Coin-Operated Boy


"Coin-Operated Boy" is a single by The Dresden Dolls duo, taken from the self-titled debut album The [Dresden Dolls (album)|The Dresden Dolls]. It was produced by Martin Bisi and released on December 13, 2004, by Roadrunner Records. "Coin-Operated Boy" was written by Amanda Palmer. The song makes heavy use of staccato, and includes instruments such as a toy piano.

Interpretation

Palmer expounds on the many advantages of an artificial and subhuman partner, over real ones, in a tick-tock rhythm reminiscent of automata or clockwork. The song has broad overtones of lonely narcissism, and a desire for intimate loyalty and affection without personal sacrifice or vulnerability. Caroline Bologna of The Huffington Post writes that the song "suggests themes of masturbation as it explores the idea of the pleasure of love without the 'complications' of a real partner".

Legacy

Reception

In Australia, the song was ranked #12 on Triple J [Hottest 100, 2004|Triple J's Hottest 100 of 2004].

In popular culture

It has been parodied and used in advertisements and products. The song was featured in the third episode of the DC Studios animated series Creature Commandos, titled "Cheers to the Tin Man".

Track listing

;German CD single
  1. "Coin-Operated Boy" - 3:33
  2. "Coin-Operated Boy" - 5:44
  3. "Baby One More Time" - 3:20
It is in The Dresden Dolls Companion.

Personnel