Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah for Hatzalah Israel with an All-Star Cast

Since Leonard Cohen released his song Hallelujah in 1984, it has been performed by a more than 300 singers in various languages. By late 2008, more than five million copies of the song have been sold in CD format.  

It has been the subject of a BBC Radio documentary, a book, and has been included in the soundtracks of numerous films and television programs. Different interpretations of the song may include different verses, out of the over 80 verses Cohen originally wrote.

Last week we were treated to a special new version from Hatzalah of Israel.

As JTA and Marcy Oster reported in Haaretz,

A new version of the iconic Leonard Cohen song “Hallelujah” performed in English, Hebrew and Arabic was released as part of a benefit supporting first responders in Israel.

 “Saving Lives Sunday,” a virtual benefit to support the emergency response organization United Hatzalah of Israel in its fight against COVID-19, raised over $1 million.

The new “Hallelujah” was performed by Israeli recording artist Dudu Aharon, as well as “Fauda” star Rona-Lee Shimon, actress and singer Layan Elwazani, Iranian-American Jewish singer  and composer Chloe Pourmorady, and Adam Kantor from the Broadway cast of “The Band’s Visit.” Joining in were first responders and people whose lives were saved by Jewish, Muslim and Christian Hatzalah volunteers.

Enjoy!

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