The Pogues are an Irish-British Celtic punk band formed in London in 1982. Their sound blends traditional Irish folk music with punk rock energy, making them pioneers of the genre known as Celtic punk. The Pogues are known for their rowdy, poetic lyrics that reflect themes of Irish identity, working-class struggles, and life in general, often told with both wit and a melancholic undertone. Shane MacGowan was the band’s iconic frontman, lead vocalist, and primary songwriter. MacGowan's raw, gravelly voice and poetic lyrics are central to the Pogues' sound and identity. Spider Stacy is the tin whistle player and occasional vocalist who has been with the band since its early days. Jem Finer is the Banjo player and co-songwriter.

Cait O'Riordan was the original bassist who also contributed vocals and later married Elvis Costello. The Pogues' music is a mix of Irish folk tunes, punk rock, and rock & roll, with instruments like the tin whistle, accordion, banjo, and mandolin playing key roles. Their fast-paced, boisterous sound contrasted with MacGowan's often dark, poetic lyrics, many of which drew on Irish history, politics, and traditional folk themes. "Rum, Sodomy & the Lash" (1985): Produced by Elvis Costello, this is one of the Pogues' most famous albums. It features tracks like "A Pair of Brown Eyes" and "The Sick Bed of Cúchulainn."

"If I Should Fall from Grace with God" (1988): This album includes their biggest hit, "Fairytale of New York", a Christmas duet with Kirsty MacColl that has become one of the most beloved holiday songs in the UK, despite its unconventional and bittersweet nature. The album also features "Fiesta" and the title track. "Red Roses for Me" (1984): Their debut album, known for songs like "Transmetropolitan" and "Streams of Whiskey," established the Pogues as a major force in both the punk and folk scenes.

The Pogues are credited with bringing Irish folk music to a broader, younger audience by fusing it with punk. They became emblematic of both the Irish diaspora experience and the punk spirit of rebellion. Though Shane MacGowan's struggles with alcohol led to his departure from the band in the early 1990s, his influence on music and his legacy as one of the greatest songwriters of his era remain intact. The band had several reunions over the years, often touring around the holiday season due to the enduring popularity of "Fairytale of New York." Their music continues to inspire many Celtic punk bands and is celebrated for its combination of raw energy and poetic, heartfelt storytelling.