Gordon Lightfoot 1938-2023 R.I.P.

[@ryanharvey9091]

My father was Gords manager for 25 years and I will say that even though I’ve seen him play live front row and centre 20 plus times mostly at Massey hall in Toronto he always delivered the goods live. A true perfectionist. A man who treated us kids nicely even during halftime intermissions. I’m only 40 but must say his music forever will hold a place in my heart. When my father passed Gord sang at his funeral. An original piece he wrote for my old man. The world truly lost one of the greatest song writers and storytellers in modern music

[@michelemercier2286]

What great memories for you to have. Sadly I missed out - he was going to play here in Victoria and I had the ticket many months in advance. Unfortunately the date of the concert was October 2020 and so due to Covid it was cancelled so I missed out. Now I won't get the chance, but fortunately there are all the wonderful recordings to go back and listen to. A number of artists from when I was younger (Christine McVie, Olivia Newton-John) have passed away recently which was sad, but this - this hits hard. Maybe that's because being from Canada his music was just...there for so much of my life. Or maybe it is because anyone who could turn a more than six minute long song about a historical event into a hit that somehow resonates with people is exceptionally special. Probably it is both.

[@sejrec56]

Hey Rick, I’m a musician and also play an acoustic show and as a singer, and each time I play this song IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND I get so choked up with his lyrics that sometimes I have a difficult time getting through the song. The other song that gets me too is Carefree Highway. And I love performing it and people always come up and thank me for playing Gordon Lightfoot songs.

[@sejrec56]

And yes I love his lyrics too

[@sejrec56]

Carefree Highway is definitely pure poetry !!

[@sejrec56]

These songs you’re playing here Rick are definitely some off my all time favorite songs !

[@davidtoups4684]

The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald has probably the greatest line ever written, IMO. "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours". That gets me every time I hear it. Thank you Rick for this awesome tribute to one of the greatest songwriters ever

[@shadcovert1160]

Thankyou for pointing this out. Beautiful.

[@jimgsewell]

I agree. That is the most haunting lyric in music.

[@notbraindead7298]

I agree. But the lyrics of the song “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” has incredibly emotion rendering, dramatic impact from start to finish. Greatest song ever written.

[@douglasfarina4729]

Yes, I was waiting for Rick's reaction to that very line, but he stopped just short.

[@ironymatt]

In anyone else's hands, rendering the story of the EF would come across as little more than a news article. It's otherworldly how he imbued those lyrics with such poetry and melody. Incredible talent, and so much rarer now than when he wrote this

[@gillane175]

Gordon wrote stories. They were given to us with music. RIP Gordon.

[@jCREATESj]

Told stories and painted pictures..rip indeed

[@chrishooker7727]

I think God gave Gordon stories to write for us. His music could not have come from anywhere but Heaven.

[@RobertLBarnard]

How the words seemed to come so naturally, like the words were made for his songs. He was so real.

[@TheBeingReal]

Well said. Thank you.

[@thesuncollective1475]

He sounds like Roxy Music

[@philrobertson5459]

Thank you Rick for the great tribute! Love Wreck Of The Edmond Fitzgerald, with the seafaring vibe and mostly because it chronologically tells the story of that disaster so artistically and reverently. The families of the sailors loved the song and how it paid tribute to their men.

[@russparker1647]

I am 73 , Canadian, and been sad all day. Spent the morning playing, singing and listening to Gord. A Canadian national treasure. Thank God we have his music to remember him.

[@juliahoner7193]

Just heard of his passing an hour ago. I’m not sure when the sadness will end. 💔😥

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

And Ian Tyson gone, too.

[@darnelljackson2160]

@@user-qr8ki8ue4i He was a great boxer. "Iron Mike" is a legend.

[@judystrelek3896]

He truly was Canadian Gold 🥇😥

[@hughjarrett4736]

What a legacy he leaves! 28:05

[@davidarless7865]

I'm a music teacher in Canada. Monday May 1st was Music Monday in Canada, where hundreds of thousands of students and educators across the country celebrate the importance of music education in our schools. It's somehow fitting that he left us on this day. His impact on music in our country, and apparently the world, will live on starting on this day! I love that you are such a fan. This was a nice tribute Rick. Thank you!

[@mikeloce]

Amazing.

[@amusicment4829]

❤

[@richiemarshall2755]

Musical poet Canadian treasure

[@JamesWalshBristolKids]

I coined the phrase Music Monday for my facebook posts, and I'm from Toronto. Just sayin'... Canada is just a little bit of heaven, especially the Mariposa Folk Festival on the Toronto Islands.

[@robbiemillar704]

As a musician I'm sorry that I'm unaware that it was Music Monday. Now that I'm aware ,I think May 1st should be a national holiday..🤔👍🎶🇨🇦

[@secularZoo]

I met Gordo exactly 10 years ago to today (5/2/13). He is such a class act, he signed my copy of "If you Could Read My Mind" LP that I gave to my Dad who was also there to meet him. My wife was pregnant and Mr Lightfoot rubbed her belly. We tell our son that he was blessed by Gordon Lightfoot. He was the nicest guy I've ever met! RIP Gordo!

[@louiesalinas4720]

kool story

[@Katerina9256]

THAT is an awesome story!!!

[@birdman1112]

Yeah he was as nice in person as you could imagine. I wrote him note once to add a particular song to his setlist and did. Blew me away. Talked to him after the show. He will be missed by all.

[@PaulKoulbanis-nb3of]

Looking at the Rain. Another great

[@skeletonshorror5184]

Amazing 💔

[@angelmatos9143]

His songs were like reflective discussions of which you never tire.

[@martyf5714]

Last concert I took my Mom to before she died at 60 of Alzheimer’s. Amazingly she was singing along remembering the words even though she could barely talk. Never forget it. RIP Gordon.

[@ObltKG4]

Awesome!

