The Pogues Announce Long-Awaited North American Tour in Honor of Shane MacGowan

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Journey of The Pogues
4. Tour Dates and Locations
5. The All-Star Ensemble
6. The Emotional Connection
7. The Ticketing Experience
8. FAQ

Key Highlights

• The Pogues are set for their first North American tour since 2011, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Rum, Sodomy & The Lash.
• The tour includes iconic cities such as Washington D.C., Boston, Philadelphia, Toronto, Montreal, and New York City.
• Original members Jem Finer, Spider Stacy, and James Fearnley will be joined by a talented ensemble of artists, promising a dynamic and varied live performance experience.

Introduction

In a nostalgic wave, The Pogues have announced their long-awaited return to North America for a series of performances, promising an unforgettable celebration of their legacy and music. This tour marks their first U.S. tour since 2011 and occurs just over a year after the passing of their legendary frontman, Shane MacGowan. To enhance the experience, the Pogues will stage a unique performance alongside an all-star lineup that honors both their past and the contemporary music scene. The tour not only celebrates the 40th anniversary of their iconic album Rum, Sodomy & The Lash but also serves as a poignant homage to MacGowan, who was pivotal to the band's evolution.

The Journey of The Pogues

The Pogues, known for their raucous and rowdy blend of punk rock and traditional Irish music, broke onto the music scene in the mid-1980s. With MacGowan leading the charge, their raw, poetic lyrics and raucous melodies resonated with fans across various demographics. Rum, Sodomy & The Lash, released in 1985, was fortuitously the band’s second album and has since held a hallowed place in the pantheon of iconic rock records. The album's exploration of Ireland’s struggles, love, and traditional drinking songs became foundational to their sound.

The Legacy of Shane MacGowan

Shane MacGowan's lyrical prowess and charismatic stage presence defined much of The Pogues’s success. Despite his tumultuous personal life and struggles with addiction, MacGowan's artistic spirit has left a permanent mark on the music industry. His untimely death in October 2024 left a void in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike. The upcoming tour is as much about remembrance as it is about celebration, as the band seeks to rekindle the spirit of creativity that MacGowan embodied.

A Reunion and New Beginnings

Last year, The Pogues reunited, reinvigorating their connection with fans and each other. The reformation was greeted with acclaim, as band members reflected on their shared history and what they hope to achieve in this next chapter. Jem Finer, Spider Stacy, and James Fearnley have pledged to honor MacGowan's legacy while introducing newer artists into the fold for this tour, indicating a fresh approach to their classic sound.

Tour Dates and Locations

The tour will take place in September 2025, with a lineup of cities rich in cultural significance:

• September 5: Washington, D.C. - Lincoln Theater
• September 7: Boston, MA - Seisíun Festival
• September 8: Philadelphia, PA - Franklin Music Hall
• September 10: Toronto, ON - History
• September 12: Montreal, QC - Mtelus
• September 16 & 17: New York, NY - Terminal 5

With tickets set to go on sale April 4, anticipation for this tour is palpable, with both old and new fans eager to join in on what promises to be a remarkable series of concerts.

The All-Star Ensemble

The Pogues' tour is distinguished not just by its celebration of their storied history but also by the incredible lineup of musicians accompanying them. This eclectic group includes:

• Darragh Lynch (guitar) from Lankum
• Iona Zajac (vocals/harp)
• Lisa O’Neill and Nadine Shah (vocals)
• James Walbourne (guitar) from The Pretenders
• John Francis Flynn (vocals, multiple instruments)
• Jordan O’Leary (banjo)
• Fiachra Meek (pipes/whistles) from Alfi
• Jim Sclavunos (drums) from The Bad Seeds
• Holly Mullineaux (bass)

Additionally, a brass section consisting of Pete Fraser, Daniel Hayes, and Ian Williamson will enhance the sound, promising a rich acoustic experience for all attendees.

A "Super Session" Celebration

The Pogues have referred to this tour as a "Super Session," drawing parallels to the well-known film The Last Waltz, which captured The Band's final concert. The intention is to create a vibrant atmosphere where the music of yesteryears meets the innovative sounds of today’s artists. This collaborative spirit exemplifies The Pogues' enduring legacy: a conduit for cultural exchange between generations of musicians.

The Emotional Connection

The emotional weight of this tour cannot be overstated, as fans will join the band in remembering MacGowan's contributions. For many, The Pogues were the soundtrack of youthful rebellion, community gatherings, and the trials of life. By combining nostalgia with new artists, the Pogues are inviting both veteran fans and newcomers alike to share in this musical journey, fostering a deep sense of connection through beloved tunes.

The Ticketing Experience

Fans eager to participate in this historical tour should be prepared. Tickets will be available starting April 4, 2025, at 10 AM local time. Given the band’s enduring popularity and the emotional resonance of this tour, it is expected that tickets will sell out quickly. Fans are urged to secure their spots early to ensure they don't miss out on this rare opportunity to witness The Pogues live.

FAQ

Why is this tour significant?

The tour marks The Pogues' first North American tour since the death of Shane MacGowan and commemorates the 40th anniversary of their seminal album Rum, Sodomy & The Lash.

Who are the original members performing on this tour?

Original members Jem Finer, Spider Stacy, and James Fearnley will be part of the touring lineup.

What cities will The Pogues perform in?

The tour will hit Washington D.C., Boston, Philadelphia, Toronto, Montreal, and New York City.

When do tickets go on sale?

Tickets will be available for purchase starting April 4, 2025, at 10 AM local time.

What will the concert experience be like?

The performances are described as a celebration filled with collaborative efforts alongside other noted musicians, combining traditional Pogues songs with new interpretations.

How can fans prepare for the concert?

Fans should keep track of ticket sale times, lineup announcements, and additional details that will be communicated via official band channels to ensure a smooth concert experience.

As The Pogues embark on this meaningful tour, they invite fans to not only celebrate the music made over decades but to also share in the memories that inspired those beloved songs. This tour is a unifying moment—a chance to raise a glass, relive cherished memories, and create new ones in the spirit of celebration and community.