British guitarist analyses Gordon Lightfoot's vivid storytelling in 1979
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- Опубліковано 9 чер 2024
- Tonight we're taking a look at storyteller extraordinaire Gordon Lightfoot back in 1979!
Original video - • Gordon Lightfoot - The...
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TIME STAMPS -
0:39 Performance
3:39 Analysis Start
9:41 Performance Resumption
13:09 Analysis Resumption
14:32 Guitar Rhythm
17:04 Lead Guitar
@Wings of Pegasus: I live in Cleveland, Ohio. The beach of Lake Erie is 10 minute walk from my house. My friends and I watched this great ship come in and go out many times. She was truly magnificent. The only thing better was to watch her be unloaded by the Hulett ore unloaded. If you are not familiar with the Huletts, Google them...there were four of them, and they looked like dinosaurs, bending down to scoop up the ore, and back down to get another bucket full. They were dismantled some years ago, but there is one in storage, but the powers that be want to put it back up on the lakefront, in a park setting. If I were rich, I would give the city the money to provide this noble endeavor. I recall the news that day when she went down. When I hear this song, I have the tears start. Some of the crew were my age.
I meant to tell you that I like your tutorial on the guitar too. I'm not the best so everything I can learn from the guitar gods is a big help and greatly appreciated.
Nicely done, great break down of the construction & a favorite song to perform. And vivid is right, chilling in fact - took me a while to learn to get through it without tearing up - and even still it happens.
Since then they found the wreckage and found out a main hatch didnt give in. Which meant no one was at fault for not sealing them up. He rewrote that line and sang it to them on an anniversary event to make up for telling the story wrong and he apologized in person to each of the families. Nothing but pure class from this man.
the 1970's had a lot of singer/songwriters who were great storytellers. miss those days.
On May 2, the day after Gordon passed away, the Mariner's Church in Detroit tolled the bell 30 times (and I believe that they usually only do it on the anniversary of the sinking). Twenty nine were for the crew of the Fitz, and the last one was for Gordon. What a huge show of respect for this man. He would have been so incredibly honoured...and as a fellow Canadian, I feel so honoured for him.
This has me in tears. I've always found their tale to be so sad and haunting. Gord's song honoured the loss of The Fitz & her crew with the dignity and solemnity it deserved. As another fellow Canadian, I'm also deeply moved by their gesture. The ringing of the bell speaks so eloquently of how much Gord meant to them. A beautiful and fitting tribute indeed. Rest easy, Gord.
well said!
this is very nice to read...I always get shivers when the line about the bell being rung 29 times comes around...and I've heard this song many times.
I think of the wreck tragedy every time I pass the Mariners' Church on the way to Windsor, Ontario. And let's give a salute to Gordon, who is still out touring at 82 y/o.
I have been a fan since 1968, when he was 30!
@@larrymiller4
Me, too. And, I can't even tell you many times & places I've seen Gordon play live, including over 10 times at Massey Hall, in Toronto.
I get a really big kick out of reading the comments from so many younger people, many of whom weren't even born when this song was popular.
I still get chills when I hear this song.
RIP
I have driven from Indiana to Windsor 3 times in the last year. I never thought to look for it. I will next time
Gordon met the families and all proceeds of the record went to the families and apparently still has contact with them. Even though the voice is now thinner he still performs to packed houses. A quiet giant of a man.
His quiet voice is quite powerful.
Or is that his message that is so loud?
I saw him in royal oak Michigan this past January,his voice isn't as strong as it was and doesn't have the range but for a 80 year old man he is still great and gives it his all and puts in a great show. What a lot of people don't know about this song is not only was it a first take,it was the first time the band had ever even played it. The drummer said Gordon told him he would give h a nod when he wanted him to come in. The electric guitarist said they tried to recut it numerous times and could never even get close. He wasn't even really done writing it and they were in the studio and the album they were cutting was done and they had time left so the engineer talked them into recording it
@@russblack443 Merci beaucoup for this information.
He's now playing to a different audience. RIP Gordon.
@@brianlane9534 The men of the Edmund Fitzgerald were waiting to greet him.
After Gordon died, the Mariner's Church rang the bell 30 times. One for each of the 29 men that lost their lives....and then one for Gordon Lightfoot. Brought a tear to my eye for sure.
Mariner's Church in Detroit.
'Does anyone know where the love of God goes, when the waves turn the minutes to hours'. Heart wrenching. Gets me every time. For me it is one of the best lines ever written.
Agreed. That line feels like a kick in the gut every time, and I'm a freaking atheist! heh
Spot on. Especially poignant if one has spent any time on big water.
Yes sir....
I think he said he wrote this song in about 15 minutes. Talk about inspiration and immense talent.
agreed
As a licensed captian on the Great Lakes, this song gives me goose bumps each time. There is a feeling of sadness, respect, and honor to have ssen this ship and understand the dangers of thise sailors face on each time they set sail.
Every time i hear this song, it stops me in my tracks because I lost my uncle Alfred, Second Cook, on the SS Carl D. Bradley that went down on Lake Michigan, November 18th 1958. Its the second largest ship to go down on the Great Lakes (Edmund Fitzgerald is the largest). Of the 35 crewmen, 33 went down with the ship and only 10 were able to be recovered from the wreck. I also lost my uncle Frank, Chief Engineer, on the SS Cedarville (sister ship of the Carl D. Bradley and third largest ship to go down) May 7, 1965 on Lake Michigan. Of the 35 crew, 10 were lost, and of those, 4 were never recovered. Peace and love to those who gave their lives on the great Lakes!
