Christmas season comes with a playlist of timeless tunes, and in 2016, Pentatonix nestled their unique rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” amidst the beloved songs that herald the holiday season. The quintet, featuring Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kirstin Maldonado, Matt Sallee, and Kevin Olusola, melded their distinct voices to create a version that resonated with many around the globe.
The a cappella group has become renowned for their fresh, innovative covers of classic songs. One of their most popular and acclaimed interpretations is their rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” which they performed on their 2016 Christmas album A Pentatonix Christmas.
In this rendition, each member of Pentatonix takes a turn in the spotlight, showcasing their vocal strengths, from Scott’s robust baritone to Mitch’s soaring tenor, Kirstin’s melodious soprano, Matt’s grounding bass, and Kevin’s rhythmic beatboxing. Their voices combine to create a rich, harmonious sound, akin to a choir of angels heralding the season of joy with every note.
Originally written and recorded by Leonard Cohen in 1984, “Hallelujah” gained more mainstream popularity after Jeff Buckley covered it in 1994. Since then, it has been covered by over 300 artists, but Pentatonix managed to bring something new and thrilling to their version.
This glorious rendition of “Hallelujah” showcases the impressive vocal talents of the group’s five members. Each member gets an opportunity to solo during the cover, and their voices beautifully interweave in the choruses. Their rendition, much like a gentle snowfall, begins softly, each voice layering atop the other, building towards a powerful, goosebump-inducing climax.
The resonance of this version went beyond just vocal harmony; it climbed the charts and won hearts worldwide. Its ascension on the charts was like the star atop a Christmas tree, shining brightly amidst a forest of musical offerings. It reached a peak position of #3 on the American iTunes chart, showcasing its popularity among listeners. The song’s appeal wasn’t limited to the United States; it earned platinum status in Canada and gold certifications in Germany and Switzerland, underlining the global appreciation for Pentatonix’s musical craftsmanship.
The music video for “Hallelujah” is a visual treat. It’s simple, allowing the focus to remain on the group’s vocal talent and the emotional resonance of the song. The positive reception is evident in the comments on YouTube and social media, with viewers praising the group’s skill and the touching rendition.
Share with your friends because Pentatonix’s rendition of ‘Hallelujah’ is a gift of music, wrapped in the warmth of harmony and tied with a bow of Christmas cheer. As each note unfolds, it’s like opening a gift of joy, hope, and love – the true essence of the Christmas spirit.
By passing along this beautiful rendition, you’re not just spreading a song but a feeling of togetherness, a moment of serenity amidst the bustling holiday season, and a reminder of the simple joys that Christmas brings. So, hit the share button, let the harmonies of Pentatonix fill the hearts of your loved ones, and together, revel in the musical magic that is ‘Hallelujah.’
