Leonard Cohen Dead at 82

By Joe Gibel

Singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen whose career spanned six decades and inspired generations has died.

The 82-year-old died on Nov. 7, in his home. His death was not announced until Nov. 10. A memorial service is planned for the near future and will be held in his hometown of Los Angeles.

Cohen made a unique impact in the world of music with his dark yet beautiful lyrics. He released some of his most vital work in his 50s, unlike many other artists who fade away after only a few years. Fans and musicians alike are mourning this loss of the Canadian music icon today.

“When I first heard him, I hated him but the more I listened the more it made me think,” said local musician Jamie Greer. “It made me listen and the words began to sink in. No matter how dark there was always light at the end.”

Cohen’s music never felt dated nor did people ever lose interest in his wonderfully dark music. His albums always moved quickly at record stores around town.

“Lyrically he spoke to a lot of people. His song writing stood out. When he puts out a new record I can always rely on selling of few of them,” said Liam O’Donnell, owner of Dr. Disc Records in Windsor.

His fans will all agree, Cohen’s music will never go away or be forgotten. It has a last impact that will entertain generations for ages to come.

“His poetry covered all emotions that people could feel on a deep level. Hallelujah is one of his songs where you read the words and feel them. That’s love, joy and destruction. The good and bad of the human soul,” said Merenie Crosby, longtime fan of Cohen’s music and regular Dr. Disc customer.

The last Leonard Cohen album was released on Oct. 21. It will soon be released on vinyl and will be available in stores across the nation. Cohen was born in Montreal and was a graduate of McGill university.