Aside from the incredible talent grown in our wonderful country, Northern Ireland has also proven to be the inspiration behind some of the most well known songs we listen to everyday.
While Belfast takes the top spot for inspiring some of the great hits, Carrickfergus and the Mourne Mountains have also acted as the backdrop of a few recognisable tunes too.
Here’s a look at 10 songs inspired by various spots in Northern Ireland:
9. Belfast Child - Simple Minds
Selling over 60 million albums, Scottish rock band Simple Minds were one of the biggest groups of the 1980s and 90s, with their song Belfast Child being released at the height of their fame in 1989. A reference to the children who grew up in the midst of the Troubles, experiencing the turmoil and suffering firsthand, the song is characterised by its anthemic melody, haunting bagpipe solo, and powerful vocals by Kerr, creating a sense of urgency and emotional resonance. Belfast Child became one of Simple Minds' most iconic songs, and has become an important chapter in Northern Ireland music history. Photo: unsplash
10. Cyprus Avenue - Van Morrison
The song Cyprus Avenue is named after a street in Belfast, where NI icon Van Morrison spent his childhood. Serving as a nostalgic look back on his youth and the memories tied to Cyprus Avenue, the lyrics vividly paint a picture of the sights, sounds, and emotions of his hometown. Widely regarded as one of Van Morrison's finest works, Cyprus Avenue, the 1968 hit is praised for its poetic lyrics and deep emotional resonance and continues to be cherished as a timeless classic in his extensive collection of songs. Photo: Google