Friday, September 7, 2012

Native New Yorker: Lillian Lopez R.I.P.


We start this September month on a sad note honoring the voice of the late Lillian Lopez who passed away this past Tuesday, September 4th at the age of 76 due to complications with cancer.  Ms. Lopez along with sister Louise formed the group Odyssey with singer Tony Reynolds.  The group didn't put that many albums but the few they did became instant dance floor classics.  Released in 1977, "Native New Yorker" is the "other" New York anthem in my book with lyrics that surprisingly still rings true about our beloved city.  The song was written by Sandy Linzer and Danny Randell for the group. It reached number five on the UK charts. In the US, the song went to number three on the disco chart. The song has been recorded by Frankie Valli, Esther Phillips and Black Box.   Nothing can beat the sultry voice passion of Ms. Lopez.  Your legacy will live on forever. 


Lillian Lopez 1936-2012



“Runnin’ pretty, New York City girl
Twenty-five, thirty-five
Hello, baby, New York City girl
You grew up ridin’ the subways, running with people
Up in Harlem, down on Broadway
You’re no tramp, but you’re no lady, talkin’ that street talk
You’re the heart and soul of New York City”

2 comments:

  1. Great song, and Use It Up and Wear It Out is a great party anthem too. RIP Lillian

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    1. Thanks for you comment and reminding me of "Use It Up"...another great one by them!

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