A Furious Devotion: The Life of Shane MacGowan

Punk protagonist, legendary drinker, Irish musical icon. The complete and extraordinary journey of The Pogues’ notorious frontman from outcast to national treasure has never been told – until now.

This revised and updated paperback edition includes Shane's final months and the response to his passing.

A Furious Devotion vividly recounts the experiences that shaped the greatest songwriter of his generation including the formative trips to his mother’s homestead in Tipperary and the explosion of punk which changed his life.

As well as exclusive interviews with Shane himself, author Richard Balls has secured contributions from his wife and family, and people who have never spoken publicly about Shane before: close associates, former girlfriends and the English teacher who first spotted his literary gift. Nick Cave, Aidan Gillen, Cillian Murphy, Christy Moore, Sinead O’Connor and Dermot O’Leary are on the rollcall of those paying tribute to the gifted songwriter and poet.

This frank and extensive biography also includes many previously unseen personal photographs.

About the Author

Richard Balls is an established music writer and former journalist. The subjects of his previous books are Ian Dury and Stiff Records.

Reviews

A fascinating portrait of ex-Pogue and folk-punk pioneer Shane MacGowan. - Choice Magazine

A deep dive into the legacy of an Irish icon. The most thorough account of the man — and myth. - Rolling Stone

Definitive portrait of the former Pogue. Intimate, cooperative... the book's strength is that he lets MacGowan speak, and speak on, perfectly capturing the lyrical, romantic rhythms beneath the rasped whisper. - Mojo

Meticulously researched, balanced and rather excellent. - Hot Press

Author: Richard Balls
Publisher: Omnibus Press
Release date: 4 April 2024
Format: Paperback, 368 pages
Language: English