King of New Orleans

Better Than Ezra, Mark & Brian

About King of New Orleans

"King of New Orleans" is the lead single from the 1996 Better Than Ezra studio album, Friction, Baby. It was released as a commercial single in 1996.


Year:
1997
3:55
114 
#1

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!

Got an angel on the stairs
As if you'd even care
When the lights are up
And the sun had nearly gone, down

Did you see him on the street
Did you pass him at your feet
Did you think at all
How dare they even look me in the eye

And he loves the girls
And he loves the boys
Gonna make
Twenty dollars before the weekend's over

So set him up
Then let him fall
Turn him over in your hands
God save the king of New Orleans

Got a ticket to a show
Did you see him take a blow
When the drunk one said
Cat Stevens was the greatest singer

Did you kick him in the head
Did you see the blood run down
Did you laugh at all
When the people walked right by and said aloud
Gutter punks, you're all the same
Gonna make
Twenty dollars 'fore the weekend's over

So set him up
Then let him fall
Turn him over in your hands
God save the king of New Orleans

Set him up
Let him fall
Turn him over in your hands
God save the King of New Orleans

Radio in my head
Radio in my car
Goin' down again
He's goin' down, again

Any way you look
Any way you talk it over
It's easier
To let it slip out of your mind

But it rips your heart out
Then it kicks your head in
Would ya you give him one more chance
Try and see the beauty in his world

All the way in on my hands
In on my feet and shoulders
Gonna make
Twenty dollars before the weekends over

So set him up
Then let him fall
Turn him over in your hands
God save the king of New Orleans

Set him up
Then let him fall
Turn him over in your hands
God save the king of New Orleans
Yeah

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Better Than Ezra

Better Than Ezra is an American alternative rock trio based in New Orleans, Louisiana. more »

0 fans

Written by: KEVIN GRIFFIN

Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song Background
"King of New Orleans" is a song by American alternative rock band "Better Than Ezra". It was released as a single in 1995 from their second studio album "Deluxe".
Chart Performance
It peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, making it one of the band's most successful songs.
Song Meaning
The lyrics tell the story of a homeless man who wanders the streets of New Orleans and is known to locals as the "King of New Orleans". He is depicted as a free spirit unaffected by societal norms and expectations, a theme that resonates with many fans.
Acclaim
Despite not reaching the top of the charts, "King of New Orleans" is often cited by fans and critics alike as one of Better Than Ezra's best songs, highlighting its engaging narrative and energetic performance.
Live Performance
"King of New Orleans" is a staple of Better Than Ezra’s live shows. Its catchy melody and powerful chorus make it a crowd favorite.
Songwriting
This song is credited to all four original members of the band - lead singer and guitarist Kevin Griffin, bassist Tom Drummond, guitarist Joel Rundell, and drummer Cary Bonnecaze.
Impact
The song has been noted for raising awareness and empathy towards the homeless, particularly in New Orleans, and has inspired some fans to get involved with homelessness charities and causes.
Tribute
The song was reportedly a tribute to the homeless population in New Orleans who were heavily affected by the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The band members themselves are from Louisiana.
Musical Style
The song combines a number of musical styles typical of the mid-90s alternative rock scene, including grunge and punk influences, yet maintains a distinctive sound that helped define Better Than Ezra's identity as a band.
Band's Recognition
Despite their later success, the band continue to consider "King of New Orleans" as one of their signature songs, and continue to play it at almost every show.

Discuss the King of New Orleans Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "King of New Orleans Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 18 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/1890296/Better+Than+Ezra/King+of+New+Orleans>.

    Missing lyrics by Better Than Ezra?

    Know any other songs by Better Than Ezra? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    Which singer holds the world record for the most words in a hit single?
    A Eminem
    B Kanye West
    C Busta Rhymes
    D 50 Cents

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Better Than Ezra tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!