Here's the video to what some people are calling NYC's new hip hop anthem, Jay-Z's Empire State of Mind (dir. Hype Williams). While I may not agree that it trumps its original namesake, Nas' N.Y. State of Mind, it is without a doubt a well done song. Jay-Z is spot-on with his lyrics on his own New York experience and Alicia Keys drops probably the best vocal chorus I've heard this year. The song accomplishes its goal of painting a descriptive and evocative picture of life in NYC during the 80s and 90s and Alicia's descending piano chord progressions coat the entire thing in a very nostalgic feel. The video itself features pictures and video clips of various locations and landmarks throughout NYC's five boroughs from iconic Rockefeller Center and Times Square to less recognized locations like Jay's Sports in Harlem.
11/1/09
Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys - Empire State of Mind video
Here's the video to what some people are calling NYC's new hip hop anthem, Jay-Z's Empire State of Mind (dir. Hype Williams). While I may not agree that it trumps its original namesake, Nas' N.Y. State of Mind, it is without a doubt a well done song. Jay-Z is spot-on with his lyrics on his own New York experience and Alicia Keys drops probably the best vocal chorus I've heard this year. The song accomplishes its goal of painting a descriptive and evocative picture of life in NYC during the 80s and 90s and Alicia's descending piano chord progressions coat the entire thing in a very nostalgic feel. The video itself features pictures and video clips of various locations and landmarks throughout NYC's five boroughs from iconic Rockefeller Center and Times Square to less recognized locations like Jay's Sports in Harlem.
