British guitarist analyses Gordon Lightfoot's personal journey through music

Tonight I'm taking a look at the interesting playing, singing and story of Gordon Lightfoot!
Original video - • Gordon Lightfoot - "If...
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[@5346565]

In Canada we refer to him as "The Bard", the Shakespeare of our music. His catalogue is so immense and there are really no clunkers in the lot. His music has been a balm for my soul for decades. I have been a rocker all my life, but Gordon hits a chord in the soul that needs to be nourished from time to time. Popping his collection into the system makes a long drive less tedious and a quiet afternoon reflective and reaffirming. A great Canadian artist we are proud to share with music lovers around the world. Thanks Fil.

[@PantheraOnca60]

The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock and Rock refers to Gordo as "THE Canadian musical institution."

[@laurierubin9348]

Thank you for sharing him with all of us here in the US. I have loved his music since I first discovered him in the mid 70's. What a gem he is!

[@dubiousdistinction6500]

"we" refer to him as the bard? sorry no we dont

[@yiddleyady]

Always loved his music but it went into real music appreciation status when I recently watched his documentary.

[@pageribe2399]

Same for me. I went through a long unhappy period when I was young. I felt that Gordon's music gave me a beautiful and serene place to dwell. I started listening over 50 years ago, and I still get goosebumps!

[@phillipward8776]

Bob Dylan said "The only bad thing about Gordon Lightfoot's singing, is when he gets finished". Gordon is great!

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@alanna8983]

And Dylan is absolutely correct!

[@lightfootfan]

@@wingsofpegasus "Lightfoot became a mentor for a long time. I think he probably still is to this day." - Bob Dylan “I can't think of any Gordon Lightfoot song I don't like. Everytime I hear a song of his, it's like I wish it would last forever. " - Bob Dylan www.lightfoot.ca

[@danvalencia4755]

The only bad thing about Dylan's singing is when he starts.

[@jjj1951]

@@danvalencia4755 Don't comment. It shows your ignorance

[@bccabernet]

Just re-watched this video. Gordon was performing almost up to the end of his life. His last tour (2023) was cancelled in April and he sadly passed away on May 1, 2023. He died of natural causes at the age of 84. His music has touched many people around the world... but is so very special to us Canadians.

[@MonteViste]

...to we Canadians. But yes, a wonderful ambassador for Canada.

[@atimtambaby]

God bless him (on many levels), he died with dates on his calendar when he passed away.. Thanks for the informative content you provided, sir/madam. (can I move to Cananda if the worst occurs in the USA in November?)

[@JeffLynnesELO2024Tour]

My heart is broken...RIP Gordon Lightfoot who left us today (May 1st 2023) for a better world at the age of 84, such a Canadian Icon and fantastic singer-songwriter who inspired the likes of Bob Dylan, Jim Croce and so many others. Thank you Fil for sharing great music to the world and congrats on 300K!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@GTsuji]

Lightfoot is a Canadian icon. He’s a treasure.

[@Invisibleindreamsonly]

Personally I like Elvis Presley’s version of in the early morning rain much better than Gordon’s if you never heard make sure you listen to it!

[@DonnSeib]

Best thing ever to come out of Canada. Orillia, Ontario, Canada Yo be exactly. A phenomenal wordsmith.

[@jillybean3688]

@@DonnSeib A musical and lyrical genius.

[@babygore0599]

@@Invisibleindreamsonly Elvis didn't write his own songs. He co-wrote a few. I was never an Elvis fan.

[@negocios0rsk]

@@Invisibleindreamsonly Hello two years ago! Growing up U.S. I first heard 'Early Morning Rain' on Bob Dylan's Self Portrait album. When I later heard Gordon Lightfoot sing it I thought... Hey, he does it pretty good too. Then learning that he wrote it! I like that song whoever sings it... Elvis too!

[@zigman8550]

"The wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" is a masterpiece of song writing.

[@stephencameron8118]

I agree! I can't decide between "Song for a Winter's Night", "Wreck..", "Carefree Highway" and surprisingly "Don Quixote" This line has sent chills down my spine for decades now: "Does anyone know where the love of God goes, When the waves turn the minutes to hours" To me it so captures the tragedy of those sailors and the terror of their situation. I don't know that I ever would have began to guess what those souls went through if it weren't for this song.

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

I went back to watch this review the day that Fil analysed Wreck. Gordon dedicated all proceeds for that song to the families of the sailors. Gordon is a great human being,

[@LTVoyager]

As is the Railroad Trilogy, Summer Side of Life and nearly every other song Gordon wrote. 😁

[@rhomacity]

don't forget Red Shea. Lightfoot is a master guitarist, and he had a genius backup guitarist for all those years.

[@deathmetalchili6902]

Absolutely! Red Shae was a MONSTER guitar player!!!! He went on to play for The Tommy Hunter Show. He is definitely, a criminally underrated, and unappreciated guitar god.

[@jelau4851]

@@deathmetalchili6902 Agreed, Red,s guitar playing did so much to embellish Gordon,s songs, specially in this song.

