Shane McGowan

 

Regarded by some as a self-destructive drunk & by others as a brilliant artist, Shane McGowan is both. As the lead singer and founding member of The Pogues, McGowan began his career during the heyday of the U.K. Punk movement. He and his bandmates quickly changed their approach & injected a stronger, more traditional Irish sound into their music. The results were positive: success followed The Pogues, particularly through constant touring. However, McGowan’s substance abuse was a steady dark cloud. His ups & downs with drugs and alcohol led to frequent drunk performances. In 1991, he was booted out of The Pogues, formed a new band, Shane McGowan and The Popes, then rejoined his original bandmates in 2001. His heavy use of alcohol continued though, most infamously when he vomited on audience members during a gig soon after rejoining The Pogues. Despite his behavior, earmarked as prime examples of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, and resulting in health problems, McGowan continues on to this day. He is widely regarded as an artist who represents & speaks the voice of Ireland.