Whipping Boy

Elton John · Too Low For Zero [1983]

You're cruel, you do

You do, you do me wrong

You hurt me, you flirt with

Any old face that comes along



But I won't be your whipping boy

No I won't be your whipping boy

Break me like a little toy

Run me till my feet are sore

But I won't be your whipping boy



You're wild, you're sly

What you done to me

I was thirty, I look like fifty

But I feel like sixty three



It's this illegal kind of loving

That keeps my motor running

From the start to the finish line

It's a trashy kind of me that likes to believe

That I'm still trying, I'm still trying

I'm still trying, yes I'm trying



You're dirty, but you're worth it

But you're way, you're way too young

I could do time if they found out

Look out, San Quentin here I come

Whipping Boy

Whipping Boy stands as a vibrant song in Elton John's extensive discography, appearing on the 1983 album Too Low For Zero. The track captures the artist's signature blend of rock and pop sensibilities during a period of consistent commercial success. Musically, the recording features the dynamic piano work and theatrical arrangements that have defined John's career for decades. While the album itself explored various sonic textures, this song remains a notable example of his ability to craft engaging melodies within a polished production framework. The piece reflects the energy of the early 1980s, showcasing the artist's enduring capacity to deliver memorable performances that resonate with audiences across generations.