Spanish Harlem (song)

"Spanish Harlem" is a song co-written by Jerry Leiber and Phil Spector, and famously performed by Ben E. King. Released in 1960, the song is a fusion of doo-wop, R&B, and Latin influences, and is notable for its evocative depiction of the New York City neighborhood of Spanish Harlem.

The lyrics paint a romanticized portrait of the neighborhood, focusing on the beauty of the people and the sounds of the city, particularly the "rose in Spanish Harlem" and the "music on the street." The song's instrumentation also incorporates Latin elements, such as the use of a Latin percussion rhythm.

"Spanish Harlem" became a major hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become a classic and has been covered by numerous artists, including Aretha Franklin. The song is regarded as an iconic representation of early 1960s popular music and a significant example of the collaboration between Leiber and Spector, two influential figures in the history of rock and roll. Its portrayal of Spanish Harlem, while potentially romanticized, helped to bring attention to the cultural richness of the neighborhood.