[@752brickie]

I am so so sorry to hear about your mother! I lost my Father in Law to that horrible disease !!

[@secularZoo]

That is so great! So glad she enjoyed that evening before she passed.

[@Fotitude]

My mum passed to of Alzheimer’s/ dementia.. music has apparently always been a trigger for the those suffer with it.. music carries us all away in some way ❤️

[@garychambers5850]

@@752brickie I lost my Dad as well.

[@vantrumpore5241]

Great tribute Rick. I heard they rang the bell at the Maritime Sailors Cathedral 30 times after his passing - 29 for the men of the Edmund Fitzgerald and one additional for Gordon.

[@valeriesuttonpayne7413]

That’s is a goosebump piece of information about the bells, the last one tolling for GL. Thank you for sharing. How fitting.

[@Eematov]

Indeed, got the chills reading that. ❤

[@528Circle]

That is a bigger tribute than perhaps the average person might realize. It hadn’t heard that they did that. Amazing.

[@karenokeson2705]

Beautiful tribute. Thank you for sharing. 💙🙏

[@chisolm5]

That is one of the most wonderful things I have heard in a long time. ❤

[@leonardvanorden5940]

Gordon Lightfoot, Jim Croce, and Harry Chapin three of the greatest story tellers and musicians. To people who love music Gordon's death is such a huge loss.

[@2puffs770]

OMG, YES, YES, and YES!!!!!

[@andylalor225]

Croce and Lightfoot were two sides of the same coin, one American, one Canadian. Fantastic comparison.

[@roughcutguitars]

I hope we can find some room for John Prine in there.

[@jeffreyhall76]

I’d add cat Stevens and James Taylor to that list. And maybe Richie Havens

[@Hettepop]

I’d add John Denver to this list as well. Maybe Paul Simon. Bob Dylan goes without saying.

[@DragonflyenAmber]

My grandpa was a huge fan of Gordon Lightfoot, I grew up hearing his music. The Railroad Trilogy was one of his favourites because he was a rail man for CN. Canada lost a treasure when we lost Gordon Lightfoot. I could listen to him all day long, so many memories attached to his music. Thank you for this tribute to him.

[@philipstoddard1502]

I had to stop listening to his music after my divorce. I learned he died in a text message from my estranged daughter, who I hadn't heard from in 11 years. She said she heard he died and she broke down crying. She remembered me singing his songs when she went to work with me. We are due to meet up to get reacquainted this Summer.

[@noclu4u384]

Even in death Gordon brings love to the world .

[@matsnyberg8127]

💔Good luck Phillip

[@lindamcd1217]

Made me cry. I hope everything works out. How precious.

[@philipstoddard1502]

@@lindamcd1217 Thank you. It was the best day I had in years.

[@MisterKnightly]

How did it go? Please tell me it went well.

[@chermcgrath3881]

I'm Australian. My Canadian boyfriend introduced me to G Lightfoot in '69. We courted to his music. We married with his music, his stories. His music has been the soundtrack of my life since then. I travelled across Canada to his music - a beautiful road trip I never wanted to end. I know the words to so many of his songs [even the Edmund Fitzgerald!]. Those stories - a conxummate musician, an unparalleled story teller. Vale the troubador

[@shoehead65]

“Does anyone know where the love of God goes, when the waves turn the minutes to hours…” That lyric always rips my heart out of my chest and throws it into Lake Superior. Another perfect story telling song.

[@leehickling7306]

A Canadian kid , I got his Bitter Green album for Christmas. Taught myself guitar listening to those tracks . LOVED him …. RIP

[@e.a.miller4434]

Yep. Having had a great uncle who was killed in a Lake Superior shipwreck - the last major wreck before the Fitz - and having a vivid memory of what I was doing when I heard the Fitz had disappeared, and living on Lake Superior's shores now...yes. That lyric always gives me goosebumps. Especially on a November night like tonight, when the witch of November has come stealing.

[@DenisCorrigan-kg2uo]

So in the early 70’s, I treated my mother and sister to third row seats at the Philadelphia Academy of Music for a Gordon Lightfoot concert. They were both fans and had birthdays a few days apart. My mother raved about it for decades. Now all three of them are gone. It remains my favorite concert I never went to. And since I never saw him myself, has supplied decades of vicarious memories for me still. Thank you Gordon.

[@marcberrenson570]

My wife and I started our life together at 20, and the first album we bought was Gordon Lightfoot. We are now 73 and miss him terribly.

[@JeanGillespie-fp7rs]

For me it was also when John Denver & Steve Irwin were killed. Something you never get over!😢😢

[@slyasleep]

@@JeanGillespie-fp7rs Steve Irwin? 😵‍💫

[@blastoramaa-go-go9794]

Gordon Lightfoot’s passing hits hard, as his music did. Rest in peace, sir.

[@dbanks4479]

Rick, so many of us in Canada greatly appreciate your musical contribution and beautiful commentary. Gordon Lightfoot was a musical poet and one of a kind.

[@cdpond]

For me, what makes Lightfoot so wonderful is that every song is a rich, detailed story that you can visualize in your mind's eye. An incredible man. Skills that not only play musical instruments, but also play our emotions.

[@user-ep6my3vj2d]

Absolutly agree

[@sirlucius3016]

Well said

[@kittybitts567]

Yes, you put that perfectly.

[@jmayer29]

"Does anyone know where the love of God goes, when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" Stunning lyrical emotion. Gordon was utterly unique.

[@janetaldrich7747]

Yes. One of his best lines.

[@MarksElectricLife]

Still gives me shivers. Amazing song!

[@sagetmaster4]

Many lines in that song give me chills. Maybe the best example of a song being more than the sum of its parts

[@phytorx1]

"And all that remains is the faces and the names of the wives and the sons and the daughters" completes his best stanza.

[@JohnDoe-vy5hh]

Good poetry there.