[@barrywiseman7012]

@@deathmetalchili6902 A great guitarist-that he was. And a very pleasant guy to run into around town, in Aurora Ontario, where he lived. His corny jokes that he took great pleasure in telling. Glad he is mentioned here.

[@martinmcdonald4207]

And it all falls on the ear just perfectly.

[@monicacall7532]

I was 13 when I heard “If You Could Read My Mind” the first time it was played on our local radio station. It stopped me in my tracks, and I was transfixed by the beautiful voice singing such poignant words. Tears were falling down my cheeks. I’d never had music touch me to the point of tears. Right then and there I became a diehard fan. I saw him in concert when I was in high school. It was and still remains one of the greatest musical experiences of my life. When he was in his vocal prime he had the most beautiful voice of any male vocalist living or dead. Gordon Lightfoot is a one of a kind singer/songwriter. There will be no one else like him. We are so fortunate to have his music to inspire us!

[@Thekarlskorner]

What a wonderful memory to share. I had the good fortune to meet him and the band after a concert in Merrillville, Indiana after a concert. I made him a miniature guitar copy of his famous Gibson twelve string. Such nice people they all were.

[@martinexxxxxxx]

Nice memory... I feel that way every time I hear that song. And I've been listening to it a lot since Monday...

[@hfjjor3681]

I had same stopped-me-in-my-tracks reaction when I first heard Lightfoot, except the song was “Sundown”.

[@OuterGalaxyLounge]

One of the greatest songwriters of all time. His album "Sundown" is utter perfection.

[@dwaynewladyka577]

Canada has such great musical talent. Gordon Lightfoot is awesome.

[@davidburne9477]

Right-on, brother. Still have my vinyl copy.

[@chrisvaughn6381]

Sundown you lookout coming around my back Door

[@hx823]

Ranks right up there with John Denver as a singer/songwriter

[@pandorafox3944]

Chills at the very mention of that song...

[@nickjoseph5224]

One of the best songs ever written. Fantastic lyrics.

[@poppyhali3648]

..."but stories always end" RIP Mr. Lightfoot. My heart is broken

[@gregc2467]

Mine too , but he made us better people, just by being fans of a fantastic man and musician 🤩

[@mariannemaloneywitherspoon6335]

To all Canadians and lovers of Gordon, just heard he passed away. He will be missed. What a beautiful singer, storyteller, guitar player and human being. God bless all, Marianne ❤ 6:44

[@bumblerock4048]

Canada is very proud of Gordon Lightfoot.

[@dwaynewladyka577]

We are!

[@KStewart-th4sk]

@brad zybola Junior Trudeau should be ashamed of himself in light of what he did to Jody Wilson-Raybould over the SNC-LAVALIN scandal going on right now. Justin has been more treasonous to Canada than either his father or Mulroney. Justin made a terrorist in to a multi-millionaire and welcomes them back from the Middle East. I never bring up politics on FIL'S site but if somebody else does--I have no problem in responding.

[@mickeyscott7479]

Robert Webb I'm a big fan of Bruce Cockburn too.

[@goodun6081]

@brad zybola , Steven Harper was no prize either. (My wife and I are American born, but her mother, and my maternal grandfather, were born in Canada).

[@goodun6081]

@@mickeyscott7479 , yeah, me too. "Bruuuccce"!

[@janmitchell641]

Regarding Gordon’s vibrato: he was a very well trained musician, from being a soprano soloist in a boys choir in Toronto. Thank you for this excellent homage. Rest In Peace Gordon Lightfoot.

[@jezebeljones659]

I believe his boy-soprano days were in Orillia, the town of his birth.

[@O.S.R.C.]

How timely this came up in my feed today. As you've most certainly heard, Mr. Lightfoot passed away yesterday (May 1st). His songs filling the airwaves today as the stories of our lives should. Thank you Phil for covering A Canadian Legend.

[@Humama23Boyz]

I’m viewing this video the day after Mr. Lightfoot’s passing. Fil has made a great analysis of Gordon’s “If You Could Read My Mind”, one if GL’s signature songs. Light foot was the complete package and his music will live on. RIP Gordon Lightfoot. Thank you for sharing your gifts with all of us.❤🎸

[@Carpetlay1]

Gordon paid a $100,000 tax bill for a friend that was in trouble with the tax man. Now. How many of us would do that? He must be a special kind of person

[@hertzair1186]

Carpetlay1 : Gordon always produces good karma...

[@marjoryrainey5761]

Sounds like it to me!

[@TheMimetolithman]

FRIENDS are THERE FOR A friend A True friend Loves You'

[@eyeonit469]

Proceeds from Edmund Fitzgerald went to the widows and he has stayed in touch with them.

[@deanr.johansen6377]

90,000 Canadian dollars to be accurate. Gordon said it himself.

[@candaceterry8371]

RIP The world was made better for having you in it

[@musicprincess35]

Love Gordon Lightfoot's music. He tells a story when he sings. He paints with words. There's a reason why he's called The Canadian Troubadour. So many great songs, it's hard to choose.

