Originally appeared on E! Online
Christmas arrived with unexpected cheer for Jason Kelce this year.
The former NFL star’s newly released collaboration with iconic singer Stevie Nicks, “Maybe This Christmas,” which is featured on his annual charity Christmas album with his Philadelphia Eagles teammates, has successfully dethroned the perennial favorite “All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey from the coveted number one position on the iTunes holiday chart.
During an episode of their podcast “New Heights” aired on Nov. 13, Travis Kelce brought Jason into the spotlight by proclaiming a new, festive title just for him.
“Jason, how does it feel to be the new Queen of Christmas?” Travis asked his brother, bringing laughter into the conversation.
“You know, I’ve fought my whole life to be the Queen of Christmas,” Jason joked back with a chuckle, “and the fact that we’re finally there is just really special.”
While Jason Kelce and Nicks celebrated their triumph on the iTunes chart, the legendary Mariah Carey has not been without her own accolades. Notably, Carey’s iconic 1994 single has reigned supreme at the top of Billboard’s Hot Holidays Chart for an impressive span of 60 weeks.
The Kelce family is staying grounded. Kylie Kelce, during her recent appearance on the “Today” show, candidly expressed her hopes regarding her husband Jason’s next chapter following his retirement from the NFL.
The ESPN commentator candidly explained his thoughts on the timely emergence of his holiday track. “I know we caught it in early November. We’ll see if it holds up throughout the rest of Christmas,” he contemplated. “We kind of caught it on the Christmas downslide, like, not too many people are listening to Christmas music so we jumped up in there.” He highlighted the unique timing of their song’s release.
Jason’s much-anticipated duet with the legendary Fleetwood Mac frontwoman features prominently on the upcoming album “A Philly Special Christmas Party,” set to drop on Nov. 22. This cherished annual holiday album, which Jason Kelce collaborates on with former teammates Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, collectively known as The Philly Specials, is dedicated to charitable causes.
The opportunity to collaborate with such a legendary musician, especially someone closely connected to Travis’ girlfriend, Taylor Swift, was a dream realization for the former athlete.
“It was incredible to sing with Stevie Nicks,” Jason excitedly told Travis. “I’m just in awe that actually happened. This is really, really cool. There’s no percent chance that any song that I am in should be streaming number one on any service in any genre.”
Travis, maintaining his playful banter, humorously retorted, “Don’t give yourself too much credit, it’s Stevie Nicks.”
What motivated Jason Kelce to collaborate with Stevie Nicks on the holiday album?
**Interview with Jason Kelce: The New “Queen of Christmas”**
*Interviewer:* Jason, congratulations on your collaboration with Stevie Nicks and the incredible success of “Maybe This Christmas.” How does it feel to dethrone Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” from the number one spot on the iTunes holiday chart?
*Jason Kelce:* Thank you! It’s surreal, honestly. I’ve loved Christmas music my entire life, and to be recognized in this way—and with Stevie Nicks, no less—is just beyond anything I could have imagined.
*Interviewer:* Your brother, Travis, jokingly dubbed you the “Queen of Christmas” on your podcast, “New Heights.” How did you feel hearing that title?
*Jason Kelce:* (laughs) Yeah, that was hilarious! I told him I’ve fought my whole life for that title! But really, it’s all in good fun. It’s a great moment for us and our Eagles family, and I’m proud to bring some joy during the holidays.
*Interviewer:* Can you share what inspired you and your teammates to create this charity Christmas album?
*Jason Kelce:* Our main inspiration was to give back to the community while spreading holiday cheer. The Eagles have a strong bond, and we wanted to use our platform for something positive. Music brings people together, and we thought it would be great to contribute to that joy—and help those in need.
*Interviewer:* How has the response been from fans and listeners?
*Jason Kelce:* The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. People are excited about the collaboration and the message behind the album. It’s heartwarming to see our fans rally around something that’s not just fun but also philanthropic.
*Interviewer:* Any plans for a live performance or future collaborations?
*Jason Kelce:* We’re definitely considering a special holiday performance! And as for future collaborations… who knows? Everyone on the album brought something unique, so it’s a possibility!
*Interviewer:* Lastly, what does the holiday season mean to you personally?
*Jason Kelce:* For me, it’s about family, gratitude, and giving back. It’s a time to reflect on our blessings and spend quality moments with loved ones. I hope everyone can find their own little piece of joy this Christmas!
*Interviewer:* Thank you, Jason! We wish you continued success and a wonderful holiday season!
*Jason Kelce:* Thank you so much! Happy holidays!