[@dannydoc1969]

One summer, between my Junior & Senior year I was driving a cab in NYC to make money for school, but I parked the car when I saw that Gordon Lightfoot was playing at the Bitter End in Greenwich Village. As usual he was phenomenal, a poet, a consummate performer and after it was over I got to my cab. I drove down McDougal and was hailed by Mr. Lightfoot and his girlfriend/wife? I drove them to the upper west side. We talked about his music. He was such a nice, down to earth guy, great tipper too. His music WAS perfect. RIP

[@alostpilgrimsjourney5953]

Wow!

[@willowhilldesigns7]

Thank you for celebrating such a favored and special artist! His music lives on!

[@ErikWilbury]

50 years ago (1974) anchored in Silver Bay, my shipmates and I on the Cleveland Cliffs S.S. Cadillac waited for the Edmond Fitzgerald to finish fully loading before we could dock and pick up 16,500 tons of iron ore (taconite) to haul to the mills in Cleveland. The next year (11/10/1975) the Fitzgerald... While I have emotional resilience, some things, like Gordon Lightfoot's ballad and the memory my fellow sailors, still bring a tear to my eye. The church bell chimed 'til it rang twenty-nine times.

[@johnphillips1858]

No one writes music like this anymore. So well written and performed. One of the greats.

[@garyconner6151]

Totally under rated.gonna miss him.r.i.p Gordon lightfoot.

[@maestroaxeman]

But many of us writers who really love Gord's style are & will be forever influenced by him.🎶🎸🙏

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Been a fan since the 70s.

[@loribadgero1035]

I agree. He was an extraordinarily gifted songwriter. I heard they are adding an additional ringing of the bell recovered from the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald during the memorial service in Grand Marais, MI in November, starting this year. They rang it 30 times on the day he passed away, 29 for the crew plus one, for Gordon Lightfoot. God hold and keep you, Mr. Lightfoot. Your music will live forever. ❤❤🥰😇

[@sundown8138]

On the recovery of the bell as it came to the surface of the water it rang once again. Great video

[@bws1971]

Wow, this news gives me chills and wells the tears in my eyes

[@steveelder5306]

@@bws1971 man. same here.

[@gilchasin1022]

@@bws1971 pouring down like rain. Gordon's finally got his long white robe & silvery wings.🎵🎶🎶🙌

[@robbiet8583]

OMGoodness. Gordon would have been so pleased, and yet…I think he would have said no, don’t. He was so honorable and unassuming. I miss you already, Gordon Lightfoot.

[@BarriePoole]

Gordon was the pride of Orillia Ontario, my hometown... My Grandmother was a huge fan, and in turn so was my father, and then me as well. We were playing Gordon Lightfoot all day at work the other day... They've been leaving flowers by his statues at both the Orillia Opera House, and Tudhope Park both in the heart of Orillia. Rest in Peace Gord... Thank you so much Rick! This was fantastic!

[@48dirtfarmer]

I was fortunate to see him live twice. It was a blessing

[@cheriolheiser9704]

The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald is so beautifully haunting. It's like you feel the atmosphere of what's happening. Such talent will never be matched. R.I.P. Gordon

[@mm-nyc]

Amazing that the first time the song was played, was the recording that made the album.

[@Rockingoodman]

We were in that same storm, it was a night you never forget, and I was hundreds of miles south. When Gordon did the song, I took it as a personal tip of the hat to all of those that suffered, but also to all of us who remembered that night.

[@leomuzzy6554]

Who played electric guitar on that song?

[@joerenner8334]

He wrote that from a newspaper article.

[@craigdaugherty7552]

Every time I fish Lake Superior, I think on Gordon's Song, paying respect to those who perished there.

[@haydendegrow945]

As a proud Canadian, I can say that Gordon Lightfoot stands FAR above most famous Canadians. Nobody in our Home and Native Land can LIVE properly without hearing at least one of his songs. RIP Gordon. No one will ever let you be forgotten!

[@mitchaelhollingsworth1698]

Yeah, except for all the other better canadians. Stupid boat sank quicker than the song is long.

[@maydanlex]

Couldn't have said it better.

[@haydendegrow945]

@@mitchaelhollingsworth1698 And whom would you say is better than Lightfoot? I'd like to know

[@citrus1973]

There’s something about Canadians names Gord.

[@ecbftl]

As a Canadian, I remember him more for telling the story of building Canada's transcontinental Railway. A truly Canadian story.

[@DLFlannery]

Every time I listen to a Lightfoot song, I am struck that there are NO wasted words in his lyrics. Every word matters, every word has a meaning. Great writer, obviously, but maybe an even greater editor of his own words.

[@Tony-y9q]

I learnt to play If You Could Read My Mind when I was 18. I'm 67 now and recently played it live for my wife. I could remember all the words and chord changes even though I hadn't played the song in nearly 40 years. That's the mark of a great song for me; a song that becomes imprinted on your memory that you couldn't forget if you tried. I had to play the song in G rather than A because I didn't have a capo handy and didn't fancy tackling the barre chords. Folk singers will be discovering Gordon's songs a century from now. His music will become part of the standard folk repertoire

[@seanmcpeek7493]

They broke the mold when they made Gordon. His ability to evoke emotion through music is uncanny. RIP to an amazing musician and writer !

[@pontiacjeff]

The way Edmund Fitzgerald builds intensity from one verse to the next is like a blockbuster hollywood film. Epic storytelling like no other songwriter of our time.

[@bengormley2517]

the song is epic and top 10 songs of all time IMHO

[@dirkfischbach1806]

Rick, your ability to recognize the genius of people like Gordon Lightfoot -- AND explain it -- is a gift. Thank you!

[@lindamcd1217]

I agree.

[@billjonas9902]

My wife and I saw Gordon in Charleston, SC a few years back. Though his voice was weak, given his physical condition after his anuerysm, his musicianship was impeccable. Atrue genius song writer.

