Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters

Elton John

About Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters

"Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" is a song from the Elton John album Honky Château. The lyrics were written by Bernie Taupin and is his take on New York City after hearing a gun go off near his hotel window during his first visit to the city. The song's lyrics were partly inspired by Ben E. King's "Spanish Harlem," written by Jerry Leiber and Phil Spector, in which he sings "There is a rose in Spanish Harlem." In response to this, Taupin writes, Now I knowSpanish Harlem are not just pretty words to sayI thought I knew,but now I know that rose trees never grow in New York City. Allmusic critic Stewart Mason noted that the song is "less saccharine than many similar Elton John and Bernie Taupin ballads" and praised the "somewhat uncharacteristic emotional directness" of its lyrics. It was released as the B-side of the "Harmony" U. K. single in 1980. Rolling Stone magazine's Jon Landau praised the song when it was released, writing: Elton John himself called the song "one of my all-time favourites" when introducing it at his 60th-birthday concert in New York's Madison Square Garden. He also delivered a heartfelt rendition at "The Concert for New York City" at Madison Square Garden on 20 October 2001. The concert was meant primarily as a tribute for family members and fellow workers of New York's Fire and Police and Emergency Medical Services departments, who had been participating in the ongoing recovery efforts at the demolished World Trade Center complex following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001. John dedicated the song to the emergency workers and their families, as well as to New York City. 


Year:
2000
52 

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And now I know
Spanish Harlem are not just pretty words to say
I thought I knew
But now I know that rose trees never grow in New York City

Until you've seen this trash can dream come true
You stand at the edge while people run you through
And I thank the Lord there's people out there like you
I thank the Lord there's people out there like you

While Mona Lisa's and Mad Hatters
Sons of bankers, sons of lawyers
Turn around and say good morning to the night
For unless they see the sky
But they can't and that is why
They know not if it's dark outside or light

This Broadway's got
It's got a lot of songs to sing
If I knew the tunes I might join in
I'll go my way alone
Grow my own, my own seeds shall be sown in New York City

Subway's no way for a good man to go down
Rich man can ride and the hobo he can drown
And I thank the Lord for the people I have found
I thank the Lord for the people I have found

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Elton John

Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. more »

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Written by: Bernie Taupin, Elton John

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Songwriter and Composer
"Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" was written by Elton John and his long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin. Elton John composed the music while Bernie Taupin wrote the lyrics.
Album History
The song is part of Elton John's 1972 album "Honky Château." This was the musician's 5th studio album and considered one of his best.
Inspiration
Bernie Taupin was inspired to write the lyrics of the song after hearing a gunshot outside his hotel in New York City - this led him to reflect on the contrast between the romanticized view of America and the harsh realities.
Song Title
The title "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" is thought to be a reference to the dichotomy between the rich and the poor in the city of New York. The “Mona Lisas” denote the wealthy and privileged while the “Mad Hatters” symbolize the crazy, unsettled, and less fortunate who are often overlooked.
Musical Style
The song is stylistically infused with a blend of folk and Americana music. It also features the use of a harmonium, an instrument somewhat similar to an organ, which gives the song a unique sound.
Song Sequel
A sequel to the original song, named "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)", was included on Elton John's 1988 album "Reg Strikes Back." This continuation of the song carries forward similar themes from the original, but is musically very different.
Movie Use
The song has been featured in several films. The most notable film is "Almost Famous" directed by Cameron Crowe. It's also used in the movies "Rocketman," a biographical musical film based on the life of Elton John, and "The Devil's Advocate."
Cover versions
It was covered by Indie rock band Mandy Moore as a track her sixth studio album "Wild Hope" in 2007.
Critical Reception
The song is one that fans and critics have often hailed as one of Elton John's underappreciated gems, often noting it as a standout from the "Honky Château" album.
Live Performances
This song is irregularly performed in concerts by Elton John. However, it's often specifically requested by fans in his concerts due to its emotional impact.

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