Behind The Song: On Hearing a Name Long Unspoken by Michael Munnik

Michael Munnik’s Collaboration with Leonard Cohen

In an alternate timeline, Michael Munnik might never have become a journalist or university lecturer. Instead, a single song—his musical setting of Leonard Cohen’s On Hearing a Name Long Unspoken—could have changed everything.

Munnik’s connection to Cohen began in childhood and deepened in his teens. He received a poetry collection as a gift, he chose Cohen’s Stranger Music—a pivotal purchase. Years later, while studying journalism at Carleton University in Ottawa, he discovered Flowers for Hitler. As he read the poem, a melody struck. He scribbled chords in the margins, recorded a demo with a flatmate, and set it aside.

In 2004, he reached out to Cohen’s team seeking permission to use the lyrics. Surprisingly, Cohen’s then-manager Kelley Lynch approved it, and Michael secured a formal contract through Cohen’s lawyer. The deal allowed him to use the poem while Cohen retained publishing rights—a personal and professional milestone.

While recording his 2009 solo album I Am with the Hunters, Michael revived the song. With rich instrumentation—acoustic guitar, organ, and layered rhythms—it took on a driving indie-folk feel, described as Cohen’s words with an R.E.M.-influenced sound.

Despite a strong launch and local media coverage, the 2008 financial crisis led to cuts at the CBC, where Michael worked. With a young family to support, he put music on hold. The Cohen collaboration, while deeply meaningful, became a quiet casualty of circumstance.

Still, the song and the contract remain treasured accomplishments. On 10th May, Michael Munnik appeared on Newport City Radio’s Pure Local Extra Show with Kym Frederick, discussing his music, hopes, and dreams. It’s a new chapter for a songwriter whose story remains unfinished—and whose voice continues to find space in unexpected places.

You can listen to Michael chatting with Kym & Frankie Wesson here: https://player.autopod.xyz/895585