First Time Hearing Gordon Lightfoot - If You Could Read My Mind (Reaction!)

[@craigmarkowski7156]

The singer-songwriters of the 60s and 70s were on a whole different level ! Poetic is an understatement !

[@jeremiahrose4681]

Amazing songwriter period. RIP Gordon.

[@CherylHughes-ts9jz]

I was a young girl when this came out. Although I was too young to understand the lyrics I knew it was beautiful even then.❤❤

[@mr.smithgnrsmith7808]

“heroes often fail…”….incredible songwriting

[@timjohnson2970]

This is the most beautiful "sad" song ever written!

[@MichaelAndrews-uy1gl]

This is art...not just music. Gordon was a brilliant songwriter, and performer.

[@Irockthere4]

One of Canada’s greatest storytelling singer songwriters!

[@dagmar.6954]

Great song! I was so sad to hear of Gordon Lightfoot's passing away recently. Loved his music. One of the best songwriters & storytellers. He was a Canadian legend. He had so many hits such as "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald", "Steel Rail Blues", "Ribbon Of Darkness", "Carefree Highway", "Rainy Day People", "Cotton Jenny", "Black Day In July", "Canadian Railroad Trilogy" etc.

[@EShelby2127]

"Early Morning Rain", "Sundown", "Don Quixote", "Beautiful"....

[@RhondaHill-mi7cw]

As a Canadian, Gordon Lightfoot was a special artist. As you say, the music is melodic and helps tell the story emotionally, but it is his lyric poetry that sets him apart. He was such a perfectionist in his work that, as with many geniuses, he had a tendency to addiction and erratic behavior that caused him a lot of angst and a lot of joy but not so much peace in between until he got much older. His poetry is really second to none in the music world and his words are a true insight into the man himself. He lays it all out there. Thank you for your analysis and commentary and for sharing.

[@SQUATCHY614]

Strings playing him lightly picking his 12 string guitar and his smooth distinct voice make this song a hit.

[@tomheim9516]

While Gordon often used a 12-string, this sounds much closer to a 6-string classical guitar. At least to my ears.

[@rp89d28]

My opinion - one of the best songs ever written. Lyrically and musically.

[@tomheim9516]

It just might be the best song ever written!

[@jeanniewright2554]

Gordon is a wonderful poet. All his songs show that!

[@claimguy]

I'm a 70's rock fan so I almost never use the word "beautiful" to describe a song but, damn, this is some beautiful tune. It just soars......

[@becksullivan4796]

Me too…and ditto

[@Dee-eq1pg]

I have to say, I always love your take on songs. And you are usually correct. Especially about this beautiful song.

[@grayhood2314]

For so many Canadians like me, of that age, Gordon Lightfoot was one of the first musical voices and storytellers we ever heard, and grew up with those stories in our hearts.

[@georgia1bulldogs]

He was amazing his concerts were outstanding. He had throat cancer and still came back to tour.

[@CapnBob2010]

"Affair on 8th Avenue", "Beautiful", "Canadian Railroad Trilogy", "The Last Time I Saw Her" "Ode to Big Blue", "Old Dan's Records", "Heaven Help the Devil", "Shadows", 14 Karat Gold", "Your Love's Return (Song for Stephen Foster)", "Make Way For The Lady", "Spanish Moss", Bitter Green", Carefree Highway", "Minstrel of the Dawn", "All the Lovely Ladies", "Ode to Big Blue", "Christian Island (Georgian Bay)". "Dream Street Rose", "Endless Wire", "Ghosts of Cape Horn", If Children Had Wings", "I'm Not Supposed to Care", "Is There Anyone Home", "Looking at the Rain", "Now and Then", "A Passing Ship", "Race Among the Ruins", Rainy Day People", "Softly", "Song for a Winter's Night", "Stone Cold Sober", "Talking in Your Sleep", "Triangle", "Thank You for the Promises", "Summertime Dream", "She's Not the Same", " On the High Seas", "Pussywillows, Cat-Tails", " If You Need Me"... -These are just a few that come to mind. Give these a listen, and I think you will see why I say that Gord is alone at the top. There are singer-songwriters, and there is Gordon Lightfoot

[@vickithomas7976]

Hurts my heart every time I hear this. One always loves more than the other.

