He wrote this song about a woman who he was deeply in love with and she was messing him around and she would have him feeling mean and angry because he couldnt trust her!! True story i read an interview where he explained the whole meaning behind the song!!
He also wasn't blameless in her downfall; which is part of the song. I think he kind of deluded himself that he could save her and when he couldn't, his rage took over. The song is pretty honest about the position he'd put himself in as an alcoholic who wasn't really loving or trusting, and this was part of what made it seem like a match, sometimes. He's owning up to his issues and his jealousy. There is fault in this; he doesn't understand her and he's blaming her. But he's indicting his own state of mind at the same time. It's interesting for that vulnerability and honesty. It's a grim story and the tune is catchy but ambiguous about how we should feel about some of this.
This song "Sundown" was on every radio station - bar room and truck stop jukeboxes and EVERYWHERE in the Spring/Summer of 1974. I heard it everywhere I traveled in the South/Midwest and this younger generation does not realize how popular this song was. His greatest work because of its simplicity and greatness of lyrics and melody. RIP
That is so cool you caught that. I'm 56 now, and I heard this when I was a little kid, and never realized what I was hearing, but I loved it anyways. When I listened to it again, I still never caught that until you said something about it, wow what an amazing catch, like a fish we never seen before.👍😎
I don't know which song chronologically came first.... but I could definitely see "Sundown" as a prequel of sorts to "If You Could Read My Mind.". The troubled relationship over time.
@@matthewteague623 If You Could Read Mind came first in 1970. Sundown I think was release in 74 I believe. Sundown was written about a woman named Cathy Smith who had previously been involved with Levon Helms from The Band. In a strange twist of fate, this was the same woman who would serve time in prison for admitting that she was the one who gave John Belushi the fatal dose of drugs. Groupies, right.
Gordon Lightfoot is the singer/songwriter, his story telling ability with his lyrics is beyond compare. Alot of his music straddles the line between folk and rock. Bob Dylan has been qouted as saying Gordon is his favourite artist.
And vice versa. Did you know Dylan inducted Gordon Lightfoot into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1986. Dylan told the audience that Gordon had been offered the award before, but he turned it down until he could have Dylan present it to him.
Gord is a Canadian treasure. He's 82 and still singing, playing and composing. I would call Gord a folk singer and a story teller. Check out "Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald"
"Sundown" charted higher and was the only single of his to go gold. I've never understood the extreme interest in "The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald." But to each their own. 🙂
@@christopherhiggins2350 Well it could be that it's an amazingly descriptive song that tells a haunting story? It could be that it's based on true events, giving it even more impact? It could be that some people just get it and others don't? Love both songs along with "If you could read my mind" and "Canadian Railroad'.
As far as I know, this song is about a famous groupie named Cathy Smith. "In a room where you do what you don't confess" Think about that for just a moment, from a 1970's singer/songwriter 😃 Also, "Get feeling better when I"m feeling no pain" hmmmm Cathy Smith was a real person, and she was the one who injected John Belushi (SNL, Blues Brothers) with a speedball that he OD'd on and died. She did time in California for that.
The woman in the song is indeed Cathy Smith, Gord's girl at the time. "Sundown" was the nickname of Larry Good of the Good Brothers, who were the touring and recording with Lightfoot. The song is a warning to Good (who had reportedly been fooling around with Smith), but it reflects a loss of self-esteem as the writer feels himself descending into a den of decadence.
His old lady is an ultra cheater and he loves her too much to leave her. Canadian Folk music. Getting feeling better was getting drunk and he could forget for a moment.
@@snakeinthegrass7443 the song is based on a real life experience of Gordon.. The woman was Cathy Smith.. it was several years after this song.. that Cathy gave the overdose to John Belushi .. which killed him.. she was sent to prison for 15 months iirc... after her release.. she was deported back to Canada
As everyone in the comments is telling you, his song "The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald" is a must. It's a musical true story of the tragic sinking of a ship. I still remember my dad telling me the story behind the song when I was a kid.
but on many ships that travel Lake Superior, you get caught humming the song, you get booted. Edmund Fitzgerald I think was a ship carrying iron /coal that went down. Gordon Lightfoot was very much considered Canadian Folk/Country
If you're wondering what "Sundown" is about, here's some info: When Lightfoot wrote and recorded Sundown, he had just about gotten out of the divorce, and many wondered if his ex-wife was the woman in the song. It was not. Instead, the song came out of his long affair with Cathy Smith, whom he was already involved with at the time of the divorce. Smith was even cited in Lightfoot’s divorce papers, which saw the musician pay what was at the time the most expensive divorce settlement in Canadian history. Lightfoot and Smith’s relationship wasn’t an easy one. Smith was known as someone who liked hanging around musicians, and Lightfoot was a jealous guy, which led to arguments, fights, and altercations. Allegedly Lightfoot broke her cheekbone during a drunken fight once. There’s also a story about Lightfoot firing an opening act from his tour because he thought they were flirting with Smith. For years he didn’t say anything specific about the song, but in the documentary Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind, Lightfoot eventually revealed that Sundown is about his stormy relationship with Cathy Smith, which lasted about three years. “It was one of those relationships where you get a feeling of danger,” he said. On a particular evening, Lightfoot was worrying about his girlfriend, who spent a lot of time in bars while he was at home writing songs. He recalled during a Reddit AMA: “I had this girlfriend one time, and I was at home working, at my desk, working at my songwriting which I had been doing all week since I was on a roll, and my girlfriend was somewhere drinking, drinking somewhere. So I was hoping that no one else would get their hands on her, because she was pretty good lookin’!” *He added, “As a matter of fact, it was written just around sundown, just as the sun was setting, behind the farm I had rented to use as a place to write the album.”* And check this out: "In 1983, several years after her relationship with Lightfoot had ended, Smith would become infamous for being the one who administered the lethal dose of heroin to John Belushi that killed him." YIKES! More info about the meaning of "Sundown" is at: norselandsrock.com/sundown-gordon-lightfoot/
This song came out in 1974 when I was only 4 years old and was the first song that I fell in love with and has been my favorite ever since. As far as the meaning of the song, is about how unhealthy it is for himself to have this affection for this woman that he shouldn't be having and is ashamed to admit to being with.
