Nick Cave Pays Tribute to Late Pogues Frontman Shane MacGowan

In a heartfelt piece, Cave remembers MacGowan's songwriting genius and their enduring friendship despite struggles with substance abuse.

Nick Cave, the onetime Birthday Party frontman, has paid tribute to Shane MacGowan, the Irish music legend who fronted The Pogues and co-wrote the holiday classic “Fairytale of New York”, who died on Nov. 30 at the age of 65.
Cave first met MacGowan in 1989 as part of a “summit meeting” staged by British music publication NME that also included the Fall frontman Mark E. Smith.
Cave admired MacGowan's songwriting and voice, describing his songs as 'deep works of art' and his voice as a 'perfect vehicle for his chaotic, poetic soul'.
Despite MacGowan's struggles with substance abuse, Cave admired his persistence and lack of regret, although he found it heartbreaking to see his friend in a reduced state.
MacGowan was laid to rest on December 8, with fans lining the streets of Dublin ahead of his funeral, which was attended by Johnny Depp, Nick Cave, Glen Hansard and Irish President Michael D. Higgins.