[@justifiedlife1595]

"Read my mind" is a song that touches me like no other I've ever heard. Even today, it made me cry, uncontrollably, it's haunting. Words unbelievably original and special. Voice with timber like no other. What a gift to the world. I had no idea he was so prolific, and could write his own charts. What a gift from God, truly.

[@mmmrbbb]

Maaaan......I am 64 and I am Jamaican. I thought something was wrong with me for a while when I first heard this song in the 70s. To this day that song makes me want to cry like a baby. He was definitely one of the greatest song writers and singers ever. RIP Gordon.

[@dlittlester]

Tears in my eyes right now.

[@lisacolbert5987]

@@dlittlester I scrolled down just to see if I was the only one crying.

[@TheMonolake]

Greatest Song

[@warrior2182]

I thought I was the only one. It’s not even the lyrics for me; the melody just destroys me every time. Thank you Rick for this video, and for those of you who made me realize I was in good company.

[@lizzyfolks9116]

As a Canadian music teacher, he was always an icon to me. He wrote musical poetry. I taught “Canadian Railroad Trilogy” and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” to my Grade 8 and 9 English students as fantastic examples of ballads. His passing has me grieving.

[@TheYamahog12]

Canadian Railroad Trilogy is just fantastic.

[@missesmew]

Fellow Canadian here, my dad died just last year and he was the same age. Kinda feels like a second icon died to me. He was great, that year produced a couple of them.

[@dlittlester]

I did a stint on an extra gang on CN back in 73 in the BC interior. Canadian Railroad Trilogy was in my head the whole time.

[@hughjarrett4736]

We share your grief, Lizzy-all around the world. People are really broken up, in tears. Rick’s tribute was beautiful.

[@ariosodistante9194]

As a Canadian who grew up with Lightfoot's music, I am so happy that you are doing this tribute right now, Rick. Thank you so much.

[@CultureWars_]

I'm from Minnesota, and Gordon became HUGE here after "The Edmund Fitzgerald" came out. It was as though he became Minnesota's adopted son. And to this day I love going to Duluth or Ely or Grand Marais, and listen to Gordon's songs. All his songs scream Minnesota! As you drive along the North Shore of Lake Superior and listen to his songs you are on "Carefree Highway", or take a break at a rest stop on a cool rainy day wearing a sweatshirt and walking with a close friend, you become "Rainy Day People". Or the BEST, watching a sunset on Lake Superior while listening to "Sundown". You are right Rick. This man was one of a kind.

[@arthurlove1002]

How could this song be so good without auto tune , fowl language, and programmed drumbeats? Easy, it’s called total musicianship and talent. He will be missed.

[@Ass4ssinX]

Lol OK grandpa.

[@alexeisenberg2834]

Right you are

[@jckhammer]

​@@Ass4ssinX hes really not wrong there hotshot

[@mmayes9466]

Fowl language would really foul up the song with quackery!

[@jckhammer]

@@mmayes9466 lol

[@dadaevan]

Gord was GOLD. My generation was SO LUCKY to have this man. His voice was both beautiful and haunting. His music 🎶 is timeless.

[@davidannderson9796]

The great soft rock/folk greats from the 70's cannot be rated too highly. Gordon Lightfoot, Jim Croce, John Denver... musicians like that are true legends. Gordon Lightfoot's recordings have something that The Beatles have- everything is just perfect, you couldn't pull a note or a syllable out of place. Just so perfect.

[@guitaralchemist7]

Today was the first time I watched the show on Goron Lightfoot. He was and is one of my favorite Artists, whom I think still doesn't get the proper attention and credit he deserves as an Artist. Thank you so much for showing the love and respect for hie imagination and creativity. So thank you so much for keeping Goeon Lightfoot, alive in this day of lacking for great music. Again THANK You!!!

[@Itelkner]

Oh, man... Gordon seemed to combine a crusty, hardened, very manly exterior with a sensitive and feeling soul. Incredible songwriter. Very thankful I was able to be alive while he was around giving his songs to us. RIP Gordon Lightfoot. What a man.

[@Itelkner]

@@davidmack4185 Well said. The songs have a life of their own and are timeless.

[@aquaticborealis4877]

He was a thoughtful man. That’s what came across to me. Wasn’t afraid to look inside.

[@falconquest2068]

Very well said!

[@moimeme6533]

You guys have all nailed it with these remarks. What a magnificent concept -- exactly the type of Man we need to return to society in this day and age.

[@michaelwilson9336]

I am not an expert in the music field but Gordon Lightfoot was my father’s favorite artist. I lost dad in a car accident in 1980 when I was 6 years old. Gordon Lightfoot’s music was a way that I could connect with dad over the years. Sad to say that Mr. Lightfoot’s passing yesterday was like losing dad all over again. I know that he is making the angels tap their toes and letting them know about what the human experience is all about. R.I.P. Gordon and thank you for the gifts that you have left behind.

[@hallman321]

Same story here, my dad and I shared this love and when my dad passed it was so hard to listen to Lightfoot. But over time it became my therapy and a way to bring back great memories. We’ll always have the music and the memories

[@kriskirkorian4808]

I thought I was the only one who listened to Gordon a million times. Been 53 years of listening my kids grew up on Gordon. Saw him in 96. God bless his soul!

[@andrewmasto716]

I can see in Rick's face how deeply he appreciated and was impacted by Gordon Lightfoot's music and his passing, to the point were I found myself looking so intensely at Rick that I wasn't even listening. I had to go back and play this again to listen. Coming from someone as accomplished as Rick Beato, that says it all. I'm right there with you, Rick. I had a little crappy cassette player too, and would spend hours noodling out Lightfoot tunes recorded off the radio on the cheap acoustic guitar I learned on. The songs, the arrangements, his and Red's playing and of course his unique voice... well I don't know if perfection exists but I sure as hell wouldn't change even a single thing about any of his music. Thank you for this video.

