I'm a 66 year old grandma, who just started taking cannabis oil for pain, and watching you toke and get into some of the best music around is just giving me a kick. Love you, and your reactions, young man!
It's Leonard Cohen. The man was a poet, and he used biblical references, and metaphors, and allegories, and personal experience, and storytelling, and mixed it all up to write masterpieces like this that people still try to give their own interpretations to, and he'd never explain or say "this is the only correct way to understand this song" but let people explore on their own.
When I met Mr. C in 1969, I told him that I had memorized almost all of his songs ( 2 albums then). He said, "Thanks a lot man. Thanks a lot." He bought a painting I had done of him. It was a good day!!!
It's about having one's faith broken, but from that broken place still crying out "Hallelujah!" The most significant verse (which is oddly left out of most people's versions) is the one with "an even though it all went wrong, I'll stand before the Lord of Song, with nothing on my tongue but 'Hallelujah!'" Did you notice that when the organ solo starts, Cohen takes his hat off and turns to the organist and doesn't put his hat on until the end of the solo? Great respect, pure class.
Your whole world has changed since you've started this channel, I can see it. I can see how your heart and mind has opened up. Its the beginning of great things for you!
Leondard was retired, lived in Mt. Baldy, California, when his manager stole all his money and he had to come out of retirement and tour again to survive. Very sad for such a talented man.
You can never go wrong with Leonard Cohen! I don't think I've ever seen anybody else to the original singer/songwriter of "Hallelujah" before. KUDOS, Mr. Video...you just made my Subscription List. Leonard has a playlist of absolutely phenomenal songs going way back to the '60s, and no, he never stopped singing until he became too ill and weak. Much THANKS for reacting to the Legend Himself...💖💛
"The original song is the story of broken love, true love remembered and mourned, guilt, and penance, and of finding peace in the vicissitudes of brokenness". I always recall an elderly man that I took care of in a Nursing Home when I hear this song. He was in the Bataan Death March in 1942 and survived vicious treatment as a POW for several years. He weighed about 95 pounds when he was rescued. He told me the love for his wife is what gave him the will to live and be able to see her again. His wife was also in the Nursing Home, but she had severe Alzheimer's and no longer knew him. He confided to me that worse than forced in the Death March and seeing his comrades bayoneted or die of exhaustion along the way and being beaten and starved as a POW was that his love, his wife, no longer remembered him or shared in any heartfelt memories
Excellent story to illustrate the deep well of meaning in this song. No other song speaks to me of great loss better than this one. I knew this song when I was younger but after the loss of my best friend with AIDS at the age of 40, the recent loss of my father this year and, yes, my mother's Alzheimer's....the song reveals the deeper meaning I couldn't fathom before.
you're not the only one who struggles with this. To make it worse Cohen wrote as many as eighty verses to this song and switched up for different performances so that there could be multiple interpretations.
Delilah, also spelled Dalila, in the Old Testament, the central figure of Samson's last love story (Judges 16). She was a Philistine who, bribed to entrap Samson, coaxed him into revealing that the secret of his strength was his long hair, whereupon she took advantage of his confidence to betray him to his enemies.
We can learn from music. We can learn the whole world, the whole history, If we do not learn something, grow ourselves somehow, it is not really "music".
I interpret this song as describing different scenarios in which someone might utter "Halleluja"... In that verse he describes how seeing the love of your life, despite her locking you down in her home, destroying everything you used to be and take away the source of your strength yet still is able to draw a grateful "halleluljah" from your lips.
@@cathymarlow6084 The key to understanding this isn't in getting the biblical references (but good on you for that) but rather in understanding your heart when you listen to the song.
Imagine finding a love profound , immediate, powerful but a BAD idea from the beginning. It will destroy you in the end and you know it, you will be broken by it and you take it anyway. You praise God for the pleasure and when it arrives, you praise God for the pain because it came from the pleasure and all things serve The Almighty. But it's a cold and broken hallelujah.
What an original way to write about this song. Summed it up beautifully! Cohen wrote masterpieces and rewrote masterpieces into, IN MY HUMBLE OPINION, remastered unimaginable soul touching works of art. Art that you can close your eyes and see the color of every word!
I'd heard there was a secret chord That David played and it pleased the Lord But you don't really care for music, do you? Well, it goes like this The fourth, the fifth, the minor fall, the major lift The baffled king composing Hallelujah Hallelujah, Hallelujah While sounding spiritual and uplifting this is a song about the battle and brokenness of many human relationships. One of the greatest single songs ever written... with so many amazing covers to explore. Check the Pentatonix version, you will be astounded.
Dan McManus what's even better is the fact that when he sings the fourth the fifth the minor chord the major lift, it is what he's actually singing. It's not just a verse.
I thank he was in his 70's. His manager robbed him blind and he had to go out touring in his golden age. We had the privilege' of seeing him before he passed. That was one AMAZING show!! Dance me to the end of Time Closing Time So Long Marianne!!!
