Remembering Gordon Lightfoot

Check out my CBC piece on Gordon Lightfoot's Railroad Trilogy: • Re-examining Gordon Li...
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[@alexsmith6281]

As a Michigander, the lyrics of The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald are seminal to me. I love his music for the juxtaposition of old and new, tragedy and hopefulness, as well as that traditional folk feel. RIP to a legend and may he be forever remembered by those who live in Canada and the Great Lakes area of the US.

[@fredthompson1674]

Well said.

[@kevmac1230]

They recorded the song in one take.First time the band played it.Unbelievable.

[@jamesedwinjones4208]

Ditto! I read your reply only after posting mine which is similar.

[@bethkelley1340]

A truly great songwriter. One of the first LP's I ever bought. Rest well Mr. Lightfoot.

[@vitotamito]

I know there’s a complaint about the states adopting musicians, but I feel like us Michiganders at least have *some* claim. Absolute legend.

[@ciaran.vallely]

Someone once told me that every Canadian should have at least one Gordon Lightfoot album in their house, and because he was so prolific all of our introductions to his music get to come from many different directions. My first Lightfoot album was Dream Street Rose, so songs like Sea of Tranquility, Ghosts of Cape Horn, or Dream Street Rose are the first things I think of when remembering his music, and have been on a constant loop since Monday night.

[@hamwise]

As a Northern Michigander, who went to school in "The Soo", there's a special - Northern Great Lakes - feeling I can't describe. Gordon Lightfoot captured that feeling often in his music, and it's part of my soul. Canadian, though he was through and through, I've always felt his connection to the lakes, forests, and mood of a very special place on this planet. Thank you Gordo.

[@DeftonesFan867]

The UP is beautiful. I miss living near it.

[@garrett1659]

I live like 15 miles from the soo, proud to be a yooper

[@spentlemming4446]

Couldn’t have said it better Esiwmah ❤ So glad we saw him perform live a few years ago. His music always feels like home.

[@elballoonatic]

:) thanks for sharing this.

[@rscott2247]

This guy is probably my favorite Canadian singer writer, performer of all time. I really like his early stuff, like Dans Old Record !

[@LewyLewy2008]

Man, your articulate reverence for this accomplished artist has me going back to get acquainted with his music.

[@overtonesnteatime198]

here here.

[@mstrider80]

Not a big folk music guy but good music is good music. I'm going to explore his career after this passionately informed video.

[@MrWest949]

This video had me in goosebumps for 7 minutes, very well done tribute. I'm sad I won't ever be able to see him perform. I had tickets to last months show but was ultimately cancelled. He said "If I'm still kicking, I'm still picking" and he kept that promise. Requiescat in Pace Gord

[@RockandRollWoman]

I has tickets too. RIP Gord, travel that carefree highway.

[@najdier]

I was a 17 year old visiting a cousin who was studying in Michigan in 1980. He played me TWOTEF and I was captivated by the melody, the story and the deep and soothing voice of the singer. Since then Gordon Lightfoot's music has been present and accounted for in my personal collection. In the past three days I've come to appreciate how much of a national cultural treasure he is to Canada but the appeal of his music transcends continents and cultures. To me he is also a figure of the '70s and that's how I'll remember him, as part of my nostalgia for that decade. Two personal favorites of mine are Daylight Katy and Rainy Day People. And yes, Gord's Gold is the album I started with.

[@RandallSkala]

My favorite song of his is "If you could read my mind". It tells a story with words and music that you can feel his emotions pouring through.

[@aarondunn6759]

I am only here for that one song

[@RandallSkala]

Carefree highway and Sundown are 2 other favs as well.

[@TYFTM718]

i have listened to this song almost everyday for years

[@blachubear]

@@RandallSkala Another one is the song "Beautiful". The song, the lyrics, strings arrangement put you at ease just like his biggest hit "If You Could Read My Mind".

[@stevestars303]

Interesting that Gordon officially changed some of his lyrics after he recorded some songs. In "If you could read my mind" he changed the line that went.: "and if you read between the lines you'll know that I'm just trying to understand...the feelings that YOU lacked." In a sense he was blaming his ex-wife. But after talking to his daughter, who said, that was really a 2-way street Dad, and don't you think you might have been part to blame? Gordon officially changed that lyric to "the feelings that WE lacked." He also amended the song in Wreck of the Fitzgerald, that tended to blame a young seaman for not locking down a hatch, when divers discovered that it wasn't his fault and the hatch was indeed locked down. I liked that about Gordon Lightfoot.

[@Henry-Paget]

RIP Gordon Lightfoot, one of the greatest songwriters to ever do it, he is a Canadian national treasure.

[@overtonesnteatime198]

Him and Gord Downie for sure. The two Gord's!

