The Fire Tones, a group of over 40 fire service personnel from across the UK, have released their version of the Christmas hit ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’.
Their take on the Band Aid classic has been released as a charity single with all proceeds going to the Firefighters Charity and the Band Aid Charity Trust.
The highly anticipated release was the brainchild of Welshpool firefighter Chris Birdsell-Jones, who came up with the idea whilst having a few pints in a pub over a year ago. After gaining the necessary permissions to use the song, a group was formed, bringing together fire service personnel from across the UK to record their version of the well-known Christmas classic.
Over the years, we’ve heard many renditions of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’, from the original 1984 Band Aid release to the numerous re-recorded versions in celebration of the song’s anniversary. However, The Fire Tones’ version definitely stands up strong in its own right.
Whilst it was well documented that a few of the personnel are known to be talented performers, with the likes of The X Factor contestants Marc Higgins and Richard Ryan, and Andy Quinn, star of BBC’s Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, amongst the group, it turns out that the Fire Service is home to many more incredible voices.
From the opening line, “It’s Christmas time, there’s no need to be afraid”, we are taken on a wonderful journey with the various personnel showcasing their stand out vocals. As the song builds towards the final euphoric chorus, you can’t help but smile as their voices blend together perfectly.
Their version of the song is highly impressive and is a credit to the group – the effort put in to create the final product is just astonishing. It’s also remarkable to discover how many hidden talents there are in the Service, who spend their days saving the lives of others. It’s safe to say that this is more than just a charity single – there is something truly special about what The Fire Tones have delivered.
Alongside the song’s release, The Fire Tones have also unveiled their official music video for ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’. Not only does the visual capture the essence of the original Band Aid recording, but it highlights the great fun the fire personnel had whilst recording this special song. The visual also showcases the talented musicians within the Service, with a number of personnel playing instruments to aid the song.
Check out the music video for ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ below.
Since its release, The Fire Tones have already broken into the iTunes top 20, currently sitting at number 19. They’ve also been given the seal of approval from Midge Ure and Paul Young, both of whom were involved with the original recording of the song.
The Official Charts Company has named The Fire Tones as an official contender for this year’s Christmas number one, whilst they are also ranking well with bookmakers across the UK.
Keep up to date with The Fire Tones and their exciting journey via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The Fire Tones’ version of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ is available to purchase and download now. You can also purchase a physical copy in addition to Fire Tones merch from their website.