[@joedude9954]

@Gordon Lightfoot your music is like meditation.

[@katedeneiffe-cerny2351]

I have a record that I bought after I finished hitchhiking in Australia in 1974. Was so moved by the lyrics, guitar, phrasing. His wonderful understated voice. Mind boggling! I am now 77 and still have that album. God rest him. Kate ❤

[@themisterchristie]

His voice is perfect for songs that tell stories, haunting and emotional. He is actually from Orillia Ontario, but moved to Toronto.

[@lisahowell7648]

Yes, I wanted to comment on that too. He is very proud of his Orillia roots.

[@robertsitch1415]

@@lisahowell7648 unfortunately he suffered an aneurysm just before doing one of his concerts in Orillia and was in a coma for a while and has had a few other problems with his health since, but is still touring at nearly 84 years old.

[@taragreenetarotastro]

@@robertsitch1415 RIP Gordon passed away May 1,2023

[@robertsitch1415]

@@taragreenetarotastro it's unfortunate that he died, but he did get to spend over 60 years in the music business.

[@yaelrar.4460]

What a songwriter! So intense! When a writer can make you see, feel and visualize his lyrics, you know you've encountered a master!

[@bradalsobrook901]

I agree Yaelra R. What a gift...

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@jamesgordonakacrazylegs8222]

First time responding but you are definitely the best. Smart inquisitive understanding and the love of music shows. PS have you done Jim Croce or Cat Stevens yet

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

A true poet. That word is bandied about mercilessly these days so as to mean something degraded, effete, or ludicrous if not nothing at all, but it can at times actually mean something. With Gordon, it did.

[@tracyzimmerman7912]

He's awesome

[@rjp3427]

My favourite singer of all time! Anyone else?

[@patricialehrke667]

RJ P Absolutely.

[@mattstarkey2152]

Yes, absolutely!

[@joanneshot4417]

Gordon and Elvis share #1 for me.

[@buckjohnson1119]

Mine also, Composer/ Troubadour. I cherish all his music on so many albums; that is so incredibly, beautiful. Peter, Paul, and Mary, and Glenn Campbell had beautiful renditions of some of his music. Beautiful, Talking in your sleep, Your loves return, Canadian Rail Road Trilogy, Winters night , by Gordon, worth checking out on you tube, friends. Early morning rain, sung by Peter Paul and Mary, last time I Saw her face, both by Gordon and Glenn Campbell’s Outstanding, rendition. I have my framed picture shaking Gordon’s hand,and autographed concert ticket. I Don’t know if there will ever be another like Gordon. Another great, is his song to Ontario, titled Cabaret. Great change up, on that song. I could go on forever on him. I have loved that man a long time. I would have made the perfect mate for him, as just as he needed to be on the road, I require Solitude, also, to be my best. 👍😃. I can’t remember if I commented on this analysis before, but Thank you Fil. 👌Maybe you could do him singing his song ‘beautiful,’ some time, from the 70’s, also.

[@mattstarkey2152]

Shirley Strand I found myself saying “Yes! Yes! Yes!” in agreement to everything up until the “perfect mate” part! Hahahaha. My wife and I have been going to his concerts since we were 18 (44 years ago). You are right there will never be another like him. My all time favorite by far, there’s not even a close 2nd.

[@laurachandler]

Sad to hear of his passing what a great talent.

[@sgholt]

Goodbye and Godspeed to Gordon Lightfoot...I grew listening up to his music, always great stories in his songs. He will be missed, Thanks Fil

[@malkeh53]

Canadians my age probably know the lyrics to all Lightfoot's songs. He is 81 now. I first saw him and Ian and Sylvia in 1966 at my school up in the Northwest Territories. Love ever since.

[@The_Story_Channel]

I am a bit younger, I as born in 1966 but I have most of his music and sing just about all of it.

[@ruralrebeltory7474]

Do not forget us younger Canadians! The man is a national treasure. I just turned 24, and there is not a time where I do not remember hearing and knowing Lightfoot’s music. Some of my favourite memories are hearing my father and grandpa play and sing his music. I still play with my dad, my grandpa has developed Parkinson’s and can no longer play his guitar. But still enjoys singing with us. ~Rachel Ann

[@tuscanlab]

Rural Rebel Tory lovely image❣️❣️☺️

[@thomaswschaller]

you saw Gordon AND Ian and Sylvia ?? Gosh.. That must have been fantastic! Saw him once and he is a treasure. Saw Dylan a few times and I feel very fortunate - But wish I could have years ago

[@robbiefrentz9427]

MKMUSIC BDMusic im 52 I listed to him at least two times a week. My youngest child 9. She sings along with me...

[@robsorenson68]

When people like Gordon Lightfoot leave us, the world gets just a bit darker. Brilliant songwriter. ❤

[@maddy7]

Listening to your critque of Gordon on the day he passed away, May 1, 2023. Another great artist passes. His music will live on forever. RIP Gordon Lightfoot

[@dcutl]

You don't just review music like others on KZbin, you educate listeners on all aspects of an artist and even give a lot of good background information.