[@griefforest1870]

Whenever I skimmed websites for folk songs etc. to sing and play and Gordon Lightfoot was mentioned as the songwriter I knew I'd be in for a treat. He truly was one of the greats. "If you could read my mind" is one of my favourite songs ever

[@TopsideCrisis346]

"Sundown" was one of the first songs I can remember getting stuck in my head as a kid. I figure I was about three or four; we had just stopped at my grandma's place, and it happened to be the last song on the radio before my mom parked the van. I remember humming it to myself while putting up track for my Hot Wheels. Lightfoot ranks with the true legends of modern music - Niel Diamond, Jim Croce, Christopher Cross - guys whose songs may not get a lot of airtime these days, but that literally everyone knows, even if only in passing. Songs that stick with you, even if you've heard them only once, long after their melody is a memory of a memory. I challenge any of these pop "musicians" making mass-produced noise in 2023 to even try to conceive of something as heartfelt and resonant as the folk songs of old. They can't, and they won't, because what they make is a product. Lightfoot and his ilk - what they made was MUSIC. And real music lives forever. 🎶

[@Caperhere]

Thank you for covering Gord. The album I listened to as a child, was Lightfoot. As an adult, I often put Gord’s Gold on repeat until my family couldn’t stand it, and made me change the cd. Black Day in July is one of my faves, and helped form my social conscience. I think it was banned in certain parts of the US when it was released. Circle of Steel is another fave. Did She Mention My Name. There are so many. Don Quixote, Race Among the Ruins. I’m so grateful I grew up when all those beautiful songs were so popular. No campfire or kitchen sing song is complete without a few Gord songs.I hope young people who didn’t know his music are now going to hear it.

[@Sportstalkchud]

Carefree Highway never ceases to bring tears of joy to my eyes. It evokes such immense nostalgia in me and feels so profound despite being seemingly so simple. And “If You Could Read My Mind” has some of the best storytelling ever. Not just through words, but the emotional journey the music takes you. I’m so happy I grew up listening to him

[@siduri9522]

Canadian Railroad Trilogy has been my favorite song for so long. I grew up in Texas, but my dad raised me on folk music. Rest in peace to this legend who colored my life with his music. What a wonderful tribute.

[@geraldblack30]

Thank you so much for this beautiful tribute to a true legend, one of Canada's and the world's most talented troubadours, Gordon Lightfoot. I've been listening to and loving Gordon's long list of wonderful songs for much of my life, and yet I'm still discovering new ones that I wasn't even aware he'd written. As I've been struggling to learn guitar for the last few years (in my sixties) I've been dreaming of the day I could play some of my favourite Lightfoot tunes, and I have been singing a few of them at karaoke for years. As you and others mention, he is for me right up there in the pantheon of rare songwriting talents, along with Jim Croce, John Prine, Steve Forbert, Bob Dylan, Neil Young and others. If I had to choose one favourite Lightfoot song (not an easy task), it would have to be Song for a Winter's NIght - pure poetry and enchantment!

[@JohnDoe-xr5is]

I grew up with his radio hits in the 70's. (along with John Denver tunes) After playing thousands of gigs in rock bands over the decades, I hung up my electric guitar 6 years ago at 55 and I have rediscovered the folk-ish music of my youth. I have become reacquainted with the music of Lightfoot and Denver. Now in my early 60's, I play acoustic solo and duo gigs. No more late nights, no more crushing volumes. And I play at home for my own enjoyment...often to vein of Lightfoot and Denver.

[@ShortOrderCook]

Rest In Peace Gordon Lightfoot - your music will always remain remembered - its beautiful 💜💜

[@edingram8410]

I was in Maine 1971 thru 1975. When I got there I found his music, I was now not alone. His music was the greatest comfort to me. I have never forgot and never will. Rest in peace

[@SolamenteVees]

I grew up in the Great Lakes area, born in 1972- so his music is also woven into my childhood. I've actually been to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point, Michigan. It was a moving experience but the focal point was seeing the Edmund Fitzgerald's 200 lb bronze bell. Rest in peace, Gordon.

[@kaymuldoon3575]

I’m an American, but I am glad Gordon Lightfoot kept his Canadian heritage and pride in the forefront. The world doesn’t revolve around the US, and sometimes we need to be reminded of that. Gordon’s music filled our lives over the decades and it’s hard to believe he is gone; so many songs bring back so many wonderful memories. I lost my own dad just one week before Gordon (April 24), so this has been a difficult two weeks for sure. Rest in peace to my dad and to Gordon Lightfoot. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💙

[@michaelfried3123]

I'm a child of the 70's, growing up in rural Ohio. My mom had Gord's Gold on vinyl and I listened to it all of the time growing up. RIP Gordo, and thanks for the decades of great music!

