Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” has been released as an official cover by some 200 artists in various languages… And, now Jencarlos Canela is lending his voice to the song, with an assist from a living legend.
The 23-year-old Cuban-American singer/actor has released a Spanish version of “Hallelujah” with the one-and-only José Feliciano, along with a video of the two performing the song in Miami.
“For me, it’s an honor that the master José Feliciano has me given the opportunity to record a duet with him,” says Canela, who is best known for playing the lead in the telenovelas Más Sabe el Diablo and Mi Corazón Insiste. “It;s a dream come true. Everyone has listened to the music of this talented man who is considered a musical legend. I hope the public will enjoy it as much as we have.”
Entitled “Aleluya,” the acoustic version of the hymn captures the heartfelt message about celebrating life. The video is quite moving, showcasing Canela and the 66-year-old Puerto Rican legend strumming their guitars.
The single will be the official anthem for the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and the group’s efforts to help child refugees in Haiti. Canela is an official spokesperson for the organization and had lent his voice to the cause.