Empire State of Mind: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCINmOZGV6Q
By Karishma Malhotra
Performed by Jay-Z with vocals by Alicia Keys, the hit song “Empire State of Mind” perfectly depicts the unique vibe of New York City. Its lyrics, which capture the magical feel New York City offers to residents and tourists alike, were written by Angela Hunte and Jane’t Sewell-Ulepic. It was recorded in 2009 and released as part of Jay-Z’s eleventh studio album, “The Blueprint 3.” Furthermore, both Jay-Z and Alicia Keys have roots in New York, New York. Thus, the song acts as a tribute to their hometown which pop-rap musical styles.
The song instantly became a hit with nominations for three Grammy Awards and making the charts of “Billboard Top 100” for five weeks. It was even performed at the 2009 World Series. The lyrics of the song encapsulate the determination of New Yorkers to achieve their dreams as well as the rich history of the city. Selling over 5.5 million copies in the United States, the song features the distinct characteristics of New York as well as the famous spots and residents.
“There’s nothing you can’t do
Now you’re in New York
These streets will make you feel brand new
Big lights will inspire you
Let’s hear it for New York, New York, New York”
These lyrics from the song speak about the land of opportunities that New York presents to foreigners. Anyone with a dream and enough determination can achieve success in New York as jobs and opportunities are plentiful. Additionally, the fast paced atmosphere of New York inspire people to put on a “go-getter” attitude and race towards their goals.
“Labor Day parade, rest in peace Bob Marley
Statue of Liberty, long live the World Trade
Long live the king, yo, I’m from the Empire State…”
“Welcome to the melting pot…”
I love how this song perfectly mixes the tourist and native experience that New York has to offer. In this stanza, it talks about the famous tourist destinations such as the Statue of Liberty and in later stanzas it addresses the melting pot aspect that all New Yorkers are aware of. People from all over the world have immigrated to the great city of New York and bring with them their languages, their values, their food and their culture. I love this song because as a New Yorker I feel blessed to be able to experience the magic of New York firsthand that many can only dream of. Furthermore, I love exploring the historic landmarks of the city that this song talks about.
December 24, 2017 at 5:11 am
I think this is one of those songs that nearly everyone in our generation who lives in New York City knows about, especially because Jay-Z and Alicia Keys are both such big figures in the music industry. “Empire State of Mind” is an appropriate title, both for its play on New York State’s nickname, as well as the notion that success in this metropolis requires a determined mindset of pursuing the variety of opportunities that exist. This city is the hub of creativity and practicality alike, and a lifetime in New York City would still leave room for more experiences because it is constantly changing to adapt to the trends, even if many traditions will live on.