Newsies is a Broadway musical that was inspired by the Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City. The musical was first performed in 2011 and has been a hit ever since. One of the most popular songs in the musical is “King of New York.”
The Story Behind the Song
The Newsboys Strike of 1899 was a protest by newsboys who were upset about the high cost of newspapers. The newsboys, who were mostly young boys, would buy newspapers from publishers and then sell them on the streets to make a living. However, the publishers increased the price of the newspapers, which cut into the newsboys’ profits.
The newsboys decided to go on strike and refused to sell the newspapers. They formed a union and went on strike for two weeks. The strike gained national attention and eventually, the publishers agreed to lower the price of the newspapers.
The Lyrics
“King of New York” is one of the most popular songs in the Newsies musical. The song is sung by the newsboys after they have won their strike and are celebrating their victory. The lyrics are as follows:
“So that’s what they call a family
Mother, daughter, father, son
Guess that everything you heard about is true
So you ain’t got any family
Well, who said you needed one?
Ain’t you glad to be alive?
Ain’t you glad you’ve got a son?
Who’ll be king of New York?
King of the hill
Top of the heap
Say it loud and there’s music playing
Say it soft and it’s almost like praying
King of New York
Well, I gotta be either dead or dreamin’
‘Cause look at that pape with my face beamin’
Tomorrow they may wrap fishes in it,
But I was a star for one whole minute
Starin’ in my own newsreel
Now I know how George M. Cohan feels
Right on top of the world
And now, lookin’ down on creation
And the only explanation I can find
Is the love that I’ve found
Ever since you’ve been around
Your love’s put me at the top of the world
Something in the air has turned me on
Something in the air has turned me on
Something in the air has turned me on
Something in the air…
Why It’s So Popular
“King of New York” is a popular song because it captures the spirit of the newsboys and their victory. The song is upbeat and celebratory, and it’s easy to sing along to. The song also highlights the importance of friendship and camaraderie, which is a theme that is present throughout the musical.
The Newsies musical has been praised for its catchy songs, energetic dancing, and talented cast. The show has won multiple Tony Awards and has been a hit with audiences of all ages.
Conclusion
“King of New York” is a popular song from the Newsies musical. The song celebrates the victory of the newsboys and highlights the importance of friendship and camaraderie. The Newsies musical has been a hit with audiences of all ages, and it’s easy to see why. The show is energetic, entertaining, and full of catchy songs like “King of New York.”