What a tragedy for your family to lose two members to the lake.
Respect.😢
long live to remember them both sir...
"The church bell chimed till it rang 29 times for each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald." Unforgettable line that really hits home whenever I hear it.
And on Tuesday, it chimed 30 times...for the crew, and once for Gordon.
I believe that when they chime the bell for each crew member, they announce their names prior. I could be wrong about that, as I’ve never been there.
I live in the city where the Edmund Fitzgerald took on its load of iron ore and headed out onto Lake Superior. I was in the audience when Mr. Lightfoot preformed this song for the first time in the Twin Ports of Duluth, Minnesota and Superior , Wisconsin. It brought the house down many of us in tears. My late husband was a mariner on the Great Lakes and knew some of the men who lost their lives so this song touched him deeply.
I am a Michigander myself and this may have been before my time but I feel like this sinking has become a part of our psyche of Michigan.
Condoléances.
Quite moving-
thank you for sharing
My late brother in law was from Peshtigo, about an hour’s drive north of Green Bay. One year, he gave me several plastic bags full of taconite pellets. I believe that that was Fitzgerald’s cargo, the “iron ore”. Us kids back then, had these slingshots called “wrist rockets”, and would use the pellets as ammunition, as they were the ideal uniform size and weight.
@@Luked0g440 You are correct about the taconite pellets being the cargo on the Edmund Fitzgerald. The Burlington Railroad still has the loading facility operational, we call it the ore dock and I've seen video of how it works, it's interesting. I can just see you with your wrist rocket letting loose a taconite pellet, I'll bet that was a fun activity, I wouldn't want to be hit with one however. Lol
RIP Captain Ernest McSorley and all the men who went down with the Fitzgerald.🙏🙏
And a really excellent breakdown of an example of Gordon's song-weaving gifts done by the one and only Fil.. Thank you!
From the sea we come to the sea we return
I was living in Michigan (12 y.o.) when the Fitz went down. About a quarter of the paper (Det News?) was a drawing of the first theory showing the boat (yes, they are ore boats per lake nomenclature despite size) hanging between two waves and cracking in two.
As a interesting side note, legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau once brought the Calypso into the Lakes but turned down a local pilot somewhat bragging of his vast experience. Well, a relatively small lake storm brewed up and caused them major trouble. Begrudgingly, Cousteau promised that "next time" he'd be employing pilots.😁
It was supposed to be Capt McSorley's final command as captain before a well-deserved retirement. I think I recall that he was called on at the last minute to make this one more voyage.
@@larrymiller4 My goodness Greg. How tragic.
He has the perfect voice for telling a story doesn't he? It just draws you into your imagination.
COTD.
He put you on that ship!
Often those who live elsewhere don't understand how huge ships can disappear in the Great Lakes. Lake Superior itself is 2/3 the size of England. You can't see Canada on the other side from the US shores. The Lakes are inland, freshwater oceans. This was a huge song when. Gordon released it. We Sailors felt it. Thanks again Fil for calling attention to Gordon's great ability to write music that has truth in it. That was what music was about in the beginning.
I Agree, I think about her every time as I idle out far from shore. You stop what you’re doing when a freighter glides by. You just watch, taking in their size and I can’t help, but to wonder where they’ve been and where they’re going, I throw them a half wave/salute wishing them a safe journey as they head for Lake Superior. I go back to casting.
This is what haunts me about that story. Anybody who lives near the lakes knows. They are just so incredibly huge and it is hard to imagine that a giant ship can go down and have such a disaster.
@@letitbesummer6536 I live only 1 mile west of Lake St Clair and fished Lake St Clair and Lake Huron. Other than riding along the shore of Lake Superior looking at the pictured rocks, it’s far enough for me, she’s a scary lake.
@@carlamurray2370 Hi Carla. Hope all is well. Your comments and others here bring this story to life with your personal takes on it. I appreciate them. It's a lot to absorb!
@@konstantia1607 I’m well thanks. It’s a special story for those who live in Michigan and even more for those who have fished the Great Lakes. You might like this link. www.shipwreckmuseum.com/shipwreck-museum/
A master storyteller “When suppertime came, the old cook came on deck sayin'
"Fellas, it's too rough to feed ya", just puts you on that boat. No other writer could have done that. Hearing he donated all the proceeds to the families is just over the top. How touching and generous.
Finally managed to see Gordon live last Labour Day. Didn't expect him to perform this song at age 83, but he did. One of our national treasures...
Bob Dylan's favorite songwriter. He also wrote and performed one of the perfect songs ever recorded, 'If you could read my mind'. It's exquisite.
"What a tale my thoughts could tell".. one of my all-time favorite songs.
I agree, along with Beautiful.
Canuck here. He is revered in his homeland, and you're all spot- on.
@@-BUFFALOMan He said Gord didn't know how to write a bad song.
I think Fil did an analysis of that song. It's a song that transcends the ages.
This song will never grow old or be forgotten because it was given a soul.
30 souls including Gordon. RiP 🪦
That is so well said.
