Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad

U2 · Other Songs - U2

Two shots of happy, one shot of sad

You think I'm no good, I know I've been bad

And took you to a place, now you can't get back

And two shots of happy, one shot of sad



Walked together down a dead end street

We were mixing the bitter with the sweet

I don't try to figure out what we might of had

Just two shots of happy, one shot of sad



I'm just a singer, some say, a sinner

Rolling the dice, not always a winner

You say, I've been lucky, well, I've made my own

Not part of the crowd but not feeling alone



Under pressure, but not bent out of shape

Surrounded, we always found an escape

You drove me to drink but hey, that ain't so bad

Two shots of happy, one shot of sad



Guess, I've been greedy all of my life

Greedy with my children, my lovers, my wife

Greedy for the good things as well as the bad

Two shots of happy, one shot, one shot of sad



Maybe it's just talk, saloon singing

The chairs are all stacked, the swinging's stopped swinging

You say, I hurt you, you put the finger on yourself

And after you did, you came crying for my help



I'm just a singer, some say, a sinner

Rolling the dice, not always a winner

You say, I've been lucky, well, I've made my own

Not part of the crowd but not feeling alone



Rolling the dice, not always a winner

Greedy for the good things as well as the bad

Two shots of happy, one shot of sad

Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad

Released in 1983, 'Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad' stands as a defining track from U2's early career, capturing the band's signature blend of anthemic rock and introspective lyricism. The song reflects the turbulent period following the departure of original guitarist The Edge's brother, Larry, and the subsequent lineup changes that reshaped the group's sound. With its driving rhythm and emotional depth, the recording exemplifies the band's ability to weave personal narrative into expansive musical arrangements. It remains a staple of their discography, illustrating their evolution from the Dublin indie scene to global rock stardom while maintaining a distinct identity rooted in their early recordings.