Glasgow was first to hear The Pogues perform Fairytale of New York live

They played it at the infamous Barrowlands in December 1987

The Pogues line up in 1987.
Author: Stephanie AllisonPublished 30th Nov 2023
Last updated 30th Nov 2023

It is a firm favourite when it comes to Christmas songs and as we hear of the passing of Shane McGowan, the Pogues' Fairytale of New York may yet reach the top spot.

But it was here in Glasgow that the band played the hit live for the first time.

Following a trip to the US in November 1987, they returned to UK soil, and to the infamous Barrowland Ballroom for a run of three shows.

READ MORE: Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan dies at 65.

On 17th December that year, Glaswegians were treated to the first ever live performance of the timeless classic.

Speaking to us earlier, Tom Joyes, Managing Director of the Barrowlands told us: "They went on an American tour but it wasn't played."

The song was so well received that it was played twice each night; once during the show and once as an encore.

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