Celtic Thunder is an Irish vocal ensemble that’s known for captivating audiences with both their sound and their stage presence. So you can only imagine how stunning the results were when the members performed a rendition of “Hallelujah” with a group of instrumentalists, surrounded by Christmas decor.
There are certain songs you can listen to 100 times and still you get the shivers. “Hallelujah” has that effect on a lot of people – but Celtic Thunder’s version might even turn that feeling up a notch. It’s just that good.
Some musical groups try and make their shows an unforgettable experience for the attendees, with Celtic Thunder being one of them.
The all-male singing group formed in 2007 with a mission to focus on their Celtic heritage. Since then, they’ve been putting on concerts with dramatic visual effects, stage sets, and also entertaining fans with their choreography. For shows, they’re accompanied by their Celtic Thunder Band.
Over the years, the ensemble’s gathered followers worldwide and they’ve released numerous albums and DVDs. They also sing other types of songs as well, including popular hits.
This audience got quite the treat when Celtic Thunder covered Leonard Cohen’s classic, “Hallelujah.”
It all took place during one of their concerts that had a holiday theme. The stage was decorated in twinkling lights and Christmas trees, and some of the crowd members were even wearing Santa hats.
Now, “Hallelujah” isn’t really a Christmas song – but it’s still one powerful enough to lift your soul. Likely, this is why everyone broke into cheers the moment the famous tune filled the venue.
The performance started with one of the members emerging from the back, dressed formally in a suit and tie.
Standing under a spotlight, he began singing the lyrics with a voice that’s soothing to the ears. (In fact, his appearance isn’t hard on the eyes either.) Once he reached the “Hallelujah” chorus, that’s when another vocalist joined in taking the beautiful sound up to another level.
Celtic Thunder’s concerts have both solos and group performances – and for their version of “Hallelujah,” it was to be a trio act.
A third member slowly walked out on the stage singing Cohen’s lyrics, which still leave many listeners mystified. According to the Irish Times, Cohen once gave a glimpse into the song’s meaning, saying:
“It explains that many kinds of hallelujahs do exist, and all the perfect and broken hallelujahs have equal value.”
At one point, the music stopped and the three men dipped their heads down signaling the end of their act. Everyone clapped in awe over the heavenly performance, yet, they weren’t done yet…
Suddenly, the spotlights became brighter and they each spread their arms out. They were just getting started.
With amplified vocals they belted out:
“Maybe there’s a God above
But all I’ve ever learned from love
Was how to shoot somebody who outdrew ya…”
It’s a performance from Celtic Thunder where they did not disappoint. Not only is it a moving rendition perfectly mixed with instrumentals, but it’s mesmerizing to watch as well.
A man named John wrote on YouTube:
“Beautiful music sung by Celtic Thunder…Very soothing for those who are stressed…Listen to them, stressed or not!”
Whether you’re familiar with Celtic Thunder or this is your first time hearing about them, be prepared to want to snuggle up with a blanket. Their version of “Hallelujah” is simply chilling.
Watch it for yourself below!
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