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10/30/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/30/2026 09:06

Glen Hansard Celebrated The Songwriting Of Shane Macgowan With His Interpretation Of 'Bottle Of Smoke'

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October 30th, 2026 - 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 & 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

Photo credit: Kalpesh Lathigra

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.

Shore Fire Media Inc. published this content on October 30, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 30, 2026 at 15:07 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]