[@johng92]

You didn’t want to write an obituary, but you’ve made me feel like I’ve lost a close loved one.

[@eramorgan7375]

Beautifully said. I did love his music, He will be sorely missed.

[@darylclifford]

Sorry to all who feel loss from his passing. Kind regards from Sydney, Australia ❤

[@jeffstrack1143]

Tough to say goodbye to someone you’ve listened to for 50+ years but fortunately lives on thru CD’s and KZbin. RIP to the greatest Canadian troubadour. And thx for this tribute too.

Great recap on your personal memories of Gordon Lightfoot's music. Here's a very brief story. I had the great fortune to see Gordon at the Karen & Richard Carpenter Theater in Thousand Oaks, California, November 2010. I sat on the front row, in the middle seat, $55...he was 10 feet away! There, he stood, playing his Gibson 12 string guitar. Many of hits were heard that beautiful night! I will never ever forget that I saw Gordon Lightfoot. One more bit. I'm retired from Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank. As WB employees, we could purchase any WB, Atlantic records. I bought many Gordon Lightfoot albums at 70% discount from retail. He, as you know, was a Warner Bros. recording artist. Great memories! Thank you for a wonderful post on one of the best guitarists and singer/songwriters ever! Our own local Westlake Music College alumnus, Gordon Lightfoot!

[@Reilly-Maresca]

I'm a Floridian, quite far removed from the context of Canada and the Great Lakes region, but in the past year, his music has solidified itself among my playlists. It was there for me in a very dark moment last summer, and as a history student, it enraptured me immediately. The end of a life well lived. I've certainly gone deeper and deeper in the past two days.

[@itsss_gage4306]

a Texan here and all my family up to my grandparents are big Gorgon fans, none of us have been near Canada lol

[@cannedheat2264]

I remember hearing sundown all the time as a kid. He has a lot of good songs but that was a hit

[@davidfacca8899]

@@itsss_gage4306 so awesome to hear; cheers from Canada😊

[@carolmoline6490]

Great Story teller , this has no borders…

[@anderander5662]

Gordon’s songs helped me through a life-changing crisis when I was 20 years old. I had a stereo with a repeat function, it would play LPs over and over again.. I literally wore out Gord’s Gold LP on that machine

[@jamesedwinjones4208]

Great tribute! I, as a native Michiganian (next door neighbors to Ontario), share much of the sentiments mentioned here. He used the shared waterways and nature of both countries in his songs; both literally and figuratively. Being a border state and province, we share much of the same feelings of appreciation for nature and draw connections to life as it unfolds in relationships as they often mirror emotions. Besides his unsurpassed brilliance to writing a line long remembered, (this may seem trivial to some) I always loved that he didn’t purposely try to hide his accent, which in many respects is very similar to mine. Yet another connection that made his music more personable. He was like listening to someone in my neighborhood. Well, he was in my larger and wider neighborhood, with so many similarities. He was the biggest musical influence on me as a young guitarist and songwriter myself in my younger years. His music will live on in his absence. He was one of the greatest ever! Touching the human soul in ways that are as universal as needing oxygen.

[@bigwhig3126]

My dad had a cassette of Lightfoot he used to play in the car on long trips with us as kids. He is a part of those memories...Carefree Highway, Sundown, If you could read my mind, etc.. And don't forget, Canada also has the band Rush! As an American, I have zero shame in calling these incredible Canadian musicians and the musical portraits they've painted in my mind as among my all time favorites! Thank you for doing this tribute!

[@joeglazewskicmtlmt6476]

A great story teller whose music lent an almost surreal touch. He joins other greats like Harry Chapin, Jim Croche and Glen Campell. Man, they must have one helluva music fest in heaven! RIP Gordon.

[@oliversawatzky8186]

As a fellow Canadian, and a resident of Orillia since birth, Gord's death has hit me, and the community very hard. Thankfully his music and memory will continue to thrive in this amazing country and bring joy to all Canadians for years to come. May Gordon's memory last forever.

[@FarrellMcGovern]

I've just been watching a number of the tributes to Gordon Lightfoot on KZbin today. As someone who grew up in the 60s and 70s, it wasn't so much that you were a Gordon Lightfoot fan, but that his music was part of the makeup of Canadian culture. If you were into music at all, you heard Gordon Lightfoot. His music was just everywhere. It didn't matter that he was an amazing instrumentalist, or that he had a unique voice, or that he had songwriting skills that even Bob Dylan envied. He had all those things and many more, but uniquely for the time, he was part of the heart and soul of what made you a Canadian.

