New York, New York is out; Empire State of Mind is in for the Belmont Stakes

A different tune will kick off the Belmont Stakes

NEW YORK — Start spreading the news: Sinatra’s out at the Belmont Stakes.

The New York Racing Association says Frank Sinatra’s classic version of “New York, New York” is being replaced by “Empire State of Mind” as the music heard when the horses step onto the track for the $1 million Belmont on Saturday.

The change is being made because Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind” has become a “quintessential 21st century theme song for New York City,” says NYRA marketing director Neema Ghazi.

“New York, New York” replaced “Sidewalks of New York” in 1997.

Alicia Keys’ version of “Empire State of Mind” is to be performed by teenage recording artist Jasmine Villegas.

The lyrics include, “I’m the new Sinatra, and since I made it here I can make it anywhere.”