Irish music legend Christy Moore has released a spoken word tribute to President Michael D Higgins.
Music to Our Ears, written by poet Johnny Broderick and produced by Gavin Murphy, is a celebration of the life and legacy of Ireland's President in the last year of his tenure.
Speaking of how the work came about, Moore 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 [Records] 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."
President Higgins was elected President of Ireland in 2011 and is currently serving his second term.
Moore has released Music to Our Ears alongside a lyric video to accompany the tribute.
It opens with the lines: "There is an aura that surrounds you, with decency you are blessed. There is a warmth in your presence, for every welcome guest."
It continues: "You are a voice for the voiceless, like thunder in the plain. An empathetic ear for the afflicted, selfless, humble, but never vain."
Music to Our Ears concludes: "Statesmanlike and diplomatic, charismatic without fears. You are a national treasure treasured, you have been music to our ears."
The track will feature on the extended edition of Moore's No.1 album A Terrible Beauty.
