New York City—a dazzling metropolis of dreams, grit, and endless creativity. Over the decades, NYC has been more than a backdrop for iconic music videos; it’s been a collaborator, a muse, and sometimes the star of the show. From the glowing lights of Times Square to the serene walkways of Central Park, and hidden gems in the outer boroughs; the city has helped craft unforgettable visual moments in music history. With music as part of our DNA we couldn’t resist spotlighting a few of our favorite music videos filmed in New York City.
“Empire State of Mind” - Jay Z and Alicia Keys
Starting off with the city’s unofficial anthem and sung by NYC locals, this music video was shot around the corner from our hotel in Times Square. Shot in black and white, the video pays tribute to Woody Allen’s Manhattan and Jules Dassin’s Naked City, both of which capture the essence of New York City.
“My Happy Ending” - Avril Lavigne
While millennials are all too familiar with this early 2000s song, they may not know that most of it was filmed in Brooklyn. The video opens with Avril Lavigne running down Broadway before entering the Commodore Theater where she is confronted with a movie of her past relationship. Unlike the theater, this song has only gotten better with age.
“Bad” - Michael Jackson
Debuting in 1987, “Bad” marks Michael Jackson’s edgier image. Positioned as a short film, the 18-minute video is based off a true story plus has several references to the 1961 film West Side Story. The iconic dance sequence was filmed at the Hoyt-Schermerhorn subway station with additional scenes filmed in Harlem.
“Feather” - Sabrina Carpenter
Known for her iconic outros, “Feather” was filmed at Our Lady of Mount Carmel-Annunciation Parish in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Celebrating the freedom that comes with ending toxic relationships, “Feather” is the ultimate break-up song.
“Secret” - Madonna
For an 80s bad girl looking to tone down her image, Madonna sought to shift from dance tracks and melodic ballads to a blend of Pop and R&B. Released in 1994, “Secrets” symbolizes a musical shift done on her terms. Filmed over the course of 3 days in a jazz club on Lennox Avenue in Harlem, it represents a contrasts between Madonna’s aura at the time and the neighborhood.
“Waiting on a Friend” - The Rolling Stones
NYC locals and fans of The Rolling Stones might recognize the stoop of 96-98 St. Mark's Place from their 1981 hit “Waiting on a Friend.” Located in the heart of the East Village, this street is famed for its gritty and authentic feel which juxtaposes with the song about living a more refined life.
“An Open Letter To NYC” - the Bestie Boys
Music has the power to heal in a moment of tragedy. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the hometown group Bestie Boys, released “An Open Letter to NYC” as part of the album To The 5 Boroughs. It’s an ode to their hometown while also implying there are deeper flaws in the system that need to be address.
We know that music is life and we infuse that life into every experience you’ll have as our guest. Ignite your inner artist with the Sound of Your Stay®, our signature amenity program, and enjoy music as it was intended. Recreate scenes from favorite video with guitar delivery as part of Picks® or sing along to your favorite tune with Wax® and enjoy a set of vinyl records curated to your mood.
