We have a collection of 4 arrangements for They Might Be Giants - Istanbul (Not Constantinople)
What famous city's name change inspired this quirky novelty song? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover They Might Be Giants Biography
"Istanbul (Not Constantinople)" is a novelty song, with lyrics by Jimmy Kennedy and music by Nat Simon, written in 1953. It playfully commemorates the 1930 renaming of the city of Constantinople to Istanbul. The song became a one-hit wonder for The Four Lads later that year. However, it was famously covered and brought back into popular culture by the alternative rock band They Might Be Giants in 1990 for their album "Flood". Their version gained further prominence after being featured in the Netflix series "The Umbrella Academy". The song's catchy, upbeat tune and humorous historical reference have made it a lasting cultural artifact.