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Photos, Video: Empire State Building's Trippy Light Show

Jen Chung

Published Nov 27, 2012

Modified Nov 27, 2012

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Jen Chung

Published Nov 27, 2012

Modified Nov 27, 2012

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Last night, the Empire State Building unveiled its first light show on its iconic structure, using a new LED lighting system. And it was all synchronized to the music of Alicia Keys, which was broadcast on four area radio stations. Here are some videos:

The lighting technology was designed by Philips Color Kinetics, and Anthony Malkin, who is president of Malkin Holdings which supervises the Empire State Building said, "The Empire State Building’s lights are the international icon of the New York City skyline. We use our tower lights to partner with select charities, organizations, and events around the world. Philips Color Kinetics’ new LED lights were installed over the summer and have been set at the color and intensity of the incandescent lights they replaced. As of tonight, our lights’ full range and intensity will be brought to life, forever changing the New York skyline. We wanted to celebrate with and thank New York City and our global audience with a specially choreographed, custom light show."

And Keys said, "The Empire State Building has always been a symbol of what's possible in New York, and all the dreams that can come true in this city that never sleeps. I'm so excited to unveil the new tower lights that are going to illuminate the city below like never before—shining bright with inspiration. As a proud New Yorker, I'm so honored and humbled to be a little part of its history."

Before flicking an oversized switch to start the light show, Keys declared, "The Empire State Building is ON FIRE!" At least she didn't promise that the light show would be the bomb? Still, it would have been cooler if she had performed live along with the show, and maybe hired some aerial dancers to rappel off the side of the skyscraper in time with the music. See, this is how it's done:

And here's the Empire State Building light show without music:

Tagged

alicia keys

empire state building

light show

Jen Chung

Jen Chung is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.

Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations

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