The funeral of Shane MacGowan, the lead singer of the Irish punk band The Pogues, took place in Dublin on Saturday. A large crowd of mourners, including many celebrities, turned out to pay their respects. MacGowan’s death has sparked tributes from musicians, politicians, and fans around the world.
Shane MacGowan, the lead singer of The Pogues, was remembered and honored at a funeral in County Tipperary, Ireland, on Friday. The ceremony was attended by notable figures like Johnny Depp, Nick Cave, and Irish President Michael D. Higgins. MacGowan, who gained fame with The Pogues, passed away last week at the age of 65.
During the service, Johnny Depp read the first Prayer of the Faithful and praised MacGowan, calling him a “maestro.” The funeral featured readings from Aiden Gillen and Gerry Adams, along with musical performances by Colm Mac Con Iomaire and Glen Hansard.
MacGowan’s former bandmate, Cáit O’Riordan, and Irish folk musician John Francis Flynn performed Pogues’ song ‘A Man You Don’t Meet Everyday.’ Glen Hansard led a moving rendition of the band’s famous Christmas song, ‘Fairytale of New York.’
Despite U2 frontman Bono being unable to attend, he recorded a tribute. Earlier that day, Dublin paid homage to MacGowan with a public procession, where a horse-drawn carriage carried his coffin draped in the Irish flag.
During the Dublin procession, MacGowan’s music played, and spontaneous renditions of his songs took place, creating a heartfelt atmosphere. The funeral procession paused as the Artane Band played “Fairytale of New York,” with the crowd joining in.
Shane MacGowan, known for songs like “Fairytale of New York,” passed away on November 30 after a period of ill health. The funeral procession in Dublin led to St. Mary of the Rosary Church in Nenagh, where the funeral service took place.
Family Showed Gratitude
MacGowan faced health challenges, including viral encephalitis and dental issues resulting from substance use. His wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support on Instagram, mentioning MacGowan’s dislike for funerals.
At the service, Siobhan, MacGowan’s sister, thanked attendees for giving her brother a meaningful farewell. MacGowan’s wife, in her eulogy, described him as an “explorer” who pushed boundaries. She also said that his music contributed to a “radical” reinvention of Irish traditional music.
The funeral concluded with a performance of the traditional song, ‘The Parting Glass,’ by MacGowan’s former Pogues bandmates. Mourners, including Johnny Depp, carried MacGowan’s wicker coffin out of the church, receiving thunderous applause from the congregation.
