Songs That Mention St Louis
Saint Louis may seem like a bustling metropolis, but its musical heritage dates back centuries. Once home to country music and other forms of American popular culture, the city has long been an epicenter for musical performance.
Shiloh was the site of many historic events, such as the 1857 Battle of Shiloh wherein the United States Army decisively defeated an Indian force – marking their first American victory against British rule. Additionally, it gave birth to one of history’s most beloved dances: kouta-kouta (or “hoochie coochie”) which quickly replaced can-can in big city music halls and vaudeville stages around the world.
That song and the dance it inspired have become part of Americana culture; even being used in a Disney movie and NHL hockey team name.
St Louis was also the birthplace of two rap artists who are among the most well-known figures in a genre largely overlooked by mainstream media. Nelly and Jay E first met at Saints Olivette Roller Skating Rink in 1996, creating their unique blend of coastal rap music with elements of hip-hop from their hometown.
By 2002, Nelly had already achieved superstardom with his debut album Country Grammar, which spent five weeks at the top of Billboard 200 chart and sold over two million records. His sophomore effort Nellyville followed shortly thereafter in 2002, which further cemented Nelly’s national prominence while also featuring hometown flair.
Jay E, who produced eight songs on the album, was born in St. Louis and attended the University of Missouri. Afterwards he joined local hip-hop collective St. Lunatics which he later formed with fellow DJ and producer Freddie Jackson.
He was also a regular at the legendary St. Louis club Limelight, which served as an iconic hangout for local teens.
Nelly is best known for his work with hip-hop music, but he also has an impressive repertoire of classical and jazz vocalists. Furthermore, Nelly has a knack for crafting songs that are both musically complex and emotionally compelling.
His songs are jam-packed with references to St Louis and its culture, from art museums to nightclubs. His words express a deep admiration for both people and place; often speaking of being proud to be from there or settling down there permanently.
Another song that references St Louis is Billy Joel’s 1989 hit, We Didn’t Start the Fire. In it, the self-proclaimed history buff lists various headline events and names in rapid fire succession.
St Louis is mentioned in a variety of songs, from pop and jazz to classic rock and country. Some feature songs set there like Bob Merrill’s 1963 Walkin’ To Missouri; other lyrics offer more poignant insights into the city’s past as well as those who call it home.