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A new venue called "Shane MacGowan’s Pub" is set to open in New York City, with the approval and support of the late musician’s family.
The Pogues frontman and celebrated songwriter died "peacefully" in November 2023 at the age of 65 after complications related to pneumonia. Now, his legacy will be honoured with a pub bearing his name in downtown Manhattan.
"Shane MacGowan’s Pub" will open at 250 West 14th Street in the West Village, situated between Seventh and Eighth Avenue. The location previously housed McKenna’s pub.
"This will be a living tribute to a true icon," a statement reads. "We are incredibly honoured to be opening this space with the blessing of Shane’s family, bringing his raw, poetic Irish punk spirit to the West Village."
An official opening date has yet to be confirmed, although social media channels for the venue have teased that it is "coming soon".
A tribute album celebrating MacGowan's songwriting is also due for release on November 13. Titled "20th Century Paddy – The Songs Of Shane MacGowan", the collection features interpretations of his work by a diverse lineup of artists including Bruce Springsteen, Johnny Depp, The Libertines, Tom Waits and Primal Scream. Pre-order your copy here.
The first preview from the project arrived in March with Bruce Springsteen's rendition of The Pogues classic "A Rainy Night In Soho", a song he has previously performed live during concerts in Ireland.
Additional contributors to the album include Dropkick Murphys, Hozier, David Gray, The Jesus And Mary Chain, The Murder Capital, Kate Moss and many others. Half of all artist royalties generated from the release will be donated to Dublin Simon Community, helping fund essential housing and healthcare services for people experiencing homelessness.
Speaking with NME in November 2024, the surviving members of The Pogues reflected on how younger artists are continuing to champion the spirit of the band. Spider Stacy said: "Fontaines are a fantastic band, but they’re very much carrying their own torch. And Kneecap are without precedent.
"If you’re talking about bands like Lankum and The Mary Wallopers, that’s a different story because it’s more Pogues-like territory – to hear them doing what we do in their unique way is exciting. All of those bands are immense."
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Charlie Puth turned his Madison Square Garden concert into a star packed event, bringing out several surprise guests throughout the evening. Billboard was there to capture some of the standout moments from the show.
Puth took over the iconic New York City venue on Friday night, May 29, as part of his Whatever’s Clever World Tour. The trek began a little over a month ago in support of his 2026 album Whatever’s Clever!, and the Madison Square Garden stop featured appearances from Art Garfunkel, Jimmy Fallon, Busta Rhymes, and Kirk Franklin. Together, they joined Puth during his 23 song performance.
The first major surprise came when Art Garfunkel joined Puth onstage for an emotional rendition of Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Boxer.” The song was a Top 10 hit on the Hot 100 in 1969 and later appeared on the duo’s final studio album, Bridge Over Troubled Water. Speaking to the audience, Garfunkel told the crowd, “He learned how to make his records from me and Paul. You’re my student.”
Puth happily embraced the compliment. “I am your student. I’m not just saying that because all these wonderful people are here. The reason that I’m here right now is because of the music you’ve written with Paul. It’s amazing.”
Later in the concert, Jimmy Fallon made a surprise appearance wearing sunglasses and joined Puth for a performance of Toto’s classic hit “Africa,” which topped the charts in 1983. Following the song, Fallon hugged the singer and presented him with a custom New York Rangers jersey featuring “PUTH” and the number 26 on the back.
The excitement continued when Busta Rhymes stepped onto the stage. The rap icon treated fans to performances of early 2000s favorite “Break Ya Neck,” late 1990s anthem “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See,” and “Look at Me Now,” the 2011 Chris Brown hit that also featured Lil Wayne.
Before leaving the stage, Busta Rhymes encouraged the crowd to celebrate Puth. “New York City, please make some noise for our brother, your brother, the incredible Charlie Puth.”
More surprises followed as Kirk Franklin joined the show. The gospel star teamed up with Puth for energetic performances of “I Smile,” “Lean On Me,” and a cover of God’s Property’s “Stomp.”
Puth’s tour continues on Saturday, May 30, with a stop in Atlantic City, New Jersey, before moving on to additional dates across the southern United States. He is scheduled to continue touring domestically through mid June before heading to Europe for the next leg of the tour.
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