[@IronSikh44]

Thank you Rick from your supporters in 🇨🇦. Gordon was a national treasure and we were very proud of what a legacy he built. What an inspiration to so many who came after like our beloved Gord Downie, another talented storyteller. Your video had me in tears today. RIP Gord!❤

[@mst3ktemple421]

I grew up in Detroit, MI and I always had the same feeling as you that because we were so close to Canada their artists were somehow more ours than the rest of the States. Gord was always one of my favorites. Such an amazing storyteller. A modern troubadour that will be remembered forever. RIP Gord. You brought a lot of love and joy to this world.

[@inthisriver362]

Flint here. And I totally agree with you.

[@robgerety]

Vermont here, and I agree.

[@CS58420]

Black day in July is such an underrated masterpiece. I find it never gets the attention it deserves.

[@nanettereece1976]

Thank you Rick Beato for giving a wonderful tribute to Lightfoot. I have been in love with Gordon Lighfoot since I was 17. I walked into a sears roebuck and was browsing the albums. I came across this album with a picture of a gorgeous man and fell in love. I bought the album on a whim and that was it. It was Don Quixote, and he and that album have been my all time favorites. His music inspired me to take a train from Vancouver to Quebec and I had to see Alberta. I was a folk singer in the 70's and played alot of his music. Forty five years later I am trying to play again and can't remember how I played them. Sorry I never met him, he was on my bucket list. His Canadian Railroad Trilogy is a masterpiece combining 3 different themes. I will miss him terribly, but thank God we have his music.

[@blakethibeau]

Just found this tribute...amazing job. I broke down halfway through...didnt realise how much I miss him being with us. The world will listen to his music forever.

[@marcanglin7127]

"If You Could Read My Mind" is just sublime. A Masterclass in songwriting, arrangement, recording, etc. Phenomenal lyrics sung by a voice equal parts gold and honey.

[@matthewhead1465]

You touched on the thing that truly makes Gordon Lightfoot’s music great. You can listen to it a million times and every time the music and the lyrics will have the same effect on you as if you were hearing it for the first time. Each time you listen to a song you notice some tiny element that you never noticed before. Gordon Lightfoot truly was one of the best songwriters and story tellers this world has ever seen.

[@robbiet8583]

I think you are absolutely right. I have been listening to this man, (consciously) since I was 12. As a Detroit child I’ll bet anything I had heard Gordon Lightfoot before… But, what I know for sure is the lyrics and the music have shaped a lot of people’s lives. We know what we know about some life and love from Gordon. Plain talk about hard subjects. I always fell sideways right into his lyrics and music. He was perfection. Always will be to me.

[@JeanGillespie-fp7rs]

A rare talent indeed!!❤❤❤❤

[@karltheoldcanuck6549]

I've been a folk singer for 55 years, and Gordon Lightfoot's songs have always been my favorite due to the 12-string adaptations and the inspiring lyrics. My heart aches that I will now never hear another new masterpiece from that gifted musician. RIP, Mr. Lightfoot, and thank you for the themes of my life.

[@SCFNVM]

Thank you so much, Rick, for honoring one of Canada’s finest songwriters. As a Canadian, we are always thrilled when our musicians are admired by Canada’s neighbors. Your passion for outstanding music is admirable and inspiring. You are a gift to the music world, Rick. God bless, my friend!

[@salpjs]

Gordon Lightfoot was our private songwriter. Regardless of top 40 hits, I always thought he was only speaking to me , that I was the only one listening to him. He was mine to appreciate. Late night, early mornings, long car rides. Gordon was my sidekick. My friends weren’t listening like me. We shared The Beatles, Stones, CSNY but I thought I was Gordon ‘s only fan. Hearing the tributes today by friends and famous alike, I realized we all felt that way. So many of us kept him private and personal. I’m glad I got to see him in 2013 at BB Kings. RIP, Gordon our Minstrel of the Dawn.

[@paulfuchs]

So true.

[@brianhargiss9575]

Perfectly said.

[@garywhite43]

That's a beautiful tribute.

[@markmarsh27]

This morning The Mariner's Church in Detroit rang its bell 30 times -- 29 times for the Sailors on The Edmund Fitzgerald and once for Gordon Lightfoot. Hearing that made me cry the way I really needed to. THANK YOU for this Rick!

[@TheBatugan77]

🇨🇦 + 29🇺🇲. "Fellas, it's been good to know ya..."

[@PeggyR70]

Omg I'm crying reading this secondhand. He did such a good thing honoring those hardworking men with such a beautiful unforgettable song.

[@JIMIIXTLAN]

Of all the comments I found this on the most touching

[@dwaynesturge5556]

Rick Beato thank you for making this tribute and realizing what nuance we all missed R I P Gordon Lightfoot

[@seanmcphee7980]

Yes Rick you did an amazing tribute. You made the songs come alive with presentation. I smiled for the entire 28 minutes

[@donnavorbach215]

@@seanmcphee7980 Beautifully said! Dittos.

[@daveburns3886]

I hadn’t heard a lot of his catalogue.. so - silver lining! To his passing cuz I luvvvved everything I heard

[@michaelanderson6155]

Nuance, yeah. It's hard to find nuance these days.

[@BowenScott]

As a Canadian, I’m sure the pride we have for Gord being one of our own is common north of the border, but I’m truly moved by your heartfelt and poignant tribute to this masterful troubadour who touched so many lives with his songs. Early Morning Rain, Edmund Fitzgerald and Canadian Railroad Trilogy are tops for me. They are sewn into the fabric of my youth. Thank you. RIP Gord

[@Luke-kv6qf]

Two of my biggest musical heroes.. And I cried when I found out when each had died... Canada's own Gordon Lightfoot and Gordon Downie. I was lucky enough to see Gordon Lightfoot in concert three times and The Hip six times.

