@@marnieloken7814 Passed away May 1st, 2023, aged 84, of natural causes. He was on tour but due failing health had to cancel remainder of tour in mid-April, a couple weeks prior to his passing. Wikipedia has an entry. The public visitation at St. Paul’s United Church a week after his death saw over 2400 people attend.
I was reading an article in a local Toronto paper earlier this week (May 3rd, 2023) where they reported that for the first time since the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy (to commemorate that tragic day), the church bells of the Mariners Church of Detroit rang 30 times. The first 29 of course for the crew, the 30th for Gordon. What a wonderful and classy tribute. Well done. RIP Gordon.
Gordon Lightfoot ..from Orilla Ontario... Yes a very good singer and songwriter.. We , from across the pond ( l. Ontario ) still love that man's music. From Rochester NY, by the way
I am so proud Mr. Lightfoot wrote this song. I am the very proud daughter of the cook (Robert Rafferty) in which he is mentioned in song. I almost always stand up when he mentions the wives and the sons and the DAUGHTERS when I see him in concert.
+Smosh MakeOver I saw Gordon in concert last night in Ithaca, NY. He spoke about meeting with family members this last Monday. Hearing this song often brings tears to my eyes. My condolences to you and your family. May your father be resting in peace.
+Smosh MakeOver You and your family have my sincere condolences. I'm sure your dad was loved and well respected by all who knew him, ... on board and off. May he rest in peace until you all meet again. Keep his memory alive today, and over this holiday season. The "Wives and he sons and the DAUGHTERS", will always be remembered, as will your dad and the crew. Keep your chin to the wind, and a friend at your back.
I'm turned 74 this year. On the strength of this ballad, I rode my Harley from Florida to Whitefish Point, Michigan to pay homage to the souls that were lost on the Edmund Fitzgerald. Then I went to the Mariners Church in Detroit for the same reason. Beyond a brief US Navy enlistment, I have no experience in the Great Lakes Maritime system. For reasons I don't understand, I feel like I have met a goal in coming here. This ballad is very powerful. The ship's bell is on display at the Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point, Michigan. Definitely a great destination.
I sailed in the US Merchant Marine on the lakes for Standard Oil (Amoco) out of Whiting Indiana. The USS Wisconsin, a lake tanker, in 1975 and 1976. Just the SUMMERS! We went everywhere in the three major lakes....All the way up to Sault St Marie.
I asked Gordon many years ago how he remembers all the lyrics to this one. He told me it was because it's a chronological story. He added "It's songs like Rainy Day People that sometimes give me trouble, but Wreck is a story, so it's easier." Extremely humble, down to earth man. What an absolutely incredible talent he has.
How could you ever forget. It's one of those songs that I can recite in it's entirety on command. It's the only song from Gordon Lightfoot I've ever liked. And I love this song. It's epic.
"Does any one know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" That lyric gets me every time......what a treasure Gordon was to humanity. Such a great loss.....
That moves me to tears as well. I don’t think we will fully understand, but I believe we have been given a glimpse of truth. The love of God came to this earth in the form of a man, Jesus Christ, to show us the way by his example.
One of the greatest stories ever sung. Mr. Lightfoot is a truth-teller and a bard. I saw the Fitz transit the Soo Locks in 1974 when I was 5-years-old, and his words bring back the sound of her scraping the sides and the sight of the crew on deck waving at a little girl and her grandfather on a wind-cold rainy day.
He took a shipping disaster that would be forgotten today if it wasn't for this song. Gordon Lightfoot wrote and performed it in such a way that the crew of the 29 will live in the heart of this nation.
Timeless masterpiece, haunting, evocative lyrics and musical composition. There has never been a more loving and respectful tribute to lives tragically lost. Brings tears to my eyes.
"Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours...". The greatest lyric ever. After all of these years, this is as glorious as ever. Today. I Remember.
For some reason this lyric and the opening lines from "Time off for bad behavior" always get stuck in my head. Weird considering the songs are nothing alike. "Well, I'm up and gone at the break dawn I've been workin' like a regular dog To keep my woman and the lights and the water And the phone turned on"
I love how he describes each of the lakes “Lake Huron rolls, Superior sings, in the rooms of her ice water mansion, old Michigan steams like a young mans dreams, the islands and bays are for sportsmen, and farther below Lake Ontario, takes in what Lake Erie can send her, and the iron boats go as the Mariners all know, with the gales of November remembered.” Personification at its finest.
