Native New Yorker

Odyssey's 'Native New Yorker' is a soulful tribute to the quintessential New York City girl, capturing the essence of life in the bustling metropolis. The song paints a vivid picture of a woman who has grown up amidst the vibrancy and chaos of New York City. She is portrayed as a resilient and street-smart individual, navigating the city's subways and streets from Harlem to Broadway. The lyrics emphasize her duality—she's neither a tramp nor a lady, but rather the embodiment of the city's heart and soul.

The song delves into the fleeting nature of love in the city, describing it as a 'passing word' that often gets left behind, much like a thought forgotten in a taxi cab. This metaphor highlights the transient and often superficial nature of relationships in a fast-paced urban environment. The mention of East 83rd Street adds a touch of specificity, grounding the narrative in a real place within the city. The chorus, repeating 'You're a native New Yorker,' serves as both a celebration and a reminder of the protagonist's deep-rooted connection to the city and its unique challenges.

As the song progresses, it touches on themes of nostalgia and disillusionment. The protagonist reminisces about a time when she believed in the fairy-tale romance of Broadway shows, only to find that reality has closed those doors. This sense of lost innocence and the harsh truths of city life are encapsulated in the line, 'No one opens the door for a native New Yorker.' Despite these challenges, the song maintains a sense of pride and resilience, celebrating the indomitable spirit of those who call New York City home.