The Artistry of Leonard Cohen: A Deep Dive into His Music

As one of the most iconic musicians of all time, Leonard Cohen often garners both praise and criticism for his songwriting and lyrics. As a poet at heart, Cohen has left us with many memorable tracks that reflect an introspective journey into life's great ideas- love, death, faith. In this blog post we'll explore both the positive and negative aspects of his music to get a better understanding of why he is so revered in popular culture. From his thought provoking lyrical content to some musical choices that have been met with mixed reviews, let's dive deeper into Cohen's timeless works.

Leonard Cohen was an artist in every sense of the word. His music was an extension of his poetic soul and his timeless works continue to resonate with audiences today. However, while Cohen’s music is widely renowned, it has also garnered criticism over the years. In this blog post, we will delve into both the positive and negative aspects of his music to understand why he is considered an iconic musician. From his profound lyrical content to some of the musical choices he made, let’s take a closer look into the artistry of Leonard Cohen.



When it comes to Leonard Cohen’s music, it’s hard to ignore his poetic genius. His lyrics are characterized by their philosophical depth and evocative imagery. In songs like “Suzanne,” “Bird on a Wire,” and “Hallelujah,” Cohen explores complex themes like love, faith, and death with a rare sense of introspection. His lyrics are not just beautiful but also profound, and his music has often been compared to poetry. In fact, Cohen is often considered a poet first and a songwriter second.

However, while Cohen’s lyrical content has received widespread acclaim, his music itself hasn't always been well-received. Some have criticized his singing voice, which has been famously described as “monotonous” and “funereal.” His music has also been described as “depressing” by some listeners. Nevertheless, many still find his music moving and inspiring, especially because of the way his lyrics and music interact to create unique and emotional experiences.

Another aspect of Cohen’s music that has divided listeners is his use of non-standard chord progressions. Some find his unusual musical choices innovative and refreshing while others believe that his music is too unconventional for popular consumption. Songs like “Chelsea Hotel #2” and “Hallelujah” feature unconventional chord structures, and yet their popularity endures to this day. Cohen’s music is often appreciated for its multiple layers of complexity and creativity, making it unique and original.

Cohen’s legacy as a musician and artist has only grown since his passing in 2016. His music continues to inspire and resonate with people around the world. It has been covered by countless artists, and his influence can be heard in many contemporary musicians. Even Leonard Cohen himself admitted that his success wasn’t just due to his own talent, “I haven't written all my best songs. The good ones are still coming.



Leonard Cohen’s music is a testament to his talents as a poet and musician. His songs are both thought-provoking and emotional, showcasing a rare depth and introspection. While his use of unconventional musical structures may not appeal to everyone, it is these unique elements that make his music so distinctive and memorable. Cohen’s lasting legacy in the music industry speaks to the power of artistry and creativity. Even after his passing, his influence continues to be felt today, making him an enduring icon in popular culture.