[@BowenScott]

I too was going to mention both Gord’s. Regretfully I never saw Lightfoot in concert, except maybe on CBC when I was a kid. I did see the Hip though a dozen or more times. Some brilliant songwriting on both fronts. Cheers 🍻

[@frugalaudio]

As a guy who grew up just south of the border, I see Gordon and Stan Rogers as maybe the greatest tellers of your country's story.

[@andylalor225]

Troubadour. The perfect word. Thank you for sharing.

[@edwardvasquez3678]

Scott R, "They are sewn into the fabric of my youth." ~ 😊lovely use of words. Thank you

[@nonnamacdeah1950]

Gordon Lightfoot will forever be a Canadian National Treasure. Thank you so much for this beautiful tribute to him. Much love and light to you and yours always from the beautiful east coast of Canada! ♥️🕊🇨🇦🕊♥️

[@cmdrargo4448]

Gordon Lightfoot, Dan Fogelberg,James Taylor, John Denver, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel all came from this vein of incredible song story writters and muscicans who understood what it took to structure a song in such a way that no matter how many times you hear one of their songs, , you will never forget it.

[@trishgrant2715]

Different genre but I’d add CCR to that cabal. Social commentary and stories.

[@tomdiodati5028]

They came from the era of singer songwriters. There was an amazing amount of talent in that group. I don’t think you meant to be sexist but your list is all men. Don’t forget women such as Carole King and Joni Mitchell.

[@malucouttolenc3345]

OMG we love exactly the same fab musicians!

[@MsAussie83]

@@malucouttolenc3345 I agree with you 100%! When I read the news of Gordon's death on PBS, I cried for an hour straight! Not only tears of sorrow, but tears of anger. As in, "Why'd ya have to leave?". I actually got the chance to see him in concert at the Cuthbert Amphitheater in Eugene, Oregon in 2015. Man I'm gonna miss him so! I wish we could have actually met each other backstage, and I wish I could have shared with him the song I wrote about how much I looooooooooooooove his music! It's sad that he died in the hospital, and they say he battled a long illness. When I told my sweet love, Johnny what happened, he wanted to tell me that Gordon died, but I told him I already knew! I've had dreams of him meeting me in a restaurant, where I could share my song with him. I bet he would be very touched that I went to great lengths to tell him he's a handsome guy with a beautiful voice! I remember saying that to him when he sang, "Beautiful" at his concert. I thought he was singing it just for me! And I said, "Aww Gordon, thank you! And you're a handsome guy, too. With a lovely, beautiful voice!". My American mom says I smiled so big that I almost headbutted the guy sitting across from me!

[@cmdrargo4448]

@@tomdiodati5028 Also Joan Baez is in that group, Karen Carpenter also was a heck of a song writter the talent in that ERA was just staggering

[@seventiesmom8045]

Grew up near Lake Michigan, I always thought that's what an ocean looks like. I'm 68, and every single time I hear Edmond Fitzgerald, I still get a tear in my eyes. Have loved Gordon forever. Wonderful tribute, Rick, thank you.

[@canuckowl]

When you're out on the lake it makes no difference that it isn't an ocean. It is a monstrously big, deep lake. It behaves like an ocean so it may as well be one.

[@jenniferbeyer6412]

I agree. I live near Chicago Illinois. This song always gives me chills. I am 57 years old. And after hearing it I did research to find out what happened to the Big Fitz. I can't help but to sing along .

[@zodiaccgh741b]

Gordon Lightfoot has a big following here in the UK. I hope many young people will be checking out his songs for the first time today. May he rest in peace.

[@ccdjunk]

If I could sing, his voice is the one I would like to have. Another unforgettable artist from my childhood. Great job Canada!

[@jmastron8110]

Like Rick, I’m on the verge of tears. No, wait, honestly, I’m actually crying. Gordon Lightfoot is literally my favorite singer / songwriter. Like Rick says, all of Gordon’s lyrics and arrangements are musical perfection. He’s not only a Canadian treasure, he’s indeed a paragon all across the English-speaking world. Rest in peace, Gordo. And thank you for all you have given to mankind. -JM

[@benparry5318]

I'm with you 100%. Sitting here misty-eyed the whole time.

[@maxcactus7]

Ditto - I was crying last night when I found out.

[@OrdoSanctiBenedictus]

😢😢😢

[@jamesgarcia7252]

Me too! What a sad day

[@ArkAmps]

my hero musically

[@omornomusic]

Great tribute. My first concert ever was Gordon Lightfoot at the Auditorium Theater in Chicago when I was 11 years old. This was the Summertime Dream tour, and he brought out wives of some of the crewmen from the Edmund Fitzgerald and had them ring a bell in honor of them. I'm 56 now, and I'll never forget it. He is by far my favorite songwriter. And kudos to my Dad for dragging us out for it ❤️

[@sarafoehner8637]

Wow

[@peterbellingham5108]

Wow,

[@titaniumismagical8643]

I'm 57, grew up listening to him..RIP Gordon Lightfoot.

[@RG-hf4et]

Great story.

[@davidwatkins8016]

The Canadian Railroad trilogy is just an astonishing composition. Every verse every bridge with minor alterations gives something new. Nobody but perhaps Joni gave as much to every song never a boring or repetitive instant.

[@nigelprice4799]

Love it!....and so many other tracks of his.....we had folk clubs back in the day, haha!

[@danielcobbins8861]

My favorite Lightfoot song.

[@MrDesmondPot]

A gem. I always want to hear it again.

[@rayross997]

I heard someone say that was the best song ever written about Canada and I agree. He was an amazing talent.

[@larrymiller4]

As much as anything else, his songs *told a story* that was good enough for us to take with us.

[@MobiusDude]

I grew up on Gordon Lightfoot.... In Canada he's a national hero. His brilliant lyrics and melodies will live on forever. His musical story telling is unique and will bring joy to all who investigate. Like the Ontario 1980 commercial. His musical genius is 'yours to discover'.