[@elainewaller-rose9707]

I've been streaming Gordon ever since I heard. Being from the U.S. and mostly familiar with his music in the seventies, this deep dive has been revelatory. Almost every song I'd never heard was as captivating and beautiful and the classics I was familiar with. He was truly one of the best poet-singer-songwriters ever.

[@JD-yn8sm]

As good as his "hits" were, his lesser known songs are just as good. I wish more people would go deeper and listen to his entire catalogue. Just an amazing body of work! Such an amazing artist!

[@Friscorockhead]

Same here. I was well aware of how great he was since I was young but I mostly stuck to the same 15-20 songs. I did a deep dive around 10 years ago and my jaw was on the floor by the end. I couldn't believe it was possible to write so many truly amazing songs. Some of his best work is hidden deep and didn't get mainstream attention. I can't think of an artist who has such consistently high quality songs. He was truly one of a kind.

[@kathleen2754]

He's one of my favorite singers. Sundown was my go to song. Loved all he sang, he just had one of those iconic soothing voices RIP Gordon Lightfoot

[@tecpaocelotl]

I liked the songs If You Could Read My Mind and Sundown. Sometimes, I play them in my car.

[@BazookaToe]

Thank you for this, I too grew up on Gordon’s music. I have a story about the man. Back in the early 2000’s I won a bid on EBay for a “Signed Gordon Lightfoot school book”. My father was a huge Lightfoot fan and this was going to be a Father’s Day gift. After battling it out with another at the end of the auction the book was mine for $125.00. It was signed by Gordon Lightfoot (I can’t remember the year), Orillia Ontario. A book on Canadian tax codes and laws. I sent it to my Father who was over the moon about it. He took it with him to a Lightfoot show in Santa Rosa with a friend of his. Hanging out around the back door Gordon’s manager came and asked him what was up. Dad told him he wanted to show Gordon his old school book. It was arranged and they met. After looking at it Gordon said “I’m sorry to tell you, but this wasn’t my book, and that’s not my signature”. My Dad was crushed, thinking I had wasted my money on a scam. Gordon then told him “This was my father’s book. He worked at a bank in Orillia. That’s my father’s signature.” My Dad offered the book to him but Gordon told him no the book was his now, but he would put his signature under his fathers for him, and did. Dad still talks to this day about it. Best gift ever. Rest In Peace Gordon, thank you for everything.

[@stevestruthers6180]

Well, as it turns out, Gordon's father's name was also Gordon, hence the confusion in the signatures.

[@SallyBedow]

My favorite is "Cotton Jenny ". But I lived in Minnesota in 1975 and can still vividly remember the loss of the Edmond Fitzgerald. We waited for news updates hoping they would be found. And we mourned the loss of the 29 lives. Then Lightfoot wrote his song about the wreck. It was perfect. He will be missed.

[@creatinotionchannel2680]

My folks had Gord's Gold in the mid 70s when it came out so I grew up on that too and just got myself a cd version of it last year. I had not heard the whole thing in decades but every song sounded familiar. And I really appreciated the arrangements on the songs - so lush and full of great instrumentation. If You Could Read My Mind is my favorite song of his. And I love Peter Paul and Mary's version of Early Morning Rain. I love harmonies so I lean to their version a bit more. But Gordon has a great voice that is a pleasure to listen to. Had no idea you were Canadian. Very cool. Thanks for sharing from your own life experience and background. An aside I remember hearing an instrumental version of Carefree Highway in the background at Epcot's Canada pavillion. And that just made me think of being at a casino in Windsor in the late 90s and hearing a dance music remake of If You Could Read My Mind. As I often say to myself - did I make that up in my mind or did that really happen? And I often answer myself - it sure is a very specific rememberance with odd details if it did not happen.

[@liamaldrich2476]

Rest in Peace to a Canadian Legend

[@sharonmaberry-bourke7013]

to wake up today and have it dawn on me that such a bright light is no more has me crying , again~ as someone who loves , adores folk rock Gordo was a must have. the words of most of his songs are "etched" upon one's soul! can't choose a favorite ~ they all are brilliant , shining on their own. But here's a couple 3. " Affair on 8th Ave. "Bittergreen." " Beautiful" RIP to a Troubadour , Balladeer , a "Minstrel of the Dawn"

[@philiprugh3592]

Thank you Gordon for the timeless gift of your music. It is unmatched and will live forever.

