Leonard was the One and Only. This is His Song. But in true generous open hearted Leonard fashion he gave his blessing as best rendition of H to... Pentatonix. You'll see why...
@@patriciochavez4981 Well that's just one opinion, even if it is coming from the guy who wrote it. Doesn't make it any more valid than any other opinion. Opinions are not facts.
@@5Bigfoots True. Opinions aren't facts. But if the writer of a piece of art makes a statement, then that is not merely opinion. Or are you trying to say that the writer says one thing. any person on the planet can counter it because they have an "opinion" which would be then equally "valid". You put too much weight on opinions. Everyone can have one. but they are all as equally worthless as the next. At least you didn't use "entitled" in your statement.
Leonard Cohen wrote more than 80 verses for 'Hallelujah', and it's been covered more than 300 times in dozens of languages. Even Bob Dylan has covered it. This, this is the definitive original.
I... I really love it, but of course it is not the original? Or how do you meen? Isn't the orgiginal the studio version preceding this one with decades?
@@kristofferburstedt2175 'Hallelujah' is Cohen's seminal work, the studio version originally released is great, but Cohen shone as a live performer, and this is the definitive version of that work...
I completely agree that this song sung by Leonard Cohen is the best version! I always want to tell reactors to always listen to the original before you listen to a cover because it’s usually the best version.
I'm only 40 years old. Half this Man's age. But I would let him do what he wants to me... This song, and this version... It melts away all my inhibitions. I do not care one bit about the age gap... If I saw him in real life and he whispered to me in that voice I'd be on my knees.
He was a special person, I discovered his work a few days ago and he’s already inspired me. I like his more foreboding and existential songs the most, hearing his religious perspective and conflicts is fascinating ..
@@choice12ozborne If you check some of his earlier recordings you'll see what your pops meant. I think his older voice, as here, is wonderfully suited to the songs.
You should try “Everybody Knows” by him. Big time dark vibes. Everybody knows that the dice are loaded Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed Everybody knows the war is over Everybody knows the good guys lost Everybody knows the fight was fixed The poor stay poor, the rich get rich…
There are many fabulous covers of “Hallelujah”, but one should always tip their hat 🎩 to the songwriting of Leonard Cohen. I was privileged to have seen him perform live, and many of his songs were every bit as moving and the audience was enthralled throughout the show. No matter the artist that you favor most, it’s always best to acknowledge the songwriters and original artist - in this case they are the same, the incredible Leonard Cohen. 🇨🇦 🎶👍🏻
I'm from Montreal, his hometown, but I saw him live only once. I have seen hundreds of shows in my life and this one (I think it was the same tour as this video) still stand in my top 10. The emotions where palpables.
Leonard Cohen was one of my favorite writers/singers when I was in college in the 1960s. I was amazed when, 50 years later (without ever mentioning him to her), one of my grand-daughters made a tape of her 6 favorite artists and included Leonard Cohen. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
It really hurts to hear people comment,I know this from Shreik etc. This man has been singing and writing beautiful songs including this one since the 60`s. A legend.
Countryman Leonard Cohen wrote this and many other great songs, he did all his songs with soul and passion. He is I believe one of the worlds best poets, and also either writes his music or collaborates. Either way Leonard was a super humble unique icon of our age, Rip Leonard, peace in heaven...Thx for posting this R
In 1971 i had his album "Songs of Love and Hate". I was hooked right then and there. It was kind of funny that once in a while i couldnt find my album in my stack but then it would turn up again One day i came home unexpectedly at lunch time and there was my father lying on his back on the living room floor with my Leonard Cohen album blasting and he was eyes closed drifted off into never neverland. About 5 or 6 years ago at the age of 90 he finally got to see Leonard Cohen live in concert. He never stopped talking about it till the day he died. It was one of the highlights of his life.
This is the original mood and intent of this composition. Pentatonix created a vocal masterpiece, but overwhelmed Cohen's meaning of the song. I am delighted that you went back and experienced the original! 👼☮️🌹
I have loved Leonard Cohen for many years. I finally got to see him live , in Chicago, on this tour. Every one of his backup musicians were amazing and so were these backup singers. After the concert I couldn't leave. I needed to sit still and process my reactions to him and his songs. He is no longer here with us, but I love him still. His words and his spirit are still here for us to enjoy. I am so glad to have watched your reaction. You get it.
There are a lot of beautiful versions of Hallelujah out there! But Leonard sings it the way he meant it when he wrote the song, and that just puts it on a very different level than all the others. Great reaction!
Rogue, you just got taken to church by the great Leonard Cohen and his magnificent band! The three best covers of this song I have ever heard are by Pentatonix, Jeff Buckley, and from the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver the version by kd lang!! Hopefully one day you may be able to get to them!! Continued success to you on this great channel of yours!!
