Tributes pour in after death of 'cherished artist' Leonard Cohen

CANADIAN Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has led the tributes for singer, songwriter and poet Leonard Cohen, who has died aged 82.

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Mr Trudeau said: “It is with deep sorrow that I learned today of the death of the legendary Leonard Cohen.

“A most remarkable Montrealer, Leonard Cohen managed to reach the highest of artistic achievement, both as an acclaimed poet and a world-renowned singer-songwriter.

Leonard Cohen in 2012 (Julien Behal/PA Archive/PA Images) — Leonard Cohen (Julien Behal/PA)

“He will be fondly remembered for his gruff vocals, his self-deprecating humour and the haunting lyrics that made his songs the perennial favourite of so many generations.

“Leonard Cohen is as relevant today as he was in the 1960s. His ability to conjure the vast array of human emotion made him one of the most influential and enduring musicians ever. His style transcended the vagaries of fashion… His music had withstood the test of time.

“On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I wish to express our deepest sympathies to Leonard Cohen’s family, friends, colleagues and many, many fans.

“Leonard, no other artist’s poetry and music felt or sounded quite like yours. We’ll miss you.”

The PM tweeted lyrics to Cohen’s oft-covered song, Hallelujah.

There's a blaze of light
In every word
It doesn't matter which you heard
The holy or the broken Hallelujah#RIPLeonard

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 11, 2016

Singer-songwriter Carole King was among the many stars who paid tribute on Twitter.

R.I.P. Leonard Cohen

— Carole King (@Carole_King) November 11, 2016

A brilliant Canadian artist passed today. Leonard Cohen, rest in peace. Hallelujah.

— Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) November 11, 2016

Dear Leonard Cohen, thanks for the quiet nights, the reflection, the perspective, the wry smiles and the truth #towerofsong

— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) November 11, 2016

RIP Leonard Cohen – God bless. X

— Peter Hook (@peterhook) November 11, 2016

And Hollywood director Ron Howard described Cohen as “One of my favourite singer-poets,” adding: “RIP legendary musician Leonard Cohen.”

Neil Portnow, chief executive of the Recording Academy who honoured Cohen with a lifetime achievement Grammy in 2010, said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Grammy Award winner and 2010 Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Leonard Cohen.

“During an influential career that spanned more than five decades, Leonard became one of the most revered pop poets and a musical touchstone for many songwriters. His extraordinary talent had a profound impact on countless singers and songwriters, as well as the wider culture.

“We have lost a cherished artist and our sincerest condolences go out to Leonard’s family, friends, and collaborators. He will be missed terribly.”

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