[@jamesedwards2869]

As an american growing up in Georgia, I knew Gordon Lightfoot from my grandfather's old vinyls, and he'll always be one of my main inspirations for being a folk musician. One can only hope to be half as savvy politically and musically and make it all work together seamlessly. He'll always be an essential part of folk history

[@rachel_sj]

As a Native Minnesotan, my dad grew up on the Mesabi Iron Range (where we visited my grandparents a few times a year) and he was a big fan of Bob Dylan’s folk music, as he was also from that part of Minnesota. I don’t remember listening to a lot of Gordon Lightfoot growing up, but his covers of Dylan’s songs bring warmth and even more heart to the original songs. When I did listen to Lightfoot more as a teen and into my 20s, Lightfoot’s music was perfect to listen to while being Up North, wandering around or staying in Duluth (where I went to college) and enjoying the wonders of the North Shore! I’ll definitely listen to more of it, it’s very enchanting!

[@gabrieledrewery5910]

Very sad to hear of Gordon's passing. His music was iconic, and reached both young and old. He was my favorite folk singer and I loved all his songs because of all the emotion they would bring! My father, who also passed at 84, loved listening to his music. I had the great pleasure of seeing him in concert 3 times. RIP to a Canadian treasure.

[@animeevergreenathena]

How sad...I thought that I'd at least meet him in a concert one of these days...I really like his song, "If You Could Read My Mind" and even sang it during karaoke at The Black Lodge in Memphis, TN, USA last year. It's beautiful, somber, and it utilizes storytelling techniques, which I, as a writer and performer, can appreciate. Rest in Peace Gordon Lightfoot!

[@teddyfurstman1997]

RIP Gorden Lightfoot. He will be missed. You are a treasure among Canadian KZbinr to cover such a folk talent.

[@tysondowney3659]

Been a fan of yours for years, Polyphonic, and somehow didn't know you were a fellow Canadian! This was a great tribute to an iconic Canadian artist. Hello, from the Land of the Living Skies!

[@ecrhoad]

“If You Could Read My Mind” is an amazing song with killer vocals

[@johngore7744]

I’m a 62 year old Montrealer and my folks had ‘ Gords Gold’ when I was in my teens and I loved it. Though it wasn’t until later that I realized just how great it actually is. As I’ve learned more about music I hear the subtleties in the accompaniment of his musicians and the perfection of his voice and the ride and cadence of the music is amazing. Most of his better known songs hold real memories for me and finding ones I’ve never heard is like opening a gift. Thanks Gord Rip

[@STepanHAmbroski]

Though I am not Canadian, I have always felt a close connection and pride through Gordon Lightfoot's music. His lyrics have always painted such a vivid picture and almost transports you to the scene he is setting in front of you. His ability to project emotions through his delivery was also an amazing talent. As much as the US and Canada try to cut distinct identities for themselves, we have always had shared connections: same language, similar histories of being colonial nations growing into our own with a westward expansion into the great wild unknowns, and, of course, Gordon Lightfoot's music continually reintroduced us to each other. Whether it's you, as a Canadian, being transported into the heat of the Detroit race riots through Black Day in July, or me as, an American, being transported to the wide Canadian expanses and rich history through The Canadian Railroad Trilogy or Crossroads, his lyrics provide us with a perspective and transcendent human understanding of each other and the world around us. Gordon Lightfoot's music has been part of my repertoire since as long as I can remember, and it's eerie to me that I was listening to the bulk of his catalog the day he died, sparked by the fact that I was driving in the Early Morning Rain to work, which lead to want to throw on Rainy Day People and down the rabbit hole from there. RIP Gordon! Now that you are feedin' daisies, let us turn your face up to the sky, so that we can leave you be to watch the moon roll by.

[@isaiahvoss]

I remember like it was yesterday when I heard the news of Chester Bennington's passing that shocked the whole world. It says it all in his music. Not just Linkin Park fans but everyone who have listened to their music. And even before and after like David Bowie, Chris Cornell, Prince, Avicii and many more. Tragedies happen for a reason but we have to be thankful for all of these talented people wrote good music in the world.

[@BobbyGeneric145]

Who is Chester Beningston?

[@beethovensoup]

@@BobbyGeneric145linkin park lead singer

[@doughliciouscookies8830]

His loss still hurts. Beautiful voice. I was hooked the moment I heard crawling

[@littlezentz]

I knew it was coming but I still lost it over David Crosby. I've always wished I had that level of talent. I wonder if having it was enough for them.

[@TheMakeupforever]

Chester Bennington and Chris Cornell and Kurt Kobain still hurt to this day. I was shocked to the core as well to hear about Taylor Hawkins. So so many great great musicians hav have left us too soon. However yes, their legacy’s live on. Like Gordon’s will.

[@emotionalfish1181]

I heard a young woman say, hearing his music gave me a special insight into a different world and emotions I've never felt before. Cheers!

