Country superstar shows major love for track by Donegal’s Keith Harkin
Musician Keith Harkin has got a big thumbs up from country superstar Billy Ray Cyrus this week to celebrate the anniversary of a classic song.
Billy Ray Cyrus
This year marks the 25th anniversary since the release of catchy country anthem Achy Breaky Heart by Cyrus. The iconic song became his signature track and helped bring him to stardom through country radio airplay.
Singer and musician Keith Harkin from Inishowen is a star in his own right in the USA and beyond. He has toured around the world as a solo artist and as a lead soloist in Celtic Thunder, amassing an army of loyal fans along the way.
Billy Ray Cyrus asked Keith to cover Achy Breaky Heart in honour of the anniversary, and this version has clearly impressed him.
Yesterday Cyrus premiered Keith’s cover saying: “I LOVE this cut! From Nashville to Ireland. Crank it up!”
The cover has been widely praised by country fans and Keith’s loyal followers, known as the Harkin Army.
Keith was delighted to get the seal of approval from Cyrus: “I’m over the moon with the opportunity and had so much fun putting my Irish spin on the song,” he said.
Keith has hinted he may add the track as an extra to his setlist in upcoming tour dates as he plans to travel around the USA and Canada in the coming months. He is currently home in Donegal recording and preparing for the summer tour.
You Might Also Like
July 6, 2017
I can not stop watching this video. Makes me smile and Keith Harkin seems to love doing it. The perfect feel good video!!!
July 6, 2017
Leave it to Keith! I’ve been to many of his solo gigs, never leaving unsatisfied. Here is a talent tornado…jump into this one!!
July 6, 2017
Keith’s golden voice is perfect for this rendition of Billy Ray Cyrus’s Acky Breaky Heart.
So proud of this opportunity for Keith and Billy.
July 6, 2017
I can’t wait to see Keith Harkin do achy breaky heart live ???
July 6, 2017
I love, love, love Keith’s version of Achy Breaky Heart! Keith Harkin is on his way to Superstardom!
July 6, 2017
I’ve been a Keith Harkin fan for nine years and he never ceases to amaze me. I love the multiple vocals with an Irish twist to this song. Congrats and I can’t wait to hear you sing Achy Breaky Heart live.
July 6, 2017
I loved this version sung by Keith Harkin. I have always loved his singing. I do miss him on Celtic Thunder though. He has a special tone to his voice. And man can he play a guitar!!! Wow!!!! He just keeps getting better and better.
July 6, 2017
I just love the talent and love this man has..hope Keith performs this in Lavalette..NJ. Aug 15th..so looking forward to enjoying his Sweetness..????????
July 6, 2017
I love Keith’s version! Keith Harkin is a force to be reckoned with!
July 6, 2017
This is great Keith, you have put your spin on it and did a good job doing it. I have played it a few times and enjoy it more each and every time. Your going places and so glad you stay true to your roots! Good Job a Harkin angel!☘️
July 6, 2017
Love this version! I’ve watched it over and over. Keith looks like he had a blast with it. He is soooo talented!
July 6, 2017
Keith sounds like a true Southern singer, with his version of that song. LOVE it!
July 6, 2017
I loved this song so much first time round and never ever thought that another singer could do it justice, how wrong was I, this is a brilliant version, and why wouldn’t it be, Keith is a Donegal man after all, I am a 76 yr old granny and he has me dancing around in my recliner, I would love to meet him. x
July 7, 2017
Would be great if Keith could get some radio air play. I have all his Celtic Thunder and both solo cd’s. I just love his voice. Maybe someday to come tour closer to Northern California above Sacramento.
July 7, 2017
I love Keith’s version of Achy Breaky Heart! As always, he puts his all in to it. True talent. I don’t think there is anything Keith cannot do with his music or anybody else’s ! Anxious to see what is next for his music career.
July 7, 2017
Keith one of the things I truly love about you and your abundance of talent is that you and your voice seem to be able to adapt to any type of music that you choose to perform. You always sound great no matter what you sing. Your musical arrangements always fit you perfectly. Your a bundle of talent handsome guy and I feel very lucky to have you and your song in my life.
July 7, 2017
I remember Achy Breaky Heart when it came out. I have followed Keith since he began with Celtic Thunder Keith,put his “All” into it, as you would expect of Keith. I send Blessings to you Keith!
July 8, 2017
WOW,,,Way To Go Keith !!! 🙂 😉 😉
July 8, 2017
Always loved this song and Keith delivers a refreshing version of it in his own style. I hope it’ll take Keith a long way in his career. I have followed him since the first days of Celtic Thunder.
July 8, 2017
Fresh, new, exciting! Way to go Keith. You’ re a REAL GEM!