Leonard Cohen Changes Tour Dates: 'Hallelujah' Singer-Songwriter Reschedules London Concert Due to Religious Reasons

Legendary Canadian singer-songwriter, Leonard Cohen, has asked AEG to reschedule two of his tour dates after realizing that the Leeds and London gigs fell on Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year). The 78-year-old Jewish vocalist has shown remorse for the cancellation of his concerts, but feels that observing the high holy days of Judaism is a must. This request to change the O2 venue shows in London and Leeds has forced AEG as well as venue owners to issue an apology to ticketholders.

AEG's statement in regards to the changed dates read:

"When Leonard Cohen learned today that two of his UK concerts were scheduled on days of solemn religious observance, he respectfully asked AEG to move the dates. We at AEG, and Leonard, apologize deeply for the inconvenience this will cause, and we hope and trust that the reasons for the changes will be understood."

Leonard Cohen, known for writing the tunes "Hallelujah" and "Chelsea Hotel No. 2," is preparing to play a series of arena shows in the United Kingdom in August and September. The changed dates might have caused a bit of a problem for certain ticketholders, but AEG will honor the original tickets for the new dates. Also, refunds are available for those willing to return their tickets to the place of purchase by July 12, 2013.

Leonard Cohen will now be performing at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on September 7 and the 02 Arena in London on the 15^th of September.