While it may not attain the iconic status of Shane McGowan and Kirstie McColl's enchanting duet on The Pogues' timeless holiday anthem "A Fairytale of New York," the latest collaboration is a delightful surprise indeed: none other than Fleetwood Mac's legendary Stevie Nicks has joined forces with Jason Kelce, a former NFL star, ESPN analyst, podcaster, and the brother of Taylor Swift's beau, Travis, to record a soulful cover of Ron Sexsmith's "Maybe This Christmas."
"Maybe This Christmas," penned by Sexsmith in 2002, originally featured on a compilation album of the same name, alongside esteemed artists such as Coldplay, Bright Eyes, Neil Finn, and Jimmy Eat World. Now, this heartfelt tune has been breathed new life by The Philly Specials, a vocal trio comprising Kelce, along with two current members of his former team, Philadelphia Eagles' offensive linemen Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, on their upcoming album "A Philly Special Christmas Party."
"Words escape me in describing the majesty of having Stevie Nicks grace this recording," remarks executive producer and former Eagles linebacker Conner Barwin. "The song is an emotional trove, and it was an exhilarating experience to witness her and Jason in the studio, their creativity flowing in harmony, as this magnificent tune transformed from concept to reality."
"My affection for 'Maybe This Christmas' stems from myriad facets—its melody's shape, the chords' intrinsic melodic journey, its ambiance—but above all, I cherish it for its message of hope and forgiveness," shares Charlie Hall, drummer of War On Drugs and producer of the album. "While the holidays epitomize unity, they also invite introspection, often prompting thoughts of 'someone we cherish, someone we've lost, for reasons now but a vague memory…' In today's world, it's comforting to ponder that 'maybe this year, love will shine brighter than ever.' I had a deep hope that this song would resonate with Jason as we brainstormed for this record, and it's evident from his poignant rendering of the melody that it did. And to have Stevie Nicks, a master of emotional depth and my lifelong hero, elevate this collaboration to new heights, is a dream come true. This duet holds a special place in my heart."
Admittedly, "Maybe This Christmas" may possess a certain charm but lacks substantial depth. However, one can only hope that the album as a whole promises more excitement. That said, it also features a cover of Wham!'s "Last Christmas," so perhaps those expectations should be tempered.
