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Dropkick Murphys honor Shane MacGowan with new take on The Pogues’ classic

Dropkick Murphys have released a new recording of The Pogues’ beloved song “The Body of an American,”contributing to the forthcoming tribute collection 20th Century Paddy — The Songs of Shane MacGowan.

The Boston Celtic punk band has long incorporated the song into its live performances, making the studio recording a natural addition to the tribute project. Originally featured on The Pogues’ acclaimed 1985 album Rum, Sodomy & The Lash, “The Body of an American” remains one of the group’s most enduring tracks and a staple of Irish folk-punk music.

The album, scheduled for release in November, celebrates the legacy of the late Pogues frontman and songwriter (who died in 2023) through performances by a range of artists influenced by his work. The band’s rendition of ‘The Body of an American’ follows the previously unveiled Bruce Springsteen interpretation of “A Rainy Night in Soho.”

The release arrives during an active period for Dropkick Murphys, who returned with the album For the People in 2025 and is currently preparing for a slate of international tour dates, with performances scheduled across Ireland, the United Kingdom and Europe.

See the lyric video for Dropkick Murphys’ cover of The Pogues “The Body of an American” – HERE.

Editorial credit: ChrisJamesRyanPhotography / Shutterstock.com

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