Amber! Jay! Gordon Lightfoot's "Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald!" STAT! I could send a specific video to your IG, cause it looks like everyone wants it. Lyrics video, or video with news footage. PLEASE not a live version.
@@ginahollingsworth5907 for a first time listening I agree - helps focus on the song. But the one with the news footage etc is also fantastic. Gives a great sense of the context.
Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian treasure his lyrics are some of my favorites. "Sometimes I think it's a sin when I feel like I'm winning when I'm losing again. That's the singer's name. He's a story telling master with his best being the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald as far as story telling goes.
Gordon Lightfoot, a prolific, internationally renowned Canadian singer-songwriter, storyteller and icon!He left this world yesterday, May 1, 2023 at age 84. Canadians and fans far and wide are gratefully remembering his gifts!
You two are bridging gaps across generations and demographics, spreading peace and your videos not only bring back fond memories but bring joy to the present. God Bless You Both for the good work you are doing!
One of those special artists that write, plays and sings in his own category. Another vote for the Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald. Sad and true story of a ship that sank I guess he is folk but for me he is more than that. Story teller for sure
Gordon Lightfoot is the singer only and is a Canadian icon! I have loved him and his songs since 1970 when I was in HS. All of his songs are stories and are all amazing! Beautiful, If You Could Read My Mind, The Canadian Railroad Trilogy, Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, Softly, Early Morning Rain are terrific!
A terrific choice guys. A truly beautiful voice. I love his song "If You Could Read My Mind". I would love to see you both react to Jim Croce "Time In A Bottle", one of the most beautiful songs ever committed to vinyl.
"Time In A Bottle"!....The first opening line is so heart breakingly beautiful, the listener is immediately swept away into a current of love so divine and timeless.
Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian singer. He is one of the greatest folk storytellers!! My favorite line is when he describes the woman as "looking like a queen in a sailor's dream." I was a young female sailor at the time that this song was really big. This song was definitely played on the jukebox...A LOT!!!
Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian treasure. Arguably, his most famous song is The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. An absolutely haunting song that depicts a maritime tragedy. With his lyrics, he paints a picture that you will feel you are living in. I recommend you give it a listen regardless of whether you review it for your channel or you simply would like to experience another song from one of the more talented Canadian Folk song lyricists.
It is such a joy to watch young people hearing people I grew up loving. Gordon is the man. Great writer and a voice that melts butter. Saw him in concert.
I learn so much in the comments about artists like this, songs that I've loved forever. I wish you could've grown up with these songs that have so much meaning to us who know them because they mean something to us "old" folks. 🥰
Sundown refers to the man who is pursuing the singers woman. It is a song about infidelity. Gordon is a great folk story teller. Gordon Lightfoot is the name of the guy singing. Definitely check out The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald.
Gordon is one of the most famous singer-songwriters to ever come out of Canada he is a living legend there. No less than Bob Dylan and Kris Kristofferson have called him one of the greatest songwriters of all time. This particular song was about his ex-wife. Glad you found him
This is a great one. Some other tasty Gordon Lightfoot jams might include: "For Lovin' Me" "Early Mornin' Rain" "If You Could Read My Mind" "Carefree Highway" and probably his best is "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald." Gordon Lightfoot is a dude. He's considered a "folk" singer, and that would definitely include country elements. He's Canadian, and he's still alive. (This song seems like it's from the perspective of a man who's being played by a woman who's stepping out on him. He's warning men not to come around his back stairs, but lamenting that he gets to feeling pretty good, and then his woman cheats on him. Again.)
I agree with you about all the songs you've recommended here. They've done If You Could Read My Mind quite recently as I read this, but the others you've shared here that they've not already reacted to would be good.
Gordon Lightfoot is Sunday morning music. You're moving slow, coffee in hand and Gordon is filling the house with his beautiful tunes. I would put Gordon in the Folk category more than country. Great choice and great reaction! I agree with everyone below about "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" also.