The most influentual lyricist/poet next to Bob Dylan. He gave us 60 years of pure love and beauty ❤️ Every song, every album, every concert . He is walking in beauty.
"Hallelujah" was written by Cohen. I believe he was in his 70's when he performed this. He passed away a few years back. There are a few fantastic covers of the song.
Having heard several, several covers...I can't help but like Rufus wainwright version, but not the onscreen version in the movie Shrek, just the one on the soundtrack...it's pared down & nothing fancy, which in a way also pays homage to Cohen. Buckley's is awesome...but to me his voice is almost too pure for the song.
"This man has to be 50-something". 🤣😂 Halle Berry is 50 something. George Clooney is 50 something. This dude was 75. Pentatonix does a great acapella version
@@Silverstreak7878 yeah I know. I remember when I was in high school, I was thinking that I would be too old to enjoy the turning of the century, since I would be 35 by then. 🤪
Dave Dammit That was fun to read about! Old at 35! My hero is the man who learned to read at 98! Yes 98! He lived to be 108 and he even wrote a book called, “Life is So Good.”
Leonard never took to the stage without having fantastic band members and back-up singers to accompany him. For all of the musicians who performed with him, it was a great privilege to accompany the master. I saw him live three times - 1980, 2009 and 2010. Sheer magic. We are approaching the fourth anniversary of his death on 7 November 2016 - two days before that fateful US election result!
I remember when Leonard was aware he was dying. He confirmed it on social media, and said something to the effect of, "I'm okay with it. I hope it's not too painful."
Leonard Cohen,one of the greatest poets of all time! Sadly passed a few years back. It is said there is something like 60 verses to this song. I believe he was in his mid 70’s in this performance! Another great song from London is called “The Future”,but every song is great! RIP Mr Cohen,you are truly missed!!
It's so wonderful seeing the younger generation appreciating Leonard Cohen. Genius never gets old. Every time I listen to this, I hear something different, something I missed...and I get different interpretations, too.
He was a master lyricist. He writes in metaphors and this is no exception. For me this song is about the loss of someone you love, remorseful yet thankful. Hence the Hallelujah. Anyone who has gone through the loss of someone they love ,whether through death or a breakup, can relate. I tear-up every time I hear this song. Despite the grief and sadness I will always be grateful for the love I've had in my life......
I cried soooo much when he died… I have a tattoo of him on my arm, holding his hat… I love him so much and I was fortunate enough to have seen him live 5 times or more… there will never be another, or anything closely like it. Can you all agree how fortunate we were to be alive when he was??
Leonard Cohen actually is the original creator of the song "Hallelujah". And a whole slew of other wonderful music and lyrics. He passed away a couple of years ago, but he left behind a great legacy of music.
Every one has covered this song, anyone with a guitar around a camp fire played this song, even my niece sang this song when she was 7. But I still love it. You should hear Mazzy star " fade into you "
When I was a kid the 70s this guy was my neighbor in Montreal,canada.he is considered one of the best singer songwriter on the planet and his poetry and story's,deep shit.you should do some research on him
That organ solo utterly kicked ass. Many artists have covered "Hallelujah," but for my money, Cohen owns it hands-down. Great to see youngsters gaining a love of the music of old :)
Lenord Cohan is a poet/songwriter/singer. This song is probably his most covered song by popular singers. He is Jewish and many of his songs have a biblical theme. This one is about King David's fall from grace. His lust for Bathsheba after seeing her bath on a rooftop led him to have her husband killed so he could marry her. His song EVERYBODY KNOWS warns of a plague coming and laments how nothing really changes. THE RICH GET RICH AND THE POOR GET POOR and old black joe is still pickin' cotton are two of the lines. He has a large catalog of songs and some have been used in movies and it is said that it is his voice in Michael Jacksons' album THRILLER.
He actually ended up joining the scientology cult. Most people guess Everybody Knows is actually about his experience in that, especially in reference to the meter (their e-meter) on the bed.
Love your reactions to this sort of thing. So pure. This song has so many more verses than he sings here. He claimed there were 80 once, but the song is so legendary it deserves that kind of myth attached to it.
He was brilliant. Poet. He wrote words that people today speak and sing. ❤ There are artists who will bring tears to your eyes when they sing. Leonard is an Artist. Rest Genius. 😪
Samson by Regina Spektor is a great song that tells another variation of the Samson and Delilah story. Another Leonard Cohen song you might enjoy is Everybody Knows. It's my favorite by him
I saw this tour when it came through my city a little before this was recorded. I couldn't believe how much charisma this man could show and how much energy he had. My favourite live music experience ever.
Leonard is old here, but he's still the best. If you want to hear him more towards his prime, I would recommend anything from the "Field Commander Cohen, tour of '79" live album. That whole thing is blazing with brilliance from end to end.