[@ExUSSailor]

This song never fails to make me misty eyed.

[@UltimateBargains]

@Andrew Ongais It's about him losing his love for his wife and getting divorced.

[@GS-xt8fu]

I remember Glenn Campbell saying that Gordon was an exceptional songwriter.

[@shanemccormick6072]

He would know

[@johndef5075]

And Glenn was a monster guitar picker.

[@buckjohnson1119]

Hellowow 39 Glenn sang, a beautiful version of Gordons, ' The last Time, I saw her face,' Sounded like Jimmy Webb maybe did Glenn's arrangement. I was very blessed to meet Gordon and get to shake the hand, that penned many Masters of art. 'Your Loves return,' remains one of my all time favorites. So many of them. 'Caberet,' 'Is there anyone home,?, so many, that my list would go forever.

[@elesrangels4964]

Did Glen write music? He sure played guitar better than most and sang well. Glen would know...regardless. Glen Campbell was a guilty pleasure back in the day. I enjoyed his work a lot. Wichita Lineman was a beautiful piece that went straight to my head, picturing the couple and Glen out on the road.

[@buckjohnson1119]

eles r angels I do not recall any of his vocals, with he as the composer. Perhaps he wrote music for other’s vocals/ lyrics. Not sure, but he sure could make a song a Winner, with his voice and delivery.

[@reubination]

I was born in 1970. I have a sister that is 13 years older. Gordon Lightfoot’s music is burned into my mind from hearing it through my sister as a child.

[@ronnie5129]

A FRIEND OF MINE I KNEW GROWING UP WAS ON THE EDMOND FITZGERALD THAT DAY, HE GOT OFF AT THE LAST PORT, HE SAID SOMETHING DID NOT FEEL RIGHT, HE IS STILL HERE, R.I.P. TO ALL THE ONES WHO WENT DOWN WITH THE SHIP, COUSIN FIGEL

[@crazytadventures9052]

Living in Canada Gordon lightfoot's haunting voice filled the air waves throughout my childhood and one of the last reasons I'm still proud to be a Canadian.

[@randyandrews5389]

CrazyT Adventures - well said my northern neighbor.

[@lindabergman3127]

He's fantastic 😍😍😍

[@yassis2446]

CrazyT Adventures Love Gordon an love my country, so sad you don't. Maybe you should follow a song by another great Canadian Stompin Tom. Lol. Let me know if you need a hint.

[@susieq9801]

@Chris A. Medina - This is about music, not politics. Please comment on your political views where appropriate.

[@susieq9801]

@Chris A. Medina - I'm an old coot too, a septuagenarian.

[@NoLegalPlunder]

His lyrics are some of the best. His album, Don Quixote, is one of those albums you can put on repeat and listen to over and over again. It’s a magical album.

[@theproclaimer588]

I'm a Canadian living in Toronto. As a preteen I started getting into Lightfoot in the mid-seventies. I attended EVERY annual November Massey Hall concert from 1977-1996. I still listen to his music all the time! A great Canadian poet, singer/songwriter, and performer> Thanks.

[@taragreenetarotastro]

HI Fil, Gordon Lightfoot Canadian Singer songwriter legend has passed away May 1st in Toronto. I grew up seeing his name on Yorkville cafe's along with legends Neil Young and Joni Mitchell. He is treated as a Candian poet laureate and was a very modest man. There is a great video on KZbin of Joni Singing Coyote for the first time at Gordon Lightfoot's House with Bob Dylan there too. May he RIP. He leaves his wife childrean and grandchildren behind. He will be missed but his music will live on.

[@coldlakealta4043]

May 1 2023: we have lost the voice of our nation. We in Canada have never figured out if he is a poet who writes music, or a musician who writes poetry.

[@scottsteeves]

Gordon Lightfoot is an amazing talent and I am enjoying your "story tellers" videos.

[@juliusseizure2673]

He still is.

[@alancoull7969]

A living Canadian legend... timeless.

[@gregormiller4037]

@@alancoull7969..just like Bubbles:)

[@jefffeinstein1]

@@alancoull7969 I almost forgot that he is Canadian. ugh! Gordon, members of The Band, what a world of fine people!!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

☺

[@ArcaneWeasel]

I love how he connects his lyrics during part this song like: Idon’twherewewentwrong instead of: but the feelings gone and I just can’t get it back. Phenomenal artist and song writer. Within the top 5 of our lifetime. Brilliant, beautiful and masterful.

[@metablue4454]

For many in Canada, Gordon Lightfoot is a national treasure. Rightly so!!! And some of the rest of us feel that way too. I believe he is a generational talent.

[@kathleenstewart409]

Have always loved Gordon Lightfoot. My parents always had music playing, The Seekers, John Denver, Linda Ronstadt (sp), Jim Stafford, The Assocation, country, folk music and etc. But Gordon moved me as a kid and as an adult he still does. Thanks for posting.

