5 legendary songs that mention Nottingham in their lyrics

For those of us who live in Nottingham, it’s easy to take for granted how good a place it is to call home compared with other parts of the UK. 

Whether you’re someone in their 20s looking to take advantage of the city’s thriving cultural scene or maybe intending to retire and go for daily walks at Wollaton Park, Nottingham has something for everyone. 

With many of us proud of where we live, It’s always pleasing to see Nottingham referenced on the national or international stage. 

More often than not these references are to do with Robin Hood - whether they be on television, in films or books. 

But did you know that some pretty well-known musicians have mentioned Nottingham in their songs? 

We’ve done some digging and picked out a few. Give them a listen once you’re finished!

American Without Tears by Elvis Costello

"Though he wasn't tall or handsome she laughed when he told her...

"I'm the Sheriff of Nottingham and this is Little John"

Costello, who is widely considered as one of the best songwriters of his generation, released American Without Tears in 1986. 

Mentioning the Sheriff of Nottingham and Little John, it’s fair to assume he’s a Robin Hood fan!

On My One by Jake Bugg

"I'm just a poor boy from Nottingham"

When it comes to musicians from Nottingham, Jake Bugg is at the top of the tree. 

Born in Clifton, Bugg burst onto the scene in the early 2010s with his self-titled debut album. 

It wasn’t until 2016, with On My One, that he mentioned his home city in a song. 

The Ruler’s Back by Slick Rick

"It is I, sire, Richard of Nottingham"

Rapper Slick Rick rose to fame in the late 1980s with his album The Great Adventures of Slick Rick. 

It includes one song called The Ruler’s Back, which mentions Nottingham. 

Rick, you’re welcome in Nottingham any time you like!

Gangsters by Wiley

"I was in Nottingham, who showed me love? A whole crew of (gangsters)"

Grime star Wiley, famous for his 2012 hit Heatwave, references Nottingham in his 2006 song Gangsters. 

The song was part of the album Tunnel Vision Volume 2. 

ICE MC

"Like Robin Hood not the Sheriff of Nottingham"

British rapper ICE MC gives a nod to Robin Hood in his 1994 hit Dark Night Fever. 

With more than 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify, his music is as popular as ever.