Yes…that’s it! Many people wonder what it is about this shipwreck…this story that makes it live on. Gordon gave the Fitz a soul. As long as this song lives on so will the story of this tragic shipwreck (that never got a chance to send a distress signal), the 29 men who went down with her and the “honorary” 30th man, Gordon Lightfoot himself.
RIP Gordon Lightfoot who left us today for a better world at the age of 84, such a Canadian Icon and fantastic singer-songwriter who inspired the likes of Bob Dylan, Jim Croce and so many others.
Gordon passed yesterday. Bob Dylan said this about him.... “I can’t think of any Gordon Lightfoot song I don’t like. Every time I hear a song of his, it’s like I wish it would last forever… Lightfoot became a mentor for a long time. I think he probably still is to this day.” thank you for doing this Fil.
My ex-husband was a longshoreman out of the Port of Kenosha, in SE Wisconsin, Lake Michigan. They were working the night the Fitzgerald went down, and it was indeed a very dark and stormy night. Listening to the song one can feel the roll of that inland ocean in every rhythmic note that Gordon plays. It isn't hard to imagine standing on deck and feeling the power and rhythm of the water rolling beneath you. He captures that feeling perfectly in this composition. I feel he's got that down pat in his sea chanteys like Ode To Big Blue. Perhaps canoeing around the Great Lakes he learned to feel that movement of the water, or the sound of gentle waves lapping against the side of his yellow canoe. Thanks, Fil, for highlighting Gordon Lightfoot and the story of that huge iron ore carrier. I hope one day you can come take a swing through our Great Lakes, stop into some of our fine maritime museums, and feel the stories of those lost to the lakes. Your appreciation of Lightfoot's maritime story telling will only grow.
As young boy rode my Schwinn Typhoon around the deck of the "Fitz" on Saturday mornings then Captain M. would have ice cream treats in the galley. I remember the magnificent decor and how kind the crew was to us kids. The love of God goes in many directions with many destinations. Also, please recognize the influence of Ian & Sylvia Tyson (Canadian) on Gordon Lightfoot. "In the early morning rain, with a suitcase in my hand" will last forever.
Early Morning Rain was written by Gordon Lightfoot and appeared on his first album.
@@janicemacmillan2610 thanks!
I was 11 years old in '75, when I first heard it on the radio. It was so haunting that I can remember the shivers it sent down my spine. Its one of those songs like, Bobbie Gentry's, Ode to Billy Joe, that has the ability to put you right at the dinner table while the family discussed Billy Joe's death. Or, right on the deck and bridge of the Edmund Fitzgerald in the middle of that storm.
Word. The stoicism and fatalism in "fellows it's been good to know ya".
Biggest difference was this was real.
@@MrNegative57 🤣
You nailed it , both songs had that haunting appeal ...so much atmosphere
I was a couple years older when I first heard it, but it's been my favourite song since my teens...going on 45 years. I've never heard another song that sets a mood, and can put you right there in the moment, like this one. You're absolutely right about that.
I've been lucky enough to see Gordon 5 times over the years, and every show has been fantastic. He certainly hasn't lost his ability to entertain as he's gotten older. He's definitely one of our Canadian national treasures.
I grew up in northern Michigan and remember that storm in 1975. They shut down the Mackinaw Bridge. My dad was driving a UPS semi truck and said he just about lost the truck due to winds. Anyway, Lake Superior is HUGE and so different from the other Great Lakes. When Gordon Lightfoot came out with this song, I bought the 45 and played it over and over again. This song ALWAYS brings tears to my eyes. If you ever come to the USA, visit Lake Superior and drive over the Mackinaw Bridge...Michigan is very special in the summertime, brutal in late fall/winter. I actually saw the Edmund Fitzgerald sail down through Port Huron the summer before she went down. It was the biggest freighter on the Lakes at that time. And, seeing her blare her horn going under the Blue Water Bridge for the people on the Michigan AND Ontario sides was awesome. I will NEVER forget that. RIP to the crew of the Fitz...ALWAYS remembered.
Hi from Canada! I've been across your magnificent bridge. . .awesome! I agree with you that people who've never seen it have no idea of how MASSIVE Superior truly is. And terrifying. Stay safe, ally, cousin, friend, & neighbour! 🚢
In 2009, I rode my motorcycle across Canada and back through the States, north to the Upper Peninsula and over the Mac bridge and along the southern shore of Lake Superior through driving rain and wind. What a wild experience for this wussy BC’er. It’s like an ocean, alright.
Chris DIYer, so awesome that you witnessed that. I was born and raised in Port Huron, but left for Florida in '77. This song brings tears to my eyes every time.
The Mackinaw bridge is 4 lanes with the middle 2 lanes being steel grating. I've ridden over it several times on my motorcycle. I remember looking straight down past my feet to see water far below, Great fun! Lake Superior is impressive if one ever gets the chance to visit.
The one thing I note about this song is the heavy, insistent roll of the instrumental part, mimicking the roll of the waves on Superior in bad weather. I don't know much about music but I appreciate how the vocal and instruments are playing their part in one unified piece. Superior is really as formidable as this song makes it sound.
Gordon is just pure gold. "If You Could Read My Mind" might just be the loveliest ballad ever penned.
An absolute master storyteller... and a Canadian national treasure.