I also strongly suggest you give Suzanne By Leonard Cohen a listen ..... Suzanne takes you down to her place near the river You can hear the boats go by You can spend the night beside her And you know that she's half crazy But that's why you want to be there And she feeds you tea and oranges That come all the way from China And just when you mean to tell her That you have no love to give her Then she gets you on her wavelength And she lets the river answer That you've always been her lover And you want to travel with her And you want to travel blind And you know that she will trust you For you've touched her perfect body with your mind. And Jesus was a sailor When he walked upon the water And he spent a long time watching From his lonely wooden tower And when he knew for certain Only drowning men could see him He said "All men will be sailors then Until the sea shall free them" But he himself was broken Long before the sky would open Forsaken, almost human He sank beneath your wisdom like a stone And you want to travel with him And you want to travel blind And you think maybe you'll trust him For he's touched your perfect body with his mind. Now Suzanne takes your hand And she leads you to the river She is wearing rags and feathers From Salvation Army counters And the sun pours down like honey On our lady of the harbor And she shows you where to look Among the garbage and the flowers There are heroes in the seaweed There are children in the morning They are leaning out for love And they will lean that way forever While Suzanne holds the mirror And you want to travel with her And you want to travel blind And you know that you can trust her For she's touched your perfect body with her mind.
The memorial to Leonard Cohen on PBS had various artists and Cohen's children singing his classic songs. k d Lang's rendition of this song was particularly memorable. He was a master songwriter of our times. RIP
@@davidgale7384 I just listened to it. but that version doesn't do anything for me. I guess I listened to the original too many times. I'm missing the bite.
He was born in the same city as me, Montreal. I actually discovered his poems in books before hearing him perform his songs when I was in high school. I have all his books and all his albums always will be a fan of his. I got the chance to meet and talk with him once on St-Laurent blvd in Montreal, I shook his hand and talk with him for a few minutes, a great moment for me, I doubt he remembered it 😊but it’s alright I will never forget it
Leonard Cohen was born into a jewish family and if you read some of his history the lyrics are especially meaningful. He wrote many verses to this song, the earliest were questions of g-d. Look up the jewish meaning to the world Hallelujah, “I’ll stand before the lord of song with nothing on my lips but hallelujah!”.
Your so right...he said he wasn't that great of a singer but he knew how to deliver. Nobody better. Play Closing Time. The official vid. And good on you for putting him up. No one else has!
Leonard has been part of my life for over 50 yrs. I don't think that I ever bought one of his albums but everyone else did. I used to sing his songs in UK folk music clubs back in the day, and I saw him in concert once 40 yrs ago or so. He was terrific.
I saw him and the whole group in 2012 full sell out crowd . I never ever thought I would ever see him. The organ solo has always been one of my favorite parts always brings a tear 71 year old man thankyou
If you want to hear about his relationship to music (he was a poet for a decade before, and after, he branched out into music) listen to Tower of Song. And the album he released a few months before he died is as good as anything he's done. So dark, so much dignity.
I don’t know that this is in any way a religious song. Sure the religious types will latch onto one word and try to claim it, but it’s about something far more primal, an exultation of raw emotion that rattles your toenails. Read between the lines on that one.
RR Leonard in the was one of those singer-songwriters that got better with age. He's one of the best writers that works hard on his songs to get them perfect. Good Reaction..his band is traffic along with his backup singers. I'm not easily impressed but Leonard is one of the best folk-popular artists in recent times. I'm in awe of him. Greatness is just what it is. You think? I really envy you getting to hear this superior music for the first time. Keep em coming girl! *cheers*
@@RogueRxyce His poetry is amazing and the fiction reads just as beautifully. The last one I read was "Beautiful Losers" and it did not disappoint. btw. I love your reactions. They are very genuine (a lot like Leonard always was).
@@DavidBrianPaley That's what I was thinking too! I have some of Cohen's books in my repertoire. It amazes me how Royce's young soul gets this deep music every time. She goes deep...
It's the most human song. No-one can ever avoid being broken. But it's what we bring to that experience, and how we interact with our brokenness that is the final word. Leonard goes through the anger, the defiance, the loss, and the acceptance of his share of the human experience. What a song to have written, and what a song to have the greatest performance of (apologies to Jeff Buckley).
Best version. And best face listening, which is yours. With every inflection. An every different musical voicing that enters, your facial dynamics change...nor your fault, bit, just part of what makes us human, I think...beauty begets beauty.
Thank u for sharing to the most beautiful, articulate, and expressional (is that the same as articulate?) person on RUclips. ...as he hit's the replay..
Leonard was a master sroy teller and and magnificent soul to see live. His manager ripped him off later in life so he was out touring inhis late 7o's. We were blessed to see him the last time he cme to Ottawa, Cananda. Check out hiss other works you will love his other stuff!!!
I love this song being Canadian however...leonard loved the version from another Canadian KD Lang....she does it so much Justus...and honestly it will send chills down your spine. Would love to see your reaction to her unchanged version of this loved song.
A common theme in Leonard Cohen music, going back to his musical beginning roughly 50 years ago is that he had wonderful female background singers. They contrast his low talking/singing voice so well. Leonard knew that and used it.
