121. The Pogues

With U2 already in the Rock and Roll Hall, it can be easily said that Ireland is already represented. Yet, when listening to the entire body of U2’s work, does it really scream “Irish”? Nationalism aside, there may not be a band that sounds more like they are from Ireland than the Pogues; which is a little ironic considering that they formed in London.

Led by the barely comprehensible lead singer, Shane MacGowan the Pogues sang political anthems that embraced their working class roots. Inspired by their Punk origins, the Pogues injected Punk into traditional Irish Folk music and created some of the most original music of the 1980’s. Likely because of its uniqueness, there hasn’t been any band that has come close to sounding like them since. It is unlikely that the Hall considers them worthy for induction, but ask The Pogues if they have ever given it a thought.

www.pogues.com

Should The Pogues be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put them in! - 86.4%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 7.4%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 2.5%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 3.7%

The Bullet Points

Eligible Since: Friday, 01 January 2010
Country of Origin: United Kingdom (London, England)
Why they will get in: Considering they were Punk infused, there is a possibility.
Why they won't get in: They definitely do not have an “American” enough sound to get in.
Nominated in: Never
Essential Albums: Rum Sodomy & the Lash (1985)
If I Should Fall from Grace with God (1988)
Peace and Love (1989)
Our Five Favorite Songs as Chosen by Each Member of the NIHOF Committee: The Sick Bed of Cuchulainn (From Rum Sodomy & the Lash, 1985)
Dirty Old Town (From Rum Sodomy & the Lash, 1985)
A Pair of Brown Eyes (From Rum Sodomy & the Lash, 1985)
Fairy Tale of New York (From If I Should Fall from Grace with God, 1988)
Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah (Single, 1989)