It takes a great songwriter to write about the Great Lakes. This is a true ballad, just as in the days of old. And Lightfoot's respect for those who died is at the forefront, but equally, his respect for the forces of nature shines through.
As a former music teacher, I really appreciate your analysis of the music and the lyrics, and Gordon's writing.
Thanks!
Fil, I can't believe I have the opportunity to teach you something about music. Gordon wrote this song in a "sea shanty" mode. Sailors would sing "shanties" as they did heavy labor 1-2-3-4 with an emphasis on the 3-4. Sailors pulling rope 1-2 as they are reaching, 3-4 as they are pulling-so emphasis on the 3-4. You can almost visualize sailors pulling a heavy cargo out of the hold as they sing this. Also, a number of shanties are story songs. In the military we sang a few shanties, but being as UA-cam is family friendly, I won't repeat the lyrics.
Stan Rogers did a few related ones, Barrett’s Privateers( shanty), and White Squall.
Thanks for your comment. All these years, I hadn't picked up on the sea shanty parallel!
@@Caperhere I miss Stan. I forgot what night he was playing way back when at The Lower Deck or outside on a stage. I still kick myself I didn't get to see him.
"Sea shanty" mode is mostly in 4/4 time as you stated. This tune is 6/8 time.
Not how we did it on the square rigger I sailed on, when pulling lines it was 2, 6, heave!, 2, 6, heave!. on 2 we repositioned one hand, on 6 we repositioned the other hand, then on HEAVE! we pulled like buggery!
So many amazing lines in this song but the one that always gets me is "And all that remains is the faces and the names / Of the wives and the sons and the daughters". RIP Gord.
My husband’s uncle has a camp on the St. Mary’s River that joins Lake Superior and Lake Huron. The Edmund Fitzgerald went down not to far from the mouth of the St. Mary’s River. He was at his camp that day. It was a huge storm where he lost many trees. One big tree just missed his cabin. As a Canadian that lives in the Great Lake basin, it was a tragedy.
🇨🇦 here too. Tragic story, beautifully told
Thank you for sharing this. It gives the song even more meaning. It's nice to know the men who died are not alone because people feel sorrow for their tragedy.
@@mitcht2717 I had to look up Rainy River and Baudette. I have an aunt & uncle in Winnipeg for last 50 years, so we’ve driven out many times. I’ve crossed at International Falls and Emerson.
@@mitcht2717 Our daughter was a UM-D Bulldog! She was there during the reign of Brett Hull. We attended some awesome hockey games.
@@SallyBedow that’s right he did play there. I saw the home he grew up in in Winnipeg when Bobby was the first $1million player signed in the WHA. It was quite unassuming but in a nice area called Tuxedo.
Hi Fil. Ive lived 63 years by Lake Superior in the U.P. of Michigan. I’d seen the Fitz lock through in Sault Ste Marie and come into port in Duluth MN. Three fronts came together over the lake that night. I was 17 years old. In the very house I live in now, my mom and I sat in the living room, the power was out. The roar of the lake was deafening. In this well insulated house the candle flames rocked back and forth. I wondered if the ground was moving. We are about 250 yards from the lake. I thought the roof would peel right off. The freighter Arthur Anderson made a turnaround in the St. Mary’s river, risking his ship and crew to go and look for survivors. There was only debris. The life boats are up here in the UP at the museum ship Valley Camp. It’s awful how battered and beaten those metal boats are. Sometimes I can listen to this song. Sometimes it’s too much. The big lake-Superior can be violent and loud or as smooth as glass. Standing on the shore when it’s rolling -the mist stings your face and you feel quite small. Don’t mess with her, you have to respect the power it has. Ice Cold 12 months out of the year. I swim in it regardless and enjoy picking stones. Still ice on the beach today or I’d be there. 😊 Thank you for analyzing this song. It brings a little of my world to your world maybe - even though you are so far away. ❤️
Your comment is one of the most respectful & thorough I've ever read or heard about the wreck of The Fitz, or Gordon's interpretation!! I was lucky enough to have been a friend of Gord for many years, & have been grieving his passing these past several weeks. I appreciate your detailed, but sensitive, account of the conditions on the Lake that night!! Your perspective adds depth & value to the lyrics as written by Gord. Thank you, & God bless!!
@@janjerge1484 thank you. my condolences on the loss of your friend. Michigan holds a special love for Gordon Lightfoot and his eerie yet emotional song of that night.
@@elledouai2145 Thank you Elle for your sympathies, but most of all for replying. You have inadvertently given me a gift that is beyond expression. I've been going through my photos & handling all the special mementos & gifts from Gordon, trying to soak up as much of his residual aura as possible, in order to feel close again. I also have been watching SO many videos & reading as many comments as I'm able. I find it strangely comforting to know he was loved by SO many!! I especially like Fil & his analyses of so many of Gordon's songs. His "cut-ins" are respectful, & it's apparent he genuinely admires & appreciates Gord's seemingly infinite talent. Likewise, your comment struck a chord w/me, as you painted such a vivid image of what I believe.Gord envisioned of that tragedy. I wanted to retain your eloquence & regretted that I might never find your sensitive tribute again. (Like Gord, I'm not tech-savvy, as I'm creeping up on 80.) But then you replied, affording me this gift I will read & reread again. Thank you!!