[@rudyredcat425]

My favourite line is: “sometimes I think it’s a shame, when I get feeling better when I’m feeling no pain”. Always hits me 🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@danieldaniels7571]

That one always hits me too.

[@user-qe2jg6lm4z]

The follow-up is even better! "Sometimes I think it's a sin when I feel like I'm winning when I'm losing again" Wonderful lyrics

[@markmassi7773]

What a heartfelt tribute, Rick. Gordon’s songwriting is so emotional, immersive and personal to all his listeners. The evening sky shines brighter with his star.

[@dollyhobbs4529]

Ur soo right about that!

[@elindio8998]

The man took hold of my soul with his music,I'm a man of 57 years and have been crying like a baby for 2 days now I just can't believe he's gone...thank you Mr Lightfoot for your wonderful music I will always remember 😔

[@ernestthompson891]

You are not alone EL INDIO in sheading the tears man. Me too at age 63. I share in your spirit and loss of our Gordon. Wow...this is truly surreal to me. Wishing you a healing heart.

[@jakeoncall]

I share your feelings. I knew I was going to cry when he passed and boy, did I! 😥

[@letitrest4662]

I'm nearly 63 and know nothing about musical composition, but I know the music of Gordon Lightfoot. The song; If You Could Read My Mind, still after all these years, brings back old memories and feelings from when I was a young man. When I hear it I still feel my first love. It's a song that can turn any muted heart into a poet, and it has mine. If ever there was a reason for a song writer and performer to be described as divinely inspired to teach us about romance and how to feel with our hearts, then God gave us all Gordon Lightfoot. When I heard he'd died, i was driving home from the grocery store and had to pull over because I couldn't see. I wanted to get out my car and stop traffic and ask for a moment of complete silence from the entire world.

[@janejohnstone5795]

I feel tears coming into my eyes reading..this @elindio.

[@johnwilbanks3885]

Yea, I cried too.

[@childtimematters513]

Fantastic! Being from Michigan, we have “lived” with Gordon Lightfoot and The Edmund Fitzgerald in our hearts always and forever. Yes, what a great song writer and performer. Thank you for popping up in my feed today. Enjoy our blessings each and every day.

[@matthewglynn1276]

God bless Canada for giving the world such awesome music and Gordon Lightfoot is by far at the top of the talent pool. What a gift to all of us! RIP, Gordon!

[@eileencraffey2090]

Thank you for the soundtrack of my life. Your music has always been pure poetry. Saw you only once but would have liked to, many more times. Beautiful!

[@kevinb3812]

Joni and Neil too! What is it about Canada and songwriting? Legends all!

[@timothylawrence707]

If You Could Read My Mind was my mom's favorite song. We played it for her when she was in hospice, near death and unable to communicate with us. She passed with this playing and even today, three years later, I can't bear to listen to this song without getting teary-eyed.

[@grantbaechler3529]

As a fellow Canadian,thank you for this tribute to Gordon. I went to school with his niece but sadly never got to meet him. His music will never be forgotten nor will he.

[@sofarsogut]

I was lucky to see him in concert in Vancouver in 1968. Took photos of him with his 12 String Gibson (I posted it on flickr, the link is below my last Beatles cover)

[@rogerknox9147]

@@sofarsogut I heard him in Vancouver that year too -- at The Riverboat (?) I think.

[@elliotgoldberg5657]

When i first heard the album Sit Down Young Stranger (later retitled) i remember noticing the absence of drum tracks. Extremely rare on pop music recordings. And being awesomely impressed with Gordon's rhythm playing. One of his many underrated musical attributes.

[@adnacraigo6590]

I'm 73 and will always listen to his music as long as I can hear. He truly was special. He will be sorely missed.

[@doctorditman]

I was 20 years old (1973 or 1974) and he played a concert at Emory University in Atlanta. It was just him and a sound guy. No retinue. No stage or risers. He sat on a chair in the middle of the gym floor and about 250 of us sat on the floor all around him. He played for 3 hours or so. Just him and his guitar. It was amazing.

[@haigbalian7158]

wow!

[@williamj.sheehan2001]

That was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Doc!

[@Runningtherace51]

Awesome

[@DonnaCsuti-ji2dd]

Same era love all his songs still do make me young again in my mind. Know all the words

[@mckessa17]

We love him here in Canada.

[@janinesenatore3870]

Rick, you are a treasure in your appreciation of great music. Gordon was an absolute blessing to this world.

[@thewanger]

I was born in 68 and never knew a day without Gord on the radio growing up.

[@jc3teacher265]

Same

[@Tacomadome24]

Very proud as a Canadian to have adored his music for 50yrs...God bless.

[@1Keef]

I am British and I love Gordon Lightfoot and will sorely miss him. R.I.P.

[@MichaelRobinson-wu9ob]

From a fellow Canadian it’s heartwarming to watch your video. Your love of his music is clearly evident in your emotion. Thank you Rick and RIP Gordon. ❤

[@billvilla7799]

Gordon was the greatest balladeer ever. His musicianship, his voice, and his song writing are unmatched and never will be. Rest in Peace Gordon!

[@MarshaParker-t5n]

I saw Gordon Lightfoot, when I was in college at Illinois State University’s auditorium. I was totally blown away with his talent & his performance. He was so relatable to the audience, too. It was so quiet while he was singing. “If You Could Read Your Mind” got a standing ovation! Chills & tears come my mind. We lost a GREAT & GIFT talent when Gordon passed. Loved “Sun Down”, also. There are hardly any songs that Gordon wrote/sang that I didn’t live or live. I don’t know, if anyone comes close to Gordon’s songs for me. Thank you for this trip with Gordon.😂❤

[@cale301]

Another Canadian music teacher here. Beautiful tribute to Gordon Lightfoot. Thank you for this. He's been a legend for decades in Canada, but I never realized that he was this much of a legend south of the border as well. "If You Could Read My Mind" and "Canadian Railroad Trilogy" are my favourites, but the power of the Wreck is phenomenal. I was only 10 when it was written so I really didn't understand. Now, I can only imagine the emotions of the people who had friends and family on the Edmund Fitzgerald listening to this folk song for the first time. It truly has the potential to last centuries as a Canadian folksong. Thank you for the reflections.