Cohen wrote this in 84. He had some big hits back in the 60s. Sadly, he died in 2016 but had a long life (84 years). This was made in 2008 which would have made him 76. I think this is the best version out there so thanks for reacting to it. If you want to hear a great song by a superstar that is 94 and still going strong listen to Tony Bennett. Here he is with Lady Gaga a few years back ua-cam.com/video/ZPAmDULCVrU/v-deo.html and here he is 2 months ago singing "Fly Me To The Moon" ua-cam.com/video/JTdKZllVqpw/v-deo.html (changed link to the right one) You will love him. He loves to smoke dope...still!
My step father was one of the tour managers for this tour, and others. I got to go with them to London for 4 shows. it was awesome. Hung out with all of them, crew and band. Met Leonard (the first time) in a corner store across the street from our hotel. In person he was a tiny fellow, so I didnt even recognize him for a few seconds. Then (inside my head) i said HOLY FUCK ITS LEONARD COHEN!!! He had wicked sharp sense of humor, and immediately made you feel warm and comfortable when speaking. That voice was always magic apparently.... Mostly hung out with his daughter Lorca, as she was the closest to my age. My favorite moments (other than the performances) include casually making the drummer, Raphael, laugh real hard, and drinking in a small pub till closing with Paul - he was a crew guy that had another gig as being in charge of 'Eddie' of Iron Maiden fame. The musicians all were very talented and the web sisters were also strikingly beautiful, it was GREAT!. Also, the tour bus was a double decker, and the top part - the front 1/3rd was glass. So the front seats up top gave a spectacular view of the surroundings. That was how I got to visit England for the first time. Good times....
One of the best songwriters who ever lived. And, yes, Leonard never had a problem attracting the ladies. If he was at a party he always left with the best looking woman in the room.
Leonard Cohen songs to try Everybody Knows & One night in Santiago Rest In Peace Leonard. One of the smoothest, and always true to himself with his lyrics.
He was really a poet. He realized he'd never be really successful writing poetry and then he met Lou Reed and thought, "I can do that." My favorite of his songs is Everybody Knows Thank you for reaching to him, I've not seen someone reacting to him before.
I think it’s beautiful. It’s only a marker of how much inspiration to so many it is. True art becomes so many things to many people, it can mean multiple things at the same time to you either in different times of your life or all at the same time. I’m highly suspicious that Leonard Cohen had a problem with it. True artists know that when they release it into the world it becomes it’s own creature.
I like KD Langs version....I am am 65, heard it by her years ago and it still resonates...sometimes have to stop it and do something else before is over, it just slays me
I didn't know about Janis Joplin but of Rebecca de Mornay, the actress. There is nothing on Wikipedia on Cohen and Joplin but he gave an interview with the Rolling Stone magazine (I read the article there) where what you say is indeed true; he confirms it. However he says 'I liked her mucic so much' but she met him once in the street after this and asked him if he was going 'to read poetry for old ladies'. Says the article. www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/how-leonard-cohen-met-janis-joplin-inside-legendary-chelsea-hotel-encounter-121067/
Leonard Cohen is my favorite poet, hands down. I have been listening to his music since I was a teen and I am 70. I love every song he has ever dropped. He is more like 80 in this video. This tour lasted a year and each show was 3 hours so yeah, he kept it up until he died of cancer a few years ago, recording all the way to his death. I really miss him. This poem actually has something like 22 stanzas so this song only touches on a few of them making it a bit difficult to understand. Cohen always had the best musicians and singers with him. He is a legend.
Please react to more Leonard Cohen! He is a legend. For real, look at a short biography. I recommend "Famous Blue Raincoat," "Ain't No Cure For Love," "Everybody Knows,"and "I'm Your Man, " among others.
He is talking about King David from the Bible and the woman he had affair.. in the beginning of the song he talks about the secret chords of the songs that he would play to GOD
I imagine it probably felt inappropriate. There have been many covers of this song, but hearing Cohen deliver it himself at a live performance is nothing short of a religious experience.
He is Canada's pride and joy! First time I've seen a standing ovation before even note was played or a word was spoken. I think this is the story of Samson and Delilah from the Bible.
Dude I love your reactions. Done surpassed almost all the OG reacters, by far. That not me kissing your ass, it's just facts. I'm not sure where ir how you take requests, but man you have to check out Colter Wall (Kate McKinnon) and Tyler Childers (Grindstone). /Treat yourself man. I promise your won't regret it... Nor will you forget their music. Keep grinding man. You're gonna be huge. You have a natural gift of stage presence, that I don't even think you know the half of. Okay I'll shut up now 👌
@@dunismith3045 yes he does. I meant to mention that in my post. His Thunderstruck cover was awesome! I don't think he knows how much talent he actually has. But I'd rather he be humble than narcissistic.
@@michaelloveland1330 if you like that kind of music, friend, check out more of his songs. They're outlaw, old western murder ballads. And they all tell a story. Imagine Mr. Video (don't know his real name) glued 5o the screen, locked in on the story?! And if you haven't treat yourself to some Tyler Childers as well. He's similar in style, different voice but still an amazing distinct one. I'd recommend starting with Grindstone or White House Road. Make sure you get the live acoustic versions.
