New York State of Mind

Billy Joel, Tony Bennett

About New York State of Mind

"New York State of Mind" is a song written by Billy Joel which initially appeared on the album Turnstiles in 1976. Although it was never released as a single, it has become a fan favorite and a song that Joel plays regularly in concert. Joel famously played the song at The Concert for New York City, the October 2001 benefit concert for the New York City Fire and Police Departments and the loved ones of families of first responders lost during the terrorist attack on New York City on 9/11. He reprised that theme, playing it during his set at 12-12-12: The Concert for Sandy Relief at Madison Square Garden in New York City on December 12, 2012, where he changed lyrics to include the likes of "Breezy Point". 


Year:
2001
4:30
826 
#4

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Some folks like to get away
Take a holiday from the neighborhood
Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood
Me, I'm takin' a Greyhound on the Hudson River line 
I'm in a New York state of mind

I've seen all the movie stars in their fancy cars and their limousines
Been high in the Rockies under evergreens
But I know what I'm needin', and I don't want to waste more time 
I'm in a New York state of mind

It was so easy livin' day by day
Out of touch with the rhythym and blues
Now I need a little give and take
The New York Times, the Daily News, oh, oh

I'm in a New York state of mind

It was so easy living day by day
Out of touch, out of touch with the rhythym and blues
Now I need a little give and take
Something like the New York Times, the Daily News
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa

Come down to reality, it's fine with me 'cause I let it slide
I don't care if it's Chinatown or on Riverside
Don't have any reasons
I left them all behind
I'm in a New York state of mind

I'm just taking a Greyhound on the Hudson River line
I'm in a New York state of mind, aah

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Billy Joel

William Martin "Billy" Joel (born May 9, 1949) is an American pianist, singer-songwriter, and composer. Since releasing his first hit song, "Piano Man," in 1973, Joel has become the sixth best-selling recording artist and the third best-selling solo artist in the United States, according to the RIAA. He also has the third best-selling album in the United States with his Greatest Hits Vol. 1 & 2. more »

16 fans

Written by: Billy Joel

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


13 facts about this song

Album Release
"New York State of Mind" is a song from Billy Joel's 1976 album, "Turnstiles."
Song Inspiration
Joel's inspiration for the song came from a Greyhound bus ride to New York City after spending three years in Los Angeles.
Song Composition
The song was reportedly composed in under ten minutes as it 'flowed instantaneously,' according to Joel.
Live Performances
During live performances, the song is typically paired with an iconic New York slideshow, a testament to Joel's immense love for the city.
Cultural Impact
The song has become an unofficial anthem for New York City, performed at important city-related events, such as the 2001 Concert for New York City after the September 11 attacks.
Covers
Numerous artists have covered "New York State of Mind," including Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, and Mel Tormé.
Grammy Recognition
Barbra Streisand's rendition of the song was nominated for a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance in 1978.
Unique Jazz Version
A jazz version of "New York State of Mind" was made popular by saxophonist Dexter Gordon in 1978 on his album "Manhattan Symphonie".
Song Popularity
The song, though never a single release, is among Billy Joel's most popular and enduring songs.
Honorary Performances
The song was performed for Pope Benedict XVI on his visit to New York City in 2008 as an acknowledgment of the city's cultural diversity.
Use In Mainstream Media
"New York State of Mind" has been used in various films and television shows set in New York City, further reinforcing its cultural impact.
9/11 Tribute
After the September 11 attacks, Joel performed the song during The Concert for New York City as a tribute to the city and its resilience.
Presidential Performance
Joel performed "New York State of Mind" at "We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" in 2009.

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