As a native Nutmegger, I’ve always felt that Connecticut’s rich tapestry of experiences and landscapes deserves more recognition in popular music. From the rolling hills of Litchfield County to the bustling streets of New Haven, our state has inspired countless artists to put pen to paper and create melodies that capture its essence.
In this playlist, I’m excited to share with you 10 songs that pay homage to the Constitution State.
Connecticut’s musical heritage is as diverse as its scenery. We’ve got tunes that echo our colonial past, sea shanties that speak to our maritime roots, and modern tracks that pulse with the energy of our cities. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, these songs offer a unique perspective on what makes Connecticut special.
Contents
- 1. “Connecticut Fun” by Punkestra
- 2. “Connecticut Snow” by David Stephens
- 3. “Connecticut Breakdown” by Lodeck
- 4. “Connecticut” by Superchunk
- 5. “Connecticut Oberek” by Jimmy Sturr
- 6. “Connecticut” by Judy Garland and Bing Crosby
- 7. “Connecticut” by Artie Shaw
- 8. “Yankee Doodle” (Connecticut State Song)
- 9. “The Wives Are In Connecticut” by Carly Simon
- 10. “Boola Boola” by Allan M. Hirsh
1. “Connecticut Fun” by Punkestra
“Connecticut Fun” by Punkestra is a punk rock anthem that has gained a cult following, particularly within the state of Connecticut. Recorded in 1983 by an informal group of Connecticut punk musicians, the song embodies the raw energy and simplicity characteristic of the punk genre. Its lyrics are straightforward and easy to rally behind, celebrating the punk scene in Connecticut and encouraging listeners to come out and enjoy the music.
The song features classic punk elements such as distorted guitars, handclaps, and vocals that sometimes border on spoken word. Despite its punk roots, “Connecticut Fun” maintains a relatively wholesome tone, which aligns well with Connecticut’s reputation as a tranquil and upstanding state. This unique blend of punk attitude and state pride has made the song a potential candidate for Connecticut’s official punk rock song, with state legislators considering it alongside other genres for official state song status.
2. “Connecticut Snow” by David Stephens
David Stephens’ “Connecticut Snow” is a folky and melancholic tune that paints a vivid picture of the harsh New England winters. The song combines a simple, timeless sensibility reminiscent of traditional Americana folk songs with modern recording techniques, resulting in a piece that feels both classic and contemporary.
In the lyrics, Stephens describes the experience of staying indoors to write a song while others brave the blizzard outside. He acknowledges the natural beauty of the snow-covered landscape but doesn’t shy away from portraying its potentially deadly nature. This juxtaposition of beauty and danger captures the essence of Connecticut’s winter season, resonating with those who have experienced the state’s challenging weather firsthand.
3. “Connecticut Breakdown” by Lodeck
“Connecticut Breakdown” by Lodeck is a captivating song that offers a unique perspective on life in Connecticut. The track showcases a blend of genres, incorporating elements of hip-hop and soulful melodies to create a rich, layered sound. Lodeck’s lyrics tell a compelling story about life in the state, offering listeners a glimpse into the cultural landscape of Connecticut.
The song’s production is intricate, rewarding attentive listening with headphones to fully appreciate its nuances. Throughout the track, Lodeck makes references to Connecticut landmarks and cultural touchstones, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. “Connecticut Breakdown” not only entertains but also provides insight into the emotions and experiences associated with life in the Constitution State, making it a standout entry in the canon of songs about Connecticut.
4. “Connecticut” by Superchunk
Superchunk’s song “Connecticut” is a vibrant indie rock anthem that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the state. Released as part of their extensive discography, the track showcases the band’s signature energetic guitar riffs and powerful vocals. Superchunk, formed in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 1989, brings their punk-influenced indie rock style to this tribute to the Constitution State.
The song’s lyrics and music work together to paint a vivid picture of Connecticut’s distinct culture and experiences. While it may not be as widely recognized as some of their other works, “Connecticut” resonates deeply with those familiar with the state, capturing its spirit in a way that only Superchunk’s raw and emotive style can achieve. This track demonstrates the band’s talent for creating place-specific music that goes beyond mere description, instead evoking the feeling and atmosphere of the location.
5. “Connecticut Oberek” by Jimmy Sturr
“Connecticut Oberek” by Jimmy Sturr is a lively and energetic composition that showcases the rich musical heritage of Connecticut while incorporating traditional Polish elements. The song is a unique blend of Connecticut’s cultural diversity and the polka music style that Jimmy Sturr is renowned for.
The “oberek” in the title refers to a fast, triple-meter Polish folk dance, suggesting that the song likely features a rapid, spirited tempo characteristic of this dance style. Sturr’s arrangement likely includes traditional Polish instruments such as the accordion, creating a vibrant soundscape that celebrates both Connecticut’s character and its Polish-American community.