Many (too many?) people cover this song, and very few demonstrate a deep understanding of it. kd lang is the (lone?) exception. Nobody covers "Hallelujah" like kd lang.
![Wasn't expecting that ... but AMEN 🙌🏽 | Leonard Cohen - Hallelujah (Live In London) [REACTION]](/img/n.gif)
I'm a 66 year old grandma, who just started taking cannabis oil for pain, and watching you toke and get into some of the best music around is just giving me a kick. Love you, and your reactions, young man!
I believe he was nearer 80 than 50, and thanks for reacting to the original.
the closer you are to 50, you realize the difference between 50,60,70,80, but the 20 somethings don't
@@rls2229 Are You suggesting that I am old 😁
I do believe he wrote this song in 1963.
@@georgegregg2722
1863. But it still sounds fresh.
It's Leonard Cohen. The man was a poet, and he used biblical references, and metaphors, and allegories, and personal experience, and storytelling, and mixed it all up to write masterpieces like this that people still try to give their own interpretations to, and he'd never explain or say "this is the only correct way to understand this song" but let people explore on their own.
When I met Mr. C in 1969, I told him that I had memorized almost all of his songs ( 2 albums then). He said, "Thanks a lot man. Thanks a lot." He bought a painting I had done of him. It was a good day!!!
@@davidwilsonBC That's fucking awesome!
@@Beluga_Too Yes, it was a special time!
It's about having one's faith broken, but from that broken place still crying out "Hallelujah!" The most significant verse (which is oddly left out of most people's versions) is the one with "an even though it all went wrong, I'll stand before the Lord of Song, with nothing on my tongue but 'Hallelujah!'"
Did you notice that when the organ solo starts, Cohen takes his hat off and turns to the organist and doesn't put his hat on until the end of the solo? Great respect, pure class.
Your whole world has changed since you've started this channel, I can see it. I can see how your heart and mind has opened up. Its the beginning of great things for you!
This is one of the most beautiful songs ever written.
Leondard was retired, lived in Mt. Baldy, California, when his manager stole all his money and he had to come out of retirement and tour again to survive. Very sad for such a talented man.
This man’s voice was carved from the stones quarried from the very deepest recesses of the planet, and every second of it is glorious.
I fortunately got to see him perform live during his final tour. What a voice. I felt it to the core.
You can never go wrong with Leonard Cohen! I don't think I've ever seen anybody else to the original singer/songwriter of "Hallelujah" before. KUDOS, Mr. Video...you just made my Subscription List. Leonard has a playlist of absolutely phenomenal songs going way back to the '60s, and no, he never stopped singing until he became too ill and weak. Much THANKS for reacting to the Legend Himself...💖💛
He does some of the coolest reactions, not just rap or rock or anything. So cool.
Remember how I said music touches your soul and makes you feel? You've been touched again.
"The original song is the story of broken love, true love remembered and mourned, guilt, and penance, and of finding peace in the vicissitudes of brokenness". I always recall an elderly man that I took care of in a Nursing Home when I hear this song. He was in the Bataan Death March in 1942 and survived vicious treatment as a POW for several years. He weighed about 95 pounds when he was rescued. He told me the love for his wife is what gave him the will to live and be able to see her again. His wife was also in the Nursing Home, but she had severe Alzheimer's and no longer knew him. He confided to me that worse than forced in the Death March and seeing his comrades bayoneted or die of exhaustion along the way and being beaten and starved as a POW was that his love, his wife, no longer remembered him or shared in any heartfelt memories
Excellent story to illustrate the deep well of meaning in this song. No other song speaks to me of great loss better than this one. I knew this song when I was younger but after the loss of my best friend with AIDS at the age of 40, the recent loss of my father this year and, yes, my mother's Alzheimer's....the song reveals the deeper meaning I couldn't fathom before.
"Love is the only engine of survival." - Leonard Cohen.
@@windnchgo 😢🥰
😢😢🥰
that is the most heartbreaking story I have ever heard. I hope he was able to find peace and comfort
I've got turkey skin now!
Leonard is over 70 when this was taped.
One of the deepest lyricists/poets ever.
you're not the only one who struggles with this. To make it worse Cohen wrote as many as eighty verses to this song and switched up for different performances so that there could be multiple interpretations.
Took almost 3 years to complete
Leonard was the GOAT no doubt about that.
HINT: physiclly shooting someone is not what he means...
I would love to read each and every verse. Thanks for the cool fact.
@@MrPernell27 it actually took Cohen 6-7 years to write this. He was probably ashamed to admit it to Dylan who would write songs within a day or so..
Delilah, also spelled Dalila, in the Old Testament, the central figure of Samson's last love story (Judges 16). She was a Philistine who, bribed to entrap Samson, coaxed him into revealing that the secret of his strength was his long hair, whereupon she took advantage of his confidence to betray him to his enemies.
