In my view, this is the definitive version - unequalled for passion and intensity.
Of course, a song as strong as this is almost impossible to damage, no matter who sings it, and lord knows, plenty have tried!
It's an X-Factor-type show staple - along with Nessun Dorma - because it's possible to carry the audience along on a wave of emotion created by the sheer power of the song, regardless of how horrible the actual rendition is at the time.
hereIam - I have no problem with the way it was sung, my issue is that it is sung at all, apart from the original, and Jeff Buckley's versions, all others I don't enjoy.
Yes it's thanks to the great poet and song writer Leonard Cohen. I have the 'Best of' CD, I love it. Not everybody's cup of tea but so much respect for the man. I do like Alexandra Burke's version but Geoff sings with such passion, so special. I quite like Rufus Wainwright version too.