Donegal 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. 

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.