Gordon Lightfoot is a singer/songwriter which is like a modern folk singer. His “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” sounds so much like an old folk song that I thought it was one until I was enlightened a couple of years ago. Other favorites of mine are “Early Morning Rain” and “For Loving Me” which I first heard through Peter, Paul, and Mary.
My fellow Canadian. Magic collection of songs. Another artist that influenced my own guitar playing when I was younger. I gave my granddaughter a guitar when she was 5 years old. I wanted to introduce her to Nana's sound garden from the 60s, 70s, 80s and some in the 90s I loved. So far so good. Lori. C.
Gordon played his music in 432hz, the tuning that music should be in. Besides his beautiful singing and performance, the tuning is what makes the sound so smooth and easy to groove. He was a real one
I would have to say Gordon is more "Pop or Country Folk" music than anything. Bob Dylan once said that Gordon was his favorite artist. Bob Dylan is definitely "Folk" music. Loved your reaction to Gordon Lightfoot. 👍👍
Gordon Lightfoot is the singer. As far as other songs , you really should listen to The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, it's a true story. Also, If You Could Read My Mind and Carefree Highway are excellent.
This song is about his relationship with a lady named Cathy Smith. Both were their own worse enemies, but she went off and became famous for providing drugs that caused an overdose death to a well-known actor John Belushi back in 1982, John is famous for The Blue Brothers and other movies. Gordon Lightfoot had a hard life in alcohol and eventually gave it up. Today Gordon Lightfoot is 83 and still plays in concerts...
An all-time favorite singer-songwriter. I am going to see Gord for the fourth time this August. A legendary songwriter. There are always back stories to his songs.
OK, seriously you guys!!!! Gordon Lightfoot (a singer songwriter from Orillia, Ontario, Canada) is ICONIC in this country, and in North America, for that matter. He's in his '80s now, but he was one of the most famous folk performers in the 60s and 70s. His health isn't all that good right now, so spare him some good energy. You can't be Canadian without loving this man.
He wrote this about his GF at the time Cathy Smith. (The same Cathy Smith that was with John Belishi when he OD’d) He was worried about her creepin’ out on him.
A true Canadian legend, Canada’s poet laureate. One of Bob Dylan’s favourite artists. To quote Dylan “The only bad thing about a Lightfoot song is when it ends. My parents probably played his records the most or any artist as I was born and grew up in the seventies. So many amazing songs but my fav Is Early Morning Rain. Canada truly pulls above their weight with singer-songwriters. Four could arguably be listed right behind Bob Dylan, Lightfoot, Neil Young, Leonard Cohen and the iconic Joni Mitchell. This Canadian girl might be a bit biased but so much incredible music there. Great reaction! 🇨🇦
Rest In Peace Storyteller, And Song Writer Gordon Lightfoot . . . Thank You Very Much For Making My Growing Up In The 1970's A Fun Filled One, While Enjoying Your Amazingly Beautiful Story Telling Songs . . . ;-) R.I.P. Gordon Lightfoot . . .
I rediscovered this track sometime back in ‘05 one morning while sitting in a Tim Horton’s drive through on the way to work. It hit hard and has become my favourite song of all time. I request this song with every busker I meet. Nobody has granted 😊my request to date. I don’t understand how this song hasn’t received the praise that it deserves.
Gordon Lightfoot is an amazing story teller. This song is about an ex girlfriend Cathy Smith, that he says “he should have married”. She became famous later as the woman who gave John Belushi the speedball injection that ended his life. As others have said, check out the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. And one of my favorites, Carefree Highway.
Gordon is the singer's name, and the "harmony" you hear is him doubling himself on different tracks. This audio is from a studio recording, and someone has matched it up with a video but they aren't connected.
The inspiration for this song came from Lightfoot worrying about his girlfriend, who was out at bars all day while he was at home writing songs.He had this girlfriend one time, and I was at home working, at my desk, working at my songwriting which I had been doing all week since I was on a roll, and my girlfriend was somewhere drinking, drinking somewhere. So I was hoping that no one else would get their hands on her, because she was pretty good lookin'!" "As a matter of fact, it was written just around Sundown," he added, "just as the sun was setting, behind the farm I had rented to use as a place to write the album."
He’s a legend of the 70’s . Still one of my favorites of all time. Story I heard was he was part of the Canadian National Chorus getting paid $300 a month and he left to perform in the states at a club for $30 a month because he wanted to do his own thing. Went to see him in Kansas City (probably 2018). He’s still performing in his 80’s. Please listen to “wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”.
Gordon Lightfoot is an amazing singer/songwriter/musician noted for his beautiful twelve string guitar work. I saw him in Boston in the early 70’s and his live performance was impeccable. “If You Could Read My Mind” is one of his best songs for you to check out. Love your channel.
True story. One day Gordon Lightfoot was driving in Toronto, listening to the radio when his song "If You Could Read My Mind" came on. After singing along with himself, the song ended, and the DJ announced that Gordon had died. Needless to say that was a shock to Gordon! Sadly he really did pass away years later in May 2023. RIP Gordon Lightfoot.