I think it was Sharon Robinson, the dark haired singer on stage, who suggested he get some female voices to soften the rough edges of Leonard’s voice. She was so right and he was smart to take her advice.
I heard this song many times before by different artists and really liked it, until I stumbled across Cohen's original. Once I heard him do it as he wrote it, no other version even came close.
I discovered the great Leonard Cohen three decades ago, masterfully performing on the late night David Sanborn music show, Sunday Night / Night Music, and I thought, you can't be serious, this old guy has been doing this stuff for thirty years, and I missed it?! RIP. The other great song he performed on that show was Dance Me To the End of Love.
I've been listening to many of the songs you review. I'm happy to have found you. Your reactions and comments bring fresh perspectives to me. I thoroughly enjoy your work, Rogue Rxyce! Thanks.
I subscribed to your channel recently because I like the choice of music you react to, and your sincerity. It took 5 yrs for Leonard Cohen to write "Hallelujah' for his album called'VariousPositions' (1984). So you are reacting to a much older Leonard here. He was a prolific Canadian songwriter and poet who wrote hits for other people before his first album simply entitled "'Songs of Leonard Cohen' broke out in 1967.. On it was a most beautiful song you might want to check out called "Suzanne" which two others actually recorded before his own album was released. ..
Now Leonard is my favorite of all time, his songs never mind, dance me to the end of love, in my secret life, waiting for the miracle, the rivers dark, in rhe tower of song, so many. I remember the first time ever hearing him sing, i was 4 years old. I was at my aunt's house listening to her records and cassettes and dance with her, standing of her feet
Being a Montrealer proud of our master in his art. Been a fan since 1967. Have everything he has recorded. Since Leonard's beginnings, his background vocalist have been transcendent) angelical. Many many people have done this well. But your getting it from the source. Give a listen to his songs. "DEMOCRACY" "THE FUTURE" A visionary of realism. He's the exact opposite of what you imagine. I guess he doesn't have that God image, it's called being jaded by life. Excellent reaction.
My favorite cover of this is KD Lang's. But there really is nothing like the real thing. Hearing Cohen sing this, especially at that age, is just priceless. Now, for another intense Cohen song, check out Everybody Knows (note: a song about AIDS, written in the late 80s - - very important and deep). Good reactions, BTW. Cohen was Jewish, but he could take you to synagogue. Actually, he studied world religions. He was a really interesting man, loved learning about other religions and cultures. I guess his writing reflects this.
Amazing songwriter and poet. This has been covered by many but I think Leonard does it best. He has penned so many verses he can pick and choose the version of the song he wants .
I like his voice but dad says he was more known as a writer and not so much of a good vocalist in his opinion. I've heard different versions but I like Jeff Buckley
RogueRxyce is a special music reviewer of Hallelujah and she understands L. Cohen...He wrote this and sang it and I am with you Rogue and Leonard Cohen. Nancy Gouin
Leonard Cohen has been putting out albums since the late 60s. Some of his best music comes from his first 3 albums. Though he continued to make albums through the 70s, he was re-discovered in the 80s when he release more brilliant albums. His fame continued through his death just a couple years ago. This song comes from his later period. Three songs from his first album were chosen by Robert Altman for his great great movie, McCabe and Mrs Miller, an anti-western or true western depending on your perspective from 1971. Cohen is one of my 4 most favorite singer songwriters: Cohen, Dylan, Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon.
I agree that those are some of the greatest songwriters of all time if you add in Gordon Lightfoot. But of the group you mentioned I only like Paul Simon's voice.
I saw him on this tour in Glasgow, and it is still the best concert I have ever been to... was honestly like a religious experience... the man so mezmerising and talented... and so humble and just thankful to be playing to a receptive audience. He was a rare unrepeatable talent
Yes, Mr. Cohen was a great man. How many there among us could even remotely pilot something this. Thank--you, Mr. Cohen and Miss RogueRxyce. So beautiful.
Fantastic Artist. Found him in my mid forties. Such a soulful sound. I know your a busy lady,but a look at some of his other work would be nice.A singing priest is how after many years I would describe Leonard. Great reactions and honest opinion.
I know most videos of him are from the last parts of his life but as a younger man he had such a beautiful voice and melody... I would suggest finding does live versions instead in order to enjoy the genius that this man was.
I've met him growing up in Montreal, and of course seen him in concert. I am a fan and always will be. His song I'm Your Man was our wedding dance song. :)
There have been amazing covers of this song by better technical singers, but no performer brought the depth to this song that Leonard Cohen did. I loved this performance and your reaction.
Cohen's voice was never very good, and here it's old and wrecked. And it's perfect. This is by far my favorite recording of the song, including the originally recorded song. And did you notice that before the organ solo he takes his hat off and faces the organist? He's the big star, and he willingly gives up the stage and his respect in that moment. Pure class.
