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Published -
- March 19, 2020
- 6:58 pm
New Yorkers Sing Together Out Windows
As coronavirus restrictions went into effect in New York City, neighbors spread joy by singing The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” with one another from their apartment windows.
How does the singalong movement compare to other instances of musical expressions of solidarity in New York’s history?
Amidst the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, New York City, known for its resilience, is once again demonstrating its strength and unity in the face of adversity. Over the past few weeks, as the city has been on lockdown and people have been isolating themselves to curb the spread of the deadly virus, something extraordinary has been happening. From Brooklyn to the Bronx, from Queens to Manhattan, New Yorkers have been coming together to sing and make music from their apartment windows every night at 7 PM.
The initiative began in Naples, Italy, as a way for people to show solidarity and support for the doctors, nurses, and first responders working tirelessly to fight the Coronavirus outbreak. Soon it caught on in other parts of Italy, then in Spain, and finally, it made its way to New York City. What started as a small act of positivity has grown into a city-wide movement, with thousands of residents participating every night.
The songs chosen by the New Yorkers are a mix of classics like “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys, “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra, and “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers, as well as newer hits like “Shallow” from A Star Is Born and “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey. The music echoes through the empty streets, filling the city with a sense of hope and togetherness.
Singalongs have always been a part of New York’s cultural history. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, impromptu singalongs broke out across the city, bringing people together in a moment of profound grief and solidarity. This time, too, the singalongs have become a symbol of New York’s resilience and determination to overcome the challenges posed by the Coronavirus pandemic.
The singalongs have been capturing the attention of the world, with videos of the performances circulating on social media, spreading joy and hope far beyond the five boroughs of New York City. They have been featured in media outlets like the BBC, The New York Times, and The Guardian, highlighting the spirit of New York City, which refuses to be defeated by any challenge, no matter how daunting.
The Coronavirus pandemic has tested the resilience and spirit of New Yorkers in ways that few disasters have done before. But as the singalongs demonstrate, the people of New York City have come together, even while keeping a safe distance, to support one another, show gratitude to the essential workers, and spread hope and joy. It is a testament to the power of music, the indomitable human spirit, and the ethos of New York City that the city is able to find light in the midst of the darkness. The singalongs may not cure the virus, but they remind us that even in the darkest of times, we can find a way to come together and lift each other up.
