“Streets of Philadelphia” is an emotional ballad by Bruce Springsteen, released in February 1994 as the theme song for the film Philadelphia, starring Tom Hanks. The song became one of Springsteen’s most critically acclaimed works, known for its sparse, melancholic production and deeply moving lyrics.
Streets of Philadelphia captures loneliness, despair, and isolation, reflecting the struggles of someone battling AIDS and facing societal rejection. The lyrics convey a sense of physical and emotional suffering, mirroring the themes of the film, which starred Tom Hanks as a lawyer diagnosed with AIDS.
Musically, the song features a minimalist, atmospheric arrangement, driven by a gentle drum loop, soft synthesizers, and mournful piano. Springsteen’s subdued, raspy vocals add to the song’s somber and introspective mood, making it deeply personal and heartbreaking.
The song was a major critical and commercial success, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 in the UK. It won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, four Grammy Awards, and a Golden Globe, further solidifying its impact.
The music video, directed by Philadelphia’s director Jonathan Demme, and his nephew Ted Demme features Springsteen walking through the streets of Philadelphia, intercut with scenes from the film, reinforcing the song’s themes of solitude and resilience.