That was a wonderful heartfelt reaction. I had the pleasure of seeing Leonard in a small intimate concert in Canada in the late 90s. What a gem, his voice is truly unique!
It was a masterpiece because he is the master of this song. Since he wrote this the song has taken on a life of it's own all around the world. I've never been moved by a song as much as this one. hallelujah
There are better known and more famous versions of this song, but no one has ever sung it with such emotion and soul as Leonard Cohen... perhaps because the words and melody are his.
In 1994, Cohen retreated to the Mt. Baldy Zen Center near Los Angeles, beginning what became five years of seclusion at the center. In 1996, Cohen was ordained as a Rinzai Zen Buddhist monk and took the Dharma name Jikan, meaning "silence". He also had to leave the Monastary after his Manager stole all his money and go on tour at 77 yrs old so he could have money for himself and his family. Billboard magazine reported that the 2009 world tour alone had earned Cohen $9.5m.
Of all the blessings in my life one that comes so easily to mind and draws tears of joy and sorrow is having seen Leonard Cohen live in concert. The last time was in 2013, Brisbane Australia. A the concert he sang Hallelujah to a hushed audience. At 79 he crouched down at the edge of the stage (which you can see him doing in this video). It felt as if he was addressing each of us individually he was/is very special and though maybe not a great singer the emotion in his voice as he presented us his poetry to music was captivating. A set of 3 hours was extraordinary!
![This was BEYOND THINGS! ✨| Procol Harum - A Whiter Shade of Pale (Denmark 2006)[REACTION]](/img/1.gif)
Leonard Cohen was the person who wrote this song. So technically it’s not a rendition, it’s the original.
Leonard was the One and Only. This is His Song. But in true generous open hearted Leonard fashion he gave his blessing as best rendition of H to... Pentatonix. You'll see why...
@@patriciochavez4981 Well that's just one opinion, even if it is coming from the guy who wrote it. Doesn't make it any more valid than any other opinion. Opinions are not facts.
One could say it's the original rendition. Technically, every time a song is sung it is a new rendition
@@allanmoe8495 I was just getting ready to type a very similar comment, that it is a rendition but not a cover, and I saw yours. Spot on.
@@5Bigfoots True. Opinions aren't facts. But if the writer of a piece of art makes a statement, then that is not merely opinion. Or are you trying to say that the writer says one thing. any person on the planet can counter it because they have an "opinion" which would be then equally "valid". You put too much weight on opinions. Everyone can have one. but they are all as equally worthless as the next. At least you didn't use "entitled" in your statement.
He was THE MAN! Even Bono said “We would be humbled by the things Leonard throws away”.
Leonard Cohen wrote more than 80 verses for 'Hallelujah', and it's been covered more than 300 times in dozens of languages. Even Bob Dylan has covered it. This, this is the definitive original.
Do you happen to be Michael Spicer that was a Cav Scout in the US Army?
@@maumaka-ahikilauea6135 I'm sure he's a fine soldier, sir, it's not me though Ex-Canadian infantry here :)
@@mspicer3262 oh, I see. Thank you. I just thought you might be. God bless.
I... I really love it, but of course it is not the original? Or how do you meen? Isn't the orgiginal the studio version preceding this one with decades?
@@kristofferburstedt2175 'Hallelujah' is Cohen's seminal work, the studio version originally released is great, but Cohen shone as a live performer, and this is the definitive version of that work...
You do realize that Leonard Cohen wrote this song, don’t you?
Seems she doesn't. Hmm.
A lot of people don't realise it, given how many times the song has been covered. It's nice to see people gain new knowledge though, isn't it?
Glad to see another person appreciate a Great Canadian artist..
Its grown better with his voice
@@mikejburns Not just a great Canadian artist either...a great human artist. Although any Canadian would be proud.
Don't care what anyone says, for me no one comes close to the original and this live performance is fabulous.
No one comes close. Really? Jeff Buckley. Saw Buckley perform it. It was epic.
@@ztienapm Don't be a snowflake. Everyone has a right to their opinion.
I completely agree that this song sung by Leonard Cohen is the best version! I always want to tell reactors to always listen to the original before you listen to a cover because it’s usually the best version.
@@april6058 For me there are a very few exceptions, most covered by Johnny Cash, but Marylin Manson's version of "Sweet dreams"...Epic...
Hi
I'm only 40 years old. Half this Man's age. But I would let him do what he wants to me... This song, and this version... It melts away all my inhibitions. I do not care one bit about the age gap... If I saw him in real life and he whispered to me in that voice I'd be on my knees.
One of the greatest lyrical writers there will ever be. His body of work is very wide and deep.
love Nick Cave too💪
He was a special person, I discovered his work a few days ago and he’s already inspired me. I like his more foreboding and existential songs the most, hearing his religious perspective and conflicts is fascinating ..
My pops said Leonard was a great songwriter but his voice was not so much... I'm paraphrasing. I like his voice okay
@@choice12ozborne
If you check some of his earlier recordings you'll see what your pops meant. I think his older voice, as here, is wonderfully suited to the songs.
