Shane MacGowan Dies At 65

The Pogues frontman was recently released from a long stay in hospital.

Singer Shane MacGowan has died at the age of 65.

He was best known for fronting punk band 'The Pogues.'

Born on Christmas Day in 1957 he will always be remembered for his part in one of the most popular Christmas songs in history, Fairy Tale of New York.

Midlands band Cronin recorded with him in 2020, the band's drummer Mick Cronin says he's "heartbroken" and expressed his sympathies to the singer's family.

Shane is survived by his wife Victoria Mary Clarke who he married in 2018.

'Fairytale of New York' was released by The Pogues in 1988, with Kirsty MacColl on vocals.

Dave Browne, singer with Picturehouse, says their song is a timeless classic:

2023 has been a tough year for Irish music, with Shane MacGowan being the latest star to pass away.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist with The Script, died after a brief illness on April 14th, and two months later, on June 13th, Aslan frontman Christy Dignam died following a long illness.

Sinead O'Connor meanwhile passed away on July 26th, with Shane's wife paying tribute to her then, saying "thank you for your love, friendship, compassion, humour and incredible music."

The Lord Mayor of Dublin has opened a book of condolence for him. 

Daithi de Roiste says his loss will be felt by people across the country and has described the singer as a one-off.

The Mansion House will be open for people to sign the book of condolence until 5 o'clock today, and from 11 o'clock until 5 o'clock on Friday and Saturday.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin told the Dáil Shane was true to his Tipperary roots:

Singer Mary Coughlan toured with the band at the height of their success, and has fond memories of her time performing with Shane:

He has been described as being one of "music's greatest lyricists" following his death.

He died peacefully overnight, with his wife and his sister by his side.

Paddy Dunning is the Director of the Button Factory and Irish Rock and Roll Museum in Temple Bar.

He says there'll only ever be one Shane MacGowan: