SO HEARTBREAKING!! | First Time Hearing Gordon Lightfoot - Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald | REACTION

[@michaelmccarthy5455]

When Gordon Lightfoot died, the Maritime Sailor's Cathedral bell chimed 29 times for the men aboard the Edmund Fitzgerald, and the final knell, the 30th, was for Gordon Lightfoot.

[@robertlerman7892]

😢Rip to all of the crew and Gordon Lightfoot.❤️😢🙏

[@KenPassey-hd2mc]

❤

[@BlackieNuff]

I love that anecdote. It never loses its emotive impact.

[@TrianglesAndCircles]

That's one of the most thoughtful things I've ever heard.

[@Charlie-x6y]

Such a beautiful tribute to the captain and crew

[@1edinnola]

I saw a drawing when he died. It was Gordon at Heaven's Gate. Peter looked at him saying, "There are 29 men waiting to meet you."

[@KidIndigo1]

That's really touching. Thank you for sharing that!

[@tuffguy0134]

That's awesome

[@robertmatechuk2660]

I HOPE

[@brucezabel4945]

Why does someone always insist on chopping onions each and every time I hear this song. I was a kid when this happened while living near Superior. I still remember the news alert coming across the TV screen.

[@davidyoungquist6074]

❤😢❤

[@ontheroad5317]

As a US citizen, I would like to thank Canada for giving the world Gordon Lightfoot. Rest in peace Gordon, you didn’t just have a gift, you WERE the gift.

[@robbob5302]

Amen

[@rhoanjenson7475]

Canada's favorite son, singer and songwriter.

[@codyaucoin3412]

We loved out Gords; Gord Downey of the Tragically Hip, Gordon Lightfoot, Gordon Pinsent, of stage and screen, and Gordie Howe (Gordie!) of Hockey fame.

[@858Bill]

My father worked on the boats as a cook for many years.....including the Fitz.... I've been aboard her a few times myself.... We knew many of the men personally...... Rest in Peace.... Michael Armagost- 37- Third Mate- Iron River, Wisconsin Fred Beetcher- 56- Porter- Superior, Wisconsin Thomas Bentsen- 23- Oiler- St. Joseph, Michigan Edward Bindon -47- First Asst. Engineer- Fairport Harbor, Ohio Thomas Borgeson -41- Maintenance Man- Duluth, Minnesota Oliver Champeau- 41-Third Asst. Engineer- Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Nolan Church -55 -Porter -Silver Bay, Minnesota Ransom Cundy- 53- Watchman- Superior, Wisconsin Thomas Edwards-50- Second Asst. Engineer- Oregon, Ohio Russell Haskell -40- Second Asst. Engineer- Millbury, Ohio George Holl -60- Chief Engineer- Cabot, Pennsylvania Bruce Hudson- 22- Deck Hand -North Olmsted, Ohio Allen Kalmon -43- Second Cook- Washburn, Wisconsin Gordon MacLellan- 30- Wiper- Clearwater, Florida Joseph Mazes- 59- Special Maintenance Man -Ashland, Wisconsin John McCarthy -62-First Mate -Bay Village, Ohio Ernest McSorley -63 -Captain -Toledo, Ohio Eugene O'Brien- 50- Wheelsman -Toledo, Ohio Karl Peckol -20- Watchman -Ashtabula, Ohio John Poviach -59- Wheelsman- Bradenton, Florida James Pratt -44- Second Mate- Lakewood, Ohio Robert Rafferty -62 -Steward -Toledo, Ohio Paul Riippa -22 -Deck Hand -Ashtabula, Ohio John Simmons -63 -Wheelsman -Ashland, Wisconsin William Spengler -59- Watchman- Toledo, Ohio Mark Thomas -21- Deck Hand- Richmond Heights, Ohio Ralph Walton -58- Oiler- Fremont, Ohio David Weiss -22 -Cadet -Agoura, California Blaine Wilhelm -52- Oiler- Moquah, Wisconsin

[@vulgarprophet2689]

James Pratt was my Aunt's husband. His kid Sue, my cousin, still lives around Erie, PA.

[@DanHenderson-s8d]

Thank you for posting names, such a tragedy

[@markwilhelm168]

Blaine Wilhelm....... That's gonna stick in my head.

[@lawrencecassidy1229]

Well played, well played

[@ronaldgines171]

Damn good job my man... Damn good job

[@TannerHemmingsen]

Gordon Lightfoot sadly passed away in May 2023 at 84 years old. I recommend his songs “Sundown” and “If You Could Read My Mind”

[@MegaForrestgump]

They also added his name to the memorial for the men that sadly passed in the tragedy. Actually several memorials on the lake.

[@69woodys]

You must listen to the Live version of ' If You Could Read My Mind ' It's such a beautiful song Oh,and have your tissues close by ❤

[@robertlerman7892]

@@TannerHemmingsen Also Carefree highway 👍❤️

[@MILVO17]

YES, two more mega hits. Watch the live version of Sundown.

[@hunterharrell7491]

​@MILVO17 specifically the '74 verson not the '79 version lol

[@emperoring112]

To give a little more context, the Edmund Fitzgerald was at the time of her sinking the largest ship sailing the great lakes. What made her wreck so interesting and scary is the fact in one moment she was above water, and then the next she was completely gone without a trace. The sailors who were on board didn't have a chance to even try to save themselves the ship sank so quickly. Many believe a massive wave overtook the ship and the ships bow nose dive directly into the floor of Lake Superior causing the whole ship to get Pulled Under Water within a matter of moments. The entire 29 person crew probably had no idea what even happened by the time the ship hit bottom. For those of us who live up near the great lakes, and go boating and sailing on them, it's definitely a tale that a lot of us know and appreciate because we're around all of these Freighters and ships that sail the lakes. For those who don't live around the lakes, it's hard to really put into perspective for them just how large and dangerous these Lakes actually are. The Great Lakes are basically miny oceans, they are beautiful and elegant, but are also deadly and dangerous and are not to be underestimated. Gordon I think really did a good job putting that into perspective with this song for sure. Amazing reaction as always, thank you for checking this one out❤🤘

[@dole8001]

And because of her length they also figure the bow and stern were on separate waves causing the hull to buckle under its weight.

[@edgarcia4794]

The report on the massive waves slamming into the Fitz in her stern had came from her sister ship The Arthur M . Anderson who had dropped in behind the Ftzgerald and they were the ones that reported that the Fitzgeralds light dissapeared.driving her under In the susspected hard drive forward under the waves and how the Fitzgerald looks under water seems to cooberate a hard hit and slide as the Fitzgerald was 700+ feet long but the lake where she hit bottom is 500+ feet deep. = = feet deepts

[@ffjsb]

It's very unlikely that they hit bottom there, the lake is over 500' deep in that area. And had they shoaled in a different location, they definitely would've heard and felt it. It's more likely the ship split apart due to the stresses of the waves, which could've been over 35'. There also could've been unknown previous damage that contributed to the ship breaking up. After this incident, they came to realize how much stress the Great Lakes storms put on a ship.

[@edgarcia4794]

@@ffjsb Possibly, other investigators figure as the tonnage of water inside the Fitz moved the taconite pellets forwards into the bow it added to it's bow weight because the forward secton hit the bottom and plowed up a trench under it and the anchors hit hard enough to shoot forwards of the bow . Heck of it is if the Fitz stood on the transom / stern at a 90 degree angle her bow would have been 200 feet above water.

[@daveheesen9174]

I was a young teen when this song came out and I had no idea that there even WAS a great lakes merchant marine...Another artist that was involved in great lakes marine safety in great lakes is Loreena Makennit ...she lost her fiance in a boating accident...all profits from her double live in Paris album...you would like her music

[@lrjetmech83]

"Does anyone know where the love of God goes, when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" What a haunting line, but brilliant. He was a master storyteller and singer. Great reaction!

[@Ahsoka_Tano]

Totally 100% agree.

[@michaelmontgomery44]

Best line of the song. So damn haunting.

[@sharkdentures3247]

My favorite line. Perhaps the most beautifully, painfully, artistically accurate definition of the word "Despair". (or "hopelessness")

[@brentpoikey1154]

Lake Superior is.... different. I grew up on the great lakes and inland lakes, and the water is nothing to take lightly, you NEED to be careful. But Superior (especially during a storm) had a near-spiritual effect on me and that's coming from a guy who really does not believe in the supernatural. I definitely just don't understand whatever is going on with that lake but the only way I can describe it DIFFERENT. I've lived on both coasts and the Pacific with a raging storm coming in comes the closest, but Superior if just something else. I've kayaked on it multiple times but stayed extremely close to shore and even then had "red flag" feeling of "I should get back to shore like right now.".Everyone who is able to should visit Superior once in their lives. And if you're into crazy weather experiences, visit during a storm in the winter. That shit is absolutely WILD and beautiful at the same time.

[@losdog13]

That’s actually one of my favorite lines on the song

[@vulgarprophet2689]

My uncle died on this ship. He was James Pratt - Second Mate. His widow still lives around Erie, PA.

[@BlackGuardXIII]

❤

[@SpiroFleecy]

Respect

[@davidsandelin4481]

My condolences 🙏

[@stychentyme]

Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian icon. I've listened to him most of my life. Rest in peace. 😔

[@jburt779]

Me too. I grew up hearing this and John Prine a lot more than the top 40 radio stuff.

[@Mrburninbiomass]

I think the line "Does any one know where the love of God goes When the waves turn the minutes to hours?" is one of the most devastating lines in rock. It gets me every time.

[@caseyhart9916]

It's the next one that always gets me. "The searchers all say they'd made Whitefish Bay, if they put fifteen more miles behind her... " Safe harbor was so close, but it may as well have been on the moon.

[@Gothicsilencer]

Yeah, you don't have to be religious to see the terrible beauty of that line.

[@puffdog76]

Hate to say it but the love of God goes to the wives son and doughters

[@stevejones7093]

Gordon's "If You Could Read My Mind" is a true masterpiece.

[@johnspringer6003]

Don't apologize for the breaks and your commentary. That's why we watch. Thank you for your videos.

[@ericzeichert511]

This was not history when Gordon wrote and created this masterpiece. It came out less than a year after the wreck, and it is a brilliant tribute to some of the men who make America work. Incidentally, after Gordon died, the Maritime Sailors Cathedral rang it's bell 30 times....one for each man on the Edmund Fitzerald, and one for the troubador who immortalized them.

[@joeday4293]

Yeah - the equivalent in my adult life would be if a song this good came out about 9/11, in 2002. This was current events when this song came out.

[@edjeff1]

Gordon Lightfoot’s song "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" raised thousands of dollars for the families of the sailors lost in the 1975 shipwreck. Lightfoot donated a portion of the song’s royalties to support the families, and the song itself has helped raise awareness about the tragedy for decades. Upon his death, the Maritime Sailor's Cathedral held a ceremony and rang the bell 30 times instead of 29. One extra ring for Gordon Lightfoot!

[@markbarney]

He donated all the royalties to the families.

[@1teamski]

You just found one of the most famous folk songs ever written. Haunting and forever memorable.....

[@DennisRabidue]

I live in Detroit and every year the church bells chime 29 times and the relatives come and remember, the radio stations play this song and we remember. they will never be forgotten 😢

[@aaronburdon221]

My dad took a vacation to the UP and on his way there, he stopped at the museum for the ceremony to pay his respects. This is one of his favorite songs. According to him, it was surreal.

[@jamescumbo1928]

Aileen you don't have to apologize for talking. Your reaction was wonderful. It was heartfelt and sincere. You expressed your feelings for the song at the moment . Thank you for being so genuine.

[@GlennYoung-y8j]

Don't apologize for expressing you feelings, Aileen - ANYONE who can hear this song and not be touched isn't fully human. This is one of the most touching songs ever, and thanks sincerely for your reactions.

[@johntiggleman4686]

All these years and I still cry. Gordon was a treasure...such a songwriter. And sorely missed. The reason for the line "Superior it's said never gives up her dead" is because the water is so cold, there is little or no decomposition of the body, and no internal gasses which would make a body come to the surface after some time, in warmer waters. Superior is considered an inland sea. And I saw him in concert a few months after the song was released, and played it. When it was over, the whole auditorium was so quiet, you could hear the concert goers crying.

[@sonnyjames8922]

This song is a eulogy. Thank you for listening.

[@cs281]

One thing I wish people would speak more of, is the captain and crew of the Arthur M Anderson. They were the ones that were in communication and were traveling approximately 15 miles behind the Edmund Fitzgerald. When the Arthur Andersen was able to make it safely to Harbor, the Coast Guard asked for their help to locate the Edmund Fitzgerald. They had just got away from that dangerous storm yet they willingly went back into it. That to me is true bravery.

[@billbaker9623]

Absolutely correct!

[@MrJfortun]

In the words of Bob Dylan about Lightfoot, Lightfoot died "without ever having made a bad song".

[@stephenolan5539]

He did have a song banned in some states. Black Day in July.

[@tomroome4118]

@@stephenolan5539 Probably Michigan?

[@stephenolan5539]

@@tomroome4118 One source says 30 states banned it.

[@tomroome4118]

@@stephenolan5539 I live north of the border so I don't know it was banned. I'm just assuming Michigan as the song is about the Detroit riots.

[@johnarmenta2199]

Whereas Dylan is still alive and has yet to make a good song at all.

[@RoGueNavy]

I'm a former US Navy sailor. I did my basic training at Recruit Training Center, Great Lakes, right on the shore of Lake Michigan. I started there, in November of 1990. Our instructors played us this song, on the 15th Anniversary of the loss of the Fitzgerald. To this day, when I hear that instantly-recognizable electric guitar riff, it reminds me of those high winds blowing off the lake. Even in the hottest part of the summer, I get chills.

[@jburt779]

On the open ocean too. It’s eerie.

[@auntiegravity7713]

I did my basic training in the AF in the same year. My point isn't about being in the military, but more so about being about the same age and maybe even hearing this song as a kid, and about a deep respect for those waters, and those that died on that day. The guitar is brilliant, and also the time signature.

[@chadparsons9954]

October 98, the lake effect is no joke.

[@juergenblaas6573]

When Gordon, who donated most of the income of this song to the familes, died in May 2023 the church bells chimed 30 times

[@ffjsb]

He donated ALL of it. They still get residuals.

[@lauraclark427]

He did not donate all the money to the families. He kept in touch with the families throughout his life, and created a scholarship fund for the children of the sailors, but he did not donate all the proceeds. Google it.

[@markhagerman1837]

This song is sacred to us Michiganders. I was very young when the Fitz sank but I remember it. We were at my grandmas when the local news broke into the normal TV programming. I didn’t understand what had happened but I knew something very bad had happened based on the grown ups’ reactions. RIP Mr. Lightfoot. Thank you for the amazing stories.

[@ffjsb]

Ohioans too, much of the crew were from Ohio.

[@justafreethinker]

Also to us Wisconsinities.

[@auntiegravity7713]

I was just a kid at the time but this song played a lot on the Chicago radio stations.

[@wiltchamberlain9920]

It’s impossible for me to hear this song without getting at least misty-eyed. So beautiful. So haunting. So heartbreaking. Gordon Lightfoot is a treasure.

[@briantaulbee6452]

Same.

[@haydendegrow945]

Gordon Lightfoot is called "Canada's Greatest Storyteller", and rightfully so! This man truly weaves a story and makes you imagine what he's singing... While he is lost, he is 100% remembered by Canadians like me

[@JimBowman-h8w]

Hello Eileen from Northern British Columbia, Canada. I'm so glad you chose a song from Gordon Lightfoot's incredible catalogue. I'm not going to make comments that duplicate those below. They're pretty good. I just have a few things to say as I'm sure you're very busy. First, you apologize more than a Canadian (lol). It is so refreshing to see someone in the public view with such honesty and emotional integrity. I have enjoyed your reactions for sometime now. You are in my top three KZbinrs because of your authenticity. This is what characterizes Canadian music although I can't be sure that applies to more modern music, which, of course will offend some folks and bring out the haters. You are far from a hater. Please take these compliments as genuine to a genuine person. I do hope you explore more Gordon. There are some good suggestions below which are more known because of their commercial success. Other songs will take you away the sadness eviked by this song, which still brings a tear to my eye when I hear it being listened to by someone who is new to it. A couple tunes that you probably won't get recommended are "on the Lee of Christian island" which is a small place in Lake Huron (Canadian side), and "sit down young stranger." To conclude, I so appreciate that you listened in a heartfelt and open way without interrupting this beautiful and poignant work by a master storyteller. It's the folk tradition. I encourage you to continue your important work. With respect.

[@brucefelger4015]

Once more they are remembered. Thank you for choosing this song.

[@robertfindley921]

Great song from a great poet, storyteller and musician. This song was released just one year after the tragedy. If "You Could Read My Mind" is his best in my view. "Sundown" is great too.

[@hlawrencepowell]

Gordon Lightfoot was the guy Bob Dylan listened to. Lightfoot was a major inspiration for generations of songwriters. Every Canadian is proud of Gordon Lightfoot and Gord Downie.

[@kennywilkus1632]

No one could weave a tale in such beautiful ways like Gordon. He was a treasure! Sundown and If You Could Read My Mind should be next. Brilliant songwriter.

[@juliewolfe168]

I will happily go down the Gordon Lightfoot rabbit hole with you; he was an amazing songwriter, singer, storyteller.

[@davidberie5372]

Thank you Aileen. Gordon Lightfoot is worth the journey down the music rabbit hole. He was so good at painting visuals with his music.

