Leonard Cohen’s now iconic hit “Hallelujah” almost never made it big. It was released in 1984, a time in which Cohen’s popularity was in decline and as he was spending time with his kids, he got back in the studio.
After “50,000 cigarettes and several swimming pools of whiskey”, he had songs. And among them was “Hallelujah“.
The song became famous thanks to the animated film Shrek.
Which meant that lots of other artists went ahead and released their own renditions. But you’ve never heard this song done by a a children’s choir. So here you go, for your listening pleasure.
The One Voice Children’s Choir was founded by Masa Fukuda and has 140 members ages 4–17. The choir performs around 50 to 70 times in a year. They meet twice every week for practice and are known for performing a vast selection of music such as pop, gospel, classical, Broadway, and patriotic.
This Utah based choir has utilized YouTube for their releases now which means everyone can sit back and enjoy their heavenly voices.
The lyrics are full of stark biblical imagery, with a low, almost meditative like melody played on the piano, and most artists have stayed true to the original recipe. It feels like a chant or a prayer at times.
One Voice chose to use an acoustic guitar with an intro that’s almost classical and gospel combined.
David, Bathsheba, and Samson are referenced in the song, blending hints of romance and religion, all while seemingly begging for respite from whatever it was the singer is going through. And if you read about Leonard Cohen’s life and career, you may understand why.
The kids sit in a circle, automatically blending their many voices together without anyone overpowering a fellow singer or the guitar. Look around and see the difference in age.
“Your faith was strong but you needed proof. You saw her there upon the roof. Her beauty in the moonlight overthrew ya.”
This is a golden hallelujah and you know it!
Viewers are more than impressed!
“This is the best cover of hallelujah that have heard so far, perfectly arranged and well delivered.”
Says Lydia, while Pongen said,
“Never heard a child choir version of hallelujah but now I’ve heard it, it’s mesmerizing and emotional . The melodious voices and harmony from those small beings were outstanding ❤️😘😘😘😘. Lots of love and I’ll always keep you guys in prayer keep on shining 🌟”
Would you believe it took Cohen 2 years to write this song? His record company wasn’t impressed so Cohen released it independently. It took almost 2 decades but the song took off.
This version by One Voice has to be one of the best. As subjective as music is, you cannot deny how good this is. It’s like entering a church with the silence only pierced by these kids’ singing.
The tempo builds, the crescendo a lovely mix of voices, before the kids take it down to an almost whisper like chant, repeating the word hallelujah as if to assure their listeners that everything is going to be alright. Cohen would have been proud.
Listen to this amazing rendition below!
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