From Frank Sinatra to Bon Jovi, New Jersey is the birthplace of many lyrical legends. Here’s a list of our top 5 smile jams, by New Jersey’s very own:
1. “When You’re Smiling” – Frank Sinatra
Originally sang by the legendary Louis Armstrong, Hoboken-born Frank Sinatra croons a rendition that makes us swoon.
Smileworthy Lyric: When you’re smilin’, when you’re smilin’/ The whole world smiles with you/ When you’re laughin’, when you’re laughin’/ The sun comes shinin’ through
2. “The Only Boy Living in New York” – Simon and Garfunkel
Newark’s own Paul Simon wrote this folk song to strike a hopeful chord with every lonely soul living in a big city.
Smileworthy Lyric: I get the news I need on the weather report/ I can gather all the news I need on the weather report/ Hey, I’ve got nothing to do today but smile
3. “Oh Yes” – Whitney Houston
Who can resist a powerful love ballad from this Newark diva? This passionate and soulful single doesn’t disappoint.
Smileworthy Lyric: You are so amazing, unbelievable/ Baby, it’s you that make me smile when everything gets crazy/ You’re the one I love, no other man can faze me ’cause/ You’re in my heart, I’m in your heart every minute daily
4. “Dream Baby Dream” – Bruce Springsteen
Simple. Repetitive. Poetic. This lesser known number by the Shore’s very own Springsteen leaves us feeling motivated and inspired.
Smileworthy Lyric: Yeah I just wanna see you smile/ Yeah I just wanna see you smile /Yeah I just wanna see you smile/ Come on dream on, dream baby dream
5. “You Want to Make a Memory” – Bon Jovi
The rocker from Middlesex crafted perhaps the perfect prom slow dance. And years later, this time-warp tune leaves us pining for young love.
Smileworthy Lyric: How’s your life, it’s been a while/ God it’s good to see you smile/ I see you reaching for your keys/ Looking for a reason not to leave
What New Jersey jam makes you smile?