[@AFmedic]

The reason they say, "Superior Never Gives up Her Dead", is because at depth the water is too cold for for decomposition gasses to form and therefore bodies do not bloat and eventually rise to the surface. The following is a direct quote from the S.S.Edmund Fitzgerald's Website concerning Gordon Lightfoot ... "Gordon Lightfoot usually is very protective of this song and the wishes of the family members and is in no way "for" exploiting the victims, or their family members. He has also appeared at several 25th anniversary memorial services in support of the families and is in personal contact with many of them. Every family member that we have interviewed on this website agrees that Lightfoot is "a good guy," "a genuine man," and even "blessed."

[@leenagel3605]

I'm 61 years old. I remember when this happened. It made the National news. All through the years, there were a lot of shows about the Edmond Fitzgerald. what happened, how it happened and etc. I served in the US Navy after high school. 1981-1985. All 4 years was on the USS New Jersey BB-62. When you go to sea, you already know what can happen. You already accept it. I've been through 3 hurricanes/typhoons at sea. I've seen 40-80 foot waves. all you can do is your job and trust everyone else to do theirs. In this situation, from what I've seen and read, they happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. NOAA and the coast guard, believe the she was struck by a rouge wave. That caused the wave peaks to shorten between them and drove her bow straight into the bottom. That's why she is sitting on the bottom relatively intact. I was watching when they sent the remote sub down to retrieve the bell and place another in its place. They didn't show it, but they spotted remains on the bridge.

[@rac3rx]

It's been said we don't just learn history to not repeat past mistakes, we learn to learn to be better. Having a good history teacher that makes it interesting/engaging is a incredible benefit.

[@lisaann9061]

Gordon Lightfoot was amazing singer and songwriter, I hope you do react to some more of his songs " Sundown" or "If you could read my mind" Thank you for your reactions!

[@G-Man5272]

Aileen - your "ramblings, incessant talking and babbling .." are appreciated and well-spoken. Thank you for your heartfelt commentary on this iconic tune from Gordon Lightfoot. Keep on keeping on Aileen!

[@bostonvair]

You're such a beautiful, empathetic soul, that your reaction was really moving. As far as history goes, the Fitzgerald went down on November 10, 1975. Gordon Lightfoot read about it in the news and was so moved to write this song which was a big hit in 1976. I've known this song all these years and I still get all choked up when I hear it (especially when someone such as yourself reacts to it). Lighfoot did such a great job making you feel like you were there.

[@Lucy-d7s]

"If you could read my mind ", Gordon Lightfoot. Another Heartbreaker. Thanks Aileen. Yer awesome.

[@stuartlent2645]

They finally found the Edmund Fitzgerald. They recovered the ships bell. The Edmund Fitzgerald is a grave site. From a Gordon Lightfoot song "if you could read my mind love, what a story my thoughts could tell. Just like a paperback novel about a ghost from a wishing well." Find the song and fall in love with it.

[@davidsmith385]

I remember watching this on TV, fascinating. 😊

[@crowflight719]

From all of Canada to this legendary Canadian. We miss you Gordie - RIP.

[@scottmatzeder9162]

Gordon is an absolute Legend! One of the Greatest Storytellers of all time! One of the Major Musical Acts hailing from Canada....

[@trevormachado]

Sundown and If You Could Read My Mind are MUST listens. Gordon was an absolutely amazing artist and songwriter. Rest in peace.

[@johnknee1403]

Others have mentioned as well that song “if you could read my mind” is a masterpiece, beautiful song.

[@EchoesDaBear]

GREAT reaction Aileen!! A journey with Gordon Lightfoot (RIP) is a voyage with a MASTER storyteller! Pride of Canada (and the world as a whole), he paints a picture in all he sings about. Whether stories of relationships (his own or observed) in If You Could Read My Mind & Sundown (my personal favourite); Canadiana - in the Canadian Railroad Trilogy; maritime tragedy in this song; or the beauty of nature & the world around in Early Morning Rain...Gord knew how to paint a picture! More of him would be wondeful! Cheers from Canada, eh!

[@skyhawksailor8736]

It was a sad story to have heard. I had lived in Upstate New York near Lake Ontario but had moved back down to Tennessee. I was in the 11th grade and I so much remember when it happened. When Gordon Lightfoot released the song, I cried every time it was played on the radio. I still tear up when I hear it and it is the one song I will always watch a "First Time Hearing" video, even though I still get emotional about it. An old Sailor like me still sheds tears when I hear this song, but you do not know how much I appreciate when the younger generations take the time to learn about the events.