Being a meteorologist...every time I hear this song and/or watch a video....I tear up. Duluth and the shores are just overwhelming. May all lost soles rest in peace.
This year on November 10, 2023 will mark 48 years. I was only 13 when this tragedy happened on the Great Lakes I had grown up enjoying all my life. I penciled the date on my bedroom wall with tears in my eyes, and it stayed there till my parents painted my room years later. I will always remember the Edmund Fitzgerald and it's crew. God rest their souls, and now the soul of Gordon Lightfoot also 🙏🙏
I agree will never forget that my grandmother was the head chef on the Anderson right behind the Fitz she told me she was never been so frightened in her life she felt the ship go strait up and down she said she just went to her cabin and laid in bed and prayed, especially when she found out about the Fitz
I still believe that's what happened to the Fitz--straight up and straight down. There were reports of a kind of wave that was so large it could stand a ship on its tail or its nose effectively putting either end on the bottom of the lake causing it to break in half. That ship was approximately 730 ft long. They were found in 560 feet of water. If that wave stood them on their end, it was tall enough to smash into the bottom of the lake and break her apart.......... This doesn't negate hitting a shoal and causing her to take on water before the wave. I sincerely pray your Grandmother didn't have to go back out when the Anderson went back out to search for any survivors. I'm so thankful she made it safe--that the whole crew made it back safe. Twice. I still believe that this is a tragedy that should have never been.
@@MsBeachLizard The phenomena is called the three sisters, something that happens in less than sea sized waters, three rogue waves one after another. The power drops quickly so even a few thousand feet farther away they become merely an annoyance.
so agree, why would you even click on this song if you had an issue with it?. . This is true as to when the song was originally recorded. Would love to know the reasons for thumbs down....anyone?
I was born in '68. Thank you, Mr. Lightfoot, for a lifetime of being the BEST of Canada. In whatever afterlife there is, I'm sure that the crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald will be there to shake your hand and invite you to sit at their table for a well deserved $1 beer. R.I.P. You will be sorely missed. 😢
@@allencollins6031 Growing up in Hamilton (still here), to parents who had CBC radio on all day. I do remember. Not the significance, but the ship's name. But you make a good point. Mr. Lightfoot gave the tragedy a timeless quality. Which was a great skill. One many that he had. Thanks for the question!
This song is going to be one of the reasons why this man is going to go to heaven because I do believe there's going to be 29 Souls waiting there to say thank you and welcome aboard
"Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" A line written by a man that truly knows the feeling of desperation.
They don't understand true songwriting and storytelling through song. Mr. Lightfoot is a true bard in the same vein as Shakespeare and Longfellow. There is a reason why he is one of Bob Dylan's favorites.
Love this song ❤️! Remember hearing on radio back in the mid seventies. Such a great story teller as well as singer. Have his album Summertime Deam including the 7 inch recording.
I didn't see any thumbs down. But if they did, they are very obviously saying they dislike that these people died, they are disliking the deaths of these people. But there is nothing to dislike about this. Gordon Lightfoot is amazing musician.
As a Fitzgerald crew member during the entire 1964 season I was praying for an early lay up, but it didn't happen. Originally we were scheduled for a Toledo lay up but in late November, much to my dismay, we headed back up to Duluth in terrible weather. I sailed on many Great Lakes ore boats but none as scary as the Fitz which was taken out into stormy seas when all others lay at anchor. We broke the million ton mark that year through the Soo but at great peril. The Fitz twisted and bounced to a much greater degree than any other ship I ever sailed and I think she just in the end got tired of of her bad treatment and said "the heck with this; I need a rest," and gave up. She was my last ship and I was ever so glad to be done with that part of my life.
In 1928 a category 4 hurricane with 150 m.p.h. winds created a 14-15 wind-driven storm surge & 25 foot waves on Lake Okeechobee & this drowned over 3000 folk on the south side of the lake. Hurricanes can even create 8-10 foot waves on small man-made lakes here in Florida & this is not talked about.
My Uncle Tom was on the SS Irvin S OLDS. He had a friend on the EF. He retired in late 70s. His orr boat was 3 football fields long. My other uncle his older bro. was also in the Great Lakes Fleet. They were great guys. Tough guys. Sailors with hearts of gold.