You are absolutely right!!!I was wondering how many people would understand this song!!
We can learn from music. We can learn the whole world, the whole history, If we do not learn something, grow ourselves somehow, it is not really "music".
I always recognized the story of David and Uriah I never knew about this connection! Wow glad I read the comments thanks for the information 🤗
I interpret this song as describing different scenarios in which someone might utter "Halleluja"... In that verse he describes how seeing the love of your life, despite her locking you down in her home, destroying everything you used to be and take away the source of your strength yet still is able to draw a grateful "halleluljah" from your lips.
@@cathymarlow6084 The key to understanding this isn't in getting the biblical references (but good on you for that) but rather in understanding your heart when you listen to the song.
Imagine finding a love profound , immediate, powerful but a BAD idea from the beginning. It will destroy you in the end and you know it, you will be broken by it and you take it anyway. You praise God for the pleasure and when it arrives, you praise God for the pain because it came from the pleasure and all things serve The Almighty. But it's a cold and broken hallelujah.
What an original way to write about this song. Summed it up beautifully! Cohen wrote masterpieces and rewrote masterpieces into, IN MY HUMBLE OPINION, remastered unimaginable soul touching works of art. Art that you can close your eyes and see the color of every word!
Dance Me to the End of love is a personal favourite of mine. Cohen’s music is achingly hauntingly beautiful at once melancholic and uplifting.
‘Dance Me to the End of Love’ is my fave 💎
He was 75 in this performance. Wrote the song in 1984 at age 50. Leonard passed away in 2016.
www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/how-leonard-cohens-hallelujah-brilliantly-mingled-sex-religion-194516/
Leonard Cohen’s version is the best in my opinion. I’ve heard so many others but Leonard’s touches my soul more deeply.
I'd heard there was a secret chord
That David played and it pleased the Lord
But you don't really care for music, do you?
Well, it goes like this
The fourth, the fifth, the minor fall, the major lift
The baffled king composing Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
While sounding spiritual and uplifting this is a song about the battle and brokenness of many human relationships. One of the greatest single songs ever written... with so many amazing covers to explore. Check the Pentatonix version, you will be astounded.
Dan McManus what's even better is the fact that when he sings the fourth the fifth the minor chord the major lift, it is what he's actually singing. It's not just a verse.
The Pentatonix version of this is so beautiful and uplifting.
only 2 covers of this song are good, they are shit, Jeff Buckley and KD Lang, both their covers of this song are great, everything else is shit
"one of the greatest songs ever written" true!
I thank he was in his 70's. His manager robbed him blind and he had to go out touring in his golden age. We had the privilege' of seeing him before he passed. That was one AMAZING show!!
Dance me to the end of Time
Closing Time
So Long Marianne!!!
Lucky enough to see this tour as well! He did 3 encores. Most amazing performance.
I'm glad I was able to help pay him back a little by seeing him twice on this tour.
And as a bonus, I sat next to Jeff Bridges the first time.
@@MichaelLevineHair cool❤️
Yes, I tear up too,every time I hear it. That’s ok...that means we are humans not machines.🎼🎶❤️😎
The most influentual lyricist/poet next to Bob Dylan. He gave us 60 years of pure love and beauty ❤️ Every song, every album, every concert . He is walking in beauty.
"Hallelujah" was written by Cohen. I believe he was in his 70's when he performed this. He passed away a few years back. There are a few fantastic covers of the song.
Having heard several, several covers...I can't help but like Rufus wainwright version, but not the onscreen version in the movie Shrek, just the one on the soundtrack...it's pared down & nothing fancy, which in a way also pays homage to Cohen. Buckley's is awesome...but to me his voice is almost too pure for the song.
This song is a masterpiece and so is Leonard’s interpretation. It’ a gift to humanity.
I love your reactions! So funny 😂 hugs from Buenos Aires, Argentina 🇦🇷🇦🇷
Just found your reaction - Leonard Cohen is a real poet & us ladies proper love him 💕 Always 🇬🇧
The guy could write songs. He is about 75 at this taping.
He was around 78 when I saw him in concert.
Love Leonard's " Bird On A Wire"!
"This man has to be 50-something". 🤣😂
Halle Berry is 50 something.
George Clooney is 50 something.
This dude was 75.
Pentatonix does a great acapella version
Mr Video must be very young. Very young people sometimes think 50 and 75 are about the same thing😆😂🤣😂😅
@@Silverstreak7878 yeah I know.
I remember when I was in high school, I was thinking that I would be too old to enjoy the turning of the century, since I would be 35 by then. 🤪
Dave Dammit That was fun to read about! Old at 35! My hero is the man who learned to read at 98! Yes 98! He lived to be 108 and he even wrote a book called, “Life is So Good.”
Dave Dammit 🤣🤣🤣
This dude was timeless.
