Leonard Cohen. "Hallelujah." Various Positions, Sony Music Entertainment, 1984.
What a year it's been for losing musical legends.
Last night, as news broke that the great Leonard Cohen had passed away, I exchanged messages of grief and sadness with old friends who have, like me, been so touched by his music and poetry. One noted, poignantly, that "God is building a supergroup."
The lyrics and melody of "Hallelujah" have always touched me, whether performed by Cohen himself or covered by others -- Jeff Buckley's rendition stands out for me in particular.
In positive news, today ATCQ released their first album in 18 years. (More to come on that tomorrow.)
For now, we celebrate the music, the art, and the legacy of Leonard Cohen.
And here's Jeff Buckley's hauntingly beautiful rendition of the song, made famous by John Cale's cover (also below).
Finally, last but not least, here's the great Canadian singer and pianist Rufus Wainwright with his take on the ballad, accompanied by Choir! Choir! Choir!.