“Pentatonix” brought a cappella music back into the mainstream of American music culture. Their interpretations of popular songs are free of any instrument. The band captures the essence of each song with just their vocals. In this performance video of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” the crowd begins to cheer and the lights slowly fade as the song begins.
There is a new lead singer with every verse. They stand on a staircase on stage while the background is lit with stars. The group wears flashy and fancy clothes. The lights begin to move as the beat-boxing enters the chorus and the song becomes more intense. Cohen’s “Hallelujah” has been covered by some of the world’s most famous musicians and singers.
Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and Justin Timberlake all performed their own version of the song.
The song itself was written by Canadian singer Leonard Cohen, originally released on his album ‘Various Positions’ in 1984. It saw little success until it was recorded by John Cale and more late by Jeff Buckley. It was featured in the hit animated film “Shrek,” and since then perhaps 300 different arrangements have been created.
It’s a fantastic a cappella performance that rivals any other “Hallelujah” cover. “Pentatonix” formed in 2011 and won the third season of NBC’s The Sing-Off. They were given a record deal and they’ve been sweeping the country ever since. After releasing multi-platinum albums, “Pentatonix” has become a musical force of nature!