Nothing beats the author singing thier own song
ChrisCornell’s little daughter sang this for him when he died.... it was so touching.
Leonard never took to the stage without having fantastic band members and back-up singers to accompany him. For all of the musicians who performed with him, it was a great privilege to accompany the master. I saw him live three times - 1980, 2009 and 2010. Sheer magic. We are approaching the fourth anniversary of his death on 7 November 2016 - two days before that fateful US election result!
I remember when Leonard was aware he was dying. He confirmed it on social media, and said something to the effect of, "I'm okay with it. I hope it's not too painful."
😢
Love love love always, attended Leonard Cohen concert 1975 Portsmouth UK it was magical.
Leonard Cohen,one of the greatest poets of all time! Sadly passed a few years back. It is said there is something like 60 verses to this song. I believe he was in his mid 70’s in this performance! Another great song from London is called “The Future”,but every song is great!
RIP Mr Cohen,you are truly missed!!
It's so wonderful seeing the younger generation appreciating Leonard Cohen. Genius never gets old. Every time I listen to this, I hear something different, something I missed...and I get different interpretations, too.
He was a master lyricist. He writes in metaphors and this is no exception. For me this song is about the loss of someone you love, remorseful yet thankful. Hence the Hallelujah. Anyone who has gone through the loss of someone they love ,whether through death or a breakup, can relate. I tear-up every time I hear this song. Despite the grief and sadness I will always be grateful for the love I've had in my life......
I absolutely love Leanord Cohen!!! If I can suggest more by him, everybody knows and the future are my favorites!
He was such a poet.
I cried soooo much when he died… I have a tattoo of him on my arm, holding his hat… I love him so much and I was fortunate enough to have seen him live 5 times or more… there will never be another, or anything closely like it. Can you all agree how fortunate we were to be alive when he was??
I've told everyone that I want this played at my funeral. I love this so much!! ❤️
Welcome to Leonard's world. I've listened to him for over fifty years. Rest In Peace, My Brother.
I love how he described exactly the flow of the song....the minor fall....the major lift...🔥🔥
Leonard Cohen actually is the original creator of the song "Hallelujah". And a whole slew of other wonderful music and lyrics. He passed away a couple of years ago, but he left behind a great legacy of music.
Every one has covered this song, anyone with a guitar around a camp fire played this song, even my niece sang this song when she was 7. But I still love it. You should hear Mazzy star " fade into you "
Mr. Cohen has meant so much to me and my family through the years. He touches me deep inside I love and miss him.
When I was a kid the 70s this guy was my neighbor in Montreal,canada.he is considered one of the best singer songwriter on the planet and his poetry and story's,deep shit.you should do some research on him
Wow❤️
This sing ALWAYS makes me cry. It’s so beautiful.
Everybody Knows
Suzanne
The Sisters of Mercy
You Want it Darker
Love Suzanne!
Don't forget ...Dance Me To The End of Love
hed probably trip on hearing The Future after hearing this. I did when i found out it was the same guy. different vibe with those lyrics
Suzanne rips my heart apart! Dude could WRITE!
Suzanne was written for his friend Suzanne Verdal...They were very close friends for years
That organ solo utterly kicked ass. Many artists have covered "Hallelujah," but for my money, Cohen owns it hands-down. Great to see youngsters gaining a love of the music of old :)
Mr. Cohen was 74 when he gave this performance.
This was a wonderful surprise! Really enjoy watching you discover all this great music.
Lenord Cohan is a poet/songwriter/singer. This song is probably his most covered song by popular singers. He is Jewish and many of his songs have a biblical theme. This one is about King David's fall from grace. His lust for Bathsheba after seeing her bath on a rooftop led him to have her husband killed so he could marry her. His song EVERYBODY KNOWS warns of a plague coming and laments how nothing really changes. THE RICH GET RICH AND THE POOR GET POOR and old black joe is still pickin' cotton are two of the lines. He has a large catalog of songs and some have been used in movies and it is said that it is his voice in Michael Jacksons' album THRILLER.
He actually ended up joining the scientology cult. Most people guess Everybody Knows is actually about his experience in that, especially in reference to the meter (their e-meter) on the bed.
orba humphrey he’s using religious imagery, but this song is about a broken relationship.
Vincent Price is the talker on Thriller.
Leonard Cohen was a poet. Poets can use words to draw emotions from the deepest parts of us. He was a Master.
Canada says: "You're welcome."
all of leonard Cohen's work is poetry with truth laced into it that is both painful and beautiful.
Love your reactions to this sort of thing. So pure.
This song has so many more verses than he sings here. He claimed there were 80 once, but the song is so legendary it deserves that kind of myth attached to it.
He was brilliant. Poet. He wrote words that people today speak and sing. ❤ There are artists who will bring tears to your eyes when they sing. Leonard is an Artist. Rest Genius. 😪
Samson by Regina Spektor is a great song that tells another variation of the Samson and Delilah story.
