Composer

:

Richard Rodgers

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

First Performance

:

1951

Average_duration

:

3:08

"Manhattan" is a musical composition by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Lorenz Hart. It was composed in 1925 and premiered on Broadway in the musical "Garrick Gaieties" the same year. The song has since become a popular jazz standard and has been covered by numerous artists. The composition is in the key of F major and has a moderate tempo. It is a 32-bar song with an AABA form, meaning that the first and second sections are identical, while the third section provides a contrast before returning to the first section. The melody is characterized by its syncopated rhythms and chromaticism, which give it a jazzy feel. The lyrics of "Manhattan" describe the city as a place of excitement and glamour, where anything is possible. The song celebrates the energy and vitality of New York, with lines like "We'll have Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten / Island too / It's lovely going through the zoo." The lyrics also touch on the theme of love, with the narrator expressing his desire to share the city with his lover. "Manhattan" is one of Rodgers and Hart's most enduring compositions, and it has been covered by a wide range of artists, including Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, and Blossom Dearie. The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including Woody Allen's "Manhattan" and the TV series "Mad Men." Overall, "Manhattan" is a classic example of the Great American Songbook, with its catchy melody, clever lyrics, and timeless appeal. It remains a beloved tribute to the city that never sleeps and a testament to the enduring talent of Rodgers and Hart.

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