The Story Behind the Song
Fairytale of New York was written by Shane MacGowan and Jem Finer and originally released in 1987 by The Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl.
What the Song Means
Though this song doesn’t include the sugary sentimentality of many holiday tunes, it is a Christmas standard for many households, particularly of Irish heritage, highlighting the complex juxtaposition of festive cheer and sorrow many people feel during the holiday season. The song tells a compelling and bittersweet story of an Irish immigrant couple in New York sharing their hopes and broken dreams, immense love for each other while expressing in no uncertain terms what an utter disappointment they are.
Why We Play It
Ryan’s wife Janet, who most would consider very unlike the female character in this song, is usually up for lending her voice and attitude when we perform this song.
In 2024 we were ask by the podcast Rocking the Suburbs to record this song to include in their holiday album “Rocking the Holidays”. You can find that recording here as well as songs performed by other amazing local artists: https://phonophorerecords.bandcamp.com/track/fairytale-of-new-york