[@falcon215]

This is why I like watching reaction videos man.

[@BorealisNights]

Poet, Songwriter, Musician, Storyteller, Humanitarian, ARTIST... You've just bumped into a LEGEND... Please... DIVE DEEPER! The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald Sundown Then take another breath, and dive DEEPER.

[@DeeDeex2]

Great insight! I was blessed that my dad was willing to take me to a Gordon Lightfoot concert back in the seventies when I was a teenager. That's a special memory for me spending time with my dad. ❤ I usually spent the small amount of money I earned from odd jobs on singles, but with Gord I saved up until I had enough to buy his entire album, whenever they came out. REAL talent!

[@joannparker1977]

Isn't this song so beautiful? And the same with this man's voice. And his songwriting. Incredible.

[@echopryme]

I fucking LOVE this song!! 💯😎

[@wentibbetts7833]

Canada's national treasure. He was such a great storyteller, "But the feeling's gone And I just can't get it back." I've been there b4. So sad to hear he passed, RIP Mr. Lightfoot. 🥺

[@lem01ne]

I'm so glad you did this song. It's one of my dad's favorites, and he & I got to see Gordon Lightfoot in concert about a year before Gordon passed away. RIP to a folk music legend...

[@GaryCain-qf5vi]

Was talking to my friend Kathy this morning, reminiscing old times and one time in the 70's she was back stage at a Gordon Lightfoot Concert, and he kissed her👄 funny you should be reacting to him today. This song was one of my favorites😂 Peace✌️ and Love❤️ the forever hippie Gary😊

[@jimmycranier3668]

Seems Gordon somehow seen my life and wrote a song about it.

[@babylonsister118]

It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

[@rmacdougallaliasdogviticus]

Back in 1973 my girl worked at the local movie theater so I went to a lot of films I normally would not have. Thus I came to watch a movie called 'Last of the Big Guns', this song was featured in the movie and I loved it. They renamed the movie to 'Paperback Hero' shortly after the song started climbing the charts. Gordon still has plenty of fire you've yet to hear. For another awesome love song check out 'Beautiful' (1972), or the sad love song 'Bitter Green' (1968). For something more uplifting try 'The Summer Side of Life'. (1971). For a History lesson listen to 'Black Day in July' (1968). Cheers.

[@Delet322]

Excellent information,

[@frankbua8892]

From your thumbnail, I wouldn't have expected this insightful examination of songs from my day....I'm subscribed now!

[@RockinMamaT]

First 😂 As a Canadian Gordon was a Staple in my life because my Mom was from the East coast and loved Gordon. So when ever I hear him it makes me think of my Mom RIP to both Mom and Gordon. Great reaction as usual my friend and Peace out ✌️ ☮️

[@shadow1674]

I've always loved the song thank you for posting thank you for your reaction❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@toddschrocatart]

The Singer Songwriter path is a highly rewarding road to go down Shon!

[@FavoriteMovieDate]

I like that he describes both sides of the relationship. It is bittersweet and completely beautiful.

[@marybill1429]

Love Gordon Lightfoot love this song😊

[@theadviser123]

I love how deep and philosophical you are. You felt him and it moved you. That's awesome! Loved your reaction!

[@angieday5183]

One of the great songwriters

[@viviennerose6858]

That is an absolutely Brilliant analysis of the lyrics. I'm pretty sure the majority of people don't look so deeply into them. Well done you 💙

[@terimingle8957]

A master story teller! Great reaction!!!❤

[@kpiperjr]

I've watched quite a few reactions to this song. It doesn't usually hit the younger people like it does those of us who've been through divorce. As painful as it is, this song is one of my all-time favorites. You described it as 1,000 cuts ... yes, that's a great way to say it. Here's to hoping you never totally get the emotion of this song, Shon.

[@mrchips4489]

This song was popular when I was a teenager; could really identify with it at various times in my life. One of my favorite all-time songs. Thanks for the reaction.

[@nrsvlda70]

Had the joy of seeing him in concert a couple of times about 20 yrs ago. He is such a poet, songwriter, performer.. he doesn’t have a bad song! Thank-you for your thoughtful analysis of this song, and this amazing performer. RIP Mr. Lightfoot.

