Viewers were left in goosebumps after a video of four Russian children singing “Hallelujah” hit the internet. The breathtaking performance quickly went viral and has been viewed more than 20 million times.
It all took place on The Voice Kids Russia, during a round when the contestants were asked to combine talents in front of an audience.
The quartet was made up of young musicians Artem, Julia, Marsel, and Xenia. They were positioned in a row on stage, with Artem holding an acoustic guitar.
As he began strumming, little Xenia joined by singing the first lyrics of “Hallelujah” in Russian. Despite not being able to understand her (unless you speak Russian) – if you’re familiar with the song, you might appreciate the unique beauty of hearing a version in another language.
Xenia has the voice of an angel. Yet, the performance goes to a whole different level the moment Julia joins in singing, followed by Artem and Marsel. They’re like a small choir sent straight from up above.
One word that does remain the same, however, is “Hallelujah.”
Canadian musician, Leonard Cohen, wrote “Hallelujah” in 1984. He revealed to Bob Dylan the song took him two years to create.
As for its meaning, Cohen provided explanations (although slightly vague in comparison to the song’s imagery). The Atlantic reported that he once said,
“This world is full of conflicts and full of things that cannot be reconciled. But there are moments when we can … reconcile and embrace the whole mess, and that’s what I mean by ‘Hallelujah.'”
According to The Telegraph, he also stated:
“It explains that many kinds of hallelujahs do exist, and all the perfect and broken hallelujahs have equal value.”
“Hallelujah” has been covered by numerous famous artists – including Bob Dylan, Jeff Buckley, U2, and Susan Boyle. Interestingly enough, the song gained new popularity after being featured in the 2001 movie, Shrek.
There have been many unforgettable renditions of Cohen’s classic over the years. The clip below is one of them.
A short time into the performance, Marsel takes over as the main voice on stage. At one point he hits a note that’s so powerful a judge can’t help but clap his hands.
The youngsters take turns delivering the lyrics. While Artem and Julia are singing, a female judge is so moved that she discovers her arms are literally covered in goosebumps.
Each of the kids is talented, that’s for sure. But listening to their voices combined is an emotional experience. No wonder they were able to mesmerize The Voice Kids crowd (and the world) in the most beautiful way.
“Hallelujah” itself has the ability to touch a person’s spirit. According to The Telegraph, Cohen once said he thought it was so popular because: “It’s got a good chorus.” The added detail of having children singing brings it to new heights.
After the video was posted on YouTube by Beautiful Voice TV, viewers couldn’t hold back their amazement. One person shared:
“I don’t even speak Russian, but this blessed sound makes my soul fly. I will listen to it again and again :)”
Another commenter said:
“Beautiful – simply beautiful! Great harmonies and lyrics. Gifted from above with Love.”
It’s a spine-tingling performance that’s had an effect on viewers across the globe. Enjoy it for yourself in the video below!
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