Liam Neeson performs rendition of 'On Hyndford Street' to celebrate Van Morrison's 75th birthday
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Liam Neeson performs rendition of 'On Hyndford Street' to celebrate Van Morrison's 75th birthday

LIAM NEESON has paid tribute to Van Morrison by performing a unique rendition of his 1991 hit 'On Hyndford Street'.

The Northern Irish singer celebrated his 75th birthday on Monday, and a number of high-profile figures chimed in to give their best wishes to 'Van the man', including Bono and President Michael D. Higgins.

Irish music magazine Hot Press asked 75 Irish artists from both sides of the border to record covers of his songs.

Some of the musical tributes were broadcast on YouTube in August and will continue throughout this month as part of the virtual celebration, titled 'Rave On, Van Morrison'.

The likes of Sinead O'Connor, Imelda May and Bob Geldof paid homage to the Belfast-born singer-songwriter by recording and performing songs he wrote.

But one of the most notable was Liam Neeson's rendition of On Hyndford Street, with the help of Co Down-born drummer and composer David Lyttle.

Neeson's rough and rugged tone suits the song rather well, giving it more of an intense atmosphere - something the Irish actor is well and truly born to do if you've seen any of his movies.

President Higgins summed up everyone efforts by paying tribute to the man: "Van Morrison is one of the outstanding songwriters and performers of the past 60 years and has been a powerful inspiration to successive generations of musicians and artists all over the island of Ireland, and abroad.

"It is a great privilege to be part of this extraordinary celebration of Van's work, on the occasion of his 75th birthday. Long may he continue. Rave on, Van Morrison."

Here, here.