I heard a few accounts say that the ship did "move bend and twist" a lot in big seas , and as you said , it took it's toll , and she said "I've had enough" and cracked open ..... Sometimes I just don't think humans respect the power of a planet enough .... we are PUNY ANTS compared to a planet's fury ..... I personally admire and respect your bravery , I would crap my pants in high seas of 20' waves and 70mph winds
As a former crewman on one of FITZ's fleetmates, we saw her many times in Detroit unloading at National steel. She was a beauty, a job each of us wanted, to sail on her. I couldn't believe on November 10, 1975, she was gone. On the last day, the sea shall give up her dead. R.I.P., sailors!
Yeah, Gordon did get that part wrong. The Edmund Fitzgerald was headed to Great Lakes Steel (National) on Zug Island, just outside of Detroit. Not Cleveland, but I’m sure it flowed better that way.
@@medvolts wasn’t she supposed to go to Cleveland after she arrived in Detroit? I’m pretty sure it’s not *entirely* wrong, but it does definitely flow better
I weep when he sings about the old cook saying “fellas, it’s been good to know you.” A truly haunting line from a doomed soul that knows and embraces his fate. Real poetry. Gordon Lightfoot was a brilliant songwriter.
Reminds me of the scene from Titanic when one of the performers says "Gentlemen, it's been an honor playing with you tonight." They knew they weren't gonna make it, but they were content.
This song has no equal. And while Lightfoot didn't win a Nobel Prize in literature for songwriting, Bob Dylan did. Gordon Lightfoot is Bob Dylan's favorite songwriter. So there is that. Bob Dylan once said that there's only one thing wrong with a Gordon LIghtfoot song: it has to end.
Spellbinding, haunting, beautiful. Storytelling as good as his voice and vision. I saw Gordon in 1979 Cohasset MA. The following morning I was fishing for flounder on a pier next to the local seaside hotel. A gentleman strolled over smoking a cigarette leaning on the dock railing. He asked me if I'd caught anything. I said "no Mr. Lightfoot . But I have a couple of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to share. Would you like one"? He sat down and to this day never have I had a better pb+j. An artist sublime, honest, timeless. He offered me a smoke and I said no thanks I play football tomorrow. He laughed and said good. 45 years and I'll never forget.
It's great to read a heartfelt story that isn't long-winded and give the impression the teller is a braggart. You, my friend, have my admiration and envy.
As a young man from NJ, I had never heard of Gordon Lightfoot until I attended a university in Texas in 1968 where one of my roommates was a guy from Canada who, when talking about our favorite music said, "You have to listen to this album by Gordie Lightfoot". Being a little more of a rock and roll fan at the time I didn't find the music very appealing at first, but every time my roommate played Gordie's music I became more of a fan, and by the time I graduated and moved back to NJ I was hooked. Most of my friends seemed unimpressed when I played his music until it started being played more frequently on our local radio stations in the early 70's. I will never forget the first time I heard "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" at my favorite record store in, I believe, 1975. That song made cold chills run up my spine, especially the line "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?". For someone who has been in a small boat in very large seas (as I have been), those words are extremely meaningful and thought provoking. This song, and those words especially, will remain with me for my entire life. That is what I call greatness, from a true storyteller and singer. R.I.P. Gordie Lightfoot.
@TheDodicat I found this online: "Every time I hear a song of his,” Bob Dylan once famously said about Gordon Lightfoot, “it’s like I wish it would last forever.” www.vanityfair.com/culture/2016/09/gordon-lightfoot-talks-sadness-regret-and-maritime-disasters
This song memorializes the sailors that lost their lives on that ship. Incredibly written and true to the facts as they are known. Anyone that thumbs downs this is a POS. RIP to crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald and forever condolences to their families.
@Gordon Lightfoot we all LOVE you!!! As a Michigander this song has meant a lot to us since the late ‘70’s. It’s always so sorrowful, beautiful and appreciated ❤
The part that always tears me up, having lost friends in the service is, "The Church Bell chimed , till it rang 29 times for each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald ". I'll listen to this song till the day I die.
I remember, sitting up in Flint, Michigan, and praying for the crew, and this song still makes me cry. But I love it because he puts words to the pain. To this day, I fear the Big Gitigumi
They would have made White Fish Bay if they put 15 miles behind her. The Captain was partially culpable in this disaster. He should have increased speed. IMHO
@@MichaelGiordano777 When your vessel is in waves taller than your boat, you don't increase speed, you try to old your own and ride it out as best you can.