Another Leonard Cohen song you might enjoy is Everybody Knows. It's my favorite by him
I saw this tour when it came through my city a little before this was recorded. I couldn't believe how much charisma this man could show and how much energy he had. My favourite live music experience ever.
Leonard is old here, but he's still the best.
If you want to hear him more towards his prime, I would recommend anything from the "Field Commander Cohen, tour of '79" live album.
That whole thing is blazing with brilliance from end to end.
A friend worked for him touring and said he was a lovely man and supremely generous to his staff.
Cohen wrote this in 84. He had some big hits back in the 60s. Sadly, he died in 2016 but had a long life (84 years). This was made in 2008 which would have made him 76. I think this is the best version out there so thanks for reacting to it. If you want to hear a great song by a superstar that is 94 and still going strong listen to Tony Bennett. Here he is with Lady Gaga a few years back ua-cam.com/video/ZPAmDULCVrU/v-deo.html and here he is 2 months ago singing "Fly Me To The Moon" ua-cam.com/video/JTdKZllVqpw/v-deo.html (changed link to the right one) You will love him. He loves to smoke dope...still!
My step father was one of the tour managers for this tour, and others. I got to go with them to London for 4 shows. it was awesome. Hung out with all of them, crew and band. Met Leonard (the first time) in a corner store across the street from our hotel. In person he was a tiny fellow, so I didnt even recognize him for a few seconds. Then (inside my head) i said HOLY FUCK ITS LEONARD COHEN!!! He had wicked sharp sense of humor, and immediately made you feel warm and comfortable when speaking. That voice was always magic apparently....
Mostly hung out with his daughter Lorca, as she was the closest to my age. My favorite moments (other than the performances) include casually making the drummer, Raphael, laugh real hard, and drinking in a small pub till closing with Paul - he was a crew guy that had another gig as being in charge of 'Eddie' of Iron Maiden fame. The musicians all were very talented and the web sisters were also strikingly beautiful, it was GREAT!.
Also, the tour bus was a double decker, and the top part - the front 1/3rd was glass. So the front seats up top gave a spectacular view of the surroundings.
That was how I got to visit England for the first time.
Good times....
He was probably 70 here easily-he just passed away a couple years ago. Try the Jeff Buckley version.. well, ANYTHING by Jeff is pretty great!
You are true, he was between 70-80 there. I think this is a concert in London I saw many years ago. Not sure. London was at least part of this tour.
Jeff Buckley's version is the one most people emulate for sure. Pentatonix version is also stellar.
Think he was 80...last time he was in London (before this appearance) he was a young man of 60
One of the best songwriters who ever lived. And, yes, Leonard never had a problem attracting the ladies. If he was at a party he always left with the best looking woman in the room.
Good reaction man. This song is a real gem.
He knew he was old. He brought in the divine Web sisters. He was working with the black woman who was his lover. She is amazing.
I also really like his songs...Everybody Know and You Want It Darker.
You are a being of light and joy and I sing hallelujah to yah!
Leonard Cohen songs to try
Everybody Knows &
One night in Santiago
Rest In Peace Leonard. One of the smoothest, and always true to himself with his lyrics.
you got it solidly. fantastic emotion to the spirituality of this great Canadian singer/songwriter.
Yes you must watch K.D.Lang singing this song. I still love Leonard Cohen.ccx
He was really a poet. He realized he'd never be really successful writing poetry and then he met Lou Reed and thought, "I can do that."
My favorite of his songs is Everybody Knows
Thank you for reaching to him, I've not seen someone reacting to him before.
I actually hate how many people cover this song, trying to be deep.
After Jeff Buckley, everybody and their grandma had to do this song.
Stranglethroat sucks I think it even pissed Leonard off too.
I think it’s beautiful. It’s only a marker of how much inspiration to so many it is. True art becomes so many things to many people, it can mean multiple things at the same time to you either in different times of your life or all at the same time. I’m highly suspicious that Leonard Cohen had a problem with it. True artists know that when they release it into the world it becomes it’s own creature.
And people do it in churches. And have their children do it. And I wonder...have they even listened to the ***words*** ?
I like KD Langs version....I am am 65, heard it by her years ago and it still resonates...sometimes have to stop it and do something else before is over, it just slays me
Leonard Cohen wrote the song and released it in 1984 it was then covered by Jeff Buckley.
Music brings everyone together.. we need music right now.
50 something? LOL He was 73. He feeds my soul
Jennifer Aniston is 50
Damien Rice sang "Famous Blue Raincoat" at the Leonard Cohen Tribute Concert in Montreal and it was fantastic!!
Leonard Cohen dated Janis Joplin and they didn't like each others music.
I did not know this!
She also gave him head on the bed in the Chelsea Hotel.
Nicole Jenkins Sorry hon but he never dated her. He met her when they were staying at the Chelsea Hotel. He write 2 songs about it.
Also the actress Rebecca de Mornay. Saw on Wikipedia.