[@YN97WA]

Art is supposed to make you feel. This song is so powerful in the emotions it invokes. The line, "And all that remains is the faces and the names of the wives and the sons and the daughters," gets to me every time. I really enjoyed your reaction to this memorable song, young lady. RIP Gordon. 💚

[@phillymc73]

Gordon Lightfoot was a staple on AM radio back when I was a kid in the ‘70s. I would recommend “Carefree Highway”, “Sundown”, “Rainy Day People”, & my personal favorite “Hi’way Song.”

[@PhilSet-10]

Rainy Day People is so underrated!

[@Merdyon13]

The Edmund Fitzgerald was a freighter on the Great Lakes that sank during a fierce storm on November 10, 1975. All 29 men of that crew perished. So next month will be the 49th anniversary. Aileen, thank you for reacting to this song. Always enjoy your reactions. BB. Jon

[@stevenjeffrey4637]

I have seen numerous reactions to this song and I never really hear anyone mention how this song is done in a very "Irish folk song" style. I think that is what makes this song so unique and beautiful. Your reaction video was done very well,..kudos to you. You could really see the genuine emotion on your face. Edmund Fitzgerald, namesake of the ship: The namesake of the ship was the president and chairman of the board of the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, which built the ship. Fitzgerald was from a family with a history in shipping, and was also a civic leader in Milwaukee.

[@metoo7557]

Once upon a time, music was for telling stories to pass down to future generations, rather than the production mill it's become today. Gordon Lightfoot is well renowned in his home country as a poet among musicians.

[@ronniedeen3651]

"If You Could Read My Mind" is definitely one of Gordon's best.

[@KevanCorkill]

Hi Aileen 😊 A very unmistakably heart rendering reaction and analysis to Gordon Lightfoot's The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald 😊👍 I will celebrate the Day when you no longer say you're sorry for talking and expressing your feelings as you are reacting and analyzing. From the very beginning of your channel... while listening to the song presented to you and a thought enters your mind to discuss, you have always paused. This adds character and texture to your analysis. For the longest time on your reactions you have become a listener and allowed the song and the music to envelope you so I am not surprised on how you have reacted and analyzed this song. You use the proper tone. You are very keen to pick up on the nuances of the lyrics. And that is why you are the best reactor and analyzer. This is the reason why we enjoy your channel. I have read all of the comments and they have really filled you in on all the aspects of the story of the day November 10th 1975...of Gordon finding the article and being disgusted with the lack of reporting to the point where he wrote the song because he felt, as he himself has said in numerous interviews, that these 29 men need to be remembered and remembered they are because this song is an iconic song that will live forever. What also adds to the tragedy of this is this was going to be the final shipment of the season because all the iron boats pack it in for the winter. The Edmund Fitzgerald was making a routine shipment to Cleveland and then to dock in Detroit for the winter... they never knew that this was going to be their final voyage. Yes, Gordon passed away last year on May 1st with a full slate of concerts planned for 2023 that were already sold out at 84 years old. Does that tell you something of how much he was loved.... People came to hear him sing his songs with the inflection that he intended. He was like an old time minstrel going from town to town telling his stories. When it was time in the set to play The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald there was no introduction. When you heard the cord struck you knew exactly what you were in for and the audience was quiet... not making a sound. He played the song at every concert. And yes, as many fellow KZbinrs have commented, every penny of the songs proceeds... And it was a giant hit because it played on the radio it seemed like forever... All the proceeds went to the families. And also yes, as mentioned in the comments last year on November 10th was the first year that the bill rang 30 times to include Gordon. All the recommendations are very very awesome and I look forward to you reacting to each and every one of them but if I had to choose one for a history lesson I would say Gordon's Canadian Railroad Trilogy which is the tale of the construction of the Great Canadian Railroad. Gordon was commissioned by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation to come up with a song for Canada's Centennial Celebration in 1966 and this is the one that he came up with. Any version you pick will be perfect because the telling of the story doesn't change.... Gordon stays true to the story as the years progressed. As I briefly mentioned to you in Patreon... Gordon is the consummate storyteller of over 3 to 400 songs. There are many interviews with him on KZbin that are very interesting to get to know him personally. As mentioned in the comments in referencing Bob Dylan, which is another folk rabbit hole to be explored, Bob Dylan commented with high praise that the only thing bad thing about a Gordon Lightfoot song is that it had to end. Another recommended song would be the song Beautiful. It's not a very long song, but as many women comment that for the length of the time that he plays that song they feel truly beautiful. Continued prayers for you and Arya, especially for her continued healing. Have a great day you and Arya with much love 😊👍💪❤️🙏🤲👑👑

[@soltemple389]

I haven't sobbed like that for a long time. I've heard this song plenty of times and it still gets me.

