In a touching tribute, Toni Cornell, 12-year old daughter of Chris Cornell, joined One Republic on Good Morning America to sing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” in honor of her father and Chester Bennington.
One Republic’s Ryan Tedder sang the first verse and Toni joined him on the chorus. They alternated verses and sang in unison at the end of the song. As pictures of both Cornell and Bennington flashed behind the band, the audience sang along as their tears flowed.
Toni Cornell & One Republic Sing “Hallelujah”
“It’s an honor to perform this for my dad and Chester and to sing for them,” Toni Cornell shared in a statement. On Father’s Day, Toni posted a letter to her father on his Facebook account, “Our special connection was always the arts. Poems, books, music, writing. We both have a unconditional love for it.”
A few years ago, Toni joined her father on stage for a cover of Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song.” The beautiful connection she has with her father is evident when you watch them sing together.
Chris Cornell & Toni Cornell Sing “Redemption Song”
Both Chris Cornell and Chester Bennington died by suicide earlier this year. At Cornell’s memorial service, Bennington and Brad Delson performed “Hallelujah” as he was being laid to rest in May. Bennington shared the following that same day, “My name is Chester. I had the great privilege of being a friend of Chris and invited to be a member of his family.” A few months later, Bennington tragically took his own life on Chris Cornell’s birthday.
Linkin Park was originally scheduled to perform on Good Morning America’s Summer Concert Series, but One Republic played in their place. When deciding what song to honor Cornell and Bennington with, there was no other choice than “Hallelujah.” Ryan Tedder told US Weekly, “Chester sang this at Chris’ funeral and, this is arguably one of the greatest songs written in the last 50 years, I think by most people’s accords. It’s a very special song to us, and I think most people and Toni, as well.”
Tedder’s right. “Hallelujah” is a beautiful song and a beautiful tribute to both musicians.
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