Leonard Cohen Live at the Isle of Wight 1970

Album Description

Leonard Cohen's Live at the Isle of Wight 1970 is a captivating live album that showcases the singer-songwriter's mesmerising performance at the iconic Isle of Wight music festival in 1970. This album, released in October 2009, marks Cohen's nineteenth album and features his entire set from the festival, including classic songs from his first two LPs, such as "So Long, Marianne", "The Stranger Song", and "Suzanne".

The album is a testament to Cohen's ability to deliver a powerful and emotive performance, even in the most challenging of circumstances. Awakened at 2 am from a nap in his trailer, Cohen took to the stage with his band and delivered a set that has become legendary in the history of the festival. The performance, which took place on 31 August 1970, was part of a star-studded lineup that included Jimi Hendrix and The Doors, and cemented Cohen's reputation as a talented and charismatic live performer.

The album features 19 tracks, including live versions of some of Cohen's most beloved songs, as well as introductions and poems that add to the intimacy and spontaneity of the performance. With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, Live at the Isle of Wight 1970 is a must-listen for fans of Leonard Cohen and anyone interested in experiencing the magic of a bygone era in music. Released on the Columbia/Legacy label, this album is a treasure trove of singer-songwriter gems that continue to inspire and delight audiences to this day.

October 20, 2009

About Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen, the legendary Canadian singer-songwriter, poet, and novelist, left an indelible mark on music and literature with his profound exploration of themes such as faith, mortality, love, and social conflict. Known for his deep, resonant voice and poetic lyrics, Cohen's work often delved into the complexities of human emotion, offering a raw and honest perspective on life's challenges. His musical journey began with self-taught acoustic guitar, later evolving to include classical and flamenco influences, adding richness to his distinctive sound. Cohen's accolades are numerous, including inductions into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was also honored with the highest civilian honor in Canada, the Companion of the Order of Canada. Beyond his musical achievements, Cohen's literary contributions earned him the Prince of Asturias Award for literature and the Glenn Gould Prize. His legacy continues to inspire, with his songs and poetry resonating deeply with fans worldwide.