Philip Chevron Testimonial Show (2013)
Tribute concert at The Olympia Theatre, Dublin
On 24 August 2013, the Olympia Theatre in Dublin hosted a tribute concert for Philip Chevron, guitarist and songwriter for The Pogues and The Radiators from Space. Diagnosed with terminal cancer earlier that year, Chevron’s friends and colleagues organized the event to honor his contributions to Irish music.
The evening featured performances from a diverse lineup, including Shane MacGowan, Paul Brady, Horslips, Mary Coughlan, Camille O’Sullivan, Duke Special with Fiona Shaw, Declan O’Rourke, Luka Bloom, and writers Roddy Doyle, Joseph O’Connor, and Patrick McCabe. Each act presented their own work alongside selections from Chevron’s songbook, some of which had never been performed publicly before.
Gavin Friday participated in the event, collaborating with The Radiators from Space on stage. He performed two of Chevron’s songs, “Enemies” and “Sunday World,” delivering interpretations that reflected the raw energy of Dublin’s late 1970s punk scene. Additionally, Friday offered a rendition of Kurt Weill’s “Alabama Song,” a nod to Chevron’s appreciation for German cabaret and theatrical music. These performances were noted for their intensity and alignment with the evening’s tribute to Chevron’s eclectic influences.
The concert was broadcast live on RTÉ 2XM, allowing a wider audience to partake in the celebration. It was one of Chevron’s final public appearances before his passing in October 2013. The event served as a testament to his impact on the Irish music scene and the respect he garnered among his peers.