To fully appreciate “Connecticut Oberek,” listeners are encouraged to immerse themselves in the vibrant music, letting the catchy melody and lively rhythm inspire movement. The song serves as a testament to Connecticut’s multicultural influences and the way different musical traditions have been woven into the state’s cultural fabric.
6. “Connecticut” by Judy Garland and Bing Crosby
“Connecticut” by Judy Garland and Bing Crosby is a charming duet that pays homage to the Nutmeg State. Released in 1954 as part of “The Best of Judy Garland and Bing Crosby” album, this traditional pop song brings together two of the most iconic voices of the mid-20th century.
The song exudes a nostalgic quality, evoking images of a bygone era in Connecticut’s history. Garland and Crosby’s harmonious vocals blend seamlessly, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of the state. While it may not be among their most well-known collaborations, “Connecticut” has a timeless charm that continues to resonate with listeners.
Legend has it that during the recording session, both Garland and Crosby were captivated by Connecticut’s beauty, which inspired them to create a melody that would encapsulate its essence. This anecdote, whether true or not, adds an extra layer of romance to the song’s origin. “Connecticut” stands as a testament to the state’s ability to inspire artists and serves as a delightful musical postcard from a golden age of American popular music.
7. “Connecticut” by Artie Shaw
Artie Shaw, the legendary jazz clarinetist and bandleader, composed and performed “Connecticut” as a tribute to his home state. This instrumental piece, released in the late 1930s, exemplifies Shaw’s virtuosic clarinet playing and his band’s tight, swinging arrangements. The song captures the essence of Connecticut’s landscapes and urban sophistication through its melodic structure and rhythmic patterns.
“Connecticut” features Shaw’s signature clarinet solos, which soar above the full band’s accompaniment, creating a musical portrait of the state’s rolling hills and bustling cities. The piece likely incorporates elements of swing and big band jazz, styles that were at the height of their popularity when Shaw was active. This composition not only showcases Shaw’s musical prowess but also serves as a lasting musical homage to Connecticut, reflecting the state’s cultural significance during the jazz age.
8. “Yankee Doodle” (Connecticut State Song)
“Yankee Doodle,” officially adopted as Connecticut’s state song in 1978, has a rich history dating back to the American Revolutionary War. Originally sung by British troops to mock American colonists, the song was embraced by the Americans and turned into a patriotic anthem. Its connection to Connecticut stems from its popularity among Connecticut troops during the war.
The lyrics of “Yankee Doodle” are whimsical and sometimes nonsensical, with the famous opening lines: “Yankee Doodle went to town / A-riding on a pony / Stuck a feather in his cap / And called it macaroni.” The term “Yankee Doodle” was initially used derisively by the British to describe the unsophisticated American colonists, but it was reclaimed as a point of pride.
As Connecticut’s state song, “Yankee Doodle” represents the state’s revolutionary spirit and its role in the founding of the United States. Its catchy melody and simple lyrics make it easy to sing and remember, contributing to its enduring popularity and official status.
9. “The Wives Are In Connecticut” by Carly Simon
Carly Simon’s “The Wives Are In Connecticut” is a poignant and introspective song that offers a glimpse into the lives of women in suburban Connecticut. Released on her 1985 album “Spoiled Girl,” the song showcases Simon’s storytelling abilities and her knack for capturing complex emotions in her lyrics.
The song paints a picture of affluent wives left behind in Connecticut while their husbands work in New York City. Simon’s lyrics delve into themes of loneliness, unfulfilled desires, and the hidden complexities of seemingly perfect lives. The chorus, “The wives are in Connecticut / The husbands are in town,” succinctly captures the geographical and emotional separation experienced by these women.
Musically, the song features Simon’s distinctive vocal style, accompanied by a sophisticated arrangement that blends elements of pop and soft rock. The melody and instrumentation work together to create a mood that reflects the bittersweet nature of the lyrics, making “The Wives Are In Connecticut” a nuanced exploration of suburban life in the state.
10. “Boola Boola” by Allan M. Hirsh
“Boola Boola,” composed by Allan M. Hirsh in 1901, is the unofficial fight song of Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut. This rousing tune has become an integral part of Yale’s traditions and, by extension, a significant piece of Connecticut’s cultural heritage.
The song’s title and main refrain, “Boola Boola,” are thought to be nonsense words chosen for their catchy sound and ease of shouting at sporting events. The lyrics celebrate Yale’s prowess and spirit, with lines like “Well here we are, well here we are / Just watch us rolling up a score / We’ll leave poor Harvard behind so far / They won’t want to play us anymore.”
“Boola Boola” is typically performed by the Yale Precision Marching Band at football games and other university events. Its upbeat tempo and simple, repetitive lyrics make it easy for crowds to join in, fostering a sense of community and school pride. While not officially about Connecticut as a whole, the song’s association with Yale has made it an important part of the state’s musical landscape, representing the academic excellence and traditions that Connecticut is known for.
Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.