How did Shane MacGowan die?
Shane MacGowan, the frontman for the trailblazing Celtic Punk band, the Pogues has died age 65!
The announcement came from MacGowan’s family who revealed in their statement that the 65-year-old passed away at 3.30am on 30 November.
Following a long period of illness that had previously landed the Pogues singer in intensive care.
Credit Image: Shane MacGowan Official Instagram
Adding in their statement, his family described him as “our most beautiful, darling and dearly beloved.”
In addition, MacGowan’s wife of just five years, Victoria Mary Clarke, 57, an Irish journalist also took to social media to share her grief and love for her husband.
“Shane will always be the light that I hold before me and the measure of my dreams and the love of my life … I am blessed beyond words to have met him and to have loved him and to have been so endlessly and unconditionally loved by him.”
What illness did Shane MacGowan have?
So, what illness claimed such a special and talented man?
According to reports, MacGowan had been battling a condition called encephalitis.
Credit Image: Shane MacGowan Official Instagram
An inflammation of the active tissues of the brain caused by an infection or an autoimmune response.
A condition the singer had reportedly lived with for eight years.
In fact, last December, MacGowan had been hospitalised for it resulting in a long stay in ICU.
Career with the Pogues.
While friends, family and fans mourn their loss, Shane MacGowan leaves behind an incredible musical legacy.
Let’s take a walk through some his most memorable work.
First, and perhaps the most memorable is ‘Fairytale of New York.’
A duet with Kirsty MacColl that hit No.2 on the charts and became a “Christmas Classic.”
Second song on the list has to be ‘A Rainy Night In Soho.’
While mostly ignored at first, this song has since become a fan favourite.
Third song to make this list has to be ‘If I Should Fall From Grace With God.’ Have a listen, decide for yourself.
Fourth has to be ‘Streams Of Whiskey,’ this song is widely regarded as one their most honest and vibrant.
Since the band never made a secret of their love of Irish whiskey, this one is very much a favourite.
And lastly for this list, hands down is ‘A Pair Of Brown Eyes.’
Because this was the first of the Pogues songs to make an impact on the UK charts and so deserves recognition.
See the link for a full top 10 list.