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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Entertainment
Peter McGoran

Irish President, Hozier, Brian Kennedy and more set to perform Van Morrison songs for his 75th birthday

One of Belfast's most legendary sons, Van Morrison, turns 75 today, August 31.

The soul singer, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest musical artists of all time, grew up in the heart of East Belfast, on Hyndford Street.

The young Van made his mark on the world with songs like 'Brown Eyed Girl' and 'Gloria', as well as with influential albums such as Astral Weeks and Moondance.

He has gone on to release more than 40 albums throughout his career and has consistently won praise for his songwriting abilities and his live performances.

Now, to celebrate his 75th birthday, some of Ireland's most well-known musicians will be paying tribute by covering his songs this evening.

Among them are Hozier, Brian Kennedy, Glen Hansard, Belfast punk pioneer Terri Hooley, and even Irish President Michael D Higgins.

The cover versions form part of a special tribute by Irish music magazine Hot Press, which sees 75 Irish artists perform Van's songs for his birthday.

Van Morrison performs onstage during the 2017 Americana Music Association Honors & Awards (Rick Diamond/Getty)

Ahead of tonight's performances, Hot Press said: "Today's video performances kick off at 7pm and run on the quarter-hour. Fans of great music all over the world will be able to feast their eyes and ears on these powerful videos:

• President Michael D. Higgins with Bill Whelan – ‘Rave On, John Donne’ (7pm)
• Bob Geldof – ‘I'm Tired Joey Boy’ (7.15pm)
• Moya Brennan (Clannad) – ‘The Beauty Of The Days Gone By’ (7.30pm)
• Paul Casey & Friends feat. Terri Hooley – ‘In The Days Before Rock ’n’ Roll’ (7.45pm)
• Brian Kennedy – ‘Days Like This’ (8pm)
• Mary Coughlan – ‘Warm Love’ (8.15pm)
• John Spillane – ‘Cleaning Windows’ (8.30pm)
• Altan – ‘Whenever God Shines His Light’ (8.45pm)
• Malaki – ‘Someone Like You’ (9pm)
• Glen Hansard – ‘Astral Weeks’ (9.15pm)
• Hozier – ‘Caravan’ (9.30pm)"

You can watch the performances in full on Hot Press' Youtube channel.

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