Irish songwriter Brendan Graham said he did not have the "slightest idea" that his song 'O, America' was going to be performed during Donald Trump's inauguration.
He said he was out for a walk while the event was taking place "and then the texts started flying in".
The 79-year-old has had previous international success with songs like 'Rock 'n' Roll Kids' and 'You Raise Me Up'.
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This song, 'O, America', written by Mr Graham and American producer William Joseph was sung by tenor Christopher Macchio.
It was first recorded by the Irish group Celtic Woman in 2009, allowing it to reach a wide audience in America.
Mr Graham and Mr Joseph collaborated on the song in LA many years ago.
"I was walking the corridor of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel heading for a showcase by American composer William Joseph and I heard this tune wafting out from some room and then discovered it was a melody called Sweet Remembrance of You. I asked William would he allow me to put a lyric to it, which he agreed."
It was during journeys between Kinnegad and his home in Mayo where Mr Graham got the inspiration for the lyrics.
"It seemed to suggest itself as a love song….but an anthemic love song to America. Most of it came fairly readily but to finish it was a bit of a wrestling match."
He said "thankfully" William Joseph went along with this new version of it.
It is not the first time that O, America has been performed for US Presidents.
Irish singer Anthony Kearns sang the song on Capitol Hill for former President Barack Obama and also for President Trump during his previous term.
Mr Graham said he is never sure where his songs will turn up.
"I just send them out over the half-door of the house and watch and wonder."
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