[@ohiko9594]

Never heard about this performer, but his music sounds so nostalgic to me. I'm not from Canada, I'm not even from Americas, but still Gordon Lightfoot's music makes me feel at peace. Thank you very much for sharing this wonderful performer with us

[@wmtc6760]

Definitely check out more of his music! His self-titled debut album, "Lightfoot" is a great place to start, as is "Did She Mention My Name."

[@dasbuj]

I've gotten really into John Prine lately, and one of the best concerts I've watched videos of is his House of Strombo set. Gord was in attendance and Prine frequently talked to him directly after songs. Prine said that Gord was his songwriting hero, and that instantly made me understand why he was such a big deal, and gave me a ton of newfound respect for him. RIP Gord and RIP Prine, two of the best are gone.

[@karenbarton6783]

So many memories of listening to his LP's back in the Seventies. I feel as if I've lost a long-time friend. "Mother of a Miner's Child" is my favorite of his songs.

[@mattrobert5]

One of my dearest memories from my childhood was getting a shout out on the legendary Radio Caroline for my birthday. They played my favourite song, The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. He was also my first favourite folk musicians before I really got into my own countries greats like Nick Drake and Sandy Denny. I am greatful I will always have his music.

[@mattrobert5]

Also I realise this is absolutely not the appropriate time but I would love for you to do an episode on Fairport Convention or Sandy. Much love.

[@bawi5883]

I didn’t even know I’ve been listening to Gordon Lightfoot songs all my life, covered by Tony Rice. I didn’t realize how many Lightfoot songs I already know all the words to, and now I have the pleasure of listening to the originals for the first time. It’s bittersweet to appreciate his gifts posthumously, but wonderful all the same. I especially love Sixteen Miles: “Somewhere on the mountain I'll take another name, Rid my mind of memories and start my life again. Somewhere in the wilderness I'll build a cabin small, then forget so I won't remember you at all.“

[@rupert597]

I was blessed to be able to see him live in late 2022. Rest in peace Mr. Lightfoot.

[@SuperStarr817]

This was a gorgeous tribute, Polyphonic. RIP Gord Lightfoot

[@gibran53]

What a wonderful and sincere tribute to Gordon Lightfoot! … Bravo!

[@KevinStriker]

I had a feeling this video was only a matter of time, a beautiful tribute to the man and his work. And yes, my first Lightfoot album was also Gord's Gold, and it did make me a lifelong fan and admirer.

[@billwhite7658]

I first discovered Gord’s music as a teen in an outdoor venue in DC in the mid sixties. His voice was soothing and the songs were beautiful in their poetic splendor. I was hooked and Gordon soon became my favorite artist. I got to see him perform in concert many times as he helped me over life’s ups and downs. Thank you for sharing your life with us, Gordon, esp Don Quixote, your song about Everyman, my favorite. RIP Dear Friend. Salute!

[@aptorres01]

You brought it all to life for me again , I felt like I was a kid again listening to my transistor radio with the antenna extended and pressed against the metal frame of my bedroom window to get reception . I haven't had a cry like that in quite some time. Thank you .

[@drumdad54sdl47]

It's nice to see a tribute to Gordon that features some of his lesser known earlier material. Well done. I recommend picking up a collection called the United Artist Collection. This has his first four albums. What a brilliant wordsmith he was. The Guess Who said it well in their song simply titled Lightfoot: "He is an artist He is an artist painting Sistine masterpieces of pine and fir and backwoods."

[@aquariusshade]

‘Beautiful’ is still a song that reminds me that love of someone true will always illuminate even in the darkest days. I grew up on his music & had the luxury to see him live once. RIP to an a real musical legend.

[@dirtycamerarailfan3302]

I was introduced to Lightfoot a couple years back. The moment I heard Canadian Railroad Trilogy, I fell in love with his music. Bitter Green, Carefree Highway, If You Could Read My Mind, so many others. When I got the news of his passing, I actually cried. R.I.P Gordon Lightfoot

[@MeneerHerculePoirot]

Grew up right on the shore of Lake Erie east of Cleveland. Spent most of my youth at the beach in summer on the ice in winter. Never had a real appreciation of the area until moving away. This video took me back. RIP, Gordon.

