The Pogues are an Irish-English folk punk band formed in London in 1982, known for blending traditional Irish music with punk rock energy and rebellious spirit. Led by Shane MacGowan's distinctive vocals and songwriting, they became legendary for their rowdy live performances and infectious, emotionally-charged songs that celebrated Irish culture and working-class life. Their 1987 album "If I Should Fall from Grace with God" and the iconic Christmas anthem "Fairytale of New York" cemented their status as one of the most influential and beloved bands in alternative music history.