The 22-Year-Old’s Spellbinding “Hallelujah” Cover Leaves The Voice Judges Speechless

Numerous singers have attempted to perform Leonard Cohen’s timeless masterpiece “Hallelujah”, but none quite like what you’re about to experience. Mennel Ibtissem delivered a stunning and delicate rendition of the perennial hit on the highly acclaimed show The Voice France, captivating one of the judges even before she finished her opening line.

At only 22 years old, Mennel infused the song with a soul-stirring blend of gospel and R&B, showcasing her flawless vocal skills that quickly won over the hearts of all four judges. Each judge turned their chair for her before the song even reached its conclusion.

Mennel, a French-Syrian Muslim singer, brought a fresh and unique perspective to the performance by intertwining both English and Arabic lyrics, resulting in a truly multicultural blend of influences.

Prepare yourself to be impressed by what she performed in the video below, which has garnered over 52 million views:

The Arabic verses were drawn from “Ya Ilahi (Oh My Lord)” by Kuwaiti artist Muhammad Al Husayn, which itself was put to the rhythm of “Hallelujah”. The instrumentation also added a new flavour to Mennel’s cover, as it progressed from a solo piano rendition by bringing in an eight-string acoustic folk instrument, which played an exotic lead that weaved in and out with the vocal melody.

Mennel, who has Syrian-Turkish and Moroccan-Algerian heritage, caused quite a stir in the French media when her performance was broadcast. Fans not only commented on her remarkable vocals but also her regal features and the striking blue turban she wore, noting the significance of the representation for French Muslim women in the high profile contest.

Mennel’s incredible version of “Hallelujah” has received positive feedback. Typically, one vYouTube viewer commented, “This is such a powerful song and she sings it with so much conviction. The pain and hurt can be heard in her voice and it is amazing. I’ve listened to this many times and it is just as wonderful as the first.”