I enjoyed your comments. Thank you from the SF Bay Area.
@@janjerge1484 re-reading your comment today for some reason. I don’t know where you live but I live within blocks of where these freighter ships are close during the shipping season. You’d be amazed to see the size of them
I'm in the middle of my work day, so I unfortunately don't have time to actually watch this video... but I will. I came here for one reason only. I wanted to thank you for your honest (not hyped) reactions. Thank you for not using a thumbnail picture with your mouth agape, hanging upside down, and fireworks in the background. You're an awesome dude Phil and I just wanted to take the time to thank you. I have the sense from the smile you have on your face, while you're watching the artist, that you truly appreciate what the artist brings to the table. Your smile seems as warm to me as if it were a hug to the artist you're reviewing. Thanks for being you and what you do. Be well and God bless!! Now... sadly... back to work! (I'd rather watch another of your videos!)
Thanks! Yeah I'm not a fan of the 'clickbait' thumbnail thing, I think just a still of the video is adequate and more relevant!
Thank you kind person, for articulating your appreciation of Fil, music , and the history of this song. Fil's smile is a definite indication of masterful analization. You deserve appreciation yourself. Good day!
I was out in that storm, in Marquette, on the south shore of Lake Superior. The strongest storm I've be out in, and I've been out in a typhoon on Guam and multiple blizzards in Wyoming. Waves were going over the breakwater like it wasn't there.
Of course, we didn't find out about the Edmund Fitzgerald until the next day.
I was in the US Navy, I have lived on a ship going through mad ocean's pacific Indian Caribbean and to the Persian gulf never thought I would see 70 ft waves but I did
God bless you, Van. What a memory to have. Thank you for helping us connect to that day.
Never been a sailor but lived through many a Wyoming winter storm. And worked throught several.
I came to mock the inscription on the Engineering building at UW.
"The Control Of Nature is Won, not Given".
Idiots. Man cannot control nature.
One of the greatest "story" songs ever written.
I tried to read a lot of these comments to see if someone had mentioned this. I was watching a documentary about the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald. When Gordon wrote this sad story about all the lives lost, the sailor's family had a problem with what was being said about the accident. It had to do with the hatches that should have been locked but somehow one was unlocked. I believe Gordon later in life decided to change the lyrics to the song because the families disagreed with the investigation. They found out that the crew wasn't at fault just a lot of bad luck. That just goes to show you how intimate he was with his writing. This is what I can remember about the documentary. Great job again with your analyses. I read a comment below someone said that they appreciated your thumbnails. I have to agree with him. I have never seen you put up something that looks like you are covering your mouth, big titles, and the silly looks. Just straight to the point. Thank you. Also wanted to pay respect to all the people lost.
RIP crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
November 10, 1975
You were lost, but not forgotten.
Ernest McSorley - Captain
Michael Armagost
Frederick Beetcher
Thomas Bentsen
Edward Bindon
Thomas Borgeson
Oliver Champeau
Nolan Church
Ransom Cundy
Thomas Edwards
Russell Haskell
George Holl
Bruce Hudson
Allen Kalmon
Gordon MacLellan
Joseph Mazes
John McCarthy
Eugene O'Brien
Karl Peckol
John Poviach
James Pratt
Robert Rafferty
Paul Riippa
John Simmons
William Spengler
Mark Thomas
Ralph Walton
David Weiss
Blaine Wilhelm
You are correct about the hatch covers
I believe the side rails were down and he had two hatches open. That’s what I remember from the audio of another freighter driver.
It’s actually here in a video. when they removed her bell, the only artifact removed from the wreck, they replaced it with a replica that is engraved with all the names.
www.shipwreckmuseum.com/edmund-fitzgerald/memorial-ceremony/
@@carlamurray2370 The side rail was down because they ran aground and hogged the ship. The hatch covers came off when she nose dived into the bottom after being hit from the three rogue waves, known as The Three Sisters.
Yes I did read that Gordan changed the lyrics for live performances to be more accurate once more details came to light.
Lovely gesture to honor and list the deceased. 🙏
A masterpiece. The "Does anyone know..." line, wow.
RIP to an Amazing Storyteller, you will live on forever. Thank you ❤️🇨🇦😪
He even updated the words when it was found that the crew was faultless and the main hatch had not given in.
A man that truly cared.
The ship was 729 feet long and she's lying in the bottom of Lake Superior in 535 feet of water on November 5,1975.
November 10, 1 day before my birthday.
RIP to wonderful man. The world has lost a true legend. He was a master of storytelling, amazing singer and musician
Gordon has remarked that every line in the song is essentially the same -- same chords, mostly the same notes. But because the story and the song are so compelling and wonderfully written, I for one never get tired of the repetitive nature of the tune. He wrote it to sound like a sea shanty.
"Sometimes, I think it's a shame, when I get to feeling better when I'm feeling no pain." and, "Sometimes, I think it's a sin, when I feel like I'm winning when I'm losing again.." - from: Sundown, by Gordon Lightfoot.
🙂👍🏻
A heartbreaking story but an epic song. I have to listen to every November. My heart breaks every time.
It's pure genius, the words he put together in that song. It still haunts me after all these years. You really don't have to have experienced these words to appreciate "If You Could Read My Mind". It just grabs you into it..
