About the song
“Streets of Philadelphia” is a poignant and powerful song by Bruce Springsteen, written for the 1993 film *Philadelphia*. Directed by Jonathan Demme and starring Tom Hanks, the film was one of the first mainstream movies to address the HIV/AIDS crisis, a subject that Springsteen’s song captures with deep empathy and resonance.
Springsteen was approached by Demme to contribute a song to the film’s soundtrack, and despite his initial reservations about scoring, he embraced the challenge. Overcoming his doubts, Springsteen crafted “Streets of Philadelphia” in late August 1993, recording a demo at Thrill Hill Recording in Beverly Hills. The resulting track, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, moved Demme and his wife to tears upon first listening.
The song was recorded in October 1993 with a minimalistic yet emotionally charged arrangement, featuring Springsteen’s vocals alongside background harmonies by Tommy Sims and a notable saxophone performance by Ornette Coleman. It was released as a single on February 11, 1994, and quickly gained international acclaim. “Streets of Philadelphia” topped the charts in Germany, France, and Austria, and reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, marking Springsteen’s twelfth top-10 hit.
Critically, the song received widespread praise for its poignant depiction of the struggles faced by those living with AIDS. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and four Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year and Best Rock Song. In addition to its critical success, it was ranked number 68 on AFI’s 100 Years…100 Songs and is included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.
The music video, directed by Jonathan and Ted Demme, visually complements the song’s somber tone. It features Springsteen walking through desolate urban landscapes, interspersed with scenes from the film, and culminates with him walking along the Delaware River. This visual approach reinforces the song’s reflective and melancholic mood.
Despite its success, “Streets of Philadelphia” has been performed live by Springsteen only sporadically. It was showcased at several prestigious events, including the Academy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and Grammy Awards, solidifying its place in popular culture. Though rarely featured in concert setlists in recent years, the song remains a significant part of Springsteen’s legacy, exemplifying his ability to blend personal introspection with broader social commentary.
In summary, “Streets of Philadelphia” stands as a testament to Bruce Springsteen’s skill as a songwriter and his commitment to addressing important social issues through his music. Its emotional depth and critical acclaim continue to resonate with audiences around the world, underscoring its lasting impact both as a powerful piece of art and a poignant reflection on the human condition.
Video
Lyrics
I was bruised and battered
I couldn’t tell what I felt
I was unrecognizable to myself
Saw my reflection in a window
And didn’t know my own face
Oh brother are you gonna leave me wastin’ away
On the streets of Philadelphia?
I walked the avenue, ’til my legs felt like stone
I heard the voices of friends vanished and gone
At night I could hear the blood in my veins
Just as black and whispering as the rain
On the streets of Philadelphia
Ain’t no angel gonna greet me
It’s just you and I my friend
And my clothes don’t fit me no more
A thousand miles just to slip this skin
The night has fallen, I’m lyin’ awake
I can feel myself fading away
So receive me brother with your faithless kiss
Or will we leave each other alone like this
On the streets of Philadelphia?