LEGENDARY POGUES FRONTMAN SHANE MAGOWAN PASSES AWAY AT 65
The iconic frontman of The Pogues, Shane MacGowan, has died at the age of 65, following a recent hospitalization due to encephalitis. Known for hits like "Fairytale of New York" and "Dirty Old Town," MacGowan had battled health issues, compounded by documented struggles with substance abuse.His wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, shared the news on Instagram, expressing profound grief. MacGowan passed away peacefully at 3.30 am on November 30, surrounded by his wife and sister, with prayers and last rites administered.Born in Kent to Irish immigrants, MacGowan led The Pogues from 1982 until their disbandment in 2014. The band, initially known as Pogue Mahone, achieved widespread acclaim with seven studio albums.
Shane Macgowan - credit RexMacGowan's collaboration with Kirsty MacColl on "Fairytale of New York" in 1988 remains a holiday classic, reaching number two on the UK chart. Libertines frontman Pete Doherty praised the song as an "absolute belter" and shared fond memories of performing with MacGowan.Diagnosed with encephalitis in 2022, MacGowan had used a wheelchair since a fall in 2015. In 2018, he received a lifetime achievement award in Dublin. The documentary "Crock Of Gold: A Few Rounds With Shane MacGowan" was released in 2020.Irish President Michael D Higgins hailed MacGowan as one of "music's greatest lyricists," emphasizing his impact on Irish culture worldwide. Friends and fellow musicians, including Nick Cave and Tim Burgess, paid tribute to his lyrical genius and influential contributions.With the Holiday’s approaching us quickly, we’ll be spinning “Fairytale of New York” throughout the office today.
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