Chicago
Count Basie Lyrics


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Chicago, Chicago, that toddlin' town
Chicago, Chicago, I'll show you around
Bet your bottom dollar you'll lose the blues in Chicago
Chicago, the town that *Mart Faye* could not shut down

On State Street, that great street
I just want to say
They do things that they don't do on Broadway, say

They have the time, the time of their life
I saw a man, he danced with his wife
In Chicago, my home town

They have the time, the time of their life
I saw a man, he danced with his wife
In Chicago




In Chicago
In Chicago

Overall Meaning

The song "Chicago" by Count Basie and Tony Bennett is a classic tune that celebrates the spirit of the city of Chicago. The lyrics are a testament to the liveliness and energy of this great Midwestern city. The beginning of the song sets the tone with the repeated phrase "Chicago, Chicago, that toddlin' town". The term "toddlin' town" is a reference to the fact that Chicago was a hub of activity and prosperity during the 1920s, a time when people lived life to the fullest despite the constraints of prohibition and other societal restrictions.


Line by Line Meaning

Chicago, Chicago, that toddlin' town
Chicago, the bustling and lively city


Chicago, Chicago, I'll show you around
I'll give you a tour of this vibrant city


Bet your bottom dollar you'll lose the blues in Chicago
You'll definitely forget your worries in this city


Chicago, the town that *Mart Faye* could not shut down
Chicago is such a lively city that not even *Mart Faye* could close it


On State Street, that great street
State Street, the well-known thoroughfare


I just want to say
I need to emphasize


They do things that they don't do on Broadway, say
Chicago has unique activities that are not found on Broadway


They have the time, the time of their life
People have an amazing time in Chicago


I saw a man, he danced with his wife
I witnessed a man dancing joyfully with his wife


In Chicago, my home town
Chicago is my beloved hometown


In Chicago
Again, Chicago is the place to be


In Chicago
One more time for emphasis - Chicago is amazing!




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, CTM Publishing, Peermusic Publishing, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Fred Fisher

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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