"Gordon Lightfoot, is that singer's name or the group name" Gordon Lightfoot is the name of the singer Another song by Gordon Lightfoot that you might want to check out is "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald" It's a little bit of a sad song, but it's a good one
“If you could read my mind “ is his best song and “carefree highway.” another good one. Sundown was his only #1. He is talking about how tough ,it is to be in love..
I've been listening to Gordon Lightfoot my entire life - literally! My parents would play his records - & he's one of my all time favourites. Gordon Lightfoot is the singer & writer of all his songs. His music would best be described as folk-rock-country or the like. I don't think anyone could actually give Gordon Lightfoot an actual label. To me, he defies all genres. He is an entity unto himself. :) He's a national treasure here in Canada & our pride & joy.
If you like this song try The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald by him as well.
He wrote this song about a woman who he was deeply in love with and she was messing him around and she would have him feeling mean and angry because he couldnt trust her!! True story i read an interview where he explained the whole meaning behind the song!!
It's about Cathy Smith. She also did time for injecting the drugs that killed John Belushi
Quite correct. And shev add also was the one who gave John Belishi a fatal shot of drugs that killed him .
He also wasn't blameless in her downfall; which is part of the song. I think he kind of deluded himself that he could save her and when he couldn't, his rage took over. The song is pretty honest about the position he'd put himself in as an alcoholic who wasn't really loving or trusting, and this was part of what made it seem like a match, sometimes. He's owning up to his issues and his jealousy. There is fault in this; he doesn't understand her and he's blaming her. But he's indicting his own state of mind at the same time. It's interesting for that vulnerability and honesty. It's a grim story and the tune is catchy but ambiguous about how we should feel about some of this.
@@danbasta3677correct…the infamous Cathy Smith
the saga of the human male? lol
Another vote for “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”
Absolutely! One more vote from me.
Make sure you really focus on the lyrics of this song as it is a true story about the death of 29 men.
yes yes YES!!!
yes!!!!True story!
Yep. If you like a song that tells a story this is one of the best ever. If you dont feel this song you ain't human.
This song "Sundown" was on every radio station - bar room and truck stop jukeboxes and EVERYWHERE in the Spring/Summer of 1974. I heard it everywhere I traveled in the South/Midwest and this younger generation does not realize how popular this song was. His greatest work because of its simplicity and greatness of lyrics and melody. RIP
"If You Could Read My Mind "
Definitely
Love that one
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My favourite of his ♡
Yes
RIP Gordon, he just died at 84. May 1, 2023. He went to the mountaintop and told us what he saw.
Wow I didn't know that.
Amen.
❤❤❤❤
Another vote for “if I could read your mind” and “wreck of Edmund Fitzgerald”.
If YOU could read MY mind.
My two favorite songs by Gordon.
Add Carefree Highway as well.
I agree
His best 2 songs.
"I could see her lying back in a satin dress....in a room where you're doin what you don't confess." Maybe the best opening line for any song ever.
That is so cool you caught that. I'm 56 now, and I heard this when I was a little kid, and never realized what I was hearing, but I loved it anyways. When I listened to it again, I still never caught that until you said something about it, wow what an amazing catch, like a fish we never seen before.👍😎
Pretty self explanatory
It's actually "in a room where you do what you don't confess," but I like your lyric too.
Awesome thanks! Interesting inspiration.
Another great opening line for a song is " its been 14 days since I don't know when. I just saw her with my best friend " by Lee Michaels
"If You Could Read My Mind" by Gordo is another one worth listening too.
I don't know which song chronologically came first.... but I could definitely see "Sundown" as a prequel of sorts to "If You Could Read My Mind.".
The troubled relationship over time.
@@matthewteague623 If You Could Read Mind came first in 1970. Sundown I think was release in 74 I believe. Sundown was written about a woman named Cathy Smith who had previously been involved with Levon Helms from The Band. In a strange twist of fate, this was the same woman who would serve time in prison for admitting that she was the one who gave John Belushi the fatal dose of drugs. Groupies, right.
@@bubbavonmax4211 Wow, a tangled web indeed.
This was a true song written for the breakup of his marriage with his wife.
Yup. Please do.
Gordon Lightfoot is the singer/songwriter, his story telling ability with his lyrics is beyond compare. Alot of his music straddles the line between folk and rock. Bob Dylan has been qouted as saying Gordon is his favourite artist.
And vice versa. Did you know Dylan inducted Gordon Lightfoot into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1986. Dylan told the audience that Gordon had been offered the award before, but he turned it down until he could have Dylan present it to him.
Gord is a Canadian treasure. He's 82 and still singing, playing and composing. I would call Gord a folk singer and a story teller. Check out "Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald"
he was also a massive drunk - don't know if he's kicked the habit
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@@willycanuck yeah he kicked it in the 80s but it was too late, it had already taken his voice.
He's also next-door neighbours to Drake... probably the lamest factoid ever... but here we are....
A great man.
RIP Mr Lightfoot and thank you....
His arguably most famous song is The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald
such a haunting great song
and a true story !
"Sundown" charted higher and was the only single of his to go gold. I've never understood the extreme interest in "The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald." But to each their own. 🙂
@@christopherhiggins2350 Well it could be that it's an amazingly descriptive song that tells a haunting story?
