Leonard Cohen: From the flop to the world hit - the secret of Hallelujah!

Leonard Cohen: From the flop to the world hit - the secret of Hallelujah!

The legendary singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, whose songs have shaped generations of music lovers sustainably, experienced a creative new beginning with the song "Hallelujah" in the early 1980s. This iconic song was created at a time when Cohen fought on many fronts, among other things against personal disappointments and financial needs.

Although the musical quality was undisputed, Cohen's record label did not feel convinced of his work. They were enthusiastic about Cohen's talent, but they had concerns whether his new style would also arrive at the audience. "Leonard, we know that you are great, but we don't know if you are also good," he received the rather awkward feedback from his producers.

producer change and creative challenges

Cohen, known for his striving for artistic stimulation, was dissatisfied with the stagnating situation in his career. In order to bring a breath of fresh air to his work, he meanwhile worked with the eccentric producer Phil Spector and published one of his most unusual albums: "Death of a Ladies' Man". However, the decision to return to his familiar producer John Lissauer should be decisive for the development of the song "Hallelujah".

The history of the song shows Cohen's tireless use for perfection. He filed endlessly on the texts and melodies, which ultimately led to a timeless work. “Hallelujah” finally became a hit, but also an integral part of pop culture because it was interpreted in films like “Shrek” by John Cale.

Although Cohen celebrated enormous financial success during his lifetime, he also experienced dramatic losses. In the 1990s, his manager cheated by a remarkable sum of $ 5 million. Later, at the age of 75, he decided to go on tour again to stabilize his finances.

"The moment when you hug everything and tell you: Look, I don't understand anything - Hallelujah!" Explained the artist what the acceptance of his living conditions reflected. This knowledge not only inspired his music, but also his audience Worldwide.

In a podcast that deals intensively with Cohen's life and work, the authors Diviam Hoffmann and Denise Fernholz have their say, while well-known voices such as Hans-Werner Meyer and Jens Wawrczeck enrich the project. Production is supported by several broadcasters, including NDR, RBB, SWR and WDR.

The fascination for Leonard Cohen's music continues to live, as can be seen in the feature film series "So Long, Marianne", which is available in the ARD Mediathek. This series explores the deep emotional connections and challenges that shaped his songs and life story.

Only the combination of Cohen's unique style and the difficult decisions he made in his life show why his music still takes up relevant and moving topics. Anyone who wants to learn more about their work and the legacy he left will also find extensive information in other podcasts and programs that are devoted to the cultural influences of Cohen.