@@davemacmurchie6982 There is nothing wrong with his voice in early recordings. I mean, he wasn't in opera, right?
Be carefull now when you start listening to Leonard. You could become addicted to his music like me!
The originator of this song. And to this day, the best version there will ever be.
You should try “Everybody Knows” by him. Big time dark vibes.
Everybody knows that the dice are loaded
Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed
Everybody knows the war is over
Everybody knows the good guys lost
Everybody knows the fight was fixed
The poor stay poor, the rich get rich…
Concrete Blonde did an outstanding version of this
@@kyrk2112 thanks, gotta check that out…
Give a listen to.
"DEMOCRACY"
"THE FUTURE"
A VISIONARY OF REALITY.
my fav!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That song is more relevant today than it has ever been and it's a must-listen.
That whole show of Cohen is a Masterpiece, a must see!
There are many fabulous covers of “Hallelujah”, but one should always tip their hat 🎩 to the songwriting of Leonard Cohen. I was privileged to have seen him perform live, and many of his songs were every bit as moving and the audience was enthralled throughout the show. No matter the artist that you favor most, it’s always best to acknowledge the songwriters and original artist - in this case they are the same, the incredible Leonard Cohen. 🇨🇦 🎶👍🏻
I'm from Montreal, his hometown, but I saw him live only once. I have seen hundreds of shows in my life and this one (I think it was the same tour as this video) still stand in my top 10. The emotions where palpables.
The man is a legend, he wrote that song.
That is how all folk songs get born - someone wrote it (it does not appear spontaneously!) but in a few generations it becomes national treasure.
Leonard Cohen was one of my favorite writers/singers when I was in college in the 1960s. I was amazed when, 50 years later (without ever mentioning him to her), one of my grand-daughters made a tape of her 6 favorite artists and included Leonard Cohen. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
RIP Leonard Cohen, pure genius!
the ultimate master of voice....rest in eternal peace Mr. Cohen...
It really hurts to hear people comment,I know this from Shreik etc. This man has been singing and writing beautiful songs including this one since the 60`s. A legend.
Countryman Leonard Cohen wrote this and many other great songs, he did all his songs with soul and passion. He is I believe one of the worlds best poets, and also either writes his music or collaborates. Either way Leonard was a super humble unique icon of our age, Rip Leonard, peace in heaven...Thx for posting this R
He was a true poet and is so so missed.
In 1971 i had his album "Songs of Love and Hate".
I was hooked right then and there. It was kind of funny that once in a while i couldnt find my album in my stack but then it would turn up again
One day i came home unexpectedly at lunch time and there was my father lying on his back on the living room floor with my Leonard Cohen album blasting and he was eyes closed drifted off into never neverland.
About 5 or 6 years ago at the age of 90 he finally got to see Leonard Cohen live in concert.
He never stopped talking about it till the day he died.
It was one of the highlights of his life.
You have the most beautifully expressive face. Wonderful!
Leonard is known as the Canadian Bob Dylan. I think he’s greater actually
This is the original mood and intent of this composition. Pentatonix created a vocal masterpiece, but overwhelmed Cohen's meaning of the song. I am delighted that you went back and experienced the original! 👼☮️🌹
That's the problem with Pentatonix. They have lots of dazzling skill and very little sense of art or taste.
A poet who found courage to get his work to the public through, uniquely, "singing" them. a lot of marvelous works to discover.
I think he did all of his songs way better than anyone else did his songs, and I think that his voice improved with age
HE WROTE THIS SONG. NO ONE ELSE HAS EVER COME CLOSE TO HIM.
One of the best songs of our times !
I have loved Leonard Cohen for many years. I finally got to see him live , in Chicago, on this tour. Every one of his backup musicians were amazing and so were these backup singers. After the concert I couldn't leave. I needed to sit still and process my reactions to him and his songs. He is no longer here with us, but I love him still. His words and his spirit are still here for us to enjoy. I am so glad to have watched your reaction. You get it.
There are a lot of beautiful versions of Hallelujah out there! But Leonard sings it the way he meant it when he wrote the song, and that just puts it on a very different level than all the others. Great reaction!
Rogue, you just got taken to church by the great Leonard Cohen and his magnificent band! The three best covers of this song I have ever heard are by Pentatonix, Jeff Buckley, and from the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver the version by kd lang!! Hopefully one day you may be able to get to them!! Continued success to you on this great channel of yours!!
I also strongly suggest you give Suzanne By Leonard Cohen a listen .....
Suzanne takes you down to her place near the river
You can hear the boats go by
You can spend the night beside her
And you know that she's half crazy
But that's why you want to be there
And she feeds you tea and oranges
That come all the way from China
And just when you mean to tell her
That you have no love to give her
Then she gets you on her wavelength
And she lets the river answer
That you've always been her lover
And you want to travel with her
And you want to travel blind
And you know that she will trust you
For you've touched her perfect body with your mind.