It could be that it's based on true events, giving it even more impact?
It could be that some people just get it and others don't?
Love both songs along with "If you could read my mind" and "Canadian Railroad'.
@@christopherhiggins2350 Because it's a masterpiece of narrative poetry set to music.
The music of my youth. Criminally under rated musician singer-songwriter. RIP Gordon Lightfoot.
Gordon Lightfoot is the singers name. He's a Canadian "Folk Singer"
He's also a Poet Laureate of Canada
He's a lot more than that. Given the Order of Canada.
As far as I know, this song is about a famous groupie named Cathy Smith. "In a room where you do what you don't confess" Think about that for just a moment, from a 1970's singer/songwriter 😃 Also, "Get feeling better when I"m feeling no pain" hmmmm
Cathy Smith was a real person, and she was the one who injected John Belushi (SNL, Blues Brothers) with a speedball that he OD'd on and died. She did time in California for that.
Exactly. He was having his problems with the needle
pretty sure this song came out before Belushi died
@@billcobb6447
It did. He was involved with Cathy Smith years before she took up with Belushi. I do believe he helped pay for her defense, though.
The woman in the song is indeed Cathy Smith, Gord's girl at the time. "Sundown" was the nickname of Larry Good of the Good Brothers, who were the touring and recording with Lightfoot. The song is a warning to Good (who had reportedly been fooling around with Smith), but it reflects a loss of self-esteem as the writer feels himself descending into a den of decadence.
@@davidbeiler7520 It was Brian.
His old lady is an ultra cheater and he loves her too much to leave her. Canadian Folk music. Getting feeling better was getting drunk and he could forget for a moment.
Cathy Smith.. well known for giving John Belushi the fatal overdose that sent her to prison for year and a half
@@Sportsref13 Wait a sec please. I'm a lil confused. Are you and Dave talking about the meaning of the song or is that Gordon's actual life?
@@snakeinthegrass7443 the song is based on a real life experience of Gordon.. The woman was Cathy Smith.. it was several years after this song.. that Cathy gave the overdose to John Belushi .. which killed him.. she was sent to prison for 15 months iirc... after her release.. she was deported back to Canada
@@Sportsref13 I got it now. Thank you
@@Sportsref13 WOW! I never put that all together. Holy hell I feel slow. LoL, thanks!
😭One of my favorite song writers and singers of all time has died Gordon Meredith Lightfoot Jr. November 17, 1938 - May 1, 2023😭
As everyone in the comments is telling you, his song "The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald" is a must. It's a musical true story of the tragic sinking of a ship. I still remember my dad telling me the story behind the song when I was a kid.
but on many ships that travel Lake Superior, you get caught humming the song, you get booted. Edmund Fitzgerald I think was a ship carrying iron /coal that went down. Gordon Lightfoot was very much considered Canadian Folk/Country
This song is a history lesson. Unlike today’s music, this song tells a true story.
Still remember laying in bed listening to the radio the night they announced that the Edmond Fitzgerald had gone down.
If you're wondering what "Sundown" is about, here's some info:
When Lightfoot wrote and recorded Sundown, he had just about gotten out of the divorce, and many wondered if his ex-wife was the woman in the song. It was not. Instead, the song came out of his long affair with Cathy Smith, whom he was already involved with at the time of the divorce. Smith was even cited in Lightfoot’s divorce papers, which saw the musician pay what was at the time the most expensive divorce settlement in Canadian history.
Lightfoot and Smith’s relationship wasn’t an easy one. Smith was known as someone who liked hanging around musicians, and Lightfoot was a jealous guy, which led to arguments, fights, and altercations. Allegedly Lightfoot broke her cheekbone during a drunken fight once. There’s also a story about Lightfoot firing an opening act from his tour because he thought they were flirting with Smith.
For years he didn’t say anything specific about the song, but in the documentary Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind, Lightfoot eventually revealed that Sundown is about his stormy relationship with Cathy Smith, which lasted about three years. “It was one of those relationships where you get a feeling of danger,” he said.
On a particular evening, Lightfoot was worrying about his girlfriend, who spent a lot of time in bars while he was at home writing songs. He recalled during a Reddit AMA: “I had this girlfriend one time, and I was at home working, at my desk, working at my songwriting which I had been doing all week since I was on a roll, and my girlfriend was somewhere drinking, drinking somewhere. So I was hoping that no one else would get their hands on her, because she was pretty good lookin’!”
*He added, “As a matter of fact, it was written just around sundown, just as the sun was setting, behind the farm I had rented to use as a place to write the album.”*
And check this out: "In 1983, several years after her relationship with Lightfoot had ended, Smith would become infamous for being the one who administered the lethal dose of heroin to John Belushi that killed him."
YIKES!
More info about the meaning of "Sundown" is at: norselandsrock.com/sundown-gordon-lightfoot/
Sundown was the guy at the bar he was worried about. THE COMPETITION, you idiots.
@@your_huge_ego_bores_meTake it easy, junior.
@@JustWasted3HoursHere I meant in general, not you personally. ;)
"If you could read my mind" is Incredible...!