@@riverraisin1 Maybe. Maybe not. They should've never been out there. McSorely never made it to his sick and dying wife's bedside because they were trying to squeeze one more trip in. They knew what it was like out there that time of year. And then having ppl like Cooper--who made it safely--risk his life and the lives of his crew to turn around and go back out to search was irresponsible. It was all about the money.
RIP, kind sir. No other musician has impacted me the way that you have. You were, are, and will continue to be the most important artist in my life. Such a massive loss to Canada and the world. This song immediately came to mind when I heard of your passing. I am crushed and truly heartbroken. Rest easy, friend
This is one of the few songs that has ever made the hairs on my neck stand up. You can feel exactly what those 29 men went through that one fatal night in November.
I am a United States Sailor who recently retired and did 5 deployments on Aircraft Carriers and experienced very rough seas over those times. Thankfully we all made it back safely. I feel every lyric in this song and pray for the fellow brothers that never made it back home. rest in peace.
Had the privilege to be in attendance at the November 10. 1976 concert at the Univ of MN Northrop Auditorium where he publicly played this song for the first time. It was incredibly haunting and no recording of the song comes close to the sound in that auditorium that night. Received a several minute standing ovation. This man is an epic storyteller via his music. And this is definitely one of the very best.
Also amazing that he wrote it in December of 1975 -- the month after the Fitz went down, and less than that after the Newsweek article (Nov 24, 1975) that struck Gordon with the need to write. Sometimes a story just has to come out, and the artist is the conduit. Gordon Lightfoot has had a lot more of those inspirations than the average singer/songwriter, and because he's sailed those waters (recreationally), he knew exactly what had happened with the weather. Stan Rogers had a similar feel for the water, and Great Lakes sailing ("White Squall").
Darn right great song will never arase my mind because it was real .great old memories. Thanks also gorden lightfoot. Im a singer but remembering all those words years later god bless
I was a young married wife and mother when this song came out. Having no experience or experience to the Midwest, the Great Lakes and the Edmund Fitzgerald yet I was so touched and saddened by this song. 40 years later in 2014 I finally traveled to the Great Lakes and Michigan and Wisconsin and much of the country in an Rv. Since visiting the UP and a part of the country I had no experience with I suddenly understood what had happened and the horrible tragedy of the Edmund Fitzgerald. This song brought to the fore that tragedy and the men lost and the families who lost love ones.
Marianne, in 1928 a catagory 4 hurricane caused a 14-15 foot wind driven freshwater storm surge & 25 foot waves on the south shore of Lake Okeechobee in FL.It happened at night & drowned over 3000 people & the second biggest drowning incident in American history. Lake Okeechobee is 40 miles across & 730 sq. miles & averages 6-9 feet deep & 20-30 feet deep at its deepest.
I saw Gordon Lightfoot in concert about ten years ago. His voice was almost spent and his body was frail, yet he sang every song with a love and commitment that was unshakeable. Even though his voice wasnt the same as in his youth, you could tell he still had the passion of a young man in his performance. It was so gratifying seeing someone i have appreciated since i was a toddler still doing something he loves. Thanks for the songs, Mr Lightfoot, may your light shine through the ages
When I saw him the first time, he was like that. He'd just recovered from a long illness that he apparently almost died frpm. When i heard him a few years later, he'd recovered pretty well.
@@RoadRunnerOz As another Canadian, I think Americana is fitting given that the ship, travelling between American ports, was American as was, I believe, the crew. Sure, it was a Canadian who memorialized the tragedy so eloquently but the life on the Great Lakes is shared by all the peoples living on their shores.
There are a few songs, books, films, poems, song in our lives that truly touch us. Gordon Lightfoot was one of those haunting souls who gave us joy, love, pain and reverence with his words and voice. As a MI boy, this song means so much to me that its nearly impossible to explain. When I read of Mr. Lightfoot's passing (1 May 2023), I cried like a child because one more messenger from my youth has left us. Rest in peace, Sir, you gave us all so very much.
Every November 10th play this amazing song on my radio show in Buffalo, on Lake Erie. This is one of the greatest songs ever written, and as a boy remember the storm in Buffalo and the news reports of the missing Fitz. Gordon, do hope you have been invited on a freighter for a run. It is indescribable.
