It contains references to various locations in New York and its famous residents, while describing the city's essence. The song was described by critics as an 'orchestral rap ballad' with 'crashing piano chords' and a 'soaring' hook. 'Empire State of Mind' contains songwriting contributions from Keys and Shux. Blige was also considered for the part, but Keys was chosen after Jay-Z heard the song's piano loop. The song originally featured Hunte on the hook, but when Hunte and Sewell-Ulepic were asked if they thought anyone else would be more appropriate for the chorus, Hunte suggested Keys. They later took the suggestion of an associate of EMI Music Publishing and resubmitted it to Jay-Z, who kept the 'New York' singing part on the hook, changed the verses, and recorded it. The following month, they submitted it to Jay-Z's label Roc Nation, whose reviews were a discouragement. It was originally written by Angela Hunte and Janet Sewell-Ulepic as a tribute to their hometown, New York City. Produced by Al Shux, the song features a music sample of ' Love on a Two-Way Street' performed by The Moments. ' Empire State of Mind' is a song performed by American rapper Jay-Z featuring vocals by American singer Alicia Keys, from Jay-Z's 11th studio album, The Blueprint 3 (2009).

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