[@StephenMarkTurner]

Lake Huron rolls, Superior sings In the rooms of her ice-water mansion Old Michigan steams like a young man's dreams The islands and bays are for sportsmen And farther below, Lake Ontario Takes in what Lake Erie can send her And the iron boats go as the mariners all know With the gales of November remembered

[@blueblazer201]

A bit late to the conversation here, I am. I've personally known Gordon for over 50 years and growing up in Detroit during the 1960's, I was quite familiar with his early works. Red Shea, what a great guitarist and human being. You'd ask Red a question and the next thing you know, you're being 'interviewed', with a smile on his face and twinkle in his eyes. In any case when Red wanted off the touring road, my brother Terry became Gordon's lead guitarist for 40 years before his passing in 2011. What an experience.

[@MrsRobinson0741]

Watching all these Gordon videos after hearing of his passing today 🥹🥹💔💔 this is one of my fave Gordon songs! Edmund Fitzgerald being the second!!! May he rest in paradise with his fellow legends & keep on playing!!! 💔💔🥹🥹

[@Secretarian]

His storytelling and guitar playing are superb. He always had a sweet melancholy about his lyrics and melodies.

[@4catsnow]

This guy was out there for years, and one of the few people that could display a talent that eclipsed the realm of "folk singer" ,,, and entered the sphere of "Minstrel"....

[@fnord6719]

Rest in Peace Gord. Gord's Gold has a permanent place in my car.

[@brian13105]

I met Gordon Lightfoot in the early sixties when he was playing upstairs at Steele's Tavern on Yonge St. (between Sam the Record Man and A & A Records) . My Mother was working there and introduced me to him. I was only about 12 or 13 and he was just there that afternoon practicing. I did have a photo of he and my mother signed by him but I've since lost it. I just remember him as a nice young man. Shortly after that I remember we got a 45 of That's What You Get For Lovin' Me. My Mom always had great affection for him.

[@miamidolphinsfan]

great story !!!

[@toddtrojek6521]

Can’t get anymore Canadian than that, Gordon Lightfoot, Sams and Yonge Street.

[@josieemery8093]

Here in Australia watching this after Gordon's passing. Your story of how his song got pulled and he changed labels and WB then made a hit of the song the previous label had ignored reminded me of how often it is that a seemingly bad event can throw your life into a crisis which then turns out to be for the better. If you can just ride through the bad times and make the change that's being forced on you. Make it wholeheartedly, then things can blossom. Anyhow enough of that. His songs were important for me. He was yet another Canadian who changed American music! "If You Could Read My Mind' turns up on a Johnny Cash "Americana" album. :-)

[@unitedplankton2866]

Thousands of years ago mom n dad would play this on long car rides...thanks mom n dad

[@toddubow2599]

Gordon had the same gift as Jim Croce and James Taylor - the voice and guitar combined in a unique way that cannot be recreated by another.

[@jelau4851]

You just named my all-time Favorite Trio,

[@dhutch71]

"Sixteen miles to Seven Lakes way up among the pines, in some hidden valley where the twirlin' river twines." I wish I could write poetry half as good as this!

[@pohkeee]

The birds in all creation twitterin in the trees...

[@Loruca]

Does any one know where the love of God goes When the waves turn the minutes to hours?

[@MarkLAsche]

@@Loruca Beat me to it. Hard to believe such profundity actually made it to the airwaves.

[@shilohabaddon]

It's nice to see a young Gordon like I did in 1974 in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario Canada, Fil..thank you. I drove 40 miles through 4 inch slush in the winter to attend his concert. He was upset because the acoustics of the building was not what he wanted but he sounded so good that it didn't matter to anyone in the packed arena. My very favourite song is Sit Down Young Stranger. It takes me away to an unexplainable place.

[@christinetarquin3773]

I love that "takes me away to an unexplainable place". My sentiments exactly. It's heaven!

[@Randyrocker1]

Early Morning Rain is a true classic for all time, even Elvis Presley acknowledged the majestic power of that song, as so did many others.

[@miamidolphinsfan]

Early morning Rain & Poor Little Allison are my favorite songs by Gordon

[@ButchHartmanart]

Had no idea about the Whitney Huston court case. Great info. Always loved Gordon’s music. ❤️😎🎸

[@thetranya3589]

He didn't drop the suit, he settled out of court. The guy who wrote the song, Masser, issued a public apology.

[@brianfitzgerald9281]

@@thetranya3589 Wasn't it first performed by George Benson (The Greatest Love of All) and written for the long forgotten film "The Greatest" where Muhammed Ali played himself without energy - the punches were already beginning to show there damage.

[@thetranya3589]

@@brianfitzgerald9281 Not sure about that. I know Benson did the song before Whitney Houston.

