Leonard Cohen Fans Upset as Trump’s Speech Is Followed by ‘Hallelujah’ — Twice
Tori Kelly, who sang the version heard under the fireworks, took to Twitter to assure anyone who was angry at her that the campaign had not asked for permission.
Donald Trump’s campaign chose to use Leonard Cohen’s signature song, “Hallelujah,” not once but twice following the conclusion of his speech at the Republican National Convention Thursday night.
Many Cohen fans were displeased when they heard Tori Kelly’s recording of the song playing during the fireworks that capped Trump’s address — sandwiched right between “She’s a Grand Old Flag” and Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA” as pyrotechnics spelled out “TRUMP” and “2020” over the Washington mall.
Said fans were even less enthused when “Hallelujah” was quickly reprised, on camera and at greater volume, in an operatic rendition by Christopher Macchio.
Many music fans pointed out the irony of choosing a deeply cynical song by a Canadian as the triumphant exit music following a hyper-patriotic American acceptance speech.