[@leisastalnaker3790]

His poetry is just beyond.❤❤❤❤

[@browniewin4121]

He is an incredible singer and song writer, most known for his musical story telling of The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald, based on a real event.

[@threekidzmom04]

First date with my now husband was in 1974 at a Gordon Lightfoot concert at Xavier University in Cincinnati. I have love his music since the Sumer of 1974.

[@Worldagenda24]

I'm 68 now, and thats one of my all time favourite songs. 💙💙😊

[@simchabaruch7023]

A musician who influenced Gordon was FRED NEIL, who shaped anyone who heard him. Many many guitarmen bought a 12 string the morning after hearing him, like Stephen Stills. He put many people on stage for the first time, including Dylan.

[@kevinwalsh9788]

Stars on 54 is a woman group that sings a disco version of this song. They do it justice. It is featured in a movie about Studio 54 in NYC. This was a club favorite was played everywhere on a Saturday night.

[@thomasdempsey721]

Endless versions in da' clubs!!! (I thought Studio 54 was my life in the 90's! LOL...now I am old, in bed by 9. A retired bon vivant!)

[@roberormonde]

The orchestra. Makes it more beautiful

[@kennbicknell5492]

*Timeless song from 1970 when he was 30. He passed last year at age 84!*

[@kathieovercash8414]

The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald.

[@billofalltrades2633]

He was such a a great artist! Awesome song. Great reaction!

[@davidhumiston6500]

Can't wait till you do THE WRECK OF THE EDMUND FITZGERALD by Gordon.. he is a great storyteller

[@Karen-nn6kg]

Elegant: It is! That's a beautiful and succinct description of this narrative. It's lovely to see how moved people become when they experience old songs and lyrics.

[@stephaniemccord-vega1190]

Shon the way you describe things are so on point and pure, I've said it before you're so young to know so much. You had me at that rare emotion of laughing and crying at the same time when you were describing the ghost part. Your right on. Gordon Lightfoot, what a rare gem of a voice, musician, and songwriter.

[@patrickallen5781]

I've listened to him since the 70's and loved his music and stories. I know he just recently passed away RIP

[@AsTheCrowSquawks]

This song makes me cry every time.

[@suzanneprock7286]

Another great song from the 70's.

[@roydownes2458]

a very beautiful and very sad song. he wrote this when he realized that his marriage was falling apart and he couldnt do anything to stop it.

[@TheToscanaMan]

I really miss him. An extraordinary singer/songwriter who painted pictures with words and music. It was good to see him perform with fellow Canadians Ian and Sylvia when they did a reunion concert. Loved your reaction.

[@TeresaMount-t9o]

Love his stories beautiful song, thanks Shon.

[@frankiebanali4202]

Awesome artist. He has so many great songs. One of my favorites is a very deep cut...I'm Not Supposed to Care.

[@aircap]

A master poet, fine guitar picker and top-shelf singer. We lost a legend when he passed recently.

[@willwhitman7534]

I truly love this song, if you've been there, you understand, if you're still there and holding it in, this song will break you down

[@empyrealone]

I just said this on another one of your videos, but your lyric breakdowns are on point

[@freyjabeth4372]

Always loved this! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, really enjoyed your reaction!

[@joannparker1977]

A song about regret. Poetic. Brilliant

[@taradevine6026]

His lyrics are on another level. Just incredible.

[@KrazyKatLadyx2]

Haunting and a favorite

[@collettedauphinais8381]

If we had a Mount Rushmore in Canada, Gordon Lightfoot would be on it, full stop❤

[@pamelapasechnick6899]

Gordon Lightfoot has always been one of my favorite singer/songwriters, and this has always been my favorite of his songs! I have heard dozens of people react to this song, and you are the first one that really seems to fully appreciate just what the lyrics are trying to convey! Thank you for your enthusiasm and thoughtful comments on these lyrics. Gordon Lightfoot was a prolific songwriter over MANY decades and each song is an individual masterpiece both musically and lyrically! If you want an example of the great diversity of his songs, check out "Black Day In July" and then "Song for Winter's Night", and THEN "Canadian Railroad Trilogy"! He writes SO MANY different kinds of songs! As always I truly look forward to seeing more of your reaction videos