[@kayleeriley3591]

His delivery really pulls at my heart he sounds like he’s on the verge of tears the whole time

[@TYinNH]

Im an ex Coastie. His Edmund Fitzgerald is amazing. Does anyone know where the love God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours

[@shanemccormick6072]

Fellas, it's been nice knowing ya

[@Warwick3511]

that is a extremely moving song of the loss of the ship as well as being a actual event.

[@shanemccormick6072]

@@Warwick3511 the sad thing is they would have actually made it if they'd put 50 more miles behind her. When I was younger I would never have thought Lakes could have been so ferocious. I'm glad they eventually brought up the Bell

[@Warwick3511]

@@shanemccormick6072 my understanding it may have been 17 but it is based mostly on the song

[@jefffeinstein1]

@@shanemccormick6072 Pls try to stick around. I know it seems impossible at times.

[@kennethperkins4307]

This man just puts it out there, the depths of despair and personal hardship wrapped In a melody that sucks you in. Like Elton and Bernie he makes you feel like their your thoughts and your words.

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

Bernie at his very best, Elton never. Elton is and was nothing without Bernie. A ton of technique, plenty of empty vigor, nothing like the soul. Elton was dead once Bernie was gone, and has been a zombie ever since.

[@valkyriesardo278]

The quality of Lightfoot's voice is forever sublime. It both intensifies and gratifies longing, it rides upon the knife's edge of unbearable beauty and unbearable pain.

[@susanmacdonald4288]

I've watched a lot of reaction videos of Gordon's music since his passing, but the best ones are done by musicians. We have know for years how great he was, you guys explain exactly why. And yours are some of the best. Thank you.

[@patricklee780]

That song really did shoot him to stardom and one of my favorite ballads, partly because I had a similar fate, with love. That it was a melancholy tune, I am sure countless tears were shed over it. I remember it like it was yesterday.

[@modularmuse]

Grew up with him on the radio. His stuff was always haunting and beautiful; you could almost picture what he was singing about and it stuck with you.

[@brianforgie7724]

Sad day in Canada today Gordon Lightfoot passed away yesterday. Gordon Lightfoot is Canada's greatest singer songwriter in my opinion. This country has many great artists but Gordon Lightfoot was one of us. He sang about us, he sang for us he was always in the background. Lucky enough too have seen the man 7 times in my life. Sad day man sad day.

[@kathleenmckeithen118]

I love, love, love Gordon Lightfoot!! Especially, the "Tale of the Edmond Fitzgerald", and all of his songs. Thank you so much Fil, for showcasing Gordon!

[@4magnels494]

I always learn things watching you. I love the little bits you tell about the performer, song, instruments! You are so knowledgeable, and not in an annoying way! I find I enjoy songs even more when I listen to you talk about them! Thank you for sharing!

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@patriciasnyder6915]

I agree. Sorry, as talented as Whitney Huston was - she wasn’t Gordon Lightfoot.

[@bellesmom238]

FIL HAS A GIFT NOT MANY PEOPLE HAVE

[@stargazer1460]

Oh man, I love Gordan! Definitely one of the best song writers ever! Great story teller. He wrote some classics during the 70's.👍😎🤘

[@keywestconch8]

One musician supporting and honoring another musician graciously. Can't we all just get on?

[@LivingOnCash]

As a 70's guy (class of '74) singer song writers were all over the radio and Gordon Lightfoot was one of the bigger ones. Carefree Highway was one of my favorites and when my dad retired my folks moved to Carefree, AZ. Whenever I would go visit them I drove down Carefree Highway to get to their house and would always sing this song to myself. Many years later I was listening to an interview of Gordon and he said long ago he was driving north from Phoenix and saw a sign for Carefree Highway and that was the inspiration for the song.

[@anthonypetersenecal5546]

Gordon Lightfoot was very popular “a few years ago” !!!! I’m an old man and just hearing him, puts a lift in my step !!!! I have really enjoyed your videos, Fil !!!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks Anthony!

[@anthonypetersenecal5546]

Wings of Pegasus, No, thank YOU, Fil---please keep up the excellent dialogues !!!!

[@johnnylaroux9517]

@@anthonypetersenecal5546 So true, Fil is beyond well spoken and knowledgeable, healways Gets It, no matter the Artist or Genre on the Video Menu du Jour.

[@Pinrod93]

I’ve seen Gordon 4 times in concert and met him twice. He signed my old guitar for me. He has been my hero since I was a teenager in the 70’s. He doesn’t know it but he wrote “If You Could Read My Mind” for my first love that I lost that year. Every time I hear that song I think of her, and I’m still in love with her! David

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@rosemariepriest1453]

He is a poet,heard he wrote many songs for many famous singers,his ture love was writing music,you may have heard, and never knew he was the writer. Best talent ever.🌹🙏🇺🇸

[@steverichard1740]

Man, this stuff brings back childhood memories, my dad had Gordon Lightfoot and Jim Croce on 8 tracks, and I would sit in our basement and listen to this type of stuff for hours.

