A Night to Remember: Bob Dylan Honors Shane MacGowan in Dublin
On November 25, 2025, Bob Dylan closed his European tour with a powerful and emotional concert at Dublin’s 3Arena. As the final song of the night, he chose to perform A Rainy Night in Soho — the beloved track originally by The Pogues, written by Shane MacGowan.
This was a deeply meaningful moment. Dylan had played the song only once before — back in May 2025 at the start of the tour during the out-law festival in Phoenix, Arizona.
Why This Tribute Means So Much
MacGowan passed away in late 2023; many consider this performance a heartfelt homage from one legend to another.
The audience reportedly felt the weight of the moment: as Dylan played the piano and delivered the song with a soft, soulful touch, the room fell quiet — only to erupt in reverence and emotion by the end.
For fans of The Pogues and Dylan alike, hearing a rock-and-folk icon reinterpret such a cherished song in MacGowan’s hometown — and so close to the anniversary of his death — added layers of sorrow, respect, and catharsis.
The Concert: A Mix of Old and New, All with Heart
Dylan’s setlist that night spanned his own deep catalogue — songs from his latest works mixed with classics. Then, as the final bow, he brought out “A Rainy Night in Soho.”
Many who attended described the Pogues cover as the emotional climax of the evening. One review called it “a majestic touch” — a perfect way to end the night after a long tour of bluesy reworkings and introspective music.
What It All Reminds Us
Live music has a power that transcends time and loss. For a song born under the voice of one man, to be carried by another — in a tribute that unites fans across generations — is a reminder that music outlives us.
In that Dublin arena, with each note of “A Rainy Night in Soho,” Dylan wasn’t just ending a concert. He was honouring a memory, acknowledging influence, and bridging past and present. For many, it was beautiful. For some, it was healing.