17 Best Songs About Albany

Albany, the capital city of New York, has been a musical inspiration for countless songwriters and musicians over the years. From classic rock to indie folk, the essence of this city is captured in the lyrics, themes, and stories in these tunes.

Let’s look at the best songs about Albany.

“Albany” by Roger Whittaker

Song Year: 1981

Roger Whittaker’s single titled “Albany” is a soft ballad that praises the beauty of New York’s capital city. The song features Whittaker's trademark baritone vocals and acoustic guitar, while the lyrics paint a picture of a peaceful city full of wonder.

“Let's Have a Party, Albany” by David Allan and the Sharks

Song Year: 1986

Anyone who grew up in or around Albany knows the song “Let’s Have a Party, Albany.” Re-written by David Alland and performed by the Sharks, the revamped version of the song was recorded in 1986 for the city’s 300th anniversary. The lyrics are upbeat, optimistic and fun.

“Albany” by Kev Brown

Song Year: 2005

American hip-hop producer and rapper Kev Brown includes the song “Albany” on his album I Do What I Do, released in 2005. The instrumental track features a laid-back, jazzy vibe, with smooth drums and a repetitive keyboard melody.

“Erie Canal” by Bruce Springsteen

Song Year: 1905

“Erie Canal” is a folk tune originally written in 1905 by Thomas S. Allen to commemorate the completion of the Erie Canal in 1825. Gaining popularity with its lyrics about the famous waterway, Bruce Springsteen recorded and released his version on his 2006 album We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions.

“Christmas in Albany” by The Reverberators

Song Year: 2011

American rock and rock group The Reverberators originated in Valatie, NY, about 20 miles outside Albany, which explains why their single “Christmas in Albany” perfectly encapsulates the holiday season. The song, released in 2011, features lyrics that reference local landmarks such as Washington Park and Madison, and Lark Streets.

While it’s not exactly a Christmas classic, it is reminiscent and appealing to Albany locals. 

“Albany (The Egg)” by They Might Be Giants

Song Year: 2005

Alternative rock band They Might Be Giants released the song “Albany (The Egg)” on their 1992 album Apollo 18 as a quirky tribute to The Egg. The Egg, an iconic Albany structure that houses The Center for the Performing Art performing arts center in Albany, New York, was completed in 1978 with an unusual egg-shaped design as part of a project to centralize New York’s workforce in the center of Albany.

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“Capital Crew” by Once and For All

Song Year: 2004

“Capital Crew,” an anthem by Albany's hardcore band Once and For All, is an energetic call to arms for people from the Capital District. It’s a catchy and powerful track that invites you to mosh and scream along. The lyrics are positive and call for a scene of unity in the Albany community.

“When Tulips Bloom Again” by Angela Bove

Song Year: 2015

First written in the 1950s as the official tune for Albany’s annual Tulip Festival, “When Tulips Bloom Again,” the song quickly became a beloved part of the festival’s tradition. Folk-pop singer Angela Bove released this cover of the song in 2015.

“O Albany We Hope” by We Are Jeneric

Song Year: 2008

“O Albany We Hope” by We Are Jeneric is an appealing folk-rock song that speaks to the hope and potential of the city of Albany, New York, and its residents. The song features upbeat acoustic guitars, a driving drumbeat, and harmonized vocals, making it one of this list's best songs and an unmissable hit among songs about Albany.

“Flutter and Wow” by Elvis Costello

Song Year: 2009

“Flutter and Wow” is a mix of country, folk, and rock styles written by Elvis Costello and released by Elvis Costello and The Imposters in 2009. While not one of Costello’s better-known pieces, its references to Albany and garage-style music make it a fan-favorite on many set lists.