New York
Irv Cottler Lyrics
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I want to be a part of it
New York, New York
These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray
Right through the very heart of it
New York, New York
I want to wake up, in a city that never sleeps
Top of the heap
These little town blues, are melting away
I'll make a brand new start of it
In old New York
If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere
It's up to you, New York..New York
New York, New York
I want to wake up, in a city that never sleeps
And find I'm A number one, top of the list
King of the hill, A number one
These little town blues, are melting away
I'll make a brand new start of it
In old New York
If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere
It's up to you, New York, New York, New York!
The lyrics to "New York, New York" are a tribute to the city of New York and the opportunities that await those who come to the city to make a name for themselves. The song is sung from the perspective of someone who is leaving their small hometown behind and heading to the big city with dreams of success. The opening lines, "Start spreadin' the news, I'm leavin' today," set the tone for the rest of the song, which is an upbeat, optimistic ode to the city.
The lyrics are filled with references to the iconic landmarks and characteristics of New York, such as the "vagabond shoes" that are "longing to stray" through the heart of the city. The song also references the famous phrase "the city that never sleeps" and paints a picture of a city that is vibrant and full of life.
As the song progresses, the lyrics become more assertive, with the singer declaring their intention to make it to the top in the city. The lines "I want to wake up, in a city that never sleeps, and find I'm king of the hill, top of the heap" express the singer's unwavering confidence in their ability to succeed.
Overall, "New York, New York" is a celebration of one of the world's most famous cities and the infinite possibilities that it offers to those who dare to dream.
Line by Line Meaning
Start spreadin' the news, I'm leavin' today
I am excited to announce that I am leaving to start a new chapter.
I want to be a part of it
I want to belong to the energy, diversity, and culture of New York.
New York, New York
The excitement and attraction of the city is unparalleled, and is worthy of being named twice.
These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray
I feel compelled to wander and explore the city, wherever my feet may take me.
Right through the very heart of it
I want to experience the core and essence of the city, and take part in everything it has to offer.
I want to wake up, in a city that never sleeps
I desire to live in a city that is always vibrant and alive, even during the night time hours.
And find I'm king of the hill
I want to feel accomplished and successful, on top of the world.
Top of the heap
At the very peak and pinnacle of my career and personal life.
These little town blues, are melting away
All of the petty problems and concerns of small towns or rural areas will disappear as soon as I am immersed in the energy of New York.
I'll make a brand new start of it
I am ready for a new beginning, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities.
In old New York
The traditions and history of the city give it an incredible amount of character and depth.
If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere
Succeeding in New York City is an incredible accolade, and would prove my resilience and skills.
It's up to you, New York..New York
The city holds so many opportunities for me, and it is ultimately up to me to take advantage of them.
I want to wake up, in a city that never sleeps
Again reiterating the desire to be in an always active, always bustling environment.
And find I'm A number one, top of the list
Striving to be the absolute best, and make a name for myself in New York.
King of the hill, A number one
Dominating the city, and being considered the best of the best.
These little town blues, are melting away
Another allusion to shedding smaller problems and focus solely on taking advantage of the incredible opportunities in New York.
I'll make a brand new start of it
Once again reiterating the desire to start anew and amass a fresh batch of experiences.
In old New York
Again emphasizing the weight of history and culture that exists in the city.
If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere
Emphasizing the difficulty of succeeding in New York, and that success there is considered an immense accomplishment.
It's up to you, New York, New York, New York!
Final note, highlighting the opportunity that New York provides, and how success depends heavily on the individual's response to seizing the city's opportunities.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: FRED EBB, JOHN KANDER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Matt D
Lovely playing
Don Hennig Percussion
Matthew Dilosa Thanks.