Shamrock! – Part 2

Although the Pogues formed in England (where most of its members were born), I think most people assume the Pogues are an Irish band mostly because of lead singer Shane MacGowan whose Irish heritage and love of Irish culture permeates the Pogues’ music (especially their early stuff). Over the years, the Pogues’ music has become an integral part of Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations all around the world and MacGowan has garnered international acclaim as a genuine Irish poet.

Listening to the Pogues is like traveling around the globe- you never know where you’ll end up- and I respect artists whose lyrics make listeners get out the map. They may have started out as an Irish inspired band but the Pogues were not afraid to experiment with other styles of music. They eventually grew into something of a world music band with the other members assuming more of the vocal and songwriting duties especially as MacGowan’s role in the band diminished due to personal demons (they finally showed him the door in 1991). Perhaps it’s my own Irish heritage (on my father’s side) but every year around this time I find myself taking out my Pogues music and getting thirsty for a pint. Here are some (more) of my favorites. Enjoy!

01. The Pogues – “Bright Lights” (1995)

02. The Pogues – “The Battle of Brisbane (2013 Mix)” (1984) 

03. The Pogues & The Dubliners – “The Irish Rover” (1987)

04. The Pogues – “Boat Train” (1989)

05. The Pogues – “The Body of an American” (1986)

06. The Pogues – “The Sick Bed of Cuchulainn” (1985)

07. The Pogues – “Lorelei” (1989)

08. The Pogues – “Dark Streets of London” (1984)

09. The Pogues – “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah” (1988)

10. The Pogues – “Streams of Whiskey (2013 Mix)” (1984)

Listen to the playlist on Spotify...

... or check out the playlist on YouTube

(To open music in separate window, click title bar at top of video box)

Recommended Links:

The Pogues & The Dubliners – “The Irish Rover”