About the song
“You Belong to the City,” performed by Glenn Frey, is a captivating anthem that captures the essence of urban life and longing. Released in 1985 as part of the “Miami Vice” television soundtrack and later featured on Frey’s solo album “The Allnighter,” the song quickly became one of his most iconic hits.
Written by Frey and frequent collaborator Jack Tempchin, “You Belong to the City” embodies the gritty energy and allure of metropolitan landscapes. Its pulsating rhythm, sultry saxophone solos, and Frey’s smooth vocals create a mesmerizing soundscape that transports listeners to the bustling streets and neon-lit alleyways of the city.
Upon its release, “You Belong to the City” soared to the top of the charts, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying in the top ten for several weeks. The song’s success was further solidified by its inclusion in the hit television series “Miami Vice,” where it served as the show’s theme song and perfectly complemented its stylish and atmospheric vibe.
The album “The Allnighter” itself was a commercial success, showcasing Frey’s talents as a solo artist following his tenure with the Eagles. “You Belong to the City” stands out as a highlight of the album, earning critical acclaim and becoming a staple in Frey’s live performances.
For fans of Glenn Frey and lovers of 80s music, “You Belong to the City” remains a timeless classic. Its evocative lyrics and infectious melody continue to resonate, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the urban landscapes of the past. Whether heard on the radio, in a movie soundtrack, or in the streets of a bustling metropolis, “You Belong to the City” is a reminder of the enduring allure and complexity of city life.
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Lyrics
The Sun goes down, the night rolls in
You can feel it starting all over again
The moon comes up and the music calls
You’re getting tired of staring at the same four walls
You’re out of your room and down on the street
You can feel the crowds in the midnight heat
The traffic roars, the sirens scream
Look at the faces, it’s just like a dream
Nobody knows where you’re going
Nobody cares where you’ve been
‘Cause you belong to the city
You belong to the night
Living in a river of darkness beneath the neon light
You were born in the city
Concrete under your feet
It’s in your moves, it’s in your blood
You’re a man of the street
When you said goodbye you were on the run
Tryin’ to get away from the things you’ve done
Now you’re back again and you’re feeling strange
So much has happened, but nothing has changed
Still don’t know where you’re going
You’re still just a face in the crowd
You belong to the city
You belong to the night
Living in a river of darkness beneath the neon light
You were born in the city
Concrete under your feet
It’s in your blood, it’s in your moves
For a man of the streets
You can feel it
You can taste it
You can see it
You can face it
You can hear it, yeah
You’re getting near it
You wanna make it, ooh-ooh
‘Cause you can take it, ooh-ooh
You belong to the city
You belong to the night
You belong to the city
You belong to the night
You belong
You belong