[@calvinmorris7000]

I love this man man’s music. For me his music is timeless. He sings about life, the human condition, it’s joys and sorrows I have never more beautiful love ballads than Softly, Affair on Eighth Ave, Looking at the rain and Beautiful. When he sang songs like these he put you right in the middle of song’s story. So much of his music was the theme of my life. Thank you so much Gordon…

[@oriontsehai3570]

I've been a fan of Lightfoot ever since I heard the first line of Early Morning Rain. I was very excited to see him perform in New Brunsick in March 2020, but sadly got canceled due to Covid. Truly one of Canada's greatest talents. Rest in Peace

[@skeletonshorror5184]

Thank you. What a great tribute. I’m so glad you mentioned Pussywillows and Cat tails… it’s just a small sample of Gordon painting the Canadian landscape for us Americans. 🇺🇸💔🇨🇦

[@kimberleykochel4785]

I was blessed to have met Gordon Lightfoot 6 years ago. He autographed my book," Lightfoot". What a wonderful memory for me. I live in his hometown and will go sign one of his books of condolence today. He is a "National Treasure". All of us Orillia folk are very proud of Gordon Lightfoot. Thank you Gordon. You are singing in heaven now for a captive audience. 🙏✝️🕊✌️🌹

[@Michelle-hg3sv]

Gordon's music filled the car (on 8 tracks) during our many cross country family road trips. I continued to be a fan, in adulthood and my daughter thanks me regularly for raising her with great music. RIP Gord and thank you Polyphonic!

[@timgarrett203]

Rick Beato also did a remembrance yesterday on Gordon. It seems those who know, teach and appreciate music the most were affected by Gordon Lightfoot the most. I lived in Alaska for a while so I, too, “get” the pussy willow song. Thank you for this!

[@pickerdad8402]

To a lot of us, Gordon Lightfoot IS Canadian music. His songs were carefully crafted. His melody lines flowed in and around each other. His lyrics were polished into a complete story; each song could be a movie on its own. He was uncompromising on the instrumentation, commanding perfection both in the studio and in concert. He saw it as a duty to bring his magic to the public. I believe he was on tour up until about a month ago. I was fortunate enough to see him in concert near Vancouver last November. Although he struggled to get enough breath, he found ways to deliver each song with the power it deserved. And of course, that famous 12-string still had all of Gord's magic. Rest easy old friend, you've earned it many times over.

[@kennyj43]

Early Morning Rain was my first exposure to his music, listening to a crackling Miami radio station from the Caribbean. It was a mind blowing experience and I've loved Gordon's music ever since.

[@Theomite]

I borrowed Summertime Dream from my library on a whim in 2003 just because I recognized his name, and was a fan ever since. When I started collecting vinyl in the late '10s, I was always on the lookout for his stuff and I've found more than a few, joyous that I was grabbing gems that so many others just passed by.

[@jamesdrynan]

Lovely tribute! I saw his first appearance at Massey Hall. What struck me was how he held the packed house enthralled with his voice and songs. An exceptional songsmith and rivetting performer. He has left a legacy of material for future fans to enjoy.

[@ShaughnessyMusic]

ah man, I hadn't actually hear about his death until I got your notification. I remember after Leonard Cohen's death, I sat at home all weekend listening to his songs, and reading his poems, feeling like I'd never given him the appreciation he deserved until that moment. While I can't say I've ever under-appreciated Lightfoot - he was the sound of my childhood after all - the news hits me hard. Rest in Peace to another of the great Canadian poets.

[@mytmyt]

Oh, Polyphonic, thank you so much for this love letter to Gordon Lightfoot and his music. I was sad when I heard he had passed, but I didn’t get verklempt until I watched your video. I’m a lifelong Michigander, who has spent many hours on road trips across the UP and around Lake Superior (M-28, U.S. 2, Hwy 61, Hwy 17) listening to the very album that you called out, “Gord’s Gold”. I can’t express how resonant this piece was for me. “Early Morning Rain” was the first Gordon Lightfoot song I remember hearing, probably before I was in kindergarten (the George Hamilton IV version, but still). Even at that young age I got what he was saying about loneliness. Or maybe my concept of that emotion was formed by that song, I don’t know. I had tentatively planned a road trip up to Gargantua for later this spring but I’m going for sure now, and you know what I’ll be listening to. Thanks again, Polyphonic, and thanks Gordo.

[@sharimccann2522]

Gordon Lightfoot, a part of my teen years. Just listen to that smooth voice. You will be missed, Sir. And loved forever.

[@keatonlusk3693]

While I was in Alaska, I was at a vintage guitar store and got to play one of his old Martin guitars. Such a cool experience, and was able to connect with him in a way in that moment

[@donaldcadman6467]

Gordon Lightfoot was my dad's favorite singer. The last few years my dad took me to see some of his shows, up until last June. As nice as it was too see him perform for his fans, loyal to him even into his 80's, I started to get tired of hearing the same songs after 10 times. Now me and my dad will not see his shows again. They're memories now. And I will cherish them. Thank you, Gordon, for the memories.

[@petestephen4922]

A great tribute video to a great singer / song writer. I spent my young childhood in Detroit. We would get much better programming from the CBC and much better music from the other side of the Detroit River. Gordon Lightfoot celebrated Canada in his songs. But he also celebrated the human condition. The Canadian Railroad Trilogy is my favorite song. I listened to it over and over yesterday. I will look for you video on that song.

