All That Glitters
Death in Vegas Lyrics


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...Funky life!

Funky Life
I've been told
All that glitter is not gold
And gold is not reality,
Momma, real is what you laid on me
Funky Life

Funky Life
I've been told
All that glitter is not gold




And gold is not reality,
Momma, real is what you laid on me

Overall Meaning

The lyrics in Death in Vegas's song "All That Glitters" describe a sentiment that's been around since the phrase "all that glitters is not gold" was first used. The singer is acknowledging that they've been told this phrase, but they seem to understand it on a more personal level. They acknowledge that things that appear flashy and glamorous on the surface may not necessarily be what they seem; gold can be a metaphor for any number of things that are shiny and alluring but ultimately unfulfilling. They also acknowledge that reality is something different, and that they've received guidance from their mother that has helped them understand what's truly important in life.


The repetition of "Funky Life" throughout the song suggests that the singer is content with their circumstances, even if they don't have all the trappings of wealth and status. Instead of chasing after those things, they seem to be content to live a simpler, funkier life that's grounded in the realness that their momma taught them. It's a catchy, upbeat song that encourages listeners to think about what truly matters in life rather than just chasing after what seems impressive on the surface.


Line by Line Meaning

Funky Life
Life can be funky and unpredictable


I've been told
Someone has imparted this knowledge to me


All that glitter is not gold
The flashy and superficial things in life are not always valuable or authentic


And gold is not reality,
Even things that appear valuable may not reflect actual reality


Momma, real is what you laid on me
True value and reality comes from what my mother taught and instilled in me




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: RICHARD DENIS MAGUIRE, STEVEN GUY HELLIER

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@alexdavies7683

I mean you cannot listen to this track and then recite the lyrics in harmony with another friend, but the mood is just so perfectly conveyed with the drum beat, keyboard and in places the voice. One of my favourite songs.

@willgarnar

Alex Davies It's perfect!

@blueburro9226

Dead Elvis is one of "the five" CDs I would have on a deserted island...

@ronronron6278

For some reason I decided to search for Death in Vegas. I've never heard of the band or this album, but my brain knew and told my fingers what to do. How did this get in my brain. I didn't put it there.

@kevandalzell7906

Richard Fearless!!!! Respect!!! I have purchased this album many times, because people insist on "borrowing" it off me....!!!

@davidellis5141

Still amazing 21 years later. Trip without the 💊 Gold is not reality.

@Levente20

did u just say 21 years. my god. so long? fuuuuuuuuuuuuuu

@soylentgreen6727

I watched the Dirt film clip way back in 1997, I was intrigued. I went into a music store and put this album on. Was
Instantly hooked by this the very first track.

@IHeartNoise

Same - discovered them via Dirt vid on MTV

@artman2oo3

PERFECT music to chill out to. DAMN I love this whole album.

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