Philadelphia Eagles players Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata, known as “The Philly Specials,” have teamed up with rock icon Jon Bon Jovi to release a festive cover of Chuck Berry’s holiday classic, “Run Rudolph Run.” The collaboration infuses the upbeat track with even more holiday cheer, featuring Bon Jovi’s signature guitar riffs alongside piano and saxophone accompaniment. Released on December 20th, the song is a delightful addition to any holiday playlist.
The Philly Specials announced the surprise release on Instagram, expressing excitement about their collaboration with the legendary musician. The caption read, “🚨 SURPRISE! 🚨 Just when you thought the party was over, we’ve got one last gift for you 🎁🎄… Run Rudolph Run featuring Jason, Jordan, Lane, AND the legendary @jonbonjovi is OUT NOW! 🎶 Stream it, download it, and let’s end this Philly Special season with a bang!”
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This isn’t the first foray into music for the Eagles trio. The Philly Specials formed in 2022, releasing their debut Christmas album, A Philly Special Christmas, that same year. The album featured renditions of beloved holiday songs like “Blue Christmas,” “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.”
In 2023, the group released their second album, A Philly Special Christmas Special, collaborating with notable artists like Patti LaBelle on “This Christmas” and Travis Kelce, Jason’s brother, on “Fairytale of Philadelphia.” The album also included classics such as “Dominic the Donkey” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
Their third album, A Philly Special Christmas Party, arrived this holiday season, boasting an impressive lineup of guest artists. Stevie Nicks joined the group for “Maybe This Christmas,” while Mt. Joy collaborated on “Santa Drives an Astrovan.” Travis Kelce and Boyz II Men also contributed to the album, performing on “It’s Christmas Time (In Cleveland Heights),” a tribute to the Kelce brothers’ hometown.
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Importantly, the profits from all three Philly Special albums are dedicated to charitable causes. This year’s proceeds support the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center’s Holiday Toy Drive, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Snowflake Station, and The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia for Operation Snowball. The Philly Specials continue to combine their passion for music with a commitment to giving back to their community.