[@skyarmyjd3]

Lightfoot's 'Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald' has a space in my heart, as i was born on November 10th, the anniversary of the day the Edmund Fitzgerald went down, on the coastal town of Cornucopia, Wisconsin, off the waters of Lake Superior. Rest easy, Lightfoot.

[@pristineclear8604]

He had a very distinct and unique style of singing, the kind that's not easily duplicated. Such a nice voice. His songs have a way of bringing back a memory in time, the mark of a great artist. rip gordon

[@nolank19]

Growing up and living in northern Minnesota (up in Duluth, on Lake Superior) we've all got a deep connection to Gordon, especially with "Edmund Fitzgerald" to which I think everyone recognizes as our anthem as Great Lakers. Thanks for the video. RIP

[@dianepiranian1224]

Thank you for your thoughts and knowledge on Gordon. His words and voice was a gift not many could have. Glad I was able to hear him in my life. RIP

[@dawndellarocco2362]

What a great performer. I loved his voice and songs.

[@ianjphil]

Gord’s Gold has always reminded me of home. No matter where I’ve been in life, it makes me feel like I’m that kid in Northern Alberta

[@GeorgiaLunch]

Born and raised in NYC but grew up on his music and his beautiful velvety warm voice. I was fortunate to see him many years ago and I've long been in love with his catalog. That humanity in his songs gives extra meaning to the downtrodden; evident in my personal favorite "Cherokee Bend". R.I.P., great video!

[@funkythoughts3485]

I grew up listening to my parents' CD of Gord's Gold. So many beautiful songs (including one of my all time favs, "Beautiful").

[@comeconcon569]

Rest in Peace, Mr Gordon LIghtfoot, and thank you very much for "The Circle is Small", one of my favorite songs.

[@macsarcule]

I grew up hearing his voice on the radio in rural iowa (back when we were simple and boring) and after meeting the love of my life 10 years ago who loved music even more than i did, Gordon was in constant rotation listening to music at night. When she passed away suddenly in 2019 after only knowing her for 6 years, I stopped listening to the music we loved to listen to together like Neil, and Joni, and CSN, and Carole King, and so many others. I miss that music so much. Maybe it’s time to drop the needle on some Gordon again.

[@markjarrett9400]

I thought that the only record of his that I knew was 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald'. I bought the single and played it to death (grew up in London and have never visited Canada). I still listern to it occasionally. While watching your video I realised that I knew more of his songs than I thought. Thank you so much for posting. I will search out more of his music. BTW I am playing The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald while writing this comment,

[@maestromecanico597]

Okay. Best paean to Gordo I've seen thus far. And you managed to do the whole thing with no mention of "If you could read my mind" which, although a favorite, is everyone's first selection as part of their tribute. Way to stay away from the fray.

[@AldenMoellerInc]

I found out about Gordon through my mother, and I grew to absolutely love his music. His death shocked me immensly. He's impacted my songwriting and music tastes so much, and he is one of my favorite musicians ever. Rest easy, Lightfoot.

[@Stelios78910]

The Circle is Small is one of my favourite love songs.

[@old-moose]

Thank you. I fell in love with Lightfoot while an American soldier in Germany. The German-England version of If You Could Read My Mind fit so well with my life there. After immigrating to Canada in 1974, I became even more aware of all his many songs. The world feels a bit emptier now

[@TheWindingMUSTARD]

I was so desperately hoping that you would make this video @Polyphonic . I grew up in Northern Sask but eventually moved to the city. Long River is by far my favourite song. Ever. My uncle still has land along the Saskatchewan River and whenever I hear that song I always think of it and of being a kid again with my family. Thank you so much Mr Lightfoot, you’ll always be remembered and loved in my family. And thank you Polyphonic, sincerely

[@jamesallard7223]

I grew up close enough to Detroit that it was not uncommon for a trip to be made across the bridge or under the tunnel. Canada has always been part of what I thought of as a place of beauty. I distinctly recall when the Fitz went down, and the impact of that loss. I was more than a little offended that none of my countrymen wanted to look at that loss, but if none of "us" would do it I was profoundly grateful Mr. Lightfoot took up the challenge and that opening notes give me chills to this day. I cannot sing it, not merely for a lack of talent but because it carries so much weight. I did get to see him live. Thank you for this, and I will raise my glass to the north, and be thankful he was in my life, if only for a moment.

[@abadgunman6838]

I’ve been bugging my dad for his original pressing of Sundown, pretty much the only record he won’t let me take. That won’t be changing any time soon. Rest easy Gordon.

[@scottphillips7108]

He gave us so very much... A lifetimes worth of special... God Bless Gordon's Soul...