About The Song
Released in 1974 on their album Mr. Natural, “Throw a Penny” is a song that captures the Bee Gees at a crossroads. Gone are the rock and pop leanings of their earlier work, but the full-blown disco sound that would define them wasn’t quite there yet. “Throw a Penny” stands as a bridge between these two eras, offering a glimpse into a band evolving and adapting to a changing musical landscape.
The early 70s were a time of great social and political upheaval. The Vietnam War raged on, the Watergate scandal unraveled, and the counterculture movement began to lose its steam. “Throw a Penny” reflects this sense of uncertainty and disillusionment. The lyrics, penned by Barry Gibb, speak of a world where innocence is lost and cynicism takes hold. The lines “Little child, I have found / If I stood up and looked around / I’d see a brand new face staring right back at me” suggest a feeling of alienation and disconnection.
However, the song isn’t all doom and gloom. There’s a flicker of hopefulness in the chorus, where the narrator throws a penny into a wishing well, a small act of faith in a better future. “Throw a Penny” is a song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost or out of place in the world. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there’s always a chance for change and a reason to keep believing.
While not one of their biggest hits, “Throw a Penny” is a hidden gem in the Bee Gees discography. It’s a song that showcases their talent for songwriting and their ability to capture the mood of a generation. So, put on your favorite headphones, crank up the volume, and let yourself be transported back to 1974 with the Bee Gees and “Throw a Penny”