Song Stories: The Pogues: Fairytale of New York

Released in 1987 very few Christmas songs capture such grit, heartbreak as "Fairytale of New York". Performed by the Pogues and featuring the haunting vocals of the late Kirsty MacColl, this 1987 classic remains a defining piece of modern festive music. Unlike the glossy, saccharine tunes that dominate the airwaves in December, “Fairytale of New York” feels like a song for real people a messy, bittersweet ode to love, hope, and regret.

The Pogues, emerged from London in the early 1980s and blended traditional Irish folk music with punk.  Led by the charismatic and enigmatic Shane MacGowan, the Pogues were equal parts raucous and poetic, capturing the rawness of life in their music. Their songs often told tales of displacement, rebellion, and the struggles of the working class. "Fairytale of New York" does that with a Christmas story, it feels raw and very human.

The creation of “Fairytale of New York” was far from smooth. Written by MacGowan and bandmate Jem Finer, the song evolved over several years. It started as a challenge from their producer, Elvis Costello, who bet the Pogues they couldn’t write a Christmas hit. The song’s early versions were unremarkable, and it wasn’t until Kirsty MacColl joined the project that it found its magic. MacColl’s voice provided a perfect counterpoint to MacGowan’s gravelly tones. Together, they brought to life the story of two lovers in New York City, whose dreams of a better life have unraveled into recriminations and sorrow. The song acts as a conversation between the two of them, that starts full of hope and quickly turns into despair, switching between nostalgia, affection, and blame.

The setting for this story is the city that never sleeps, a city synonymous with hope and reinvention. However this song focuses on the darker and harsher reality often faced by us all. It opens with a melancholy piano riff, accompanied by MacGowan’s wistful recollection of a Christmas Eve in a New York City drunk tank. From there, the story unfolds in a duet between MacGowan and MacColl.

Its a song full of beauty, and humor. A song that could have only been written by The Pogues. Lines like “You’re a bum, you’re a punk” and “You’re a cheap lousy faggot." are ofset by more tender heartfelt moments. “I could have been someone,” “Well so could anyone.” it's messy, but it's also hopeful. 

What makes “Fairytale of New York” endure, even decades after its release? For one, it’s not just a Christmas song it’s a universal story about love, disappointment, and resilience. Its portrayal of flawed characters resonates with listeners who see themselves in its bittersweet narrative. The music, too, plays a crucial role. The combination of traditional Irish instrumentation with a soaring string arrangement creates a sound that is both nostalgic and timeless.

Over the years, “Fairytale of New York” has not been without controversy, particularly regarding its use of a homophobic slur in the lyrics. While some defend the line as reflective of the characters’ flaws and the era’s vernacular, others argue it’s unnecessary and harmful.

However despite the controversy, it is still considered not only one of the best Christmas songs, but one of the best things ever recorded by The Pogues. A real highlight of their 1988 album "If I Should Fall From Grace With God". 

A Christmas classic.

Thank you for reading 

Jack