The Big Apple's Soundtrack: A Hilarious Hunt for NYC's Theme Song
Ah, New York City. The city that never sleeps (except maybe on a Tuesday afternoon). The concrete jungle where dreams are made of... or at least where you spend all your money on rent hoping to make those dreams someday. But what about the soundtrack? Every great city needs a theme song, right?
Hold on to your subway straps, folks, because we're about to dive into the musical melting pot that is NYC's anthems!
| What Song Is About New York | 
The Classics: Oldies But Goldies That Still Rule the Sidewalk
- (Theme From) New York, New York by Frank Sinatra: This one's a no-brainer. It's practically tattooed on the Statue of Liberty's arm (although that might be a health code violation). If you're hailing a cab and belting this out at the top of your lungs, you're doing New York right. 
- Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys: This modern classic captures the city's hustle and heart. Just be prepared for some serious deja vu – this song seems to be playing everywhere you go in NYC, from bodegas to elevators. 
Pro Tip: Don't be fooled by the title. There's a good chance you'll hear this jam anywhere with a decent internet connection. New York might be the city that never sleeps, but apparently, this song does.
The Underdogs: Songs That Deserve a Spotlight (Because Let's Face It, Rent Ain't Cheap)
- **Welcome To New York (Taylor's Version) by Taylor Swift: Sure, it might be a little bubblegum pop for a city that runs on grit, but hey, it's catchy! Plus, bonus points for name-dropping iconic landmarks like "bodegas dripping with fluorescents." 
- **New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down by LCD Soundsystem: Let's be honest, New York isn't always sunshine and rainbows. This song perfectly captures the love-hate relationship we all have with this crazy city. 
Side Note: This song might make you want to move to, well, anywhere with slightly more personal space. But hey, at least your commute won't be as long (probably).
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
So, what's the verdict?
There's no single song that perfectly captures the chaotic symphony of New York City. It all depends on the vibe you're feeling, whether you're chasing dreams or dodging rogue hot dog carts.
_But hey, that's the beauty of New York, right? It's a city that's always changing, always surprising, and always has a song (or ten) to fit the mood.
New York Soundtrack FAQs
How to pick the perfect New York song?
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
Easy! Just channel your inner New Yorker. Feeling optimistic? Blast "Empire State of Mind." Need to vent about the subway delays? "New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down" is your jam.
How to avoid having "Empire State of Mind" stuck in your head for days?
This one's a tricky one. Maybe try listening to it backwards? Or wear earplugs everywhere you go? (Although that might not be the best strategy for navigating rush hour traffic.)
Tip: Reading on mobile? Zoom in for better comfort.
How to convince your friends that YOUR song is the true New York anthem?
The key is passion! Belt it out with conviction, maybe even throw in some interpretive dance moves. Who knows, you might just start a trend.
How to write your own New York City song?
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
Just grab your pen (or open your voice memo app) and let the inspiration flow. Sing about the pigeons, the overpriced coffee, the never-ending lines – the possibilities are endless!
How to deal with the existential dread of realizing there are probably hundreds of songs about New York City?
Retail therapy! Treat yourself to a slice of New York's finest pizza (just avoid singing "Empire State of Mind" while you eat it...we've already established that one gets stuck in your head easily).