Pieces Of Eight
by Styx

Album: Pieces Of Eight (1978)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • A "Piece Of Eight" is a silver coin which served as currency for the Spanish empire. The song was written and sung by Dennis DeYoung, and is about how money can't buy everything. DeYoung sings about a man looking back at how beautiful his life was meant to be. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Liam - Dublin, Ireland
  • The album Pieces of Eight was Styx' eighth studio album. The Grand Illusion was released prior to this as their seventh album, on July 7th, 1977, (7-7-77). >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Randy - Colerain Twp., OH

Comments: 2

  • Paul from Croydon, PaWell said Randy! Definately one of the best songs penned by Dennis DeYoung and one where the fine musicianship of the band comes together with the lyrics to drive exactly your point home - money sure as hell ain't everything!
  • Randy from Colerain Twp., OhThis is perhaps one of my favorite Styx songs- not to mention from one of my favorite Styx albums. When I had first heard the lyrics to the song, it did remind me of how someone would commit a crime for financial gain, only to be caught and imprisoned- that this person would give up his freedom for greed. I also think about this song for those who have jobs- most notably managerial positions that pay well, but are forced to work long, stressful hours. This song is definitely an example as to why money cannot always buy happiness- and not to trade your life for the almighty dollar.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Oliver Leiber

Oliver LeiberSongwriter Interviews

Oliver Leiber talks about writing and producing hits for Paula Abdul, and explains his complicated relationship with his father, the songwriter Jerry Leiber.

Bible Lyrics

Bible LyricsMusic Quiz

Rockers, rappers and pop stars have been known to quote the Bible in their songs. See if you match the artist to the biblical lyric.

The 10 Bands Most Like Spinal Tap

The 10 Bands Most Like Spinal TapSong Writing

Based on criteria like girlfriend tension, stage mishaps and drummer turnover, these are the 10 bands most like Spinal Tap.

Is That Song Public Domain?

Is That Song Public Domain?Fact or Fiction

Are classic songs like "Over The Rainbow" and "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" in the public domain?

Peter Lord

Peter LordSongwriter Interviews

You may not recognize his name, but you will certainly recognize Peter Lord's songs. He wrote the bevy of hits from Paula Abdul's second album, Spellbound.

What Musicians Are Related to Other Musicians?

What Musicians Are Related to Other Musicians?Song Writing

A big list of musical marriages and family relations ranging from the simple to the truly dysfunctional.