[@hazelmaylebrun6243]

Yes. Gordon is still performing. He was in Ottawa last year on tour. I didn't get to that concert, but I did get to see him play live 9 years ago when he did what he called a 'come back tour'. His voice has aged a bit -- though he's still doing fine and on key, but I was pleasantly surprised to see he had recovered enough to reclaim his command of the fretboard. He told stories about his memories with Bob Dylan and Kris Kristofferson and I knew it was true because I saw Kris Kristofferson 8 months later and he told the same story. Oh... and one other note. You would think after all these years that Gordon would be pretty confident, but he was so thrilled that night that we all came. He said, "Elton (John) is in town tonight... and I still sold out." Well, really. In his 70s and he still wasn't sure if we would buy tickets to hear him.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yeah the best guys are humble too!

[@toddtrojek6521]

Awesome story!

[@georgewodicka4839]

Thank you Fil, for this. This song brings a tear to my eye, but The Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald makes me lose it completely. Thank you also for your many reviews of the great American songwriters/musicians from my youth.

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem!

[@puppykissesblog]

As a longtime Lightfoot fan, thanks for this fine, detailed look at the artistry of one of the best singer-songwriters of all time!

[@urbangrouse]

R.I.P. Gordon and thank you for all that you gave us! I'm watching this the day after his passing.... 😢

[@1attheback]

I heard "Bitter Green" and I've been a fan ever since. Red Shea was a great support/lead guitarist of Gordon's.

[@aholdera]

That is a great song. Check out Tony Rice's version of it on cold on the shoulder album, which is epic, some of the best songs ever covered in a bluegrass style.

[@patsmith1497]

@@aholdera Tim Stafford of Blue Highway also wrote "Uncle Fred" as a nod to Gordon's "Old Dan's Records" on an old bluegrass album, in case you're interested. You can really smile at the similarities.😉

[@tamething1]

1attheback : His "Sunday Concert" album - later just titled "Live" - hooked me.

[@bronkawitz]

This came out when I was eight years old. This and It's Too Late by Carol King. Two haunting songs that gave me chills down my spine listening to them on my hissy transistor radio late at night.

[@janebishop5885]

A golden voice.....what talent. Never tire of listening.

[@sammy2840]

My favorite folk singer of all time! First the poetry...wow...then the voice! Unmatched musical talent! Discovered him in 1972 through a friend! Have every song he has ever recorded! Circles Of Steel is AMAZING!

[@theresewalters1696]

I remember Circle of Steel. Great song.

[@lacroixphoto]

I met him where I work a couple years ago, I can tell you he truly is a kind man. We talked for about 20 minutes, it was like taking to an old friend. Very cool.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@bbell8144]

Gave me chills hearing Gordon again. I was privileged to attend his concert in Fargo back in 1971. He is amazing and his fame is well deserved. We have enjoyed listening to his ballads for many decades. Gordon is the definition of Legend.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@tonygaramella7312]

It is one of the first songs I remember hearing on the radio as a kid when it was new.

[@buckjohnson1119]

He is still on the road, Fil, in 2019!

[@peggyconverse7622]

A true "troubadour" ..I don't know why..but..I chill out everytime I hear him.. I especially love "Sundown" but as I lived on the "gitchee gumee" and did when it went down.. his "wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" is especially poignant. Thanks Fil..While I love everyone of the artists that you showcase..this is a good one!

[@tamarabradshaw4799]

Troubadour is the perfect description.

[@miamidolphinsfan]

@@tamarabradshaw4799 I agree !

[@jeanfish7]

Lightfoot, Croce, and " the Taxi guy" ( blanked the name!;)

[@jeanfish7]

Harry? Someone

[@Morrkevi1963]

Jean Fish Harry Chapin

[@davewhitehead5116]

I always liked Gordon. I picked him up after “If You Could Read. My Mind.” I’m glad he’s still at it. Thanks.

[@protoclown4717]

One of the greatest songs ever written. Great example of why some are driven to invite the world into their lives via artistic expression.

[@Nashvillekat]

As a kid, I first heard "Early Morning Rain" sung by Peter Paul & Mary. I read that it was written by a guy named Gordon Lightfoot. Then I heard "Ribbon of Darkness" by Marty Robbins (someone else you might want to talk about) and saw it was written by the same guy. I decided I needed to try and find out about this songwriter. A couple of years later, I heard him on TV. WOW! I was hooked from that moment on and remain a fan of Lightfoot. Thank you for exploring his music!

[@camshr0n]

My favorite Lightfoot song. Didn't know it was about his divorce but that sure makes sense. Did anyone else notice that on the second refrain he sings, "I never thought I could feel this way" instead of "I never thought I could act this way" as he did on the famous studio recording. I can't imagine it was intentional here because of what a great, and yet subtle, little connection that one word makes to the verse just before it. The one that goes, "Like a movie star who gets burned in a three-way script, enters number two." Hence, "paperback novel" goes with "feel" and "movie star" goes with "act". I always thought that was brilliant. My guess is that he simply forgot which verse he was on and sang what came out naturally on that date.