This song came out in 1974 when I was only 4 years old and was the first song that I fell in love with and has been my favorite ever since. As far as the meaning of the song, is about how unhealthy it is for himself to have this affection for this woman that he shouldn't be having and is ashamed to admit to being with.
Amber! Jay! Gordon Lightfoot's "Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald!" STAT! I could send a specific video to your IG, cause it looks like everyone wants it. Lyrics video, or video with news footage. PLEASE not a live version.
Yes yes yes!
Here here ; A must to do
Yep, both of those.
Lyric video!
@@ginahollingsworth5907 for a first time listening I agree - helps focus on the song. But the one with the news footage etc is also fantastic. Gives a great sense of the context.
You guys are awsome, you appreciate the oldies as much as us seniors, no auto tunning just pure talent
Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian treasure his lyrics are some of my favorites. "Sometimes I think it's a sin when I feel like I'm winning when I'm losing again. That's the singer's name. He's a story telling master with his best being the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald as far as story telling goes.
Gordon Lightfoot, a prolific, internationally renowned Canadian singer-songwriter, storyteller and icon!He left this world yesterday, May 1, 2023 at age 84. Canadians and fans far and wide are gratefully remembering his gifts!
You HAVE to do "Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald!"
You two are bridging gaps across generations and demographics, spreading peace and your videos not only bring back fond memories but bring joy to the present. God Bless You Both for the good work you are doing!
One of those special artists that write, plays and sings in his own category. Another vote for the Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald. Sad and true story of a ship that sank
I guess he is folk but for me he is more than that. Story teller for sure
Gordon Lightfoot is the singer only and is a Canadian icon! I have loved him and his songs since 1970 when I was in HS. All of his songs are stories and are all amazing! Beautiful, If You Could Read My Mind, The Canadian Railroad Trilogy, Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, Softly, Early Morning Rain are terrific!
Me too. Since Hight School.
A terrific choice guys. A truly beautiful voice. I love his song "If You Could Read My Mind".
I would love to see you both react to Jim Croce "Time In A Bottle", one of the most beautiful songs ever committed to vinyl.
Yes to this! 👆🏼
Second that motion
"Time In A Bottle"!....The first opening line is so heart breakingly beautiful, the listener is immediately swept away into a current of love so divine and timeless.
Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian singer. He is one of the greatest folk storytellers!! My favorite line is when he describes the woman as "looking like a queen in a sailor's dream." I was a young female sailor at the time that this song was really big. This song was definitely played on the jukebox...A LOT!!!
Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian treasure. Arguably, his most famous song is The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. An absolutely haunting song that depicts a maritime tragedy. With his lyrics, he paints a picture that you will feel you are living in. I recommend you give it a listen regardless of whether you review it for your channel or you simply would like to experience another song from one of the more talented Canadian Folk song lyricists.
In true Canadianism, he is singing about an American tragedy. And Americans don’t even know the song exists….
@@northof4912 Sad yet true.
It is such a joy to watch young people hearing people I grew up loving. Gordon is the man. Great writer and a voice that melts butter. Saw him in concert.
This guy was HUGE when I was growing up in the 70's! Love his voice. He's one of our great storytellers too. 💜🎶💜
You are not lying.
I am 62 and listened to all his music 🎶 🎵 😌
Thank you 😊
I learn so much in the comments about artists like this, songs that I've loved forever. I wish you could've grown up with these songs that have so much meaning to us who know them because they mean something to us "old" folks. 🥰
Sundown refers to the man who is pursuing the singers woman. It is a song about infidelity. Gordon is a great folk story teller. Gordon Lightfoot is the name of the guy singing. Definitely check out The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald.
Actually it's about Cathy Smith, who he dated, she shot up Belushi w Heroin and we know how that ended
He did a lot of cheating too.
Love. This. Song.
A massively influential Canadian singer songwriter. A lifetime of music and considered a national treasure in Canada.
Gordon is one of the most famous singer-songwriters to ever come out of Canada he is a living legend there. No less than Bob Dylan and Kris Kristofferson have called him one of the greatest songwriters of all time. This particular song was about his ex-wife. Glad you found him
This is a great one. Some other tasty Gordon Lightfoot jams might include: "For Lovin' Me" "Early Mornin' Rain" "If You Could Read My Mind" "Carefree Highway" and probably his best is "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald."
Gordon Lightfoot is a dude. He's considered a "folk" singer, and that would definitely include country elements. He's Canadian, and he's still alive.
(This song seems like it's from the perspective of a man who's being played by a woman who's stepping out on him. He's warning men not to come around his back stairs, but lamenting that he gets to feeling pretty good, and then his woman cheats on him. Again.)
I agree with you about all the songs you've recommended here. They've done If You Could Read My Mind quite recently as I read this, but the others you've shared here that they've not already reacted to would be good.
I believe the "when I get feeling better when I'm feeling no pain" is in relation to his alcoholism
Jay n Amber this is 70S pOP Rock released in 1974
Gordon Lightfoot has many amazing songs. "The Circle is Small" and the legendary "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" are must-listen list makers
Gordon Lightfoot is Sunday morning music. You're moving slow, coffee in hand and Gordon is filling the house with his beautiful tunes. I would put Gordon in the Folk category more than country. Great choice and great reaction! I agree with everyone below about "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" also.