And Jesus was a sailor
When he walked upon the water
And he spent a long time watching
From his lonely wooden tower
And when he knew for certain
Only drowning men could see him
He said "All men will be sailors then
Until the sea shall free them"
But he himself was broken
Long before the sky would open
Forsaken, almost human
He sank beneath your wisdom like a stone
And you want to travel with him
And you want to travel blind
And you think maybe you'll trust him
For he's touched your perfect body with his mind.
Now Suzanne takes your hand
And she leads you to the river
She is wearing rags and feathers
From Salvation Army counters
And the sun pours down like honey
On our lady of the harbor
And she shows you where to look
Among the garbage and the flowers
There are heroes in the seaweed
There are children in the morning
They are leaning out for love
And they will lean that way forever
While Suzanne holds the mirror
And you want to travel with her
And you want to travel blind
And you know that you can trust her
For she's touched your perfect body with her mind.
It's so beautiful. Nina Simone did an incredible version of it.
Ian macolluch did a great version
I heard this from his early album. It always reminds me of someone. It breaks my heart.
His best!
@@daz_n she always does incredible.
The memorial to Leonard Cohen on PBS had various artists and Cohen's children singing his classic songs. k d Lang's rendition of this song was particularly memorable. He was a master songwriter of our times. RIP
Also Jennifer Warnes album Famous Blue Raincoat is priceless, ageless too. First We Take Manhattan.
K.D.'s version is absolutely phenomenal.
Actually she got to sing it in front of Leonard,it's on video ,check it out. It's a beautiful moment when they get together at the end of the song.
@@davidgale7384 I just listened to it. but that version doesn't do anything for me. I guess I listened to the original too many times. I'm missing the bite.
@@Newfie-zc7ug I can't believe I didn't know this!
He was born in the same city as me, Montreal. I actually discovered his poems in books before hearing him perform his songs when I was in high school. I have all his books and all his albums always will be a fan of his. I got the chance to meet and talk with him once on St-Laurent blvd in Montreal, I shook his hand and talk with him for a few minutes, a great moment for me, I doubt he remembered it 😊but it’s alright I will never forget it
Leonard Cohen was born into a jewish family and if you read some of his history the lyrics are especially meaningful. He wrote many verses to this song, the earliest were questions of g-d. Look up the jewish meaning to the world Hallelujah, “I’ll stand before the lord of song with nothing on my lips but hallelujah!”.
Leonard is one of my favorite singers, his words touch the soul.
Leonard Cohen is a masterful songwriter and this is one of his best.
I love the way you totally get Leonard Cohen. The best reaction I have seen to this.
Your so right...he said he wasn't that great of a singer but he knew how to deliver. Nobody better. Play Closing Time. The official vid. And good on you for putting him up. No one else has!
A happy devil isn’t too bad said. He struggled with the boundaries between good and bad; happy and sad. That’s where the poetry comes from
Leonard has been part of my life for over 50 yrs. I don't think that I ever bought one of his albums but everyone else did. I used to sing his songs in UK folk music clubs back in the day, and I saw him in concert once 40 yrs ago or so. He was terrific.
Arguably the greatest songwriter in the English language, and at the least sharing that space with Dylan, Lightfoot, and a small set of other giants.
I think Dylan said that himself, that Cohen was the best songwriter he was aware of.
I saw him and the whole group in 2012 full sell out crowd . I never ever thought I would ever see him. The organ solo has always been one of my favorite parts always brings a tear 71 year old man thankyou
We saw him in Atlanta in 2013. After the show he came back out 4 times singing so many more songs.
If you want to hear about his relationship to music (he was a poet for a decade before, and after, he branched out into music) listen to Tower of Song. And the album he released a few months before he died is as good as anything he's done. So dark, so much dignity.
This IMO is the single best song ever written. I’m not a religious man but, this song is absolutely perfect.
I don’t know that this is in any way a religious song. Sure the religious types will latch onto one word and try to claim it, but it’s about something far more primal, an exultation of raw emotion that rattles your toenails. Read between the lines on that one.
RR Leonard in the was one of those singer-songwriters that got better with age. He's one of the best writers that works hard on his songs to get them perfect. Good Reaction..his band is traffic along with his backup singers. I'm not easily impressed but Leonard is one of the best folk-popular artists in recent times. I'm in awe of him. Greatness is just what it is. You think? I really envy you getting to hear this superior music for the first time. Keep em coming girl! *cheers*
Leonard was a GREAT singer AND a GREAT songwriter
Leonard's books are all worthwhile reads. One of the greatest poets that ever lived imho.
i need to check some of those out
@@RogueRxyce His poetry is amazing and the fiction reads just as beautifully. The last one I read was "Beautiful Losers" and it did not disappoint. btw. I love your reactions. They are very genuine (a lot like Leonard always was).
@@DavidBrianPaley That's what I was thinking too! I have some of Cohen's books in my repertoire. It amazes me how Royce's young soul gets this deep music every time. She goes deep...
