Perla Batalla performs tribute to Leonard Cohen at CSUCI

Grammy-nominated Perla Batalla performed a tribute to her late friend Leonard Cohen at the Cal State University Channel Islands.

Batalla put on two free shows entitled ‘Perla Batalla in the House of Cohen’ for students and CSUCI guests in Camarillo.

Students who may only know Cohen for his song Hallelujah had a chance to be inspired by other songs interpreted by Batalla.

The Ojai resident also shared stories about touring the world with Cohen.

When she just lost a job singing back-up for another singer Batalla’s father, who was a mariachi musician, told her she would be available for another opportunity.

The next day Cohen called.

Batalla remembered what they were both wearing when she auditioned.

Cohen was dressed in all black, while she was dressed in all white.

They clicked and had a long-lasting professional relationship.

CSUCI reference librarian Stephen Brogden invited Batalla to play for a third year thanks to a grant meant to inspire future performers.

Perla Batalla will be part of the Ventura Music Festival on Saturday July 21, with a show inspired by Frida Kahlo.

For information visit http://venturamusicfestival.org or http://www.perla.com