[@ChuckDrennen]

When Gordon Lightfoot passed away, they added one more bell. Now it chimes 30 times.

[@lauraclark427]

Only that year.

[@ChuckDrennen]

@@lauraclark427 I didn’t know that thank you very much

[@ChuckDrennen]

If someone tells you a boat along time ago, you wouldn’t remember it. Gordon Lightfoot brought it to life and we will have it for a long time.

[@Monkeysic]

Love your reaction. Its a amzing song and story of 29 people. You are kind hearted and very right on how we forget our past so easy.

[@brucewatts8447]

Gordon is one of the greatest story tellers in folk and rock music. If You Could Read My Mind, Sundown, In the Early Morning Rain, The Way I Feel are some of my favorites.

[@bryceeasterman3943]

When Gordon Lightfoot passed the Maritime Sailors Cathedral rang its bell 30 times 29 for the men of the Edmund Fitzgerald and one for him RIP Mr Fitzgerald you are missed

[@grahamokeefe9406]

Wow I didn't know that. What a lovely tribute!

[@Sp33gan]

It takes an incredible gift to tell a complete story in only three minutes and make you feel as if you were there. Gordon Lightfoot possessed that gift, as did Bob Dylan and the underrated and overlooked Stan Rogers. When Dylan said that he can wish a Lightfoot song never ended you know even one of the most gifted songwriters is in awe. Other Gordon Lightfoot songs to check out are If You Could Read My Mind, Black Day In July, Ribbon Of Darkness, Rainy Day People, Early Morning Rain, Sundown, Carefree Highway just to name a few.

[@GRIMRPR6942]

This song will always hold a special place in my heart because i have 2 family members who died and one who survived a shipwreck on Lake Michigan. Two uncles (Alfred Pilarski & Raymond Kowalski) went down on the SS Carl D. Bradley November 18th 1958 and another uncle Frank Mayes was one of the two survivors of that sinking. I was once told a saying by another sailor "The Great Lakes are an unforgiving mistress" and its so true. RIP to all those brave sailors and may you have fair winds and following seas.

[@GranpaMike]

I always loved this song, hats off to Mr. Lightfoot. The music has such a funereal, dirge-like quality, perfect for this story. He had several really great songs, do keep exploring his catalog, Aileen, many more ahead that you'll love, too. As always, thank you for today's lovely reaction. You really make my day.

[@BarrenCosmos]

First time I’ve ever heard of this band/song so I’m excited to see how emotional it is given your thumbnail 😭 Under 1k to that big 360k already too 🖤

[@zq9m3xh8]

It's beautiful, it's tragic and it's terrifying. Gordon's lyrics are so vivid that he puts me right on that ship with those men, and I can feel every one of those waves.

[@dr.burtgummerfan439]

I can hear this song in Miami in July and still get shivers.

[@stevedahlberg8680]

Wow, what a beautiful and insightful description of the emotive impact of this brilliant song that was such a huge hit. Definitely got my allergies wanting to act up.

[@timtravasos2742]

Beautiful, sensitive reaction. Love your humanity, Aileen.

[@elvanallen8832]

That line. "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" Tears my soul out every time.

[@KimDickey]

We rented a cottage on Lake Erie one July 4th weekend. Sitting near a campfire on a chaise lounge when this song came on...I could see the freighters lights moving slowly across the lake. It gave me chills

[@russargabright]

What make it so moving is it is based on a true story.

[@drjaye1962]

Never apologize…your friends don’t need it, your enemies don’t care…peace…MHK

[@justafreethinker]

Aileen, you have now entered the rabbit hole that is Gordon Lightfoot; one of the greatest singer/songwriters of all time, and one of the greatest musical storytellers to ever live. RIP Mr. Lightfoot, we miss you dearly. You deserved that 30th bell toll in your honor. Peace.

[@Jayellbird]

Boomer cranky old man says. This is how history has been passed down for thousands of years, stories and truths set to song. (I was alive when this song was released) still makes me cry. Gordon Lightfoot a true artist.

[@gregmaynor9895]

I'm from Cleveland Ohio and born in Detroit Michigan, and this song hits hard. Being from the Great Lakes region we were taught about this. I'm 56 yrs old and still get choked up hearing this great song. I'm really glad you got to hear this and maybe learned from it. Btw, love your channel ♥️👍

[@TristanandIsolt]

Carefree Highway and Rainy Day People are my Favorite Gordon Lightfoot songs other than this one. I recommend them to you.

