Imagine a world where a simple potato could spark a movement of kindness, music, and awareness for one of the most heart-wrenching conditions of our time: dementia. That’s exactly what the Spud Bros are doing, and their latest collaboration with Line of Duty star Vicky McClure is turning heads and warming hearts this Christmas. But here’s where it gets even more inspiring—this isn’t just about a festive song; it’s about using their platform to shed light on a cause that hits close to home for millions.
Jacob and Harley Nelson, better known as the Spud Bros, skyrocketed to fame in 2020 after their TikTok videos went viral. Their quirky business? Selling jacket potatoes from an old tram carriage in Preston, Lancashire. Since then, they’ve amassed over eight million followers across social media, with 4.8 million on TikTok alone. But their journey isn’t just about potatoes or viral fame—it’s deeply personal. Their grandmother lives with dementia, a condition that has shaped their mission to spread awareness and bring people together through music, food, and compassion.
And this is the part most people miss: their collaboration with Vicky McClure and her Our Dementia Choir isn’t just a celebrity partnership—it’s a labor of love born from shared experiences. McClure, who formed the choir after caring for her own grandmother, has long championed the healing power of music for those living with dementia. Together, they’ve created Brighter Than The Night, a Christmas single that’s as festive as it is meaningful.
The idea for the song came from an unexpected moment. While filming at their ‘tater tram,’ an elderly couple approached them. The woman, who had Alzheimer’s, had just fallen, and her partner explained her condition. Jacob recalls, ‘It was a bit personal to us because our grandma also suffers with Alzheimer’s.’ This encounter, which went viral with 20 million views, highlighted how dementia impacts not just the individual but everyone around them. It also sparked the idea to create something special with McClure and her choir.
The recording session in London was a day to remember. ‘Music brings everyone together,’ Harley said. ‘We fed them potatoes, had a laugh, and they were cracking out some jokes.’ Even the Spud Bros got in on the action, with team member Huw Roberts performing alongside choir members while Jacob and Harley provided ‘background shouting,’ as Harley jokingly put it.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While many celebrate the song’s positive message, some might question whether celebrity-led initiatives truly make a lasting impact on dementia awareness. Does a single song, no matter how heartfelt, do enough to address the complexities of this condition? Or is it just a feel-good moment that fades with the holiday season? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
McClure herself has said, ‘We should never underestimate the transformative and healing power of music. It can uplift people living with dementia, change their mood, and bring them joy.’ For her, the choir isn’t just a project—it’s a passion rooted in personal experience. The choir even became the subject of a 2019 BBC documentary exploring dementia care, further cementing its importance.
Beyond the music, the Spud Bros’ story is a testament to the power of family and community. They credit their dad, affectionately known as the ‘Spudfather,’ for their rise to fame. It was his TikTok account, featuring ‘dad dancing’ and questionable costumes, that initially gained traction. Now, they’re front-of-shirt sponsors for their beloved Preston North End football team, proving that their impact extends far beyond social media.
As you listen to Brighter Than The Night, remember that it’s more than just a Christmas tune—it’s a call to action. Whether you’re a fan of the Spud Bros, Vicky McClure, or simply someone who cares about making a difference, this collaboration invites us all to think about how we can spread kindness and awareness in our own ways. So, what’s your take? Can music and potatoes really change the world? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
