19 Songs About Brooklyn

Exploring songs about Brooklyn unveils a rich tapestry of tracks that embody the essence of this vibrant New York City borough. From hip-hop anthems to soulful ballads, artists across genres have been inspired by Brooklyn’s unique culture, history, and energy, creating a diverse playlist that celebrates its influence.

1. “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” by Beastie Boys

“No Sleep Till Brooklyn” by Beastie Boys isn’t just a song; it’s a cultural landmark that pays homage to Brooklyn’s vibrant scene. Blending rock and hip-hop, it broke barriers and left an indelible mark on the music world, celebrating Brooklyn’s dynamic and indomitable spirit.

2. “Brooklyn’s Finest” by Jay-Z with the Notorious B.I.G.

The collaboration on “Brooklyn’s Finest” between Jay-Z and the Notorious B.I.G. is a monumental chapter in hip hop, showcasing the unparalleled talents of Brooklyn’s very own legends. Their lyrical prowess and mutual respect shine through, solidifying the song’s legacy as a tribute to the borough’s significant impact on the genre.

3. “Brooklyn Go Hard” by Jay-Z featuring Santigold

“Brooklyn Go Hard” by Jay-Z featuring Santigold serves as a powerful anthem that encapsulates the toughness and resilience of Brooklyn. Through its compelling lyrics and dynamic collaboration, the song celebrates the unyielding spirit and enduring strength of the borough and its inhabitants.

4. “Crooklyn” by Crooklyn Dodgers

The “Crooklyn” song by Crooklyn Dodgers paints a vivid narrative of life in Brooklyn, weaving through its streets with lyrics that are as culturally rich as the borough itself. Its references to daily life, struggles, and triumphs offer a window into the soul of Brooklyn, capturing its essence through the lens of hip hop.

5. “The Place Where We Dwell” by Gang Starr

“The Place Where We Dwell” by Gang Starr delivers a unique perspective on Brooklyn, showcasing how the borough’s vibrant culture and complex realities have profoundly influenced their music. It’s a lyrical tribute to the place they call home, highlighting its role in shaping their artistic vision and sound.

6. “Where Brooklyn At” by Notorious B.I.G.

The live freestyle “Where Brooklyn At” by Notorious B.I.G. has ascended to iconic status, embodying the immense pride associated with Brooklyn. Its spontaneous energy and raw lyrical prowess capture the essence of the borough, showcasing Biggie’s love for his roots and inspiring a sense of community and identity among listeners.

7. “Brooklyn Zoo” by Ol’ Dirty Bastard

“Brooklyn Zoo” by Ol’ Dirty Bastard perfectly encapsulates the chaotic energy and rawness that ODB was known for, mirroring the hustle and vibrancy of Brooklyn itself. The song is a testament to the borough’s gritty essence, with ODB’s unique style paying homage to the undying spirit of his Brooklyn roots.

8. “Coney Island” by Death Cab for Cutie

“Coney Island” by Death Cab for Cutie offers a melancholic portrayal of this iconic Brooklyn location, standing in stark contrast to the more upbeat anthems dedicated to the borough. Through introspective lyrics and a somber melody, the song captures the nostalgia and bittersweet sentiments associated with Coney Island’s past and present.

9. “Brooklyn-Queens” by 3rd Bass

“Brooklyn-Queens” by 3rd Bass delves into the complex dynamics of rivalry and unity between Brooklyn and Queens, artistically narrating the interconnectedness of these two New York City boroughs. Through clever wordplay and engaging storytelling, the song highlights the cultural exchange and competitive spirit that define both locales, ultimately celebrating their shared history and contributions to hip hop.

10. “Brooklyn Girls” by Charles Hamilton

“Brooklyn Girls” by Charles Hamilton is a vibrant celebration of Brooklyn’s women, lauding their strength, independence, and distinct qualities. Through its upbeat rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, the song pays homage to the remarkable women who embody the spirit and resilience of Brooklyn, showcasing their integral role in the fabric of the borough.

11. “An Open Letter to NYC” by Beastie Boys

“An Open Letter to NYC” by Beastie Boys is a poignant love letter to New York City, with special nods to Brooklyn woven throughout the lyrics. This track eloquently captures the trio’s deep connection and affection for their hometown, celebrating its diversity, resilience, and the irreplaceable sense of belonging it provides to its inhabitants.

12. “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z with Alicia Keys

“Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z with Alicia Keys is a grand tribute to New York City, yet it thoughtfully includes verses that specifically shout out Brooklyn, affirming its vital influence on the city’s identity. Through these lyrical nods, the song acknowledges the borough’s rich history, cultural diversity, and its undeniable impact on shaping the essence of New York City.

13. “Brooklyn Roads” by Neil Diamond

“Brooklyn Roads” by Neil Diamond is a deeply nostalgic journey through the artist’s childhood in Brooklyn, reflecting on the memories and experiences that shaped him. Through tender lyrics and heartfelt melody, the song paints a vivid picture of growing up in the borough, evoking a sense of longing and appreciation for a time and place that remains close to his heart.

14. “Bushwick Blues” by Delta Spirit

“Bushwick Blues” by Delta Spirit captures the raw emotions and complexities of love and life within Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood. Through its evocative lyrics and compelling melody, the song delves into the personal experiences that are intertwined with the vibrant, yet often challenging, backdrop of Bushwick, offering a poignant glimpse into the hearts of those who call it home.

15. “Bucktown” by Smif-N-Wessun

“Bucktown” by Smif-N-Wessun dives into the gritty side of Brooklyn, providing a raw and unfiltered view that has cemented its role in the hardcore hip hop scene. Through stark narratives and rugged beats, the song portrays the challenges and resilience of life in Brooklyn, highlighting the borough’s significant influence on the gritty realism characteristic of 90s hip hop.

16. “Brooklyn Bound” by The Black Keys

“Brooklyn Bound” by The Black Keys is a blues-rock ode to the allure and mystique of Brooklyn, capturing the anticipation and excitement of journeying towards the borough. With its gritty guitar riffs and earnest vocals, the track pays homage to Brooklyn’s raw charm and the magnetic pull it exerts on those drawn to its streets.

17. “Top Billin” by Audio Two

“Top Billin” by Audio Two has risen to iconic status, becoming an anthem that resonates deeply with Brooklyn’s spirit and its impact on the hip hop genre. With its distinctive beat and memorable lines, the track showcases the innovative edge of Brooklyn’s music scene, influencing countless artists and solidifying its place in hip hop history.

18. “Hello Brooklyn” by Beastie Boys

The Beastie Boys’ track “Hello Brooklyn” is yet another testament to the group’s enduring celebration of their home borough throughout their career. Through its energetic beats and playful lyrics, the song exemplifies the trio’s deep connection to Brooklyn and their consistent homage to its culture, energy, and influence on their music.

19. “Brooklyn Baby” by Lana Del Rey

“Brooklyn Baby” by Lana Del Rey offers an ironic and stylistic portrayal of Brooklyn’s hipster culture, cleverly highlighting its contrasts and idiosyncrasies. Through her trademark sultry vocals and lush instrumentation, Del Rey crafts a nuanced ode to the borough, simultaneously celebrating and critiquing the unique lifestyle and attitudes that define its modern ethos.