Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah Helps Kick Off Next J Arts and Ideas Series

Celebrate the life and music of the poet turned musician, Leonard Cohen, at the kickoff of the second season of the J Arts and Ideas Author Series. Liel Leibovitz, author of A Broken Hallelujah: Rock and Roll, Redemption and the Life of Leonard Cohen will speak on Sunday, September 18, at 3 p.m. at The Pointe, 1205 E. Washington St.. Originally planned for last March, Leibovitz’ appearance has now been rescheduled.

The discussion will present an intimate look at the life and works of Cohen. The afternoon will also feature a performance by Cantor David Lipp of Cohen’s music, including the popular Hallelujah.

By combing through Cohen’s personal papers, Leibovitz examines the intricacies of the man who’s performing career began with a crippling bout of stage fright but went on to tame a rowdy crowd on the Isle of Wight.

After success, Cohen retreated to a remote Zen camp, seeking the principles of Judaism, Zen Buddhism and Christianity. Cohen was an artist uniquely attuned to justice, lust, longing, loneliness and redemption while possessing the voice and vision that is often reserved for prophets.

Cohen is perhaps best known for “Hallelujah,” a song which rose to prominence following an appearance in 2001’s Shrek. The song has since been covered by several artists including Rufus Wainwright, Imogen Heap, Regina Spektor, kd Lang and Justin Timberlake. However, the song was originally written in 1984 for an album that Cohen’s label did not release in the United States.

Cohen began performing in the 1960’s, touring steadily into the 70’s and has been called “one of the most fascinating and enigmatic singer/songwriters of the late ‘60’s…and has retained an audience across four decades of music-making,” according to music critic Bruce Eder.

Advance tickets for A Broken Hallelujah cost $22, or $18 for The J Members and $14 for students and seniors. You can purchase tickets online at www.jewishlouisville.org/artsideas or by calling 502-459-0660.

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