About the song
Jim Croce, a folk singer renowned for his storytelling abilities and heartfelt lyrics, penned “New York’s Not My Home” as a poignant farewell to the city that had once been his home. This bittersweet ballad, released in 1972, became a popular addition to Croce’s live performances and a beloved song among his dedicated fanbase.
With his distinctive raspy voice and intimate delivery, Croce paints a vivid picture of a man struggling to find his place in the bustling metropolis. The song delves into themes of loneliness, longing, and the search for a sense of belonging. Through introspective lyrics and Croce’s emotive vocals, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
The opening lines, “New York, New York, you’re a concrete jungle,” set the stage for a song that explores the challenges and frustrations of city life. Croce acknowledges the city’s allure and its promise of opportunity, but he also expresses a sense of isolation and disillusionment. The song’s refrain, “New York’s not my home, I’m just a stranger here,” conveys a longing for a simpler life and a desire to return to his roots.
Throughout the song, Croce uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate his search for a place to call home. He references the “lonely streets” and the “crowded faces” that he encounters, and he contemplates the fleeting nature of time. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the past, while also expressing a hope for a brighter future.
“New York’s Not My Home” is more than just a farewell song; it is a testament to the human experience of searching for belonging and finding one’s place in the world. Croce’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the importance of connection, community, and the search for meaning in life. This timeless classic continues to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder that the pursuit of home is a universal journey.
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Lyrics
Well, things were spinning round me
And all my thoughts were cloudy
And I had begun to doubt all the things that were me
Been in so many places
You know I’ve run so many races
And looked into the empty faces of the people of the night
And something is just not right
‘Cause I know that I gotta get out of here
I’m so alone
Don’t you know that I gotta get out of here
‘Cause, New York’s not my home
Though all the streets are crowded
There’s something strange about it
I lived there about a year and I never once felt at home
I thought I’d make the big time
I learned a lot of lessons awful quick
And now I’m telling you
That they were not the nice kind
And it’s been so long since I have felt fine
That’s the reason that I gotta get out of here
I’m so alone
Don’t you know that I gotta get out of here
‘Cause New York’s not my home
That’s the reason that I gotta get out of here
I’m so alone
Don’t you know that I gotta get out of here
‘Cause New York’s not my home