I had the utter pleasure of hearing Gordon Lightfoot in concert the first year he went back on tour. It was the anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald that night, and Gordon played it and still had that heavy awareness of the incredible loss of this event to the families and the maritime community.
As an aside, Gordon didn't know if anyone would want to hear him anymore, but he sold out in minutes and they added a second night of performance, which also sold out. He had just recovered from a stroke and his voice was noticeably thinner, but still on pitch, but his fingers still flew over the fretboard like a young man. And cheekily, he said to the Ottawa crowd, "Elton is in town tonight, and I still sold out." He was so surprised and happy that we still love him... and what is not to love about this man. Still touring... of course, we want to see him. Do they even make them like that anymore?
This song just brings tears to my eyes, such a haunting song.
Haunting, indeed. I usually can't listen to it, I find it so powerful.
I'm so happy for this second video on Gordon Lightfoot and especially since it's the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. It's a song near and dear to my heart. The wreck happened when I was in school in Michigan, and I can remember hearing it on the news. Do as many of Gorden Lightfoot as you can. He has a lot of great songs!
The raised the bell about 20 years ago. The Wreck still casts a big shadow over great lakes shipping to this day. I'm from Michigan. Its still a remember event. I've loved Gordy for years
Gordon donated all the money from this hit to the families. November 10 1975 . 730 feet long. No SOS all hands lost and still no idea why.
It’s like Remembrance Day
I saw a PBS special on that years ago. Did they ever get an exact cause?
My dad rode the boats for a few years. Will never forget his face (I was 16) when the story came out.
I’m from Ontario. Gordon also brought a little more understanding to those who didn’t understand between Canadians and Americans living & working nearby. Such a beautiful song on so many levels.
it's the lyrics that lift the listener to the climactic tragedy. I always thought the two lines about the cook were chilling
The thing about Gordon Lightfoot's songs, is that you get the feeling you are right there, and experiencing what is happening.
Are you getting that we love Mr. Lightfoot? Such a song, it haunts you. I am happy that there is someone out there who keeps artists such as this from being forgotten. I listen to Pop music occasionally and have yet to hear anyone even coming close to this artist’s caliber. I won’t get started on today’s music; I will just say in my humble Baby Boomer’s opinion it is Muse-“Ick”. Love what you do; please keep doing it.
RIP Mr. Lightfoot. A great poet.
I lived in the area of this terrible wreck. I knew the wife of one of the men who perished. This song always gave me chills and brought sadness. Gordon Lightfoot was always one of my favorites. Thank you, Fil.
Fil, on point thank you! Gordon plays his made in Kalamazoo, Michigan Gibson 12 string while singing this ode to those who passed away that fateful day! From a Michigander the situation he paints rings ever so true!
They shall not be forgotten.
Hola Fil, Mr. Gordon Lightfoot. Mr. Canadian Legend and another of the great singer/songwriters of the 70s. I am from Wisconsin and so all of us (and all who live around the Great Lakes) know this story and this song. I have stood at the harbor in Superior, Wisconsin a few times in my life. I have seen the docks where the Fitz left from. I have been around Lake Superior and into Canada and Michigan (both the Upper Peninsula and Michigan proper) and I have heard this song playing in my mind whenever I am up there. I would love nothing more than to take a hired ship tour over the spot where she went down and pay my respects to the 29 who died that tragic night. I also have to say that of all modern music history (since 1954), this lyrical line: "Does anyone know where the love of god goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours", might be the saddest, haunting, heartwrenching lyrical line of all time. It is my hope that song remains within our musical lexicon forever into the future. All time thanks for Gordon for writing and singing this incredible dirge and tribute to the mighty Fitz and her brave and incredible crew.
The line that you quote evokes tears every time I hear it.
From Ontario, that was a wonderful tribute. Hope you get your tour soon.
Oh gosh, that line gets me every time😔
“Michigan Proper”? I’ve never heard that, might you mean the Lower Peninsula? Both are a peninsula. 😊
@@carlamurray2370 I know that silly.... should have used the Lower Peninsula but I was too tired to care ;)
Great analysis of Gordon. I feel like he is a storyteller around an ancient campfire. This song has the sound to me of old maritime shanties. I love the history he brings to the song by his references, for example, to the Chipawa, and “the lake that they call Gitchie Gumie”. He also gives you such a sense of place by referring to Wisconsin, Lake Erie, and other places.
This song is so engaging it doesn’t seem like a long song. The simple melody is haunting and serves as a perfect backdrop to his vocal style and story telling ability. Always gives me chills, especially the line “boys it’s been good to know ya.” Great video.
The Great Lakes are more like inland seas, definitely not a place to be caught out on during a big storm especially if you’re in a small craft. Gordon is such a great story teller, he paints some beautiful imagery with his words.
I know Fil likes hard rock but I’d bet he would do a pretty decent job with a folkish song. I’d love to hear him tackle this song and perhaps evoke some of his celtish roots in his voice. It would be interesting to hear him dig into a more baritone voicing. Folk on, Fil!
I know well, I have fished for steelhead, bass and sturgeon on Lake St Clair (I live only a mile from the lake and launch) and Lake Huron just before it leads to Lake Superior. I see white caps beginning to form and I’m ready to bail!
