Pogues guitarist Phil Chevron dead at 56

The guitarist for The Pogues Phil Chevron, whose real name was Philip Ryan, has died at the age of 56.

The guitarist passed away on Tuesday in Dublin from neck and head cancer, the band's manager Mark Addis has confirmed, The Associated Press is reporting.

Chevron wrote several of The Pogues' songs, including their well-known hit, "Thousands Are Sailing." The band came together in the 1980s in London and was lead by singer Shane MacGowan and were known for their mix of rock, punk and traditional Irish music. Two of their best known albums are Rum, Sodomy and the Lash and If I Should Fall From Grace With God.

The Pogues released a statement saying, "After a long illness Philip passed away peacefully this morning. We all send our sincere condolences to his family, Rolling Stone notes.

Chevron was originally a member of Radiators From Space, one of Ireland's first punk bands in 1976. He would later joined The Pogues as a temporary member after their first album Red Roses for Me. Chevron was quickly made a permanent member of the band.

image: Wikimedia Commons