@@deborahbryan3639 Absolutely. She does appear wise beyond her apparently "tender" years.
It's the most human song. No-one can ever avoid being broken. But it's what we bring to that experience, and how we interact with our brokenness that is the final word. Leonard goes through the anger, the defiance, the loss, and the acceptance of his share of the human experience. What a song to have written, and what a song to have the greatest performance of (apologies to Jeff Buckley).
Best version. And best face listening, which is yours. With every inflection. An every different musical voicing that enters, your facial dynamics change...nor your fault, bit, just part of what makes us human, I think...beauty begets beauty.
Thank u for sharing to the most beautiful, articulate, and expressional (is that the same as articulate?) person on RUclips. ...as he hit's the replay..
Your reaction is precious. If the video wasn't half blocked out, this would have been perfect.
I think he did his song way better than anyone else did
Leonard was a master sroy teller and and magnificent soul to see live. His manager ripped him off later in life so he was out touring inhis late 7o's. We were blessed to see him the last time he cme to Ottawa, Cananda. Check out hiss other works you will love his other stuff!!!
I love this song being Canadian however...leonard loved the version from another Canadian KD Lang....she does it so much Justus...and honestly it will send chills down your spine. Would love to see your reaction to her unchanged version of this loved song.
This is by far the most sensual song ever written....A masterpiece of wit...
AMEN SISTER ! God is ALIVE!!
You are the best! Music contrast!
A common theme in Leonard Cohen music, going back to his musical beginning roughly 50 years ago is that he had wonderful female background singers. They contrast his low talking/singing voice so well. Leonard knew that and used it.
I think it was Sharon Robinson, the dark haired singer on stage, who suggested he get some female voices to soften the rough edges of Leonard’s voice. She was so right and he was smart to take her advice.
I heard this song many times before by different artists and really liked it, until I stumbled across Cohen's original. Once I heard him do it as he wrote it, no other version even came close.
love this version...thanks for the reaction!
I discovered the great Leonard Cohen three decades ago, masterfully performing on the late night David Sanborn music show, Sunday Night / Night Music, and I thought, you can't be serious, this old guy has been doing this stuff for thirty years, and I missed it?! RIP. The other great song he performed on that show was Dance Me To the End of Love.
Pure legend.
Wow incredible reaction
Yes yes yes you should dive deep into the Leonard Cohen rabbit hole is an amazing man
I've been listening to many of the songs you review. I'm happy to have found you. Your reactions and comments bring fresh perspectives to me. I thoroughly enjoy your work, Rogue Rxyce! Thanks.
Coen was very clever. Dark ? "You Want it Darker?"
Leonard Cohen wrote this song many years ago........
1984!
@@brianorzel1873 hehe, when i saw the year, i immediately misread your name, with a W instead of Z :-)
I subscribed to your channel recently because I like the choice of music you react to, and your sincerity.
It took 5 yrs for Leonard Cohen to write "Hallelujah' for his album called'VariousPositions' (1984).
So you are reacting to a much older Leonard here. He was a prolific Canadian songwriter and poet who wrote hits for other people before his first album simply entitled "'Songs of Leonard Cohen' broke out in 1967.. On it was a most beautiful song you might want to check out called "Suzanne" which two others actually recorded before his own album was released. ..
Now Leonard is my favorite of all time, his songs never
mind, dance me to the end of love, in my secret life, waiting for the miracle, the rivers dark, in rhe tower of song, so many. I remember the first time ever hearing him sing, i was 4 years old. I was at my aunt's house listening to her records and cassettes and dance with her, standing of her feet
I was fortunate enough to see this tour. Mr. Cohen was a true gentleman.
No one does it better it was a pleasure watching this with you 👍
Famous Blue Raincoat is my favorite by him. Such a story teller 🙂
Being a Montrealer proud of our master in his art. Been a fan since 1967. Have everything he has recorded.
Since Leonard's beginnings, his background vocalist have been transcendent) angelical.
Many many people have done this well. But your getting it from the source.
Give a listen to his songs.
"DEMOCRACY"
"THE FUTURE"
A visionary of realism.
He's the exact opposite of what you imagine. I guess he doesn't have that God image, it's called being jaded by life.
Excellent reaction.
My favorite cover of this is KD Lang's. But there really is nothing like the real thing. Hearing Cohen sing this, especially at that age, is just priceless. Now, for another intense Cohen song, check out Everybody Knows (note: a song about AIDS, written in the late 80s - - very important and deep). Good reactions, BTW. Cohen was Jewish, but he could take you to synagogue. Actually, he studied world religions. He was a really interesting man, loved learning about other religions and cultures. I guess his writing reflects this.
Leonard Cohen,."I'm your Man," it'll bring you to TEARS!!!!
Amazing songwriter and poet. This has been covered by many but I think Leonard does it best. He has penned so many verses he can pick and choose the version of the song he wants .