I had a friend, he’s since passed away, that did a lot of backpacking during the summertime. He told a story of backpacking across lower Canada one summer. During his travels he came across a man ,camping, sitting by a fire. The man invited him to sit and play with him. He noticed my friend had a guitar across his gear. The two took turns playing songs for awhile. The man asked my friend if he would like to hear a song that he had just wrote. His name was Gordon Lightfoot and the song was “The sinking of the Egmund Fitzgerald! It was many years ago when he told me this. I knew that he was a backpacker and found this story truly amazing.
I grew up in the 60’s with the best music ever! Gordon Lightfoot was always a favorite so when this song came out it was at top of my favorites. Such a sad story told through perfect lyrics and melody that is amazing. Such a talented man. RIP Gordy!♥️♥️
I've driven up to the shipwreck museum in Michigan @ Whitefish Point twice. Seeing Lake Superior and the actual bell from the Edmund Fitzgerald was both amazing and very sad. Songs are written every day, but this song is a story, a story about 29 lost lives along with a Great Lakes legend of a ship nicknamed "The Fitz." I was a just sophomore in high school when this tragedy occurred, and the song moved me even then. I cannot thank Gordon Lightfoot enough for writing this song that serves to keep the memories of those lost men and the Edmund Fitzgerald alive. God bless those men, their friends and families, Gordon Lightfoot, and a legend that lives on.
I just bawled for five minutes straight when I looked up and found out he's still alive. So many great people gone and he's still kicking on. Best news ever.
I saw him in about 1968 or 1969 in Washington, D.C., in Rock Creek Park, opening for Peter, Paul and Mary. I knew then that he would be a keeper. Much of his music will live for many years to come.
The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down Of the big lake they called Gitche Gumee The lake, it is said, never gives up her dead When the skies of November turn gloomy With a load of iron ore twenty-six thousand tons more Than the Edmund Fitzgerald weighed empty That good ship and true was a bone to be chewed When the gales of November came early The ship was the pride of the American side Coming back from some mill in Wisconsin As the big freighters go, it was bigger than most With a crew and good captain well seasoned Concluding some terms with a couple of steel firms When they left fully loaded for Cleveland And later that night when the ship's bell rang Could it be the north wind they'd been feelin'? The wind in the wires made a tattle-tale sound And a wave broke over the railing And every man knew, as the captain did too T'was the witch of November come stealin' The dawn came late and the breakfast had to wait When the gales of November came slashin' When afternoon came it was freezin' rain In the face of a hurricane west wind When suppertime came, the old cook came on deck sayin' "Fellas, it's too rough to feed ya" At seven PM, a main hatchway caved in, he said "Fellas, it's been good to know ya" The captain wired in he had water comin' in And the good ship and crew was in peril And later that night when his lights went outta sight Came the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald Does any one know where the love of God goes When the waves turn the minutes to hours? The searchers all say they'd have made Whitefish Bay If they'd put fifteen more miles behind her They might have split up or they might have capsized They may have broke deep and took water And all that remains is the faces and the names Of the wives and the sons and the daughters Lake Huron rolls, Superior sings In the rooms of her ice-water mansion Old Michigan steams like a young man's dreams The islands and bays are for sportsmen And farther below Lake Ontario Takes in what Lake Erie can send her And the iron boats go as the mariners all know With the gales of November remembered In a musty old hall in Detroit they prayed In the maritime sailors' cathedral The church bell chimed 'til it rang twenty-nine times For each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down Of the big lake they called Gitche Gumee Superior, they said, never gives up her dead When the gales of November come early
I was on lake superior the night that this ship went down, we had our deer hunting cabin in Reservations River Lodge north of Grand Marias in northern Minnesota, I loved this area just for the history of the tribes and the relaxing lone feeling you got hearing the wind, the feel of the wind and the thrill of limited deer but large ones when you found them. I returned to the cabin that evening after being out in cold weather and thought to myself as I saw on of the ore ships in the far distance heading toward Thunder Bay that it was a horrible night to be on the lake and dangerous, the waves were hitting the front of our cabin and it was fun to hear the waves and be warm. I will never forget that night, in the morning we heard on the local radio station that the ship had gone down during the night, I was a surreal feeling. today the friends that I hunted with for so many years have all passed away but the memories are in place
Krista Ann in 1928 a category 4 hurricane with 150 m.p.h. winds went across Lake Okeechobee FL & a 14-15 foot wind-driven storm surge & 25 foot waves drown over 3000 on the south side of the lake. Even small man-made lakes can have 8-10 foot waves in hurricanes & this is never talked about.
