Leonard Cohen

Who is Leonard Cohen?

Leonard Norman Cohen was born in Westmount, Montreal, Quebec, into a Jewish family. He first gained recognition as a poet and novelist, publishing acclaimed poetry collections such as 'The Spice-Box of Earth' (1961) and 'Flowers for Hitler' (1964), and the experimental novel 'Beautiful Losers' (1966). In his thirties he turned to songwriting and recording, releasing 'Songs of Leonard Cohen' in 1967. His literate, melancholy songs, delivered in a distinctive deep voice, include 'Suzanne,' 'Bird on the Wire,' 'Famous Blue Raincoat,' and 'Hallelujah,' the last of which became one of the most covered songs in popular music. He spent years as a Buddhist monk at Mount Baldy in California. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and was made a Companion of the Order of Canada.

Sources: Leonard Cohen, 'The Spice-Box of Earth' (1961) · Leonard Cohen, 'Beautiful Losers' (1966) · Sylvie Simmons, 'I'm Your Man: The Life of Leonard Cohen' (2012)