New York City, Summer:1967

New York City, Summer: 1967

A Tribute

By Arlene Levin (c) 2019

Thousands gathered in Central Park for free open air concerts.  Were there chairs?  Were there benches?  Did we sit on the grass?  I don't remember.  But this night I remember as a glorious summer evening.  Judy Collins topped the bill with an unknown Leonard Cohen as the opening act. 

In 1967 Judy Collins was reaching the height of her popularity.  For weeks I looked forward to this concert.  Thousands were there for Judy, but who was Leonard Cohen?  The lights dimmed.  A disembodied voice greeted the now hushed crowd and introduced Leonard Cohen.  But who was Leonard Cohen? 

Out of the darkness enters a tall man holding a guitar.  He stood in a single spotlight.  He began to play.  He began to sing.  The crowd began to murmur.  He finished his first song.  He began his second song.  The crowd murmured louder.  By the third and fourth song, frustrated, I couldn't hear him over the rude din of the crowd. 

At that point Judy Collins walked on to the stage.  Everyone applauded.  She stepped up to the microphone.  Everyone was quiet.  I can't remember her exact words but as I recall she said, "This is Leonard Cohen, remember that name.  He is a great singer/songwriter. Your treatment of this artist is shameful.  Be quiet for the rest of his performance and listen.  Believe me, in the future you will remember this moment, this concert, this man.  You will say "yes, I was there when the great Leonard Cohen performed in New York City, in front of thousands for the first time."  While the crowd settled a bit they never gave him the attention he deserved.

Yes, I was there.  I remember.  And now, with great pleasure, I share this moment with you on the eve of the incomparable Leonard Cohen's 80th birthday,  September 20, 2014