A Furious Devotion, Richard Balls
A Furious Devotion, Richard Balls
List: $24.99 | Sale: $17.50
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A Furious Devotion
The Life of Shane MacGowan

Author: Richard Balls

Narrator: Dan Calley

Unabridged: 10 hr 46 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: Tantor Media

Published: 10/26/2021


Synopsis

Punk protagonist, legendary drinker, Irish musical icon. The complete and extraordinary journey of the Pogues's notorious frontman from outcast to national treasure has never been told—until now.

A Furious Devotion: The Life of Shane MacGowan vividly recounts the experiences that shaped the greatest songwriter of his generation: the formative trips to his mother's homestead in Tipperary, the explosion of punk which changed his life, and the drink and drugs that nearly ended it.

As well as exclusive interviews with Shane himself, author Richard Balls has secured contributions from his wife and family, and people who have never spoken publicly about Shane before: close associates, former girlfriends, and the English teacher who first spotted his literary gift. Nick Cave, Aidan Gillen, Cillian Murphy, Christy Moore, Sinead O'Connor and Dermot O'Leary are on the rollcall of those paying tribute to the gifted songwriter and poet.

About Richard Balls

Richard Balls is a writer and journalist. His books include Sex & Drugs & Rock 'n' Roll: The Life of Ian Dury and Be Stiff: The Stiff Records Story.


Reviews

Goodreads review by Chris

I can see how the discussion went when the author’s people and MacGowan’s people met to discuss whether the biography would be authorized. The MacGowan people said “Say whatever you want about his behaviour, addictions and all that, just don’t dis the music. And if you say anything good about the ob......more

Goodreads review by Andy

One of the most comprehensive accounts of Shane's life that you'll ever come across. Written by a man who spent time with Shane, Victoria and many members of their entourage. I commend Richard on the effort he's put into interviewing relevant people and preparing a complimentary, but honest account......more

Goodreads review by Jerry

I've never been a big fan of The Pogues or indeed bothered to find out much about their front man, the larger than life Shane MacGowan. However, living in the UK in the 90s it was hard not to see him occasionally and he is definitely a commanding presence when he does appear on TV for example. Whene......more

Goodreads review by John

A superb book to complement and add to the earlier 'A drink with Shane MacGowan' this delves deeper into the man by interviewing a range of people who know him have observed and helped him become who he is. It pulls no punches and shows the dark and dangerous roads he's travelled as well as his undo......more