The Story of “New York, New York” — Sinatra’s Anthem to a City That Never Sleeps

It was the late 1970s, and the world was changing. New York City had seen its share of dark days — crime was high, the economy had slumped, and the once-glittering skyline felt a little dimmer. But the spirit of the city? It was still burning. All it needed was a new anthem — something bold, brassy, and unmistakably New York.

Enter “Theme from New York, New York.”
Originally written by John Kander and Fred Ebb for the 1977 Martin Scorsese film New York, New York, the song was first performed by Liza Minnelli. Her version had energy, showmanship, and Broadway pizazz — but it wasn’t until 1979, when Frank Sinatra wrapped his voice around it, that the song became an instant classic.

Frank, already a living legend, was no stranger to singing about cities and dreams. But this song — this song — felt different. It had swagger. It had soul. It didn’t just describe New York; it was New York. Bold, unapologetic, electric. When Sinatra belted out that iconic line — “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere” — it didn’t feel like a lyric. It felt like a challenge.

He debuted the song at Radio City Music Hall, and the crowd erupted. It was as if the city had just gotten its voice back.

From that point on, “New York, New York” became synonymous with the city. It played at Yankee Stadium after every win. It blared on New Year’s Eve in Times Square. It echoed from Broadway theaters and late-night taxis, a brass-and-swing love letter to the city of grit and glitter.

And Frank? He became more than just a singer of the song — he became a symbol of the city's confidence and resilience. The voice of a dreamer looking up at skyscrapers, daring to be a part of the story.

To this day, the song lives on, especially with Skip Brevis and Ryan Brahms at Bo Peep Cocktail & Highball Store, an underground cocktail bar with live music every night. Every time someone steps into the city for the first time — or leaves it with a tear in their eye — those opening notes play in their mind. “Start spreading the news…”

It’s not just a song. It’s a spirit.
It’s New York, New York and you are sure to feel the spirit of the song and New York City when you step through the doors of our underground cocktail piano bar in Midtown Manhattan, just steps away from Madison Square Garden and Penn Station.