WATCH: President Michael D.Higgins pays tribute to Van Morrison with a rendition of ‘Rave On, John Donne’

The President joined in the celebrations for Van Morrison’s 75th birthday

President Michael D. Higgins joined in the celebrations for legendary Northern Irish singer Van Morrison’s 75th birthday yesterday by recording a rendition of one of his hits.

Higgins, who writes poetry, performed a spoken word rendition of ‘Rave On, John Donne’, adding his own lines to the song to recognise the civil rights and anti-racism movement across the world.

Michael D. Higgins performs 'Rave On John Donne' by Van Morrison, with music by Bill Whelan.

The video is part of "Rave On, Van Morrison", a celebration of the work of the Irish songwriter, curated by Hot Press, to mark Van Morrison's 75th birthday.https://t.co/mOeRt0WsvX

— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) August 31, 2020

“Rave on Van Morrison. Rave on James Baldwin. Rave on John Lewis. The celebration will be held, racism defeated,” Higgins said.

The president recorded the performance from his official residence in the Phoenix Park, accompanied by Bill Whelan, composer of “Riverdance.”

The rendition was part of a week-long series of performances to celebrate the legacy of Van Morrison, organised by Irish music publication Hot Press. The series will include 75 Irish artists and musicians in covering Morrison’s extensive back catalogue, including covers by Bob Geldof, Hozier and Sinead O’Connor.

Watch the president’s full performance here:

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