An Englishman in New York

Godley & Creme

About An Englishman in New York

"An Englishman in New York" is a song by Godley & Creme, from their 1979 album Freeze Frame. It is memorable for an innovative self-produced music video which involved Godley singing in front of Creme, as Creme conducted mannequins dressed up as members of a 1930s big band orchestra. Released as a single, it charted in Germany (no. 25), Australia (no. 17), the Netherlands (no. 7) and Belgium (no. 4).


Year:
2003
5:51
263 

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I don't take coffee, I take tea, my dear
I like my toast done on one side
And you can hear it in my accent when I talk
I'm an Englishman in New York

See me walking down Fifth Avenue
A walking cane here at my side
I take it everywhere I walk
I'm an Englishman in New York

Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York
Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York

If "manners maketh man" as someone said
He's the hero of the day
It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile
Be yourself no matter what they say

Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York
Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien
I'm an Englishman in New York

Modesty, propriety can lead to notoriety
You could end up as the only one
Gentleness, sobriety are rare in this society
At night a candle's brighter than the sun

Takes more than combat gear to make a man
Takes more than a license for a gun
Confront your enemies, avoid them when you can
A gentleman will walk but never run

If "manners maketh man" as someone said
He's the hero of the day
It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile
Be yourself no matter what they say
Be yourself no matter what they say
Be yourself no matter what they say

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Godley & Creme

Godley & Creme were an English rock duo composed of Kevin Godley and Lol Creme. The pair began releasing albums as a duo after splitting from the pop band 10cc. In 1979 they directed their first music video for their own single "An Englishman in New York". After this, they became involved in directing videos for such artists as Ultravox, The Police, Duran Duran, Frankie Goes To Hollywood and Wang Chung, as well as directing the ground-breaking promo for their own "Cry" in 1985. The duo split at the end of the 1980s and have both been involved in music videos, TV commercials, and sporadic music projects since. more »

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Written by: Gordon Sumner

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


5 facts about this song

Song Information
"An Englishman in New York" is a song by the English musical duo Godley & Creme. - The song was released in 1979 as a single from their album "Freeze Frame." - It reached #42 on the UK Singles Chart and #51 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
Inspiration
The song was inspired by the life of the eccentric British writer, poet, and actor Quentin Crisp, who moved to New York City in the 1980s. - Quentin Crisp was known for his unique fashion sense and flamboyant personality, which influenced the lyrics and theme of the song.
Lyrics
The lyrics of "An Englishman in New York" reflect Crisp's experiences as an Englishman living in New York City, dealing with culture shock and prejudice. - The song's chorus contains the famous line, "I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien, I'm an Englishman in New York."
Reception
The song has been well-received by critics and audiences for its catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics. - It has been covered by various artists and featured in movies, television shows, and commercials.
Legacy
"An Englishman in New York" has become a cultural touchstone, representing the experience of being an outsider in a new environment. - The song's message of embracing one's uniqueness and individuality continues to resonate with listeners around the world.

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