[@mikemicrael5749]

This was my first favorite song. Glad you liked it! :)

[@deborahharper3126]

Healthy relationships require compromise from both parties. I was married 33 years til he passed & it was not always a bed of roses but we worked at it through Compromise... just sayin. 🤷‍♀️ Be Safe & Blessings EVERYONE ❣️

[@debigiroux1811]

Great reaction. I love how you dissect a song and you’re always on point. Gordon Lightfoot, Jim Croce and Dan Fogelberg are great storytellers. ❤👌

[@user-Terry314]

Elegant - that's a good discriptive word that covers the whole song. Thanks for that, as usual I enjoy your responses. Cheers from Australia.

[@AmazingChinaToday]

Song rec: Lindsey Buckingham - "Trouble"

[@208467]

I have watched a lot of reaction videos, your analysis of Gordons awesome song is very very inciteful and intelligent. I am subscribing and please review more Gordon Lightfoot, he has soooo much to offer.

[@russellkassel553]

So I do believe the lyrics were displayed wrong. The most poignant line, near the end “…….trying to understand the feelings that you ‘lack’….” Not “left”, makes more sense. Either way, It’s painful to see people bound by “chains of love” for someone who has moved on from a once shared love. 😢

[@revaflowers3115]

This is my favorite Gordo song. The poet and the musician blended into one. My mother always said when you marry young,you will change into another version of yourself every 6 years until you are in your late 30s.I think that is true.Until you have fully matured you are going to keep evolving at a consistent rate,slowing down as you become middle aged.Those changing versions fall in and out of love and only working hard to stay committed to your significant other can we maintain the relationship,because eventually you are going to fall back in love with them or cast them aside, depending on the work you put in to it.

[@deanpresson8215]

Great reaction, Shon. I’m feeling kinda emotional and choked up. I remember this song and Gordon Lightfoot well; I just know it a lot better today.

[@LoveTheVideo]

❤🙏 Loved your explanation of the lyrics…. It helped me understand the meaning so much better. 🥹

[@chab1rd155]

Carefree Highway, is a goody by him among others ...

[@R777-RLM]

I saw a video of this song, and his guitar playing was really impressive, and that he plays everything but the bow & string instruments.

[@adrianlongoria5236]

What a good analysis of this song. Good job.

[@robertsaaf1467]

Great reaction to such a beautiful and brilliant yet intensely emotional song ❤

[@ceeceerider]

Happy you liked this one.😊

[@ellenashton9468]

Bloody brilliant isn't he😊

[@JimFlickinger]

Love your insights and your old soul!!

[@willfromyadkinville]

another great storyteller! R.I.P.

[@WolvenHeart1]

Rainy day people, Sundown , wreck of Edmund Fitzgerald, Early morning rain, Carefree Highway are all good songs by Gordon L

[@suzannebaker5270]

Shon! I am so in love with you for you being in love with so much golden music!

[@robborra8071]

Im glad you got around to the song, one of my favorites as like Gordie went through the same with my 1st marriage so this song will always mean a lot to me also a reminder of all the time wasted trying to make it work... but hero's often fail

[@randytaylor1406]

A story song, love that line "what a tale my thoughts would tell." Another song you could check out is MacAuthur Park (long, about 7 1/2 minutes) by Richard Harris.

[@GaryKirkham-ju8gw]

Excellent analysis from Shon on this one ...

[@clintonhunt9274]

You are most perceptive.

[@martymcghee3742]

❤❤❤😢❤LIKE CAROL KING’S SONG “TOO LATE BABY”…❤😊❤❤❤

[@steveullrich7737]

Shon you have great ubderstanding of his beautiful lyrics.

[@andreasmith6528]

Since you love the storytellers, I thought of the band Bread. It appears you've never reacted to them. They have lots of hits, but a good starting point would be "If." I think you'll love it. Next would be "Diary" and "Everything I Own" and "Lost Without Your Love" and several others.

[@steve9199]

The co-"Poet Laureate of Canada" along with Joni Mitchell.

[@monkeymanoki]

love your reaction on this one you are a good soul