The Real Story Behind Shane MacGowan's "Boys of the N.Y.P.D. Choir"

The Pogues' iconic Christmas song "Fairytale of New York" is a beloved holiday staple, but one line in particular has always sparked curiosity: "The boys of the N.Y.P.D. choir still singing 'Galway Bay.'" While the song paints a vivid picture of a young Irish immigrant navigating the harsh realities of New York City, the idea of an actual NYPD choir singing "Galway Bay" seemed more like poetic license than reality.

However, the truth behind the line is surprisingly complex, revealing a fascinating intersection of music, history, and community.

The Myth and the Reality:

There is no formal choir within the NYPD, and they have never officially sung "Galway Bay." The line was likely inspired by MacGowan's own experiences and observations. During his first visit to New York in the mid-1980s, he encountered a vibrant Irish community, particularly in bars and pubs frequented by both immigrants and Irish-American police officers.

In these spaces, traditional Irish music thrived, creating a sense of connection and comfort for those far from home. While there may not have been a formal choir, spontaneous singalongs of "Galway Bay" and other Irish songs were a common occurrence.

Rocky Sullivan's and a Decade-Long Tradition:

One particular bar, Rocky Sullivan's in Manhattan, became a focal point for this musical camaraderie. It was a place where writers, artists, and police officers of Irish heritage would gather, forging friendships and sharing their cultural heritage through music.

While MacGowan himself didn't frequent the bar often, it became known as the "unofficial N.Y.P.D. choir," further solidifying the connection between the police and the song in his mind. This association was further strengthened by the fact that many NYPD recruits in the 1980s were Irish-American, drawn to the force by their desire to serve and protect their community.

The Video and Beyond:

The release of the "Fairytale of New York" music video in 1987 further cemented the image of the "N.Y.P.D. Choir" in the public imagination. The video features a scene of officers singing "Galway Bay," although it was actually performed by the Pipes & Drums of the Emerald Society of the New York Police Department, not a choir.

This visual representation further blurred the lines between myth and reality, but it also served as a tribute to the strong Irish heritage within the NYPD and the important role that music played in their community.

A Legacy of Song and Solidarity:

While the literal "N.Y.P.D. Choir" may not exist, the spirit of the line lives on. It represents the bonds forged through shared experiences, the comfort of tradition in a foreign land, and the power of music to bring people together.

Even today, "Fairytale of New York" continues to resonate with audiences, particularly those with ties to Irish heritage. The song serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by immigrants, the strength of community, and the enduring power of music to connect us across cultures and generations.

So, the next time you hear "Fairytale of New York," take a moment to appreciate the real story behind the "Boys of the N.Y.P.D. Choir." It's a story that speaks to the power of music, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring bonds of community.