Discover the poetic beauty in ‘Ten Cents a Dance’ by Abbey Lincoln. This lyric breakdown takes you on a journey through the artist’s thoughts, emotions, and the story they aim to tell. From clever metaphors to evocative imagery, we delve into the nuances that make this song a lyrical masterpiece. Whether you’re a fan of Abbey Lincoln or a lover of well-crafted words, our detailed analysis will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of this song.
Ten cents a dance, that’s what they pay me
Gosh, how they weigh me down
Ten cents a dance, pansies and rough guys
Tough guys who tear my gown
Seven to midnight I hear drums
Loudly the saxophone blows
Trumpets are tearing my eardrums
Customers crush my toes
Sometimes I think I’ve found my hero
But it’s a queer romance
All that you need is a ticket
Come on, big boy, ten cents a dance!