[@grantkruse1812]

Canadian Railroad Trilogy !

[@Suleclo]

I'm so glad you appreciated this song. The lyrics are beautifully tragic. Listen to some of his others, If You Could Read My Mind is lovely 🖤

[@RP_Williams]

Fun fact: This was actually supposed to be a recorded first run/rehearsal (with Gordon nodding at the band for ques when the drums and lead guitar should start playing, as the band learned the song), and they tried to record it again, but this first take was magic.

[@SteveKnotts-we7yi]

He has so many great songs you have to listen to. Sundown, and if you could read my mind are awesome.

[@danielnavarro8881]

This song always touches me. Since the 70s. I'm retired US Navy. And a sailor is a sailor no matter what country or navy. I call merchantman sailors. So thank you very much for your reaction. Stay well and be happy.

[@paahl1572]

Gordon Lightfoot wrote this song when a newspaper spelled some of the sailors names wrong. It made him so mad he honored them with this song. The families of the crew became very close to Gordon.

[@thethesaxman23]

I think you’d really enjoy and appreciate his song “If You Could Read My Mind” the emotions run deep on that song and I know you’ll appreciate that

[@Robertsmith-dy3sh]

Such an amazing and heartbreaking song, Gordon Lightfoot is a legend!

[@gwydion56]

This song came out just a year after the shipwreck, and nearly half a century has passed since then. And yet when I really listen to this song, as I just did with you, it still brings tears to my eyes. That is the power of a great singer/songwriter. Do visit Gordon Lightfoot again. I swear that not all of his songs are this sad.

[@mischamartinstudios]

I am from Wisconsin and remember the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald very well. It was intensely heartbreaking.

[@rockinricky4855]

Fantastic Poetic Folk Singer

[@briangriffith5408]

I am one of the fortunate that has seen the Edmund Fitzgerald above water when I lived in Duluth, Minnesota from 1965-1967.

[@stornowayscotland]

Aileen is so god dam beautiful it's unreal her smile makes me happy thank you for the reaction have a lovely night ❤❤

[@dalemcmillan7231]

Great Song from a phenomenal Singer Songwriter. I saw him live many times over the years here in Canada 🇨🇦. Fantastic. ❤ l remember very well when this tragedy occurred .

[@davesunhammer4218]

"Sundown" and "If You Could Read My Mind" are required Lightfoot.

[@MM1717mm]

As a decades long fan of his THANKS ... im writing to you now a half hour away from where mr lightfoot was born and raised 🕯🕯🕯

[@davidward9737]

Superior has waves and a beach! It is cold as ice. Out of the Great Lakes it is called Superior. As for the EFitz. They think one part of the ship, the bow was on a top wave, while the stern was on another. Without anything in the middle it broke in 2. As horrible as this might sound. The bodies are well preserved. Like it just sank yesterday. Happy spooky season Aileen. Love to you and your family

[@bofuscrapshaw]

Your love and excitement for music is contagious and a joy to share with you

[@dagmar.6954]

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. This song is a beautiful tribute & is based on a true story & the lyrics tell the sad tale of the sinking of the ship & loss of lives in 1975. Gordon Lightfoot had many hits through his long career such as "If You Could Read My Mind", "Early Morning Rain", "Steel Rail Blues", "Ribbon Of Darkness", "Carefree Highway", "Rainy Day People", "Cotton Jenny", "Black Day In July", "Canadian Railroad Trilogy" etc.

[@pvilches06]

Beautiful and heartbreaking tribute!! Thank you for reactions to this Hun. We lost Mr. Lightfoot this past year but he was one of most amazing storytellers!! Your reaction was precious. Much love for you always. 🌹🌹🖤🖤🖤🖤

[@ERC641]

Gordon Lightfoot was born in Ontario Canada 1938 he passed away in 2023. He and this song is Canadiana at its finest

[@randylamb3296]

I grew up by one of a great lakes. As a Navy man I was at sea through 2, hurricanes and a monster Typhoon and remember the rivets snapping and to this day i get chills at natures power. I remember that storm. Gordon Lightfoot's lyrics still haunts me to this day. God's blessings 🙏🙏

[@HSR107]

You've a fantastic voice. It's got a resonance that's smooth like butter. It'd be fantastic for radio & voiceover/narration work. (and this is where I learn my foot is in my mouth because you are a well renowned media personality I should already know of)

[@jmanganella123]

Great take on this classic tune. I remember it well. I'm glad you noticed the music matching the story. I like when artists do that.

[@brianheanssler9002]

I really appreciate it when you share your feelings