“Hallelujah” is a song written by Canadian singer Leonard Cohen, originally released on his album Various Positions (1984). Cohen wrote about 80 draft verses for “Hallelujah.” His original version of the song contains several biblical references, notably the stories of Samson and Delilah from the Old Testament Book of Judges (“she cut your hair”), and David and Bathsheba (“you saw her bathing on the roof, her beauty and the moonlight overthrew you”).
“Hallelujah” is a Hebrew word which means ‘Glory to the Lord.’ Since 1991, “Hallelujah” has been performed by more than 300 singers and in various languages. Each time a performer comes to the stage or enters a recording studio and steps to the microphone to sing “Hallelujah,” they bring with them their personal interpretation of the song. The Brett family’s recent music video release of the song is no exception.
As a person watches The Brett’s new music video of their beautiful arrangement of a Spanish rendition of “Hallelujah,” there is a feeling of calmness and serenity that permeates the air. Tom Brett’s excellent guitar playing creates a perfect reverential atmosphere as the family gracefully takes the stage and lifts their voices to sing a song of praise and gratitude. Garon Brett, the youngest member of the family, sings the lead vocals. Though he sings the words in Spanish, there is no interpretation needed, as the words are likened to a sincere, heartfelt prayer set to music. The “amen” is put into place by the soft angelic vocals of his family whose voices harmoniously become one as they sing “Hallelujah” – “Glory to the Lord.”
The song “Hallelujah” has been the subject of a BBC Radio documentary and used in the soundtracks of numerous films and television programs. It increased in popularity after being featured in the film Shrek (2012), with many different arrangements being performed on recordings and in concert. The song experienced renewed interest following Leonard Cohen’s death in November 2016 and appeared on multiple international singles charts, including entering the American Billboard Hot 100 for the first time.