Thanks so much for this Fil, you're the best. The Great Lakes are some of the most dangerous waters in the world and mariners who sail them are highly respected. Freighters have to be built extra strong to sail them. I was just a kid when this disaster happened, but I could still appreciate the magnitude of the tragedy.
Lake Michigan has so many 19th century wrecks. Living on the shoreline, I can attest to to the November storms. They turn the lake into a giant washing machine. The mariners really have a tricky job, but, there's no tide, no sharks, no salt when they want to hang out on the shoreline!
@@nebbindog6126 I'm from the North Side of Chicago. I've seen Lake Michigan churn in anger in November from Lake Shore Drive. Summer storms can be just as wicked.
I live in Duluth, just a few minutes away from Lake Superior.. Love to watch the ships come & go, and spend time at the lake & her many moods.. Always respect the lake.
Great. Fan for a long time.
Fave is "If You Could Read My Mind".
You don't know how fast I've clicked on this video. Gordon Lightfoot is one of my favorite singers. Phil Collins and Simon & Garfunkel are my two other favorites.
Sadly tragedy often become topic for songs, poems, books, movies, television shows and live theater plays. Gordon Lightfoot is one of the best storytellers in music. another great analysis Fil. Rest in Peace the 29 sailors who lost their lives on November 10, 1975
Great song, hauntingly beautiful. "Gord's Gold" is required listening.
RIP to a part of my life. If you Could Read My Mind brings back so many memories. One of my all time fave songs. What a wonderful songwriter and singer. Beautiful, lyrically fascinating to hear.
Thank you for this. Gord is a national treasure here in Canada.
Insider info: my friend Ed Ringwald (Pee Wee Charles) played Steel on this song. When they were recording it Gord couldn’t find an intro and took off for lunch. Ed and Terry Clements stayed to work on it. Terry was plugged into Ed’s little 10 watt amp that had a torn speaker. Terry just found that unique intro and Ed filled it with the haunting Steel line. One of those magical moments that happens when most of the band go to lunch. The first time Pee Wee told me that story I got goosebumps. Still do.
How Ironic ! I just watched the Arthur M. Anderson, a Great Lakes shipping vessel on live ship cams the last few days. The Anderson was with The Edmund Fitzgerald the night she went down. Then later returned to help in search for the ship. I had to of course play the song as it headed out of the bay. Thank you Fil, for bringing my week full circle ! Another Great video as always !!!
One great aspect of this channel is the wide variety of genres and topics that are analyzed.
My brother and I used to listen to "Gord's Gold" a double-cassette (yes, cassette) compilation, when we were going to sleep at night. I've known this song since it was first played on AM radio when I was a kid, but this is the first time I heard that he'd donated all its proceeds to the families. What a uniquely decent thing to do with what became one of his biggest hits.
I always get a lump in my throat no matter how many times I've heard this song. The lakes are incredibly beautiful but their power is not to be taken lightly.
I love the way he humanises the story with little details,such as the supper they arnt going to get.
I remember that tragedy. We lived in Minnesota and everyone took the loss really hard. The museum at White Fish Point in Michigan is so amazing with the bell from The Fitz. I always get goosebumps when he sings about Lake Superior never gives up her dead (because the water temperature remains so cold year around).
I remember this song from the 1970s. I heard that Gordon Lightfoot wanted more recognition for the victims of this tragedy.
@@dwaynewladyka577 Well, what’s nice is when the families agreed to bring up one artifact (the bell), they replaced it with another bell engraved for everyone that lost their life aboard.
@@dwaynewladyka577 I would have my doubts about that. I do know he made a minor change in some of the original lyrics at the request of the families. Everyone who lived around the great lakes that winter felt the loss of the Fitzgerald personally and the maritime families really took care of their own.
I have lived in Minnesota forever. It is still a big deal to read the names in Two Harbors or Duluth on Nov 10th every year and near that date Split Rock Lighthouse is lit for one night a year in rembrance of the tragedy.
@@danithompson1693 I watch the bridge cam every year on the date when the bridge blows the horn with the Fitz's call sign at the hour she was lost. And I love when I catch the Anderson coming into or leaving the docks.
I think what you're saying is that Gordon looked at the news report stated and then turned it into a beautiful narrative. I use this with my students to examine simile, metaphor, personification and alliteration . It's a fascinating study with what a writer can do taking actual events and turning them into a song/poem.
RIP to a great Songwriter/Singer/Storyteller/guitarist!! Loved his music, still do! He will be greatly missed.
On Pedal Steel Guitar we have the awesome 😎 Mr. Ed Ringwald, a.k.a “Peewee Charles”
Ed’s an award 🥇 winning Canadian Pedal Steel player. He’s also a very nice man and a friend of my husband who’s also a Pedal Steel Guitar player with approx 45 years experience.
Gordon is definitely a one of a kind musician 🎸🙋🏽♀️💕
Sundown..ya better take care if I find you been creepin round by my back stairs.....thanks Fil
"Sundown" is one of my favourites.
Love it!!
Took all my life but just a few years ago I realized Sundown was a time of day!
My favorite song !
I love how the sound of the steel guitar reminds me of the sound of howling wind on the open water.
I do so love Gordon Lightfoot!
I was lucky enough to grow up in Toronto. Gord's Spring Break concerts at Massey Hall were annual event we all looked forward to.