Gordon Lightfoot is a singer/songwriter which is like a modern folk singer. His “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” sounds so much like an old folk song that I thought it was one until I was enlightened a couple of years ago. Other favorites of mine are “Early Morning Rain” and “For Loving Me” which I first heard through Peter, Paul, and Mary.
Early morning rain is a fantastic song. "You can't jump a jet plane, like you can a freight train"
You know you made it when they talk about your song on Seinfeld
You guys give so many genres a chance, and that's awesome! Gordon Lightfoot is a legend!
Canadian treasure, arguably one of the best songwriters that ever lived. Had the respect of every major star in his heyday.
RIP!! Recently passed away. Absolutely a great Canadian folk singer. Will be missed.
People should remember, there was a time when he was voted the best male singing voice in the world. Its so identifiable.
Keep jangling those 12 strings, wherever you are, Gordon. You were immortal even when you were still with us. Now you're all that, x 2.
You should react to Gordon's masterpiece "If You Could Read My Mind".
Just a timeless song. RIP Gordon.
Lightfoot wrote a perfect song. It's called If You Could Read My Mind
My fellow Canadian. Magic collection of songs. Another artist that influenced my own guitar playing when I was younger. I gave my granddaughter a guitar when she was 5 years old. I wanted to introduce her to Nana's sound garden from the 60s, 70s, 80s and some in the 90s I loved. So far so good. Lori. C.
"The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" is a beautiful tribute/true story by Gordon Lightfoot. Gives me goosebumps every time I hear it. ❤️
A Canadian legend, a true timeless classic, especially touches heart strings when true story ❤❤
He is a heart tgrob.
The song is very haunting really.
Gordon played his music in 432hz, the tuning that music should be in. Besides his beautiful singing and performance, the tuning is what makes the sound so smooth and easy to groove. He was a real one
Great song!
Great singer!
Great songwriter!
Thanks for finding Gordon Lightfoot! Sundown was a massive #1 hit in 1974. I love the harmonies and guitar work!
I saw him last year right before everything started shutting down. He’s in his 80s and still going strong.
I would have to say Gordon is more "Pop or Country Folk" music than anything. Bob Dylan once said that Gordon was his favorite artist. Bob Dylan is definitely "Folk" music. Loved your reaction to Gordon Lightfoot. 👍👍
Try listening to Jim Croce pronounced cro chi).. Time in Bottle is truly the most beautiful love song.........
Time in a Bottle is great, but so is "I'll have to say I love you in a song"
I Got a Name and Operator! ✅✅
@@mitchellanderson9250 ANYTHING by Jim Croce. RIP gone too soon.
Bad Bad Leroy Brown!
He wrote "Time..." for his son. But I guess you could call it a love song because he did love his son.
I was a child but everyone loved this incredible song and his beautiful voice...
Gordon Lightfoot is the singer. As far as other songs , you really should listen to The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, it's a true story.
Also, If You Could Read My Mind and Carefree Highway are excellent.
Gordon Lightfoot. One of the finest ever singer/songwriters.
You want Harmony? You will absolutely LOVE Crosby Stills and Nash "Carry On / Questions" or "Suite Judy Blue Eyes."
Best musical story teller ever! You will be sorely missed my friend! RIP always.
A master songwriter. He has influenced many in the industry.
If you could read my mind is simply a masterpiece.
You've just gone down a rabbit hole. He has so many incredible songs/hits. One of the best songwriters in generations ❤️
You need to listen to Gordon's masterpiece "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald"
My Idol. Lucky Enough To Have Seen Him in Concert 5 Times In The 1970- 1985. Love Him SO Much! A True Singing Poet! ❤❤❤
That's the singers name. You have hear The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald. It is really awesome.
This song is about his relationship with a lady named Cathy Smith. Both were their own worse enemies, but she went off and became famous for providing drugs that caused an overdose death to a well-known actor John Belushi back in 1982, John is famous for The Blue Brothers and other movies. Gordon Lightfoot had a hard life in alcohol and eventually gave it up. Today Gordon Lightfoot is 83 and still plays in concerts...
An all-time favorite singer-songwriter. I am going to see Gord for the fourth time this August. A legendary songwriter. There are always back stories to his songs.
OK, seriously you guys!!!! Gordon Lightfoot (a singer songwriter from Orillia, Ontario, Canada) is ICONIC in this country, and in North America, for that matter. He's in his '80s now, but he was one of the most famous folk performers in the 60s and 70s. His health isn't all that good right now, so spare him some good energy. You can't be Canadian without loving this man.
He wrote this about his GF at the time Cathy Smith. (The same Cathy Smith that was with John Belishi when he OD’d)
He was worried about her creepin’ out on him.
Never knew that. Thanks for adding to my music trivia knowledge 😉
From what I have read she was the that gave Beltsville the fatal dose, apparently accidently.
Belushi
Wow! I didn't know that. Thank you.
@@monasandin762 did she get charged or receive any punishment? Belushi was a treasure
Sundown is a song that transcends it's meaning and sound. Goddamn brilliance.
