Christy Moore releases spoken word tribute to President Michael D. Higgins

The poem is a celebration of the life and legacy of President Higgins in the last year of his tenure.

The poem, Music To Our Ears will feature on the extended edition of his album A Terrible Beauty. Written by Johnny b Broderick and produced by Gavin Murphy, it is a celebration of the life and legacy of President Higgins in the last year of his tenure.

Commenting on how the work came about, Christy said: “I was working in Gavin Murphy’s Studio. Gavin shared music he was composing for a poem John Broderick had written in advance of President Michael D’s departure from Áras and Úachtaráin. I read the poem and listened to the music. I offered to recite the words. Claddagh heard it and suggested we make it available to the public.

"I think it is a beautiful tribute to our esteemed President and his family. I think Johnny B’s words express what many of us feel about Michael D. and, Our First Lady, Sabina," he added.

A Terrible Beauty was released via Claddagh Records last November and reached the top spot on the Official Irish Album Charts.

Released 56 years after his debut album, the record became his first number one in seven years.

Music To Our Ears reads: "There is an aura that surrounds you. With decency you are blessed. There is a warmth in your presence. For every welcome guest. You are a voice for the voiceless. Like thunder in the plain. An empathetic ear for the afflicted. Selfless, humble, but never vain."

It continues: "Your core values EVER visible An example for all to see. Truth, honesty, and decorum. And at the center, family."

Read the full poem below:

Music To Our Ears
Words by Johnny b Broderick
Produced by Gavin Murphy
There is an aura that surrounds you
With decency you are blessed
There is a warmth in your presence
For every welcome guest
You are a voice for the voiceless
Like thunder in the plain
An empathetic ear for the afflicted
Selfless, humble, but never vain
You are the Aisling of our Celtic lore
Feasting on the Bradán of our day
Sharing your sage and wisdom
With all along the way
Your quiet measured oratory
Speaks volumes to keenest ears
Your deliberate delivery
Honed throughout the years
You are like a warm hug
To the masses of our race
Gentle kind reassurance
With effervescent dignity and grace
You are the lyrics of the verse
The melody of the song
You are the North Star of the night sky
When our compass is pointing wrong
Your core values EVER visible
An example for all to see
Truth, honesty, and decorum
And at the center, family
Immersed in tradition
Justice and fairness your deepest care
Culture and heritage born
From the spirits of county clare
Your service to our people
Will be etched in future lore
The EPITOME of irishness
With Céad míle fáiltes galore
Statesmanlike and diplomatic
Charismatic without fears
You are a national treasure treasured
You have been music to our ears.