Albany, the capital city of New York, has been a musical inspiration for countless songwriters and musicians over the years. From classic rock to indie folk, the essence of this city is captured in the lyrics, themes, and stories in these tunes.
Let’s look at the best songs about Albany.
“Albany” by Roger Whittaker
Song Year: 1981
Roger Whittaker’s single titled “Albany” is a soft ballad that praises the beauty of New York’s capital city. The song features Whittaker’s trademark baritone vocals and acoustic guitar, while the lyrics paint a picture of a peaceful city full of wonder.
“Let’s Have a Party, Albany” by David Allan and the Sharks
Song Year: 1986
Anyone who grew up in or around Albany knows the song “Let’s Have a Party, Albany.” Re-written by David Alland and performed by the Sharks, the revamped version of the song was recorded in 1986 for the city’s 300th anniversary. The lyrics are upbeat, optimistic and fun.
“Albany” by Kev Brown
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlIq2Ns_eQg
Song Year: 2005
American hip-hop producer and rapper Kev Brown includes the song “Albany” on his album I Do What I Do, released in 2005. The instrumental track features a laid-back, jazzy vibe, with smooth drums and a repetitive keyboard melody.
“Erie Canal” by Bruce Springsteen
Song Year: 1905
“Erie Canal” is a folk tune originally written in 1905 by Thomas S. Allen to commemorate the completion of the Erie Canal in 1825. Gaining popularity with its lyrics about the famous waterway, Bruce Springsteen recorded and released his version on his 2006 album We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions.
“Christmas in Albany” by The Reverberators
Song Year: 2011
American rock and rock group The Reverberators originated in Valatie, NY, about 20 miles outside Albany, which explains why their single “Christmas in Albany” perfectly encapsulates the holiday season. The song, released in 2011, features lyrics that reference local landmarks such as Washington Park and Madison, and Lark Streets.
While it’s not exactly a Christmas classic, it is reminiscent and appealing to Albany locals.
“Albany (The Egg)” by They Might Be Giants
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEMvriiWr4c
Song Year: 2005
Alternative rock band They Might Be Giants released the song “Albany (The Egg)” on their 1992 album Apollo 18 as a quirky tribute to The Egg. The Egg, an iconic Albany structure that houses The Center for the Performing Art performing arts center in Albany, New York, was completed in 1978 with an unusual egg-shaped design as part of a project to centralize New York’s workforce in the center of Albany.
They Might
“Capital Crew” by Once and For All
Song Year: 2004
“Capital Crew,” an anthem by Albany’s hardcore band Once and For All, is an energetic call to arms for people from the Capital District. It’s a catchy and powerful track that invites you to mosh and scream along. The lyrics are positive and call for a scene of unity in the Albany community.
“When Tulips Bloom Again” by Angela Bove
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbzig4BPoh8
Song Year: 2015
First written in the 1950s as the official tune for Albany’s annual Tulip Festival, “When Tulips Bloom Again,” the song quickly became a beloved part of the festival’s tradition. Folk-pop singer Angela Bove released this cover of the song in 2015.
“O Albany We Hope” by We Are Jeneric
Song Year: 2008
“O Albany We Hope” by We Are Jeneric is an appealing folk-rock song that speaks to the hope and potential of the city of Albany, New York, and its residents. The song features upbeat acoustic guitars, a driving drumbeat, and harmonized vocals, making it one of this list’s best songs and an unmissable hit among songs about Albany.
“Flutter and Wow” by Elvis Costello
Song Year: 2009
“Flutter and Wow” is a mix of country, folk, and rock styles written by Elvis Costello and released by Elvis Costello and The Imposters in 2009. While not one of Costello’s better-known pieces, its references to Albany and garage-style music make it a fan-favorite on many set lists.
“My City” by MIRK
Song Year: 2012
MIRK is an Albany-based alternative and hip-hop musical group founded in 2009. Their single “My City” is a hip-hop song that pays tribute to the city of Albany and its diverse neighborhoods and cultures. The song features samples of iconic Albany sounds and a driving beat that Albany music lovers will surely enjoy.
“Why Do They All Take the Night Boat to Albany?” by Al Jolson
Song Year: 1918
“Why Do They All Take the Night Boat to Albany?” was written by Joe Young and Sam M. Lewis but introduced by Al Jolson in the 1918 Winter Garden musical production of Sinbad. More than just an overnight boat ride from the Hudson River to Albany, the song references Albany as a destination for young romantics seeking fun and excitement.
“Boston Girl” by Chris Trapper
Song Year: 2005
“Boston Girl” by American singer and songwriter Chris Trapper is a folk-pop song about a woman from Boston who falls in love with a man from Albany. The lyrics depict Albany as the setting for the couple’s wedding and is one of a few songs focused on a romantic relationship and its connection to the capital of New York.
“My Dirty Stream (The Hudson River Song)” by Pete Seeger
Song Year: 1966
This Pete Seeger tune from his 1966 album God Bless the Grass is an environmental ode to the mighty Hudson River, which runs just on the other side of 787 in Albany. The song name-checks some upstate towns, like Glens Falls and Beacon, and serves as a call to action for preserving the body of water that is so important to the region.
“UAlbany Song” by Neil Roche
Song Year: 2010
This unique song was released in 2010 by (now graduate) UAlbany student Neil Roche. The catchy and entertaining tune is a spin off Asher Roth’s song “I Love College.” The song includes some profanity and it won’t appeal to everyone, but its powerful beat and lyrics pay tribute to UAlbany student life.
“The Fly That Rode From Buffalo” by Southern Culture on the Skids
Song Year: 1994
“The Fly That Rode From Buffalo” by Southern Culture on the Skids is a rockabilly song referencing Albany as part of the lyrics. It’s not the best-known song on this list, but it’s worth checking out if you love songs about Albany and are looking for some new music to listen to.
“Cold Hands From New York” by Gordon Lightfoot
Song Year: 1968
“Cold Hands From New York” is a song by Canadian folk singer Gordon Lightfoot that tells the story of an Albany native who decides to move to New York City and the sights and experiences he has when compared to Albany-living.
Top Songs About Albany, Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for songs and lyrics about New York’s capital city of Albany, these 17 songs showcase the diverse range of musical styles and perspectives. From romantic ballads to rollicking rock tunes, these songs capture the spirit and energy of the city, offering a glimpse into its history, culture, and people.
Whether you’re a lifelong Albany resident or just passing through, these songs provide a unique and unforgettable soundtrack to the city’s rich tapestry of life.