Leonard Cohen Tour 2008–2010

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Leonard Cohen Tour 2008–2010 was a concert tour by Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen. The tour was Cohen's first in 15 years, following a long hiatus from the stage. It began on May 21, 2008, in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, and concluded on December 11, 2010, in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. The tour covered Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand, marking a significant return for Cohen to live performances and receiving widespread critical acclaim.

Background

After retiring from touring in 1993, Leonard Cohen spent most of the 1990s in seclusion at the Zen Center in Los Angeles. His return to the world of music and touring was partly necessitated by financial difficulties, after discovering that his long-time manager had embezzled funds from his retirement account. The tour was announced in March 2008, generating excitement among fans and the music industry.

Tour Overview

The Leonard Cohen Tour 2008–2010 featured Cohen's classic songs, including "Hallelujah," "Suzanne," and "Bird on the Wire," among others. Cohen was accompanied by an ensemble of musicians and backup singers, delivering performances that were noted for their emotional depth and Cohen's deep, distinctive voice. The setlist varied slightly from night to night but consistently showcased Cohen's poetic lyrics and musical compositions.

Critical Reception

The tour received universal acclaim, with critics praising Cohen's performance, stamina, and the quality of the musical arrangements. Many noted the spiritual and introspective nature of the concerts, which often ran over three hours. Cohen's gracious stage presence and humble interactions with both his band and the audience were highlights of the tour.

Notable Performances

One of the most memorable performances took place at the Glastonbury Festival in 2008, where Cohen delivered a moving rendition of "Hallelujah" that became one of the festival's standout moments. Other significant concerts included performances at the O2 Arena in London, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

Legacy

The Leonard Cohen Tour 2008–2010 not only marked a triumphant return for Cohen but also introduced his music to a new generation of fans. Recordings from the tour were released as live albums, including "Live in London" (2009) and "Songs from the Road" (2010), further cementing Cohen's legacy as one of the greatest singer-songwriters of his time.

Discography

• Live in London (2009)
• Songs from the Road (2010)

See Also

• Leonard Cohen
• Concert tour
• Live in London
• Songs from the Road