Coin-Operated Boy

"Coin-Operated Boy" is a single by The Dresden Dolls duo, taken from the self-titled debut 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.

"Coin-Operated Boy"
Single by The Dresden Dolls
from the album The Dresden Dolls
Released	December 13, 2004
Genre	Dark cabaret
Length	4:46
Label	Roadrunner
Songwriter(s)	Amanda Palmer
The Dresden Dolls singles chronology
"Girl Anachronism" (2003) "Coin-Operated Boy" (2004) "Sing" (2006)

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.^[1] 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".^[2]

Legacy

Reception

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

In popular culture

It has been parodied and used in advertisements and products.^[3][4] The song was featured in the third episode of the DC Studios animated series Creature Commandos, titled "Cheers to the Tin Man".^[5]

Track listing

German CD single

1. "Coin-Operated Boy" - 3:33
2. "Coin-Operated Boy" (Live) - 5:44 (This is the same version as the one found on A Is for Accident.)
3. "Baby One More Time" (Live) - 3:20

It is in The Dresden Dolls Companion.

Personnel

• Amanda Palmer - piano, vocals, lyricist, composer, songwriter
• Brian Viglione - drums, guitar
• Martin Bisi - Memory Man
• Michael Pope - music video director