Van Morrison to play Hebridean Celtic Festival

By ALISTAIR MUNRO
Published on 14/02/2013 00:40

Van Morrison is returning to the Hebridean Celtic Festival after an eight-year absence.

Morrison, who headlined HebCelt in 2005, has confirmed he will play the festival, which runs from 17-20 July and is based on the Isle of Lewis.

Fans can expect a collection of classics from a 50-year career as well as songs from his latest album Born to Sing: No Plan B.

He said: “My music has been influenced by the Celtic tradition and I find it inspiring to go back to the places where that tradition is still strong.

“My visit to HebCelt in 2005 is one I remember with great fondness and I have wanted to return to the islands for some time.

“So I am delighted to be able to take up the invitation this year and look forward to playing at this festival, which is so highly regarded among musicians.”

Morrison was born in Belfast in 1945 and was raised on music from his father’s collection of blues, country and gospel songs.

After early success with the group Them, he became an internationally acclaimed solo singer and songwriter with hits including Brown Eyed Girl, Moondance and Tupelo Honey.

His awards and accolades include an OBE, six Grammys, a Brit and an Ivor Novello, as well as honorary doctorates from Belfast Queen’s and Ulster universities, and entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.