I like his voice but dad says he was more known as a writer and not so much of a good vocalist in his opinion. I've heard different versions but I like Jeff Buckley
Thought by many to be the greatest song ever written
RogueRxyce is a special music reviewer of Hallelujah and she understands L. Cohen...He wrote this and sang it and I am with you Rogue and Leonard Cohen. Nancy Gouin
🇨🇦 61
KD LANG
Take this song to another level
Keep the good work ✌
Remember Leonard Cohen wrote this masterpiece ❤
Enjoyed how you appreciated this epic song dear
Peace 🩷
you should look up the London Concert and watch it in it's entirety. I've been a fan since the 60's. This was the final masterpiece of a true artist.
Love your Channel
RogueRxyce.
It's
RollsRoyce.
Leonard Cohen has been putting out albums since the late 60s. Some of his best music comes from his first 3 albums. Though he continued to make albums through the 70s, he was re-discovered in the 80s when he release more brilliant albums. His fame continued through his death just a couple years ago. This song comes from his later period.
Three songs from his first album were chosen by Robert Altman for his great great movie, McCabe and Mrs Miller, an anti-western or true western depending on your perspective from 1971.
Cohen is one of my 4 most favorite singer songwriters: Cohen, Dylan, Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon.
My favorite version is by KD Lang.
Many don't realize that. Many don't know that he voice wasn't always deep.
I agree that those are some of the greatest songwriters of all time if you add in Gordon Lightfoot. But of the group you mentioned I only like Paul Simon's voice.
Apparently Altman was so influenced by Cohen that he subconsciously built McCabe& Mrs Miller around his music!
@@royalway12 --True enough. Leonard's voice got lower with age. His voice is much less low in those early albums.
When he wrote this song he wrote so many lyrics that he had to make it two versions. He’s one of the greatest song writers ever.
I saw him on this tour in Glasgow, and it is still the best concert I have ever been to... was honestly like a religious experience... the man so mezmerising and talented... and so humble and just thankful to be playing to a receptive audience.
He was a rare unrepeatable talent
Yes, Mr. Cohen was a great man. How many there among us could even remotely pilot something this. Thank--you, Mr. Cohen and Miss RogueRxyce. So beautiful.
Fantastic Artist. Found him in my mid forties. Such a soulful sound. I know your a busy lady,but a look at some of his other work would be nice.A singing priest is how after many years I would describe Leonard. Great reactions and honest opinion.
A Canadian Legend
I know most videos of him are from the last parts of his life but as a younger man he had such a beautiful voice and melody... I would suggest finding does live versions instead in order to enjoy the genius that this man was.
I've met him growing up in Montreal, and of course seen him in concert. I am a fan and always will be. His song I'm Your Man was our wedding dance song. :)
There have been amazing covers of this song by better technical singers, but no performer brought the depth to this song that Leonard Cohen did. I loved this performance and your reaction.
This performance is such an experience.
Cohen's voice was never very good, and here it's old and wrecked. And it's perfect. This is by far my favorite recording of the song, including the originally recorded song. And did you notice that before the organ solo he takes his hat off and faces the organist? He's the big star, and he willingly gives up the stage and his respect in that moment. Pure class.
That was a wonderful heartfelt reaction. I had the pleasure of seeing Leonard in a small intimate concert in Canada in the late 90s. What a gem, his voice is truly unique!
It was a masterpiece because he is the master of this song. Since he wrote this the song has taken on a life of it's own all around the world. I've never been moved by a song as much as this one. hallelujah
There are better known and more famous versions of this song, but no one has ever sung it with such emotion and soul as Leonard Cohen... perhaps because the words and melody are his.
In 1994, Cohen retreated to the Mt. Baldy Zen Center near Los Angeles, beginning what became five years of seclusion at the center. In 1996, Cohen was ordained as a Rinzai Zen Buddhist monk and took the Dharma name Jikan, meaning "silence". He also had to leave the Monastary after his Manager stole all his money and go on tour at 77 yrs old so he could have money for himself and his family. Billboard magazine reported that the 2009 world tour alone had earned Cohen $9.5m.
He now rests in Montreal up Mount Royal, the city he loved.
thanks I only knew part of the story, so thanks for giving the whole story
Montreal is the city where he was born
@@foxylyne yes should have mentioned it all so.. As a Montreal I just assumed all should know.
Thanks.
Never knew this about Leonard.
Respect for this man!
Have always loved his music!
Of all the blessings in my life one that comes so easily to mind and draws tears of joy and sorrow is having seen Leonard Cohen live in concert.
The last time was in 2013, Brisbane Australia. A the concert he sang Hallelujah to a hushed audience. At 79 he crouched down at the edge of the stage (which you can see him doing in this video). It felt as if he was addressing each of us individually he was/is very special and though maybe not a great singer the emotion in his voice as he presented us his poetry to music was captivating.
A set of 3 hours was extraordinary!
Love from Canada. Leonard was loved, but more importantly, appreciated.