About the song
“Theme from New York, New York,” often just referred to as “New York, New York,” is a classic song from the 1977 Martin Scorsese film of the same name. This memorable tune was composed by John Kander, with lyrics by Fred Ebb. In the film, Liza Minnelli performs it during a powerful climax, showcasing her exceptional talent. The song was highly praised and even nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song.
A couple of years after its debut, the legendary Frank Sinatra recorded his own version of the song. Sinatra’s rendition soon became synonymous with both him and the city of New York. The story behind the song’s creation is quite interesting. Initially, Kander and Ebb had composed a different theme for the film, but it was deemed unsatisfactory by actor Robert De Niro, who felt it was too weak. De Niro’s feedback led to a quick, impassioned rewrite of the song, which ultimately became the iconic “New York, New York” we know today.
Sinatra’s version of the song was a significant hit. Initially, he included it in a medley with other New York-themed songs and it quickly became a favorite among audiences. Sinatra’s dynamic performances and emotional delivery made the song a staple of his shows, and it became his signature song. By 1980, “New York, New York” was firmly established as a highlight of Sinatra’s performances, even closing many of his concerts.
Sinatra’s recording of the song was a commercial success, reaching #32 on the Billboard charts and becoming a Top 40 hit, his final one. The song also achieved notable success internationally. In Mexico, it reached the top of the charts, and in the UK, it made a significant comeback in 1986. Sinatra’s version was so influential that it even earned him a Grammy nomination.
Throughout his career, Sinatra revisited the song several times, including in a 1981 TV special and a 1993 studio recording, which was later edited into a duet with Tony Bennett. This enduring song continues to be celebrated, reflecting the spirit and grandeur of New York City.
Video
Lyrics
Start spreading the news, you’re leaving today (tell ’em, Frank)
I want to be a part of it, New York, New York
Your vagabond shoes, they are longing to stray
And step around the heart of it, New York, New York
I wanna wake up in that city, that doesn’t sleep
And find your king of the hill, top of the heap
Your small town blues, they’re melting away
I’m gonna make a brand-new start of it, in old New York
You always make it there, you make it anywhere
It’s up to you, New York, New York
In New York, New York
I wanna wake up in that city, that doesn’t sleep
And find I’m king of the hill, top of the list (you bet)
A number one, king of the hill
These little town blues, they have all melted away
And I’m gonna make a brand-new start of it, right there in old New York
You better believe it, folks
You always make it there, you make it anywhere
Come on, come through, New York, New York
New York