Today in Dublin, an extraordinary moment of recognition for one of the most iconic figures in the history of Irish music is taking place.

Irish people will be well aware of the flaming hair, and the uniquely rugged countenance of a man who set the bar for folk singers all over the world – and for Irish ones in particular – at world record height. Well, finally, the city in which he grew up, and which he inhabited with such an impressive, larger-than-life persona, is finally paying official tribute.

We are talking about the great Luke Kelly of The Dubliners, of course, and this afternoon, not one statue but two will be unveiled in a very special ceremony in the city centre. It promises to be an emotional occasion indeed.

Sadly, the legendary Irish songwriter Shay Healy, who is recovering from surgery in St. Vincent’s Hospital, will miss out on the ceremonials. But, to mark the occasion, the now 75 year-old Shay, has paid his own special tribute by releasing ‘Song For Luke’ – a brand new tribute to the great Dubliner and agitator. Shay Healy write one of Ireland’s best remembered Eurovision-winning songs. ‘What’s Another Year?’

“I’m naturally disappointed not to be there,” Shay said from his hospital bed in St. Vincent’s Hospital, “but I will very much be there in spirit. I knew Luke well and I was a great admirer of his uninhibited style. I have tried to capture the uniqueness of his talent in the song, which is powerfully performed by Chris Kavanagh, who has been keeping the music of Luke alive with his touring show ‘The Legend of Luke Kelly’.

“Whoever dreamt up the idea of having two statues on either side of the Liffey, deserves a medal,” Shay Healy laughed. “Luke will now become a rival to St. Joseph of Cupertino, who was famous for appearing in two different places at the one time.”

Hot Press wishes Shay Healy a speedy recovery.