10-year old autistic girl wows Internet with Christmas version of Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’

A 10-year-old’s rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” has gone viral.

Kaylee Rodgers, a student who has autism and ADHD, gave a remarkable solo performance of the famous song during her school choir concert at Killard House School in Donaghadee, Northern Ireland.

A video of Kaylee singing has been shared around the world, not only because Rodgers has an incredible voice, but because she’s overcome some incredible challenges to share that voice with the world.

According to her principal, Colin Millar, Rodgers has autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but singing has helped her build up her confidence.

“For a child who came in P4 (7 to 8 years old) and wouldn’t really talk, wouldn’t really read out in class, to stand and perform in front of an audience is amazing. It takes a lot of effort on Kaylee’s part,” Millar said.

The video was posted to Facebook and YouTube, where it received numerous comments, many of which expressed amazement.

“The fantastic thing about this video is that it’s not just good because she’s 10. And it’s not just good because she’s dealing with autism and ADHD,” one YouTube commenter wrote. “It’s good because it’s good ― really good.”

 

“Hallelujah”, written by Leonard Cohen over the course of five years, was recorded by dozens of artists including Celine Dion, Justin Timberlake, Willie Nelson, and Susan Boyle. But, Cohen passed away in November, just weeks before Kaylee Rodgers’ rendition of his most famous song was released. Somehow, we’re sure that Cohen would approve of this stunning remake.