Bruce Springsteen pays emotional tribute to Shane MacGowan as he opens Irish gig

In a poignant tribute to Shane MacGowan, Bruce Springsteen opened his gig in Co Kilkenny with a rendition of 'A Rainy Night in Soho', a classic song by The Pogues from 1986.

The gig, which took place in a location dear to the heart of 'the Boss', on Sunday, May 13, saw Springsteen pay tribute to the Irish music icon, reports the Irish Star.

Springsteen's performance touched fans deeply, prompting quick reactions on social media. One fan stated that the cover gave them "shivers", as another added: "Yeah okay, this made my eyes leak a little bit. Such a gracious tribute to the man, Shane McG."

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The tribute to MacGowan was welcomed with open arms by The Pogues themselves, as their official account wrote: "Lovely tribute to our boss, thanks Bruce."

In wake of the songwriter's passing, Springsteen issued a statement which said: "Over here on E Street, we are heartbroken over the death of Shane MacGowan. Shane was one of my all-time favourite writers."

Springsteen spent time with MacGowan and his wife Victoria shortly before he passed away.

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