Take The A Train
Tony Evans And His Orchestra Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

You must take the 'A' train
To go Sugar Hill 'way up in Harlem
If you miss the 'A' train
You'll find you've missed the quickest way to Harlem

Hurry, get on now it's coming
Listen to those rails a thrumming
All 'board get on the 'A' train
Soon you will be on Sugar Hill in Harlem





Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Take The A Train" by Tony Evans And His Orchestra capture the excitement and urgency of taking the A train to reach Sugar Hill in Harlem. The song emphasizes the importance of catching the A train to reach Harlem quickly and with ease. The A train serves as a symbol of speed and efficiency in navigating the city, particularly for those heading to the vibrant neighborhood of Sugar Hill.


The repetition of the phrase "You must take the 'A' train" sets a tone of determination and necessity. There is a sense of obligation to catch the A train in order to reach Sugar Hill, emphasizing that it is the most optimal route to Harlem. The lyrics suggest that missing the A train would result in a delay or a missed opportunity to swiftly arrive at the desired destination. This highlights the significance of the A train in the context of accessing and experiencing the lively atmosphere of Sugar Hill.


The imagery of the train approaching and the sound of the rails thrumming create a vivid and dynamic scene, evoking the bustling energy of the transportation system in New York City. The urgency in the lyrics reflects the fast-paced nature of city life and the need to keep up with its swift rhythms. The invitation to "get on the 'A' train" conveys a sense of excitement and anticipation for the journey ahead, promising a swift and exhilarating ride to Sugar Hill in Harlem.


Overall, the lyrics of "Take The A Train" depict a sense of adventure and anticipation as one embarks on a journey to Harlem via the A train. The song celebrates the charm and allure of Harlem, particularly Sugar Hill, and underscores the importance of seizing the opportunity to take the A train to reach this vibrant destination efficiently. Through its lively and engaging lyrics, the song captures the essence of urban exploration and the thrill of traveling through the city on a bustling train line.


Line by Line Meaning

You must take the 'A' train
You are required to catch the 'A' train


To go Sugar Hill 'way up in Harlem
In order to reach Sugar Hill in Harlem


If you miss the 'A' train
If you fail to catch the 'A' train


You'll find you've missed the quickest way to Harlem
You will realize you have missed the fastest route to Harlem


Hurry, get on now it's coming
Quickly board because the 'A' train is approaching


Listen to those rails a thrumming
Pay attention to the sound of the railway vibrating


All 'board get on the 'A' train
Everyone aboard the 'A' train


Soon you will be on Sugar Hill in Harlem
You will arrive at Sugar Hill in Harlem shortly




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Reservoir Media Management, Inc., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Billy Strayhorn

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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