Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Cathy Wurzer

60 years since Wilbert Harrison's version of 'Kansas City' topped the pop chart

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

It's been 60 years since "Kansas City" by Wilbert Harrison was No. 1 on the Billboard pop chart.

Now-legendary songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller composed the song when they were 19 years old. At the time, they had never been to Kansas City, but were told that 12th Street and Vine was a hot part of town.

That section of the city has since been re-developed, and the intersection no longer exists. It has been replaced with a park featuring giant piano keys and a treble clef.