I am 56 years. I have enjoyed Gordon's music since I was about 8.
So, so many great songs but "Sundown" and its gorgeous melody and the haunting and beautiful guitar bends on "Wreck...." are burned into my soul...... RIP
I have listened to this song for years and every time I feel like I’m paying tribute to these men and their families because I’m remembering them.
So nice -- and sad -- to see Terry Clements playing with him... I was heartbroken when he passed away.
Read somewhere recently where Bob Dylan named Gordon his favorite songwriter.
High praise from old Bob there..
Apparently Dylan and Lightfoot were great friends and jammed together often. He once said that the worst thing about Lightfoots songs was that they always ended.
Dylan was born in Duluth, too.
Excellent song about the tragic event! Lyrically Superb. Saw Gordon in Concert here in Canada several times and this song always got a huge response. #1 record here in Canada & went to #2 in the USA. Great spot on analysis and demo Fil! 🎼🎶🎵🇨🇦🇨🇦
Thanks!
Wow great job Fil! On a very tragic incident, that this beautiful song tells of that fateful day.
What a wonderful song! Such a storytelling genius! Reminds me of high school. Great choice and analysis! ❤️
.....Fil..... Thank you so much for posting this .....There's so much involved with his writing of this song,....and the inflection and emotion in his voice tell the tale in a way no one else can....the Tone in his voice, as well..it's spellbinding ,in a way, to listen to. ( He has always had that unmistakable sound, to be sure ) .
I was but 21 years of age when the tragedy happened, and I remember it ...Then a gifted songwriter/ singer by the name of Gordon Meredith Lightfoot made the entire world aware of this Fateful Maritime Tragedy ....those men were not to be forgotten.....and this Tribute to them lives on , on behalf of thier memory and thier Families....
I have been a fan of his since I was 17, and saw him perform once in Vegas, years later.
Despite his personal Life issues, he's remained one of the best Troubadours for decades.....And out there performing at age 80 +. Such respect for that. God bless Gordon Meredith Lightfoot, Jr. .....And you, Fil....! ..Cheers and Blessings from across the Pond ....( changed my screen name, formerly Scorpio Sparkle ....)
Gordon Lightfoot has written & sung some of the most incredible songs I've ever listened to. He's really great at getting you involved into the story. You really have to listen to his songs they're very moving.
Good call Phil.
Yessss ... a Canadian icon with such a poetic gift of story telling !!
A troubadour. Once you've heard this song you'll never forget the story. Sobering.
Thank you Fil for another great analysis of a classic song of the 70's. I was a senior in high school when The Edmund Fitzgerald was lost with its entire crew. I remember feeling sorrow for the brave crew and their family members mourning their loss. For a moment in time, I felt the entire world come together as a whole to mourn the loss. It was touching to see all the relatives come back years later to dedicate the ship's bell in honor of those who perished. May they Rest in Peace.
Get the chills every time I heard this song.
I was in school on the day the Fitz was lost. Grade 4, I think, it was a Monday or Tuesday, the teacher brought in a TV and we watched news reports about the search all week, and into the following week, I think. Almost everybody in my generation can sing this song from memory. Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian icon, with such a deep body of work, and very grounded, kind and generous.
Gordon Lightfoot has left this world. You will be missed. Thank you!
Thank you Fil for sharing/posting. Gord is Canada's national treasure and icon.🇨🇦
I saw Gordon Lightfoot live, front row center. I met him and his bandmates, after the show. He is one of Canada's great songwriters. Thanks for this great analysis video. Cheers Fil!
Dwayne:
He used to play every year at Toronto's Massey Hall where i saw every spring.
@@ivannovotny4552 That's awesome! ✌️🇨🇦
The tune is so simple in that it repeats throughout the entire song. As you said, there are no frills in the song, because, as you also said, the focus is on the story. Gordon Lightfoot shows his real gift of storytelling in this song, and the emotion he shares comes through. Not in a flashy way that so many others would do, but in true Gordon Lightfoot fashion of getting to the heart of the matter and saying what he wants to say without having to use gimmicks.
This song is one of many that is proof of why we Canadians hold our countryman to be a real national treasure.
22 years a U.S. Sailor, all of my sea time aboard aircraft carriers. I've been in seas that put swells over the bow of a ship which sits 83' above the waterline. Nothing on this world is more powerful than waters in heavy weather. You know that your life is not in your own hands, when a ship that large is tossed around like a rubber ducky in the bathtub.
Grew up in Minnesota and then in Wisconsin for about 20 years. Both states border shoreline with Lake Superior and the lake's north shore is Canada. Gordon is Canadian and its very fitting for him to have seized the opportunity to write such an epic piece of music. When you here this song especially in the fall its nostalgia and goosebumps for me. Everyone loves this song around here in these parts. It's vocally, lyrically, and musically Brilliant! Its a total vibe! Thanks for reviewing this gem.
I live in Toronto and have seen Mr. Lightfoot at Massey Hall (now being refurbished) many times. My daughter works at
MH and tells me GL is a soft spoken respectful gentleman. Gordon Lightfoot: Canada's Troubadour.
The gales of November..... a master 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦story teller.....another chapter of my youth....yes constant AirPlay in Canada 🇨🇦 at the time. Thanks Fil 👏👏👏your professional insight is much appreciated 👍🏻🥂