Some voices never really leave us — and today, Shane MacGowan’s songs are ringing out louder than ever.

20th Century Paddy – The Songs of Shane MacGowan, a 36-song Shane MacGowan tribute album, was released today, Friday, November 13, 2026, on Rubyworks — just over two weeks before the third anniversary of MacGowan’s death.

It’s a huge, warm-hearted celebration of one of music’s great songwriters, bringing together around 36–40 acts, including Bruce Springsteen, U2, Tom Waits, Hozier, Jessie Buckley, Steve Earle, Dropkick Murphys, Primal Scream, The Libertines, Johnny Depp, Imelda May and Kate Moss.

The performances to hear first

Bruce Springsteen covers the Pogues’ “A Rainy Night in Soho,” U2 take on “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah,” and Tom Waits delivers a new recording of “Summer in Siam,” from the Pogues’ 1990 album Hell’s Ditch. Hozier and Jessie Buckley, meanwhile, sing “Fairytale of New York.”

It’s the kind of lineup that stops you mid-scroll: rock legends, punk firebrands and some of the most distinctive voices of today, all singing the songs of the Pogues’ frontman.

A family tribute — and a cause close to home

The project was put together by MacGowan’s widow, Victoria Mary Clarke, working with his sister Siobhan, and it was announced in March 2026.

The title is taken from an album MacGowan himself once planned to make — a fitting name for a record that feels both like a look back and a celebration of songs that still sound completely alive.

MacGowan, frontman of The Pogues, died on November 30, 2023, aged 65. This album lands just over two weeks before the third anniversary of his death, making today’s release feel especially poignant for fans who grew up with his music.

Half of the artist royalties from the album go to the Dublin Simon Community, a charity supporting people experiencing homelessness.

Out today

20th Century Paddy – The Songs of Shane MacGowan is out today. Put it on loud, pour something warm, and let Shane’s songs do what they’ve always done — bring people together.

Image: Wikimedia Commons — Shane MacGowan in 1991.

Sources: Stereogum | Consequence | Rock Cellar Magazine