As a music journalist, I have the privilege of exploring the stories and meanings behind songs that touch our hearts and resonate with our experiences. Today, I want to delve into the enchanting and heartfelt holiday tune, “Fairytale of Philadelphia” by The Philly Specials, Jason Kelce, and Travis Kelce. This rendition is a cover of the iconic “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues, featuring Kirsty MacColl.
I first heard this song on a cold December evening, sitting by the fireplace with friends. The crackling flames provided a cozy ambiance, while the song enveloped us in its nostalgic and melodic embrace. From the first notes, I was captivated by the unique and gritty interpretation that The Philly Specials, Jason Kelce, and Travis Kelce brought to “Fairytale of Philadelphia.”
The lyrics of the song set the stage for an emotional journey, starting with Jason Kelce’s poignant verse. He takes us to a Christmas Eve spent in a drunk tank, where an old man shares his wisdom and belts out a melancholic rendition of “The Rare Old Mountain Dew.” It is in this moment that Jason turns his thoughts to someone he holds dear, dreaming about a better time when all their dreams come true.
Travis Kelce then joins in, interweaving his voice with Jason’s, creating a duet that beautifully portrays the contrast between the allure of wealth and the struggles of life. They sing about how Philadelphia may have cars as big as bars and rivers of gold, but beneath the shiny surface, the wind cuts through, reminding them that it is no place for the old.
When Travis and Jason harmonize together, their voices paint a vivid picture of a cold Christmas Eve and a promise of hope. They reminisce about a moment when the city’s embrace felt warm as they held hands, promising each other that Broad Street was waiting for them. They sing of the joyous chaos that surrounded them, with the band playing, the drunks singing, and the Leathers swinging. It’s a moment of blissful celebration amidst the hardships.
In the chorus, as both Kelce brothers join forces, their voices blend with a choir all singing “Galway Bay.” The bells ring out, a reminder that even in the midst of struggles, the magic of Christmas and hope persist. This scene evokes a sense of unity, where despite differences and challenges, everyone comes together in song.
The song takes an unexpected turn in the third verse, as Jason and Travis exchange playful insults. Yet, beneath the banter lies a sense of love and bond shared between brothers. They acknowledge each other’s flaws, but the cheeky insults are laced with a genuine wish for a happy Christmas and a hope that this may be their last hardship.
The bridge brings a moment of introspection, as Jason reflects on what could have been and the dreams he held before life took a different course. The verses reveal that these dreams were anchored to Travis, as he sings, “I’ve built my dreams around you.” It’s a reminder of the power of relationships and the influence people have on shaping our lives and aspirations.
As the final chorus plays, the choir continues to sing “Galway Bay” while the bells ring out once again. It is a reaffirmation that amidst life’s struggles, the spirit of Christmas and the hope it brings will always endure.
“Fairytale of Philadelphia” is a cover song that carries the heart and soul of its predecessors while infusing it with the unique energy and spirit of The Philly Specials, Jason Kelce, and Travis Kelce. It speaks to the power of music, connecting us to our shared human experiences and reminding us of the importance of love, unity, and hope, especially during the holiday season.
Album title: A Philly Special Christmas Special (2023)
Credits:
Produced By Charlie Hall (Drummer), Nick Krill & Connor Barwin
Written By Jem Finer & Shane MacGowan
Primary Artists The Philly Specials, Jason Kelce & Travis Kelce
Release Date November 15, 2023
Fairytale of Philadelphia Is A Cover Of Fairytale of New York by The Pogues (Ft. Kirsty MacColl)
In the end, “Fairytale of Philadelphia” reminds us that even in the face of adversity, love, joy, and hope will prevail. So, when you listen to this song, allow yourself to be transported to the streets of Philadelphia, where dreams are made, and the magic of Christmas shines brightly.
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