The Four Lads, Istanbul (Not Constantinople) | Throwback Vibez

In the 35^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we recollect and reflect on “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” by The Four Lads.

Can you feel those vibes, those surefire Throwback Vibez?! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past. Ah, there is nothing like a good oldie to get you fired up! The records featured in this column feature gems from the 20^th century, with a few exceptions. All genres of music are welcome. In the 35^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we recollect and reflect on “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” performed by The Four Lads.

Those lyrics are 100% correct: the ancient Constantinople is now modern-day Istanbul, Turkey. Canadian traditional pop quartet The Four Lads earned a top 10 hit in the US (pre-Billboard Hot 100) with “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)”, a unique novelty song that dates back to 1953.  It was written by Irish songwriter Jimmy Kennedy (1902 – 1984).

“Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” features gorgeous orchestration with plenty of playful sounds. The Turkish music cues are fitting – it is about 📍 Istanbul, after all! The percussive groove and string bass line add to the instrumental excellence.  Beyond the instrumental, The Four Lads deliver sensational vocals.  When they sing in unison, they are locked in, showcasing a celestial, incredibly refined tone.  Expectedly, the collective also sounds great when they break into harmonies and sing solo parts.  Beyond the vocals, the melodies are tuneful, and the lyrics are quite memorable. They are also tongue-in-cheek and silly: “So, if you’ve a date in Constantinople, / She’ll be waiting in Istanbul.” Yep.  Constantinople no longer exists.  Also, The Four Lads give us a history lesson about New York: “Even old New York was once New Amsterdam / Why they changed it, I can’t say / People just liked it better that way.” The Four Lads conclude the irresistible “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” with a big ole shout out to ‘stanbul as in Istanbul!

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The Four Lads » 16 Most Requested Songs » SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT » 1953

The Four Lads, Istanbul (Not Constantinople): Throwback Vibez No. 35 (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT; Clker-Free-Vector-Images, Gordon Johnson, schubinger from Pixabay]

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