Jay Z's Empire State of Mind to Replace Sinatra at the Belmont Stakes

By Olivia Scheck

DNAinfo Reporter/Producer

MANHATTAN — Is Frank Sinatra still King of the Hill, or has he been topped by Jay Z?

The New York Racing Association announced this week that Ol' Blue Eyes' classic rendition of "New York, New York" won't be played at the Belmont Stakes on Saturday. It will be replaced by a live performance of the more contemporary anthem "Empire State of Mind," by rapper Jay Z and songstress Alicia Keys, according to the Associated Press.

"Empire State of Mind" has become the "quintessential 21st century theme song for New York City," Neema Ghazi, NYRA marketing director told the AP, confirming that the hit will be performed as the horses take the track for Saturday's race.

A 16-year-old Disney Channel actress, Jasmine Villegas, will do the honors, Ghazi added, the news source said.

"New York, New York" has been heard at the Belmont since 1997, when it replaced James W. Blake's "Sidewalks of New York," according to the AP.

Rapper Jay Z's mega-hit "Empire State of Mind" will open the Belmont Stakes, replacing Frank Sinatra's "New York, New Yo...

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