A true Canadian legend, Canada’s poet laureate. One of Bob Dylan’s favourite artists. To quote Dylan “The only bad thing about a Lightfoot song is when it ends. My parents probably played his records the most or any artist as I was born and grew up in the seventies. So many amazing songs but my fav Is Early Morning Rain. Canada truly pulls above their weight with singer-songwriters. Four could arguably be listed right behind Bob Dylan, Lightfoot, Neil Young, Leonard Cohen and the iconic Joni Mitchell. This Canadian girl might be a bit biased but so much incredible music there. Great reaction! 🇨🇦
Rest In Peace Storyteller, And Song Writer Gordon Lightfoot . . . Thank You Very Much For Making My Growing Up In The 1970's A Fun Filled One, While Enjoying Your Amazingly Beautiful Story Telling Songs . . . ;-)
R.I.P. Gordon Lightfoot . . .
try 'wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald' by Gordon Lightfoot
I think Edmund Fitzgerald is the singer’s name and the ship was the Gordon Lightfoot
I rediscovered this track sometime back in ‘05 one morning while sitting in a Tim Horton’s drive through on the way to work. It hit hard and has become my favourite song of all time. I request this song with every busker I meet. Nobody has granted 😊my request to date. I don’t understand how this song hasn’t received the praise that it deserves.
Gordon Lightfoot is an amazing story teller.
This song is about an ex girlfriend Cathy Smith, that he says “he should have married”. She became famous later as the woman who gave John Belushi the speedball injection that ended his life.
As others have said, check out the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. And one of my favorites, Carefree Highway.
Gordon is the singer's name, and the "harmony" you hear is him doubling himself on different tracks.
This audio is from a studio recording, and someone has matched it up with a video but they aren't connected.
The inspiration for this song came from Lightfoot worrying about his girlfriend, who was out at bars all day while he was at home writing songs.He had this girlfriend one time, and I was at home working, at my desk, working at my songwriting which I had been doing all week since I was on a roll, and my girlfriend was somewhere drinking, drinking somewhere. So I was hoping that no one else would get their hands on her, because she was pretty good lookin'!"
"As a matter of fact, it was written just around Sundown," he added, "just as the sun was setting, behind the farm I had rented to use as a place to write the album."
He’s a legend of the 70’s . Still one of my favorites of all time. Story I heard was he was part of the Canadian National Chorus getting paid $300 a month and he left to perform in the states at a club for $30 a month because he wanted to do his own thing. Went to see him in Kansas City (probably 2018). He’s still performing in his 80’s. Please listen to “wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”.
Gordon Lightfoot is an amazing singer/songwriter/musician noted for his beautiful twelve string guitar work. I saw him in Boston in the early 70’s and his live performance was impeccable. “If You Could Read My Mind” is one of his best songs for you to check out. Love your channel.
"... when I'm feeling no pain" = colloquialism for "very drunk", fyi for younger listeners.
and he admitted he was when this was written
I liked this song BUT It's not his only good song, You should check out "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitz Gerald". It's a very good song! ROCK ON!! Jeff
Carefree Highway
If You Could Read My Mind
Song for a Winter's Night
etc., etc., etc.
RIP Gordon you will be missed
Gordon Lightfoot is the guy himself singing, and he's actual Canadian. His biggest hit was "IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND".
Canadian Icon.
True story. One day Gordon Lightfoot was driving in Toronto, listening to the radio when his song "If You Could Read My Mind" came on. After singing along with himself, the song ended, and the DJ announced that Gordon had died. Needless to say that was a shock to Gordon! Sadly he really did pass away years later in May 2023. RIP Gordon Lightfoot.
If you want to hear GREAT story telling, listen to his “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”.
Among the greats of singer/songwriters. The 70s...no better decade of music, no better story-telling.
"Gordon Lightfoot, is that singer's name or the group name"
Gordon Lightfoot is the name of the singer
Another song by Gordon Lightfoot that you might want to check out is "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald"
It's a little bit of a sad song, but it's a good one
Rest In Paradise Gordon Lightfoot 😢
“If you could read my mind “ is his best song and “carefree highway.” another good one. Sundown was his only #1. He is talking about how tough ,it is to be in love..
Gordon Lightfoot is the man. Bass guitar - Rick Haynes.
Lead guitar - the late Terry Clements
Yet another vote for "The wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald." It's a masterpiece. Gordon Lightfoot is a legendary Canadian songwriter.
I wish I would had seen him live in concert, now he's really gettin up their. I love the tune. Rock on Rob Squad
Clean Music, Sharp Harmonies, all Live no auto tune...
I've been listening to Gordon Lightfoot my entire life - literally! My parents would play his records - & he's one of my all time favourites.
Gordon Lightfoot is the singer & writer of all his songs. His music would best be described as folk-rock-country or the like. I don't think anyone could actually give Gordon Lightfoot an actual label. To me, he defies all genres. He is an entity unto himself. :)
He's a national treasure here in Canada & our pride & joy.
The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. That is all.
Gordon Lightfoot was Canadian, but toured the entire planet. His music was loved everywhere. Listen to more, as his lyrics are astounding.