Pentatonix’s version of “Hallelujah,” released in 2016, is a powerful take on Leonard Cohen’s iconic song. Originally written and performed by Cohen in 1984, “Hallelujah” has been covered by countless artists over the years. Pentatonix, a well-known a cappella group, brought their unique style to the song, adding rich vocal harmonies and depth that made it especially popular with fans. This cover was included on their album A Pentatonix Christmas, which showcased a mix of holiday classics and spiritual songs. The group’s interpretation has since gained millions of views and streams worldwide, showing just how impactful their rendition has been.
The song itself, though often associated with themes of faith, is more complex and layered in meaning. Cohen’s lyrics explore ideas of love, loss, and the struggle between faith and doubt. The word “Hallelujah” traditionally means “praise the Lord,” but Cohen’s lyrics use it in a more introspective way, expressing both moments of despair and joy. This duality allows listeners to interpret the song in their own way, whether as a spiritual anthem, a love ballad, or a reflection on personal trials. Pentatonix’s vocal arrangement emphasizes these emotions, highlighting the highs and lows of the song with both gentle and powerful moments.
The music video for Pentatonix’s “Hallelujah” adds to the song’s impact. Shot in a desert setting, each member of the group performs against a stark, earthy background that contrasts with their colorful voices. The simplicity of the setting brings focus to their expressions and the emotion in their voices. With minimal visual effects or elaborate backdrops, the video underscores the raw beauty of their voices and the song’s meaning, inviting viewers to connect with the lyrics and sound.
Pentatonix’s “Hallelujah” has touched many listeners around the world, both for its beautiful harmonies and its emotional depth. By taking Cohen’s timeless song and interpreting it through their unique style, Pentatonix has made “Hallelujah” accessible to new audiences. This version of the song continues to be a favorite during the holiday season, as well as a meaningful piece for anyone who appreciates music that explores themes of love, faith, and human experience.
Video: Hallelujah by Pentatonix
Hallelujah Lyrics by Pentatonix
[Scott:]
I’ve heard there was a secret chord
That David played and it pleased the Lord
But you don’t really care for music, do ya?
Well it goes like this
The fourth, the fifth, the minor fall, the major lift
The baffled king composing Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
[Avi:]
Well, your faith was strong but you needed proof
You saw her bathing on the roof
Her beauty in the moonlight overthrew ya
She tied you to the kitchen chair
She broke your throne and she cut your hair
And from your lips, she drew the Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
[Kirstie:]
Well baby I’ve been here before
I’ve seen this room and I’ve walked this floor
I used to live alone before I knew ya
And I’ve seen your flag on the marble arch (marble arch)
And love is not a victory march (a victory march)
It’s a cold and it’s a broken Hallelujah (broken Hallelujah)
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
[Mitch:]
Maybe there’s a God above
But all I’ve ever learned from love
Was how to shoot somebody who outdrew ya
And it’s not a cry that you hear at night
It’s not somebody who’s seen the light
It’s a cold and it’s a broken Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
[All:]
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Mmmm, Mmmm
Mmmm, Mmmm
