Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters
Elton John
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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 Lisas 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 While Mona Lisas 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 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 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 While Mona Lisas 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 They know not if it's dark outside or light
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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.
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Album HistoryThe 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.
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InspirationBernie 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.
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Song TitleThe 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.
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Musical StyleThe 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.
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Song SequelA 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.
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Movie UseThe 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."
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Cover versionsIt was covered by Indie rock band Mandy Moore as a track her sixth studio album "Wild Hope" in 2007.
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Critical ReceptionThe 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.
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Live PerformancesThis 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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Citation
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"Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 25 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/4278799/Elton+John/Mona+Lisas+and+Mad+Hatters>.
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