Perhaps one of the most instantly recognizable songs of this century is Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” The tune is a total crowd favorite. What most people don’t know is that this everlasting song was written by the Canadian singer when he had reached a low point in his career. After being on a hiatus for several years, he released his next album, the one with this song, only to be completely panned by record executives and the label – they didn’t even want to release the album! Imagine that amidst the thoughts that your career may potentially be over. It would be heartbreaking, to say the least!
In fact, “Hallelujah” was the opening song on side two of Leonard’s album “Various Positions” released in 1984, and no one really even liked it – at first. It was when Bob Dylan took note of the beauty and complexity of the song and covered it, followed by Jeff Buckley, that the now famous track gained momentum, propelling it into a mega classic. Without that first bit of recognition, there’s no way “Hallelujah” would be one of the most covered songs in the world today! But, we can’t say that this recognition isn’t well-deserved.
The tune is now so popular but these three kids wouldn’t be singing this song had it wouldn’t been for Bob and Jeff! In the battle round of “The Voice Kids Germany,” Patrizia, 12, Simon, 12, and Helen, 11, are head-to-head competing for the title. And what better way to showcase their voices than by singing the show-stopping “Hallelujah?” Definitely a challenging song, it’s the perfect choice to give each of their voices the range and projection needed to show off their individual talent.
The three contestants add a very youthful spin to the classic. It’s already a stirring song, and the intertwining of their voices has such impact, pleasing the judges immediately. Their version takes on a choir-like tone, transforming the song into an angelic anthem that resonates with the crowd, receiving applause and cheers right after the first verse.
Their three voices complement each other magnificently, creating a swirling energy of beautiful sound and haunting vocals that bring out the beauty of Leonard’s words. His lyrics are timeless, and these kids do the song justice ten-fold, capturing the weight and emotion through their divine vocal collaboration. To say that these children are incredible is an understatement.
Click below to watch their stunning performance that caught the attention of the judges and audience!
