Big Apple Tunes: New York in Song

The country remembered the events of September 11, 2001 its 10-year anniversary. The ceremony in New York was especially moving and evocative. Clearly, though the wounds torn in the flesh of the country have begun to heal, the scars still remain. There's no question, too, that the people of New York City will forever carry a burden that perhaps no other group of victims of 9/11 can possibly imagine. These are a collection of my personal favorite songs about New York City, and the people who live there.

"Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" Elton John - Bernie Taupin and Elton John teamed up for this beautiful gem of a song. Elton performed this song in 2001 at a benefit concert for New York in the weeks after 9/11. The lyric "Subway's no way for a good man to go down. The rich man can ride, and the hobo, he can drown," is among Taupin's finest work.

"New York, New York" Frank Sinatra - Many singers have belted this classic, but no one could possibly touch the version that Ol' Blue Eyes put down over fifty years ago. They still play it after every Yankees win. Start spreading the news, though cliché, it's still a great song about New York.

"New York State of Mind" Billy Joel - A native of nearby New Jersey, Billy Joel penned and sang this love song for New York, reportedly getting inspiration on a bus ride home. The geographical landmarks described in the song's lyrics add to its air of authenticity. There might not be another song that inspires a trip to the Big Apple more than this one.

"The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" Simon & Garfunkel - The first of two Simon & Garfunkel songs on this list. C'mon folks, you know you've walked down a street somewhere, seen a street lamp, and sung "Hello Lamppost, what ya knowin'?" You can't really stop yourself from humming the melody of this cute little song for about six days after you hear it once. As with all songs from this duo, the harmonies are just awe inspiring.

"Broadway" The Clash - Okay, full disclosure: I love The Clash and will put them on as many of these arbitrary lists as I possibly can. I'm sure that outside of fans of the band, not many would be able to sing a few bars of this song, but for me, it's a great little punk tune from one of the greatest punk bands of all time, so I hope you'll indulge me a moment.

"The Idiot Kings" Soul Coughing - Lyrical genius and front man of Soul Coughing Mike Doughty spun quite an awesome yarn with this song. Just as with Billy Joel, Doughty is not afraid to mention New York landmarks or neighborhoods in his lyrics. His solo work also is quite evocative of New York in general, as well. Doughty's strong work on this song makes it catchy and allows you to find new nuggets of awesome with repeat listening.

"The Boxer" Simon & Garfunkel - One of their most famous songs, this one has it all: harmonies, brilliant lyrics, and a compelling story. All of these factors make so many songs from this duo so great. Who doesn't love "I am just a poor boy, though my story's seldom told. I have squandered my existence for a pocket full of mumbles. Such are promises" as a lyric? The "Lie-la-lie" hook in the chorus helps to dig this song deep inside your ear canal and not let go. It's a beautiful song, for a wonderful city.