This weekend marks the celebration of Leonard Cohen’s 90th birthday, and fans are honoring the legendary singer-songwriter-poet in various ways. One standout tribute comes from Perla Batalla, who worked closely with Cohen during his iconic “I’m Your Man” and “The Future” periods in the 1980s and ’90s. Perla Batalla is releasing “A Letter to Leonard Cohen: Tribute to a Friend” in digital formats, with vinyl and CD editions to follow soon.
Batalla’s connection to Cohen runs deep, as she was part of the duo that accompanied him during some of his most fruitful musical periods. Female vocals played a crucial role in Cohen’s music throughout his career, adding a heavenly Greek chorus element to his songs. Alongside Julie Christensen, Batalla provided backing vocals that brought Cohen’s music to life in a unique and powerful way.
In a recent interview with Variety, Batalla discussed her upcoming tribute album and her collaboration with Patrick Page, who shares a striking vocal resemblance to Cohen. Page joins Batalla on a reimagined version of Cohen’s 1991 song “Democracy,” highlighting the enduring relevance and impact of Cohen’s music.
Reflecting on her time singing with Cohen, Batalla shared personal anecdotes about their collaboration and the importance of background vocals in Cohen’s work. She emphasized the artistry and complexity of providing vocal support in a way that enhances the overall musical experience.
As Batalla prepares for a tribute concert in New York City, fans can look forward to a special event in Los Angeles in April, hinting at more heartfelt tributes to come. Through her music and ongoing dedication to honoring Cohen’s legacy, Perla Batalla continues to share the beauty and depth of his timeless songs with audiences around the world.