Two Coins

Album: Bang Bang (2000)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • In ancient Greece, after someone died a coin was placed on each of their eyes and one on their lips. It was believed that the coins were needed to pay the boatman in Hades to take the dead across the river Styx. This song's name and lyrics are probably a reference to this. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Hephestion - Chicago, IL

Comments: 2

  • Jared from Boise, Idummm... wrong song dude
  • Hephestion from Chicago, IlJust a little correction: the lyrics suggest that the general was actually quite old. Definitely not young.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

David Clayton-Thomas of Blood, Sweat & Tears

David Clayton-Thomas of Blood, Sweat & TearsSongwriter Interviews

The longtime BS&T frontman tells the "Spinning Wheel" story, including the line he got from Joni Mitchell.

The Evolution of "Ophelia"

The Evolution of "Ophelia"Song Writing

How five songs portray Shakespeare's character Ophelia.

Julian Lennon

Julian LennonSongwriter Interviews

Julian tells the stories behind his hits "Valotte" and "Too Late for Goodbyes," and fills us in on his many non-musical pursuits. Also: what MTV meant to his career.

Emmylou Harris

Emmylou HarrisSongwriter Interviews

She thinks of herself as a "song interpreter," but back in the '80s another country star convinced Emmylou to take a crack at songwriting.

Supertramp founder Roger Hodgson

Supertramp founder Roger HodgsonSongwriter Interviews

Roger tells the stories behind some of his biggest hits, including "Give a Little Bit," "Take the Long Way Home" and "The Logical Song."

Joan Armatrading

Joan ArmatradingSongwriter Interviews

The revered singer-songwriter talks inspiration and explains why she put a mahout in "Drop the Pilot."