Mark Hollmann is a Tony Award-winning composer, lyricist, and performer best known for his work in musical theater. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Hollmann began his artistic path with a background in theater and music, which led him to write and produce unique, innovative shows that have gained both critical and audience acclaim.

His distinctive style combines witty lyrics, catchy melodies, and a knack for storytelling that keeps theatergoers coming back for more. He often works on multiple projects, participates in workshops and educational programs, and continues to inspire a new generation of theater creators.

About the Song

“Cop Song” is a darkly humorous number from Urinetown: The Musical that uses exaggerated police tropes and an intense rhythm to deliver sharp social commentary. The song’s sharp lyrics and driving beat keep the story both delightful and thought-provoking.

Pop Cop Song Lyrics by Mark Hollmann

LOCKSTOCK, spoken

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my many years of enforcing the laws of this city, it’s that the journey down to Urinetown offers no
Surprises. Not even from the very toughest among us. On that journey, expect only…the expected. 
(sung)
And it’s a hard, cold, tumble of a journey
Worthy of a gurney, a bumble down
A slapped face, smacked with a mace
Certain to debase is our stumble down
It’s a path that leads you only one place
Horrible to retrace, a crumble down
A hard, cold, tumble of a tourney
Jumble of a journey to Urinetown

LOCKSTOCK & BARREL

Julie Cassidy
Went to a field behind a tree
Saw there was no one who could see

LOCKSTOCK

Her pee –

BARREL

But me

LOCKSTOCK & BARREL

And Jacob Rosenbloom
Thought he was safe up in his room
Didn’t know the jars he kept up there
Would obligate a trip to a Urine-tomb!

LOCKSTOCK

There are those who think our methods vicious –

BARREL

Overly malicious –

LOCKSTOCK

A bunch of brutes
But it’s we who gather for the people –

BARREL

Tavern to the steeple –

LOCKSTOCK

Lawful fruits!
Our task: bring a little order –

BARREL

Swindle out a hoarder –

LOCKSTOCK

From what he loots
As the book says, “certainly a season” –

BARREL

Trample out a treason –

ALL

With hobnail boots!
Roger Roosevelt
Kept a cup below his belt
Cup ran over when he knelt

LOCKSTOCK

He smelt –

BARREL

We dealt!

ALL

And Joseph “Old Man” Strong
Held his pee for much too long
Hoped his son might bail him out
His guess was good but also wrong!

LOCKSTOCK

Years past all lived in a jungle
Scooping out a bungle, nature’s bowl
Life of constant deprivation
Certain aggravation took its toll
Soon learned power of the truncheon
Organize a function king to pawn
So if peace is what you’re after
Urinetown’s the rafter to hang it on!

FEMALE COP 1

Julie Cassidy

MALE COP 1

Jacob Rosenbloom

MALE COP 2

Roger Roosevelt

MALE COP 1

Jacob Rosenbloom

FEMALE COP 1

Julie Cassidy

MALE COP 3

Joseph Old Man Strong

LOCKSTOCK & BARREL

Don’t be like them! Don’t be like them!
Don’t be like them! Don’t be like them!

ALL

And it’s a hard, cold tumble of a journey
Worthy of a gurney, a bumble down
A slapped face, smacked with a mace
Certain to debase is our stumble down
It’s a path that leads you only one place
Horrible to retrace, a crumble down
A hard, cold, tumble of a tourney
Jumble of a journey to Urinetown!

Similar Songs Like Cop Song

Here’s a list of identical pop songs like Cop Song that you might like:

• I See a River: It is a powerful and emotional song where the character of Bobby Strong sings about the dream of a better world. It’s hopeful and full of longing for change, with a strong sense of personal conviction.
• Run, Freedom, Run!: This energetic, anthemic song is about escaping oppression and fighting for freedom. The upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus make it feel like a battle cry for hope and revolution.
• It’s a Privilege to Pee: This satirical and catchy song captures the theme of the show, how basic rights like using the bathroom can be commercialized. It’s both fun and thought-provoking, with a quirky, upbeat rhythm.

Similar Artists Like Mark Hollmann

Here’s a list of similar artists like Mark Hollmann that you might like and want to give a try:

• Lin-Manuel Miranda
  Genre: Musical Theater, Hip-Hop, Pop
  Top Albums: Hamilton: An American Musical (2015), In the Heights: Original Broadway Cast Recording (2008), Moana (Original Soundtrack) (2016)
• Stephen Schwartz
  Genre: Musical Theater, Pop, Broadway
  Top Albums: Wicked: The Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording) (2003), Godspell (Original Off-Broadway Cast Recording) (1971), Pippin (Original Broadway Cast Recording) (1972)
• Robert Lopez
  Genre: Musical Theater, Pop
  Top Albums: Avenue Q (Original Cast Recording) (2003), The Book of Mormon (Original Broadway Cast Recording) (2011), Frozen (Original Soundtrack) (2013)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Specific Scene Associated with Cops?

Yes, it often occurs in a comedic context within the musical, showcasing the interactions between the police and the party guests.

What Style of Music is Cops?

The song features a lively and upbeat musical style, combining elements of Broadway with comedic lyrics.

What Themes are Explained in Cops?

The song touches on themes of duty, camaraderie among officers, and the humorous situations they encounter while on the job.