New York State of Mind by Billy Joel is one of the most iconic songs about the city of New York. It has been covered by many other artists, including Alicia Keys, and has become an anthem for the city. This article will provide a full breakdown of the lyrics to the song, exploring the meaning behind each line.
Overview
New York State of Mind is a song about the city of New York, written and performed by Billy Joel. It was released in 1976 as part of Joel’s fifth studio album, Turnstiles. The song is a reflection on Joel’s experiences of New York City, and a tribute to the city he loves. The lyrics explore themes of nostalgia, identity, and the power of the city.
Lyrics Breakdown
The song begins with the lines “Some folks like to get away, take a holiday from the neighborhood, hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood.” This opening line sets the tone for the rest of the song, expressing the power of the city to inspire people to leave and explore new places.
The chorus of the song is the most iconic part of the track. It begins with the lines “But I’m takin’ a Greyhound on the Hudson River line, I’m in a New York state of mind.” This is a reference to the iconic Greyhound bus that runs along the Hudson River in New York City. It is a symbol of the city and of the freedom it can offer, and the chorus captures the feeling of being in a New York state of mind.
The second verse begins with the lines “I’ve seen all the movie stars in their fancy cars and their limousines, been high in the Rockys under the evergreens.” This verse speaks to the idea of nostalgia, with the narrator looking back on the past and reflecting on the experiences he has had.
The bridge of the song is a moment of reflection, with the lines “I know what I’m needin’ and I don’t want to waste more time, I’m in a New York state of mind.” Here, the narrator acknowledges his need for a change and expresses his desire to be in New York.
The song ends with the lines “It comes down to reality, and it’s fine with me ’cause I’ve let it slide, Don’t care if it’s Chinatown or on Riverside.” These lyrics capture the idea of embracing the city and all its different aspects. It is a celebration of the city and all it has to offer.
New York State of Mind is one of the most iconic songs about the city of New York. Its lyrics explore themes of nostalgia, identity, and the power of the city. The song is a tribute to the city and a celebration of all it has to offer.