Sting

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I don't drink coffee, I'll take tea my dear
I like my toast done on one side
And you can hear it in my accent when I talk
I'm an Englishman in New York

[Verse 2]
See me walking down Fifth Avenue
A walking cane here at my side
I take it everywhere I walk
I'm an Englishman in New York

[Chorus]
Whoa
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York
Whoa
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York

[Verse 3]
If "manners maketh man" as someone said
Then he's the hero of the day
It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile
Be yourself, no matter what they say
[Chorus]
Whoa
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York
Whoa
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York

[Bridge]
Modesty, propriety, can lead to notoriety
You could end up as the only one
Gentleness, sobriety are rare in this society
At night a candle's brighter than the sun

[Saxophone solo followed by drums]

[Verse 4]
Takes more than combat gear to make a man
Takes more than a license for a gun
Confront your enemies, avoid them when you can
A gentleman will walk but never run

[Verse 3]
If "manners maketh man" as someone said
Then he's the hero of the day
It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile
Be yourself, no matter what they say
Be yourself, no matter what they say
Be yourself, no matter what they say
[Chorus]
Whoa
(Be yourself, no matter what they say)
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York
Whoa
(Be yourself, no matter what they say)
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York

[Outro]
Whoa
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
(Be yourself, no matter what they say)
Whoa
I'm an Englishman in New York
Whoa
I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
(Be yourself, no matter what they say)
I'm an Englishman in New York

If you're a fan of Sting, then you've probably heard of "Englishman in New York". This song is a classic that has stood the test of time, and it's easy to see why. From its catchy melody to its thoughtful lyrics, "Englishman in New York" is a song that captures the essence of Sting's artistry. In this article, we're going to take a closer look at this iconic track, exploring its origins, its meaning, and what it has come to represent in the world of music.

About Englishman in New York

Released as a single in 1988, "Englishman in New York" is one of Sting's most popular songs. The song's main subject was Quentin Crisp, a British writer who moved to New York City in his seventies. The track was inspired by a conversation that Sting had with Crisp over dinner, during which Crisp mused about committing a non-violent crime with a dash of style. From this conversation, Sting crafted a song that tells the story of a man who is living in a foreign land, feeling both out of place and alive.

One of the most notable features of "Englishman in New York" is its jazzy sound. The song features saxophonist Branford Marsalis, as well as drummer Manu Katché and percussionist Mino Cinelu, all of whom contribute to the song's unique jazz-infused vibe. This distinctive sound sets "Englishman in New York" apart from other Sting songs, and has helped to cement its reputation as a classic track in the world of music.

The lyrics of "Englishman in New York" are another reason why the song has endured. The track tells the story of a man who is living in a foreign country, struggling with the unfamiliarity of his surroundings. At the same time, the man revels in his sense of otherness, feeling both free and alone in a city that is not his own. The song's lyrics are thoughtful and evocative, capturing the bittersweet emotions that come with living in a foreign land.

The Meaning Behind Englishman in New York

At its core, "Englishman in New York" is a meditation on the nature of identity. The song explores what it means to live in a foreign land, and what it means to be an outsider. At the same time, the track celebrates the freedom that comes with being different - the freedom to be oneself, even if that means standing apart from the crowd.

As Sting has noted in interviews, the song was inspired by his friendship with Quentin Crisp, a man who lived life on his own terms. Crisp moved to New York City in his seventies, at a time when most people have settled down for good. By embracing his otherness, and by refusing to be defined by his age or his nationality, Crisp was able to live a life that was rich and fulfilling. In some ways, "Englishman in New York" is a tribute to Crisp, and to all the people who dare to be different.

The Legacy of Englishman in New York

Over the years, "Englishman in New York" has become more than just a song - it has become a cultural touchstone. The track has been covered by a variety of artists, from Marillion to Nelly Furtado, and it has appeared in numerous films and television shows. Part of the song's appeal is its universal message - the idea that it is possible to be yourself, even if that means standing apart from the crowd.

For many people, "Englishman in New York" is a song of empowerment - a song that reminds us that it's okay to be different, and that it's possible to thrive in a world that doesn't always understand us. And for fans of Sting, the song is a testament to his unique artistry, showcasing his ability to craft songs that are both catchy and meaningful.

The Bottom Line

"Englishman in New York" is a song that has stood the test of time, and it's easy to see why. With its jazzy sound, thoughtful lyrics, and universal message, the track is a classic that continues to inspire people all over the world. Whether you're a die-hard Sting fan or simply someone who appreciates great music, "Englishman in New York" is a song that is sure to resonate with you.

• Release Date: October 13, 1987
• Artist: Sting