New album honoring Shane MacGowan showcases ‘Haunted’ with Johnny Depp and Imelda May

Johnny Depp and Imelda May have teamed up to release a fresh rendition of Shane MacGowan’s ‘Haunted’ as part of the upcoming tribute album celebrating MacGowan’s profound influence on songwriting. The track is a nod to MacGowan and Sinéad O’Connor’s 1995 duet, bringing new life to one of MacGowan’s most iconic creations for a modern audience.

This latest release follows Bruce Springsteen’s take on ‘A Rainy Night In Soho’, building anticipation for the full release of 20th Century Paddy, The Songs Of Shane MacGowan on November 13. The album boasts a lineup of over 30 diverse artists paying homage to MacGowan’s work, which has transcended genres and become a cornerstone of punk, folk, and literary songwriting.

One of MacGowan’s notable songs, ‘Haunted’, carries both historical significance and emotional depth. Initially recorded by The Pogues in 1986, it gained recognition when MacGowan and O’Connor collaborated on a version for a movie soundtrack in 1995. The blend of Irish melodies with rock arrangements and poignant lyrics exploring themes of memory and longing has made ‘Haunted’ a standout piece in MacGowan’s repertoire.

Johnny Depp’s involvement in the project is a testament to his passion for music outside of his acting career. Collaborating with Imelda May on ‘Haunted’ was described by Depp as a joy, highlighting May’s timeless talent. May, in turn, emphasized the emotional resonance of the recording, dedicated to MacGowan and O’Connor, who passed away in 2023. She recorded her vocals using O’Connor’s microphone out of respect for the late singer.

The tribute album’s creation was spearheaded by MacGowan’s widow, Victoria Mary Clarke, and manager John Kennedy, with a charitable component at its core. Half of all artist royalties from the album will support the Dublin Simon Community’s initiatives for homelessness support. The diverse lineup of artists on the album, from David Gray to The Jesus And Mary Chain, reflects the breadth of MacGowan’s influence on music.

The project originated from performances following MacGowan’s passing, culminating in a tribute at his funeral that inspired a curated album of reinterpretations of his songs. This trend of legacy-focused releases, which redefine influential songwriters through collaborative efforts, places emphasis on MacGowan’s unique songwriting style. The album’s deluxe edition with LPs, CDs, and a book of memorabilia caters to collectors, tapping into the enduring appeal of physical media in the music industry.

As more tracks from the album are unveiled in the lead-up to its release, fans can expect a diverse and respectful representation of MacGowan’s timeless catalog. The collaboration between artists with distinct styles ensures a fresh take on MacGowan’s songs, balancing homage with creative reinterpretation. 20th Century Paddy, The Songs Of Shane MacGowan is positioned to honor MacGowan’s legacy and introduce his music to new audiences while celebrating his continued influence in contemporary music culture.