[@jmc8444]

And around the world, Australia included👍

[@howardjones2159]

We loved him here too in Wales the UK Rick. So sad. "If I could read your mind" could have been written yesterday. I was 13 years old when thiis hit the UK charts in 1970. Beautiful beautiful beautiful! Always will be. Hat off to you Rick for this touching tribute. Thank you so much!

[@319xzp]

Beautiful. Like his song, 'Beautiful'.

[@frugalaudio]

"A perfect vocal. Perfect!" and Rick, no auto tune, no comping 100s of takes.

[@aquaticborealis4877]

The talent was insane.

[@weihuafischer6538]

The electric guitar in Edmund Fitzgerald is so haunting it gives me chills. And the words are so chilling as well.

[@buellosaurusrex4046]

The late, great Terry Clements did the guitar work on EF

[@dragonfly9434]

“Does anyone know where the love of God goes, when the waves turn minutes to hours.”

[@tonyjanusky]

Rick, thank you for doing this tribute. It’s beautiful. I wept listening to this. We all loved Gordon, especially us here in southern Ontario / Toronto. 🇨🇦 A national treasure and legend. Gordon’s voice was beyond peer.

[@diongilbert759]

Same here, friend.

[@bettyk8105]

I am so grateful to have had the privilege of listening to his music all my life. He was indeed a musical genius. 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦♥️

[@malcolmreed3742]

as a Canadian I can say that Gordon LIghtfoot was a national treasure. He was Canada's greatest songwriter, he was an incredible story teller in his music. No one did it better. The Legend lives on....

[@lindasue8719]

It's now a year later. This the BEST and saddest half hour I've spent on KZbin.😢 Thank you for this. I recently discovered your channel and I'm glad that this video popped up on my feed tonight. Somebody just asked today by coincidence on Facebook "what is your favorite Gordon Lightfoot song?" Mine is Canadian Railroad Trilogy, neck and neck with Song for a Winter's Night.❤ Having just thought of the latter, that's a song I'd love to hear you discuss (maybe you have, like I say I'm new to your channel so maybe you've talked about it in the past, I will check). Over the last few years I've probably listened to the album, Gord's Gold, at least once a month.❤ He's been my favorite singer since I first discovered him in the 1970s. A lifetime ago. Over time, I kept dreading that the day would come..... I kept getting older, he kept getting older... I kept dreading it...then the day came.💔

[@5thdimensionalwarrior]

Great tribute! My little daughters got to see him at his last performance in his hometown (Orillia ON)last summer. 5 generations of my family love him. I’m transported to my grandparents house every time I hear him. My friend rented his basement to Gordon, where he wrote “ Sundown”

[@nevarmaor]

"When you reach the part where the heartache comes the hero would be me. But heroes often fail" Love that line. His songs can be so, so personal.

[@VamboRoolz]

“That good ship and true was a bone to be chewed when the gales of November came early.” Such an inventive line from an outstanding, timeless lyric. What a fabulous storyteller and musician he was, and what a sad, sad loss to the world his passing is.

[@ArkansasPilgrim]

It's an excellent line. So is, "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?"

[@richardwaiz6132]

I always thought it was "That good ship and crew"

[@teller1290]

Never understood that lyric til now. I thought it was a John Fogerty-like "pronunciation" but you show me it REALLY was "a BONE" that was to be chewed!

[@derekprowse7039]

Gord was/is Canada’s Mozart. He is one of the major reasons I love being Canadian. Thank you for such a heartfelt tribute, Rick.

[@860anthony]

Nice tribute, Rick. Mr. Lightfoot was a great story teller, world builder, time traveler, in all of his songs. His music will live on forever. Thank you. Rest in Peace.

[@brianjacob8728]

Need to add his bust next to the Edmund Fitzgerald memorial.

[@popquizzz]

@@brianjacob8728 Thank You Lord for giving us such an amazing talent whose requiem will forever be immortalized in the hearts of those that heard him, and the on the souls he sang about.

[@charliesaucier3352]

Rick, just a beautiful, beautiful tribute and analysis of one of the greatest folk-rock singer-songwriters of our time! Thank You and RIP Gordon, you were the best at what you did!

[@neonsamurai1348]

Arguably if it wasn't for Gordon's song, the Fitz wreck would probably be forgotten by most. He was one hell of a songwriter and performer.

[@margaretsch.3609]

It seems he knew the world needed that song and it will live on as long as civilization does.

[@judgegixxer]

If you're interested, the Headstones (a legendary Canadian band) did a cover of it a few years ago. Faster tempo. It might even be in the documentary Rick was talking about.

[@millypuppydog]

You simply don't get music like this anymore. Read my mind is simply perfection. You could not improve it any way. And even at 61 years old it still makes my cry to this day.

[@tommarthaller]

Thank you for this tribute to the music of Gordon Lightfoot. My introduction to his music was "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". The freighter went down when I was in 5th grade. I grew up on Lake Erie in Conneaut Ohio. Our parents used to take us down to the harbor to watch the ships being loaded and unloaded, the Edmund Fitzgerald among them. The wreck was a sober reminder of how quickly a storm can turn a beautiful lake into something so fierce and deadly. The haunting melody of the song always takes me back to the day we learned about the wreck and all the lives lost. It is wonderfully written and performed, one heck of a tribute.

[@daraghvaughan1745]

Rick thank you for your knowledge and enthusiasm.