[@GS-xt8fu]

Excellent. He wrote some many great songs. Sundown. The Edmund Fitzgerald. Thanks Fil. I was surprised you knew about the legal case. Wow. You do your homework. My dad was a fan and we went to see him and I was a little boy. I remember even now how clear it was. No gimmicks or big lights. Just him, the guitar and his written songs. Thanks so much.

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem ☺

[@aprilsutterfield3635]

What an experience! Wow!!! I've seen many of my favorites in concert, unfortunately never Gordon!!!!

[@aprilsutterfield3635]

What a great guy! I never heard the story of the plagerism of this song.

[@zorroonmilkavitch1840]

I don't know if it's true but I was told Whitney Houston stole her technique on how to freebase from a very Famous folk singer notice I did not say crack because that would be whack!

[@RosaKay55]

Gordon passed away 5-1-2023. Rest In Peace to one of the greatest singers/songwriters.

[@umbertocalvini7429]

San Francisco public radio just did a short tribute to Gordon! 👏👍🙏😢

[@umbertocalvini7429]

San Francisco public radio just did a short tribute to Gordon! 👏👍🙏😢

[@ronniewrong1539]

Love the enthusiasm you gave Gordon Lightfoot on this slightly off the beaten path video. Usually you speak almost exclusively about the performance we're watching. This time, although you still did that, you also included a lengthy song background and career biography which I dare say.....felt like a lot of love and respect were being given Gordon Lightfoot! A+ Video idea - how about a video explaining your work process? How do you select your video subjects? The number of suggestions for a particular artist? Something in the performance itself that you want to comment on? The artist? (What's your viewer retention at I wonder?) Has an artist you've done a video on acknowledged your videos by commenting or contacting you? Do you have to choose performances that you personally really enjoy or are you open to whatever your viewers want to see? Have you done a video for something you weren't wild about? (You don't have to name names. Lol) What performance has had the most ppl suggesting it? What video has the most impact on you as a artist? What was your first video and how did you come into this genre? Are there any performances that you really REALLY want to do a video for but cannot because of copyright considerations? Your selections are open minded and eclectic. But is there a genre or era of musical performance you stay away from due to low popularity? There's a moving TV performance of Billie Holiday performing Strangefruit, which is about racism. The 'strange fruit' refers to black folks hanging from trees in n the south. Maybe too dour a subject matter? I was telling someone about your videos and it got me to thinking: these aren't criticisms of songs or artists. They're appreciation videos that examine what makes up an extraordinary performance. Truly a music lover's channel. Ok, enough praise. Ronnieǝᴉuuoꓤ Photograph - Def Leppard (The music video) Mandika - Sinead O'Connor - (Grammys or ...) Light My Fire - The Doors (Ed Sullivan performance. The last 3 seconds are lord!) Eminem - Lose Yourself (Grammy performance) Metal Gods - Judas Priest

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks! I just work my way throught the requests, and yes a fair few artists have contacted me after a video ☺

[@Knards]

Another song that is so important in my memories

[@klausprediger818]

Sie sind ein großartiger Hörer ind Beschreiber von Musik. Und, so scheint es, völlig uneitel. Vielen Dank.

[@59marguerite]

Just saw him in concert two weeks go in upstate NY. What an honor to be in the same room with an icon.

[@cherixbiggs5819]

Omg!!! Fil… this was Gordon’s favorite song he wrote. Likewise, my fave. 50 years of loving him, concerts, cds, books, article. Thank you for the backstory. God bless you, young man. I am your 71 year old fan!!! I lived this song. Now married 50 years…to the one who left me broken hearted.❤ Broken heart again💔 now Gordon is gone.

[@midi510]

His guitar part isn't a very simple one. I can repeat basic arpeggios over different chords while giving enough attention to a vocal part, but he's playing a guitar part that could be listened to on it's own - plus a perfect vocal.

[@shannonwittman950]

I was born and raised in a small seaport town near the border with British Columbia. My 1962 Hitachi transistor radio was often tuned to Canadian stations. Gordon Lightfoot had many hits up there which were quite literally ingrained into my youthful sub-consciousness amid snow-laden forests and rippling streams and gloomy, windswept harbors. Hear "Early Morning Rain," "Bitter Green," "Saturday Clothes," "Canadian Railroad Trilogy," and "Did She Mention My Name?" Too many other memorable GL songs to list here. I remember well "Black Day In July" which had a pounding quick-beat unlike GL's usual folksy troubadour style. And I also remember, for such a compelling song, that it seemed to depart the airwaves quite suddenly. Now I know why. And these aforementioned were all prior to his hit, "Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald." Thanks for the great installment, Phil!

[@dougnelsin1480]

I saw Gordon live just a few weeks ago and i was so impressed by the musicianship and his vocals are still very strong for an 80 year old. He did play this song and got a well deserved standing ovation. I loved it!!

[@berniejacque4544]

Gordon, Neil, the guys from the Band, all from our friends up North in Canada. All great, thanks for all the great music! This from Springfield, Massachusetts.