Glen Hansard Hear his interpretation of 'Bottle of Smoke' - Taken from '20th Century Paddy - The Songs of Shane MacGowan', out 13 Nov
Today marks the release of Glen Hansard’s performance of 'Bottle of Smoke', featured as part of the forthcoming tribute project '20th Century Paddy – The Songs of Shane MacGowan'. Recorded in October 2024 and released with the full blessing and support of Glen's family and estate, the release stands as a celebration of the profound artistic bond and personal friendship shared between the two Irish icons.
In keeping with Shane and Glen’s unwavering dedication to social causes throughout their life, 50% of the proceeds generated from the album will be donated to The Dublin Simon Community, supporting their ongoing work to end homelessness across Ireland.
“I’m eternally grateful to Glen for being such an incredible friend to both myself and Shane and for being such an integral part of making this album possible. He did a magnificent version of Bottle of Smoke and he infused it with all of the soul and spirit and passion that he was famous for. I know that Shane adored Glen and admired his work and was hoping that Glen would produce an album for him. His passing is a profound loss to the music world and to humanity in general but it is some comfort to have his voice and presence and beauty on this album which would not have been made without him” Victoria Mary Clarke
Originally written for the album 'If I Should Fall From Grace With God', 'Bottle of Smoke' has long stood as one of the most joyful entries in Shane’s songbook. Glen Hansard’s rendition honors that untamed energy while bringing a rich, emotional resonance that reflects his own extraordinary body of work.
"As we approach the winter months, Dublin Simon Community is hugely grateful to Victoria, Rubyworks and the many artists who have contributed their time and talents to 20th Century Paddy - The Songs of Shane MacGowan. The funds raised through this project will help us support people experiencing homelessness through the winter months.
This beautiful recording by Glen Hansard of the classic 'Bottle of Smoke' is especially poignant because it brings together the legacy of two artists who cared deeply about people experiencing homelessness. Shane MacGowan was a long-time supporter of Dublin Simon, while Glen dedicated much of his time and talent to helping others through his music. He was also the driving force behind the Dublin Simon Christmas Eve Busk on Grafton Street, an event that has become a symbol of generosity, community and hope for so many people.
Through this very special interpretation of 'Bottle of Smoke', their voices continue to make a difference long after they have left us. The proceeds from this project will help support people rebuilding their lives after homelessness, which speaks to the enduring warmth, generosity and legacy of both Shane and Glen." - Catherine Kenny, CEO, Dublin Simon Community
'Bottle of Smoke' by Glen Hansard is available today across all platforms.
20th Century Paddy - The Songs of Shane MacGowan is a 36 track tribute album celebrating the life and genius of Shane MacGowan (1957 - 2023). Described as a sonic love letter to Shane MacGowan's catalog, the compilation features an outstanding lineup of international icons and contemporary artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Hozier, U2, Tom Waits, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Damien Dempsey, Lisa O'Neill, The Murder Capital and many more. The full compilation 20th Century Paddy - The Songs of Shane MacGowan releases worldwide on Friday, November 13, 2026 on 3LP vinyl, 2CD, Deluxe Bookpack and digital formats.
PRE-ORDER AVAILABLE HERE
'20TH CENTURY PADDY - THE SONGS OF SHANE MACGOWAN'
TRACKLISTING
- Amble - The Snake With the Eyes of Garnet
- Bob Geldof - St. John Of Gods
- Bruce Springsteen - A Rainy Night in Soho
- Camille O’Sullivan - You're The One
- Cronin - London You're A Lady
- Damien Dempsey - Sally MacLennane
- David Gray - The Old Main Drag
- David Keenan - The Sick Bed of Cuchulainn
- Dropkick Murphys - The Body of an American
- Garron Noone - White City
- Glen Hansard - Bottle of Smoke
- Hozier & Jessie Buckley - Fairytale of New York
- Jimmy Artache - USA
- Johnny Mac and The Faithful - Fiesta
- Johnny Depp & Imelda May - Haunted
- Kate Moss - Lonesome Highway
- Kingfishr - The Sunnyside of the Street
- Liam Ó Maonlaí - The Broad Majestic Shannon
- Lisa Moorish & Another Day - Rain Street
- Lisa O'Neill - Dark Streets of London
- LYRA - Streets of Sorrow / Birmingham Six
- Madra Salach - Turkish Song of the Damned
- Moya Brennan - Mother Mo Chroi
- Mundy - Victoria
- Picture This - Aisling
- Pinch of Snuff - Donegal Express
- Primal Scream - A Pair of Brown Eyes
- Steve Earle - If I Should Fall From Grace With God
- The High Kings - Streams of Whiskey
- The Jesus And Mary Chain - I'll Be Your Handbag
- The Libertines - Sayonara
- The Murder Capital - The Song With No Name
- The Pogues - Gabrielle
- Tom Creagh - Paddy Public Enemy No. 1
- Tom Waits - Summer In Siam
