Fans hold sing-along vigil for Leonard Cohen outside his Montreal home

Hundreds of Leonard Cohen fans held a musical vigil this evening outside the legendary singer-songwriter's home in Montreal's Plateau–Mont-Royal borough.

The steps of the three-storey duplex de Vallières Street, which Cohen bought in the 1970s, have been covered with wreaths, candles and messages since news of his death emerged Thursday night.

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The crowd stood for hours at Parc du Portugal, across the street from Cohen's home, and joined in renditions of some of the poet and songwriter's classics, including Hallelujah. It was an emotional tribute, and many said it was a powerful way of paying their respects.

Kathy Kennedy, who organized the vigil, said she believes it's important to sing while grieving.

"I think it is the perfect offering, the perfect tribute to Leonard Cohen to put his songs into the air and his amazing lyrics to be heard everywhere," she said. 

Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre announced that the city would organize a concert to pay tribute to Cohen in the coming weeks.

The world-renowned artist passed away just weeks after releasing his latest and final album, You Want It Darker on Oct. 28.

Mourners are also invited to sign a book of condolence at Montreal's Grande Bibliothèque Saturday and Sunday.

The book is available in the library's main hall from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. both days. The condolence book is available online as well.

Grieving around the world

The poet's death has sparked an outpouring of condolences and messages of grief from fans, artists, celebrities and politicians across the globe.

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Impromptu shrines to the singer — best known for songs such as Suzanne and Famous Blue Rain Coat — have also appeared outside his home in Greece and New York's Chelsea Hotel, which is featured in another of Cohen's most famous songs.