I didn't know about Janis Joplin but of Rebecca de Mornay, the actress. There is nothing on Wikipedia on Cohen and Joplin but he gave an interview with the Rolling Stone magazine (I read the article there) where what you say is indeed true; he confirms it. However he says 'I liked her mucic so much' but she met him once in the street after this and asked him if he was going 'to read poetry for old ladies'. Says the article. www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/how-leonard-cohen-met-janis-joplin-inside-legendary-chelsea-hotel-encounter-121067/
Leonard Cohen is my favorite poet, hands down. I have been listening to his music since I was a teen and I am 70. I love every song he has ever dropped. He is more like 80 in this video. This tour lasted a year and each show was 3 hours so yeah, he kept it up until he died of cancer a few years ago, recording all the way to his death. I really miss him. This poem actually has something like 22 stanzas so this song only touches on a few of them making it a bit difficult to understand. Cohen always had the best musicians and singers with him. He is a legend.
If you haven't already, give the Jeff Buckley version a listen to. Or well, anything by Jeff Buckley.
There's an amazing version done by Ben Harprer as well where he talks about Jeff Buckley.
Jeff Buckley's version is my favorite.
jeffs version was based on or partly based on John Cales version
@@A2Z83 Thanks, I shall have to give his a listen to.
Oh please do! Jeff Buckley - Forget Her, and Grace are both amazing as well.
Never ever heard Hallelujah sung like that before! I don’t care who sings it, that song always give me goosebumps!
Pentatonix did an awesome version of this song ! It will give you goose bumps 😌
It's "pretty" but doesn't have the depth of feeling that Leonard Cohen brings to it - you can feel that he means every word he sings.
R.i.p.. ...made me have to go listen to my other fav song by him,i am your man..forever my top 2 by him..love the reactions,subbed..!!
She cut your hair references Samson and Delilah. His strength came from his long curly hair. When she cut it.......
This concert is one of the best performances I have heard of Leanard. Proves how sometimes older is better
Please react to more Leonard Cohen! He is a legend. For real, look at a short biography. I recommend "Famous Blue Raincoat," "Ain't No Cure For Love," "Everybody Knows,"and "I'm Your Man, " among others.
You’re great! Your reactions are so wonderfully heartfelt and real. I appreciate it!
He is talking about King David from the Bible and the woman he had affair.. in the beginning of the song he talks about the secret chords of the songs that he would play to GOD
He is talking about how life is pain, and we must say Hallelujah because that's all there is.
Pretty much 🤔🥰
When he stashedthe joint,LMAO.
I imagine it probably felt inappropriate. There have been many covers of this song, but hearing Cohen deliver it himself at a live performance is nothing short of a religious experience.
such an iconic song....Leonard Cohen was more a songwriter and storyteller but still love this one! thx for sharing Mr. Video!
I still prefer Leonard Cohen singing Hallelujah, as the writer, the lyrics have more meaning for him.
He is Canada's pride and joy! First time I've seen a standing ovation before even note was played or a word was spoken. I think this is the story of Samson and Delilah from the Bible.
Famous Blue Raincoat is a beautiful.
Dude I love your reactions. Done surpassed almost all the OG reacters, by far. That not me kissing your ass, it's just facts. I'm not sure where ir how you take requests, but man you have to check out Colter Wall (Kate McKinnon) and Tyler Childers (Grindstone). /Treat yourself man. I promise your won't regret it... Nor will you forget their music.
Keep grinding man. You're gonna be huge. You have a natural gift of stage presence, that I don't even think you know the half of.
Okay I'll shut up now 👌
Justin Amos I agree and I’m a sub of several reactors. Besides stage presence he has a very nice singing voice.
@@dunismith3045 yes he does. I meant to mention that in my post. His Thunderstruck cover was awesome! I don't think he knows how much talent he actually has. But I'd rather he be humble than narcissistic.
That Kate McKinnon song is intense. Just heard it, got me cheering due to excellent story and performance.
@@michaelloveland1330 if you like that kind of music, friend, check out more of his songs. They're outlaw, old western murder ballads. And they all tell a story.
Imagine Mr. Video (don't know his real name) glued 5o the screen, locked in on the story?!
And if you haven't treat yourself to some Tyler Childers as well. He's similar in style, different voice but still an amazing distinct one. I'd recommend starting with Grindstone or White House Road. Make sure you get the live acoustic versions.
@@nasus61movies his real name is Leo. He mentioned it once or twice in older videos
He was a very handsome man in his younger day. You should listen to his song "So Long, Marianne".
When you've heard K.D. Lang's cover or this classic every other cover will get a partisipation trophy.
🥰
love this song
love kd more
easy choice for me
Many (too many?) people cover this song, and very few demonstrate a deep understanding of it. kd lang is the (lone?) exception. Nobody covers "Hallelujah" like kd lang.
Yes, omg!!!!!
Disagree. For me, Jeff Buckley did it best.
Brilliant song and songwriter...RIP Mr. Cohen.