Author: Jackson You

Music Posting: Empire State of Mind

 

 

“Empire State of Mind” is a song written by Angela Hunte and Jena’t Sewell-Ulepic and performed by rapper Jay-Z featuring vocals by singer Alicia Keys. It was realeased as the third single from Jay-Z’s 11^th studio album, The Blueprint 3 (2009), by his Roc Nation label in October 2009. In the song’s music video, Jay-Z and Alicia Keys are shown performing the song in various locations in New York. The lyrics also allude to many areas and attractions in New York. As Jay-Z rapped about the different areas from Brooklyn to Tribeca to Harlem to Bed-Stuy, it felt extremely relatable because it’s places I’ve actually been to and visited. However, what was exceptionally inspiring and drew me to this song isn’t the references but rather the feeling that you can make it anywhere once you make it here in New York. The chorus goes as follows:

 

“New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of

There’s nothin’ you can’t do

Now you’re in New York

These streets will make you feel brand new

The lights will inspire you

Let’s hear it for New York, New York,

New York.”

 

Walking on the streets of Manhattan while listening to these lyrics can make anyone feel powerful. The combination of the bright lights and the towering skyscrapers New York has to offer makes anyone feel like anything is possible. This song only adds to this feeling. It is magic only New York can offer.