it drives home a truth many founders only realize once reality hits: if there’s no cash flow, there’s no show.

The Harsh Reality of Startup Love

The chorus says it all:

"Boy, you got to have a J-O-B if you wanna be with me."

Translated into the startup world, this means that no matter how much you love your idea, no matter how revolutionary your product or service might be, the game changes when you step out of dreamland and into the real world. Investors, employees, suppliers, and even yourself—everyone is counting on you to secure the financial foundation to make it all work.

You might think your clients will flock to you just because your product is amazing. But, as Guthrie puts it, a “fly girl needs security”—and so do your customers. They’re not buying into your startup just for the passion. They’re buying solutions, reliability, and value. Your love for the business isn’t enough; you have to provide them with something real.

“You’re Fly Too”: Value Yourself and Your Worth

Here’s the twist: while Gwen Guthrie demands security from her partner, the song is also a reminder that you, as the entrepreneur, are the “fly girl” in your business. You’ve got dreams, skills, and ambitions—and that’s worth something! But you need to act like it. Too many startups undersell themselves, offering services at bargain prices or failing to charge at all.

If you don’t value yourself, why would anyone else? Respect your time, your product, and your expertise. Remember, “no romance without finance” applies to your relationship with your business too. A great idea won’t sustain itself—profitability is non-negotiable.

Investors as Your “Lovers”

Let’s talk about your investors for a moment. They’re the ones who look at your “fly” startup and decide to back you. But make no mistake—this isn’t charity. They’re not in it just for the love of your vision. They’re in it for returns.

In the words of the song: “A fly girl needs security.” Investors want the same from you. Show them you have a plan, that you can generate revenue, and that their money is safe with you. Just like a romantic partner, they want to know you’ve got your act together before they commit.

Clients: The Real MVPs

While investors may be your initial financial lifeline, it’s your clients who will ultimately determine your success. They’re the ones who provide the recurring revenue that keeps your startup alive. Treat them like gold because, at the end of the day, they’re the ones who pay the rent. And just like the “fly girl” in the song, they’re looking for solutions and security, not just sweet talk.

Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs

1. Dream Big, but Deliver Bigger: Passion is essential, but it won’t sustain your business without a financial plan.

2. Value Yourself: Price your services or products to reflect the value you provide. Don’t sell yourself short.

3. Respect Your Clients: They’re the ones who pay the bills. Focus on delivering solutions they truly need.

4. Secure Your Investors’ Love: Show them you’re not just dreaming—you’re executing.

5. Finance Isn’t Dirty—It’s Survival: Money isn’t the enemy; it’s the tool that lets you scale your dreams.

Closing Thoughts: Listen to the Song, Live the Lesson

“Ain’t Nothing Going On But the Rent” isn’t just a cool 80s jam; it’s a roadmap for startup survival. As much as we’d love to think we can coast on passion, the reality of life—and business—is that cash flow is king.

So, next time you’re feeling stuck, give this track a spin. Let its unapologetic truth remind you that being “fly” means knowing your worth, respecting your hustle, and making sure that, yes, the rent, salaries, bills gets paid.

“Boy, a fly girl like me, needs security” 🎶