Woody Bradshaw’s Powerful New Rendition Of “Hallelujah”

Acclaimed recording artist and actor Woody Bradshaw shares a powerful, emotionally charged new version of Leonard Cohen’s legendary “Hallelujah.” Known for his heartfelt performances and nuanced storytelling, Bradshaw brings new life to this timeless, spiritually rich piece, delivering an interpretation that feels both intimately personal and strikingly cinematic.

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The song came into Bradshaw’s life unexpectedly, through Tiffany Beardon, a devoted supporter who requested the cover for a close friend battling cancer. What began as a personal favor soon took on a life of its own. “Though the song is magnificent,” Bradshaw says, “I was a little reticent because so many artists have covered it—and not all of them understood what the song is really about.”

Determined to do the piece justice, Bradshaw approached it with the care of a seasoned performer. “I wrote down all the lyrics and broke each verse and chorus down like an actor breaks down a script,” he explains. “There’s so much metaphor and biblical reference—I found the intent of each profound line so the message was as clear as if written by a third grader.”

Bradshaw then teamed up with acclaimed producer Stephan Oberhoff (Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, David Foster, Diane Warwick) to bring the vision to life. Known for their collaborative, spiritually grounded creative process, the pair began as they always do—by praying for inspiration.

“We always pray before every project—that God leads the show. And without fail, the inspiration showed up immediately.” The result is a track that feels both expansive and deeply personal.

Layered with a foundation of rich baritone guitar, the production gradually unfolds to include sweeping cello and distant tribal drums, creating an immersive soundscape that supports—but never overshadows—Bradshaw’s soulful vocal. “What started out as something I was doing for her,” he reflects, “became something for everyone—and for me.”

In Bradshaw’s hands, “Hallelujah” becomes more than just a cover. It’s a moment of clarity, an act of reverence, and a deeply felt offering—one that reaches far beyond the studio and into the hearts of listeners.

Tour Dates
June 15th, 2025 – The Dock, Pensacola Beach
September 30 – October 12, 2025 – Pensacola Songwriters Fest (time and location TBD)

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References

Dead Horse Branding. (2025). A Heartfelt Tribute Born From a Personal Request: An Ambient “Hallelujah” Strips the Classic to Its Core. Retrieved from [Email communication].