A Rainy Night in Soho

The Pogues

About A Rainy Night in Soho

"A Rainy Night in Soho" is a song by The Pogues released in 1986, originally included on their Poguetry in Motion EP. Two recordings and various mixes of the song were made in the studio. Songwriter Shane MacGowan and producer Elvis Costello clashed over the final mix of the song, with MacGowan preferring a mix featuring a cornet, and Costello preferring a version with oboe. The cornet version was used, except for Canadian editions of the EP, which used the oboe version. A third version combining elements of both mixes was issued on the 1991 Poguetry In Motion re-issue, and is also available on the remastered and expanded Hell's Ditch CD. Other mixes have surfaced on various compilations and bootlegs, and according to guitarist Philip Chevron there are "something like 13 versions... with different edits of the two recordings". A video was filmed for the song. It shows Shane MacGowan with short beard, cool shades and leather jacket singing into a 1950s styled mic; the black-and-white footage is mixed with flicks from the protagonist's childhood and frames from nighttime London. Finally Shane dances the waltz with his girlfriend before a burning fire. more »

Year:: 1991
: 4:45
: 131 Views

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The Pogues

The Pogues are a Celtic punk band from London, formed in 1982 and fronted by Shane MacGowan. The band reached international prominence in the 1980s and early 1990s. MacGowan left the band in 1991 due to drinking problems but the band continued first with Joe Strummer and then with Spider Stacy on vocals before breaking up in 1996. The band reformed in 2001, and has been playing regularly ever since, most notably on the US East Coast around St Patrick's Day and across the UK and Ireland every December. The group has yet to record any new music and, according to Spider Stacy on Pogues.com, has no inclination to do so. more »

2 fans

Genre »

Rock

Style »

Folk Rock

13 facts about this song

Release Information "A Rainy Night in Soho" was first released in 1986 as part of an extended play (EP) called "Poguetry in Motion."
Band Composition The Pogues is a celebrated band of British punk origin but is well-known for its heavy influence of traditional Irish music.
Song Origin The song was written by the band's frontman, Shane MacGowan.
Location Inspiration The song title implies that it was inspired by the Soho district in London, which is known for its vibrant nightlife.
Lyrics Theme The lyrics of "A Rainy Night in Soho" present a nostalgic love theme, reflecting on a relationship in the bloom of youth.
Musical Stylistics Unlike most of The Pogues' songs that are filled with raw energy and punk influence, "A Rainy Night in Soho" leans towards a more mellow and emotive ballad.
Notable Instrument A distinctive trumpet solo can be heard in the song, which sets it apart from many other songs by The Pogues.
Cover Versions Numerous artists have covered "A Rainy Night in Soho," including Nick Cave and the famous Irish band, The Dubliners.
Live Performances The song is known to be a fan-favorite during live performances, often drawing a strong crowd response.
Longevity Despite being released in the mid-1980s, "A Rainy Night in Soho" continues to be one of The Pogues' most loved songs.
Musical Arrangement In addition to Shane MacGowan's notable vocals, the song features an array of instruments, such as the tin whistle, accordion, and banjo, contributing to its rich sound.
Critical Acclaim The song has been lauded by critics for its poetic lyrics and is considered one of Shane MacGowan's best compositions.
Re-Recorded Version The Pogues re-recorded "A Rainy Night in Soho" with producer Steve Lillywhite for their 2005 box set, "Just Look Them Straight in the Eye and Say...Poguemahone!!"

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"A Rainy Night in Soho Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 19 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/787951/The+Pogues/A+Rainy+Night+in+Soho>.

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