“Copacabana” is one of Barry Manilow’s most famous songs, known for its catchy melody and storytelling lyrics.
Release Date: June 1978
Background and Inspiration
“Copacabana,” often referred to as “Copacabana (At the Copa),” was co-written by Barry Manilow, Jack Feldman, and Bruce Sussman. The song was inspired by the famous Copacabana nightclub in New York City, which was a popular hotspot during the mid-20th century. Manilow wanted to write a song that was fun and upbeat but also told a compelling story.
Lyrics Overview
The lyrics of “Copacabana” narrate a dramatic love story set in the famous nightclub. The main characters are Lola, a showgirl; Tony, a bartender who falls in love with her; and Rico, a wealthy man who also desires Lola. The story culminates in a tragic confrontation that leaves Tony dead, Lola heartbroken, and forever changed.
Lyrics
Her name was Lola, she was a showgirl With yellow feathers in her hair and a dress cut down to there She would merengue and do the cha-cha And while she tried to be a star Tony always tended bar Across the crowded floor, they worked from eight til four They were young and they had each other Who could ask for more?
At the copa (co) Copacabana (Copacabana) The hottest spot north of Havana (here) At the copa (co) Copacabana Music and passion were always the fashion At the copa they fell in love
Copa, Copacabana His name was Rico He wore a diamond He was escorted to his chair, he saw Lola dancing there And when she finished, he called her over But Rico went a bit to far Tony sailed across the bar And then the punches flew and chairs were smashed in two There was blood and a single gun shot But just who shot who?
At the copa (co) Copacabana (Copacabana) The hottest spot north of Havana (here) At the copa (co) Copacabana Music and passion were always the fashion At the copa, she lost her love (Copa, Copacabana) (Copa, Copacabana) (Copacabana)
like in Havana (Copa, banana) Music and passion were always in fashion
Her name is Lola, she was a showgirl But that was thirty years ago, when they used to have a show Now it’s a disco, but not for Lola Still in dress she used to wear Faded feathers in her hair She sits there so refined, and drinks herself half-blind She lost her youth and she lost her Tony Now she’s lost her mind
At the copa (co) Copacabana (Copacabana) The hottest spot north of Havana (here) At the copa (co) Copacabana Music and passion were always in fashion At the copa don’t fall in love
