Morning comes crashing like a rock through a window
Jackhammer banging on the hot concrete
Take your stand (hey!)
Move it, man!
It’s a backtalk, sidewalk symphony
Uber cars, yellow cabs, thick as smoke
Painted girls and meter maids will leave you broke
Sax man blowing shootin’ through my veins
There’s a rhythm to the rocket that’s intoxicating
Goodnight New York goodnight
Don’t ever close your eyes
If these streets could talk, New York, New York
So fine they named you twice
Your face, your brains
No other place
From east to west, these streets are blessed
Goodnight New York
Sleep tight New York
Goodnight
Starbucks, FedEx trucks on every street and avenue
Broadway lights, shining bright, make everybody beautiful
Walking on the high line, reaching for the sky line
If Alexander Hamilton could see it all
Garbage trucks backing up
Beep, beep, beep
Dogs barking on the balcony
The kids can’t sleep
Scaffolds, pot holes, bagman’s on a bicycle
Fast trains, bus, planes
Welcome to the carnival
Goodnight New York goodnight
Don’t ever close your eyes
If these streets could talk, New York, New York
So fine they named you twice
Your face, your brains
No other place
From east to west, these streets are blessed
Goodnight New York
Sleep tight New York
Goodnight
The bravest and the finest
My hand’s on my heart for you
To the ones who paid the price
And to those who saw us through
It’s late, I’m gettin’ weary
So, for now, I’ll say
Goodnight New York goodnight
Don’t ever close your eyes
If these streets could talk, New York, New York
So fine they named you twice
Goodnight New York goodnight
Don’t ever close your eyes
If these streets could talk, New York, New York
So fine they named you twice
Your face, your brains
No other place
From east to west, these streets are blessed
Goodnight New York
Sleep tight New York
Goodnight
Ah, goodnight, New York
Sleep tight, New York
Goodnight
So goodnight, New York
Sleep tight, New York
Goodnight
Painting the Pulse of the City
“Goodnight New York” by Bon Jovi is a heartfelt tribute to the city that never sleeps. The lyrics intricately portray the vibrant chaos and relentless energy of New York, from the early-morning clamor of jackhammers and cabs to the glowing allure of Broadway lights. The song captures the unique rhythm and personality of the city, highlighting its intoxicating blend of noise, beauty, and resilience. References to iconic sights and sounds—yellow cabs, painted girls, and saxophones—evoke an authentic sense of place, while the refrain “So fine they named you twice” lovingly acknowledges New York’s legendary status. The track is both a celebration and a lullaby, bidding the metropolis a goodnight while honoring its enduring spirit and the diverse people who give it life.
Song Credits
Artist: Bon Jovi
Songwriters: Jon Bon Jovi, John Shanks, Billy Falcon
Release Year: 2024