Florence + The Machine

Released: June 28, 2011

Songwriter: Florence Welch Rob Ackroyd Chris Hayden

[Verse 1]
My boy builds coffins with hammers and nails
He doesn't build ships, he has no use for sails
He doesn't make tables, dressers or chairs
He can't carve a whistle because he just doesn't care

My boy builds coffins for the rich and the poor
Kings and queens, they've all knocked on his door
Beggars and liars, gypsies and thieves
They all come to him because he's so eager to please

[Chorus]
My boy builds coffins, he makes them all day
But it's not just for work and it isn't for play
He's made onе for himself
One for me too
Onе of these days he'll make one for you
For you, for you, for you

[Verse 2]
My boy builds coffins for better or worse
Some say its a blessing, some say it's a curse
He fits them together in sunshine or rain
Each one is unique, no two are the same

My boy builds coffins and I think it's a shame
That when each one's been made, he can't see it again
He crafts everyone with love and with care
Then it's thrown in the ground, it just isn't fair

[Chorus]
My boy builds coffins, he makes them all day
But it's not just for work and it isn't for play
He's made one for himself
One for me too
And one of these days he'll make one for you
For you, for you, for you

[Non-Lyrical Vocal Outro]

Florence + the Machine is an English alternative band, co-founded by front-woman, Florence Welch, and keyboardist and producer, Isabella Summers. The band is managed by Mairead Nash who also managed the original duo, known at the time as ‘Florence Robot/Isa Machine’, after Florence Welch sang Etta James‘ “Something’s Got A Hold On Me” to her in a club bathroom in December 2006.

The band first found fame in their native UK. Their debut album, Lungs (2009), went Gold within the first week of release, Platinum in less than 6 months and 4x Platinum in just over a year. They broke into the USA market after an elaborate performance of “Dog Days Are Over” at the 2010 VMA’s.

Their sophomore album, Ceremonials (2011), debuted at #1 on the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand charts. The band embarked on their second arena-based tour, the Ceremonials Tour. Most dates completely sold out.

more tracks from the album

Live at the Wiltern

From the album

Live at the Wiltern (2011)

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My Boy Builds Coffins - Live at the Wiltern / 2010Florence + The Machine

Florence + The Machine

Live at the Wiltern