@@JohnSmith-wd9rc, this was the second biggest drowning incident in American history. The biggest was the 1900 Galveston Texas category 4 150 mph hurricane(same intensity like the 1928 hurricane) !!!!! This one drowned 8000 with the huge storm surge & tornado-waterspouts coming ashore especially on Galveston Island. An orphanage with many kids was a very sad story !!!!!
@@RonSafreed So write a song about it as great as this one about the EDMUND FITZGERALD and people will talk about those unfortunate times. But this is about the EDMUND FITZGERALD (get the hint? You're disrespecting the EDMUND FITZGERALD by trying to get others to focus on points you think are important - more important to YOU than the EDMUND FITZGERALD).
Went to Whitefish point after Gordon passed, sat on the beach with a Michigan brew and played this song on Spotify. A special moment for sure. Peace to All
I think that most, if not all, of the families appreciate what Lightfoot's song has done to honor both the men who lost their lives and the ship itself. There have been many other shipwrecks on the Great Lakes; some with more lives lost than on the Edmund Fitzgerald. Yet that tragedy is the one that everyone knows about, and that is because of Lightfoot. Many years ago, Lightfoot turned down a request to participate in a movie about the EF, because the families didn't want a move made at that time. He has contributed personally to commemorate the ship, and I believe has made contributions to the families as well (I think he sponsored a scholarship for children of the men lost). When the ceremony was held to dedicate the ship's bell, which had been recovered from the wreck, a member of each crewman's family rang the bell once, and Lightfoot was asked to ring it a 30th time in memory of the ship and all who had lost their lives. One of the children of a crew member (Mary Wilhelm) created a web site in memory of her father, and she too spoke highly of Lightfoot. Lightfoot performs regularly in the Great Lakes area and he is always very warmly received. May 1st, 2023 Rest in Peace my friend from Orillia, Ontario. I'm your biggest fan, I own all your music Libraries. You certainly earned your wings. My heartfelt condolences to Gordon's family, friends and fans. ❤️✝️🕊🕯
Wisconsin, Canada, and Michigan all know what about the "Great Edmund Fitzgearld" and the "Poem and Song" by Gordon Lightfoot. Today I 'am 73 years old and I was just 26-year-old in November of 1975. God Bless the Crew! T J (Tom) Vanderloop, Author, Technology Instructor & Consultant
Little known fact that all the money from this song, went to the families of the Edmund Fitzgerald! Thank you Gordon Lightfoot for this song and all your good deeds. RIP
Amazing song. When music used to tell a story. How could anyone give it a thumbs down? They are not listening. Morons!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@@MichaelGiordano777 sorry i didnt realise i was programmed ,its hard when you are like me ........stupid .I will now repent and agree with whatever you say .i will pray that i can obtain your holy arrogance
I remember the night the Fitz went down because all of the local newscasts were covering it. It wouldn't make the national news until the next day. I also remember the first time I heard this song thinking that there may never be a more emotional tribute to a group of men who lost their lives put to music than this song. 50 years later and I was right about that.
I'm a self proclaimed headbanger, yet this song is easily in my top ten favorite songs. Such a great tune from such a great Canadian. RIP to those that lost their lives.
I spent 33 years on ships on the waters of New England. Whenever I hear this song I stop and remember these men as well as the men, women, and children I searched for here. This is a great song!
I'm a Michigander, born/raised just outside of Detroit. When this song came out in my late teenage years, it instantly became one of my favorites that I never heard enough of. To me, the instrumental intro lets you know it's not going to be a happy song and the lyrics certainly confirm that. All these years later, this song still gives me goosebumps as I listen to every lyric. Even though I know how the tale will end, the story telling ability of this great song coupled with the music still brings a tear. Thanks, Mr. Lightfoot. There is no one else who should even try to sing this song.
This has to be one of the most heart wrenching songs I have ever heard. Still listen to it at least once a month. Would love to see him live a dream of mine . Gorden lightfoot . Absolutely .wonderful.😻😺
I saw him in 74? at Red Rocks in Colorado. Many drunks in the crown were not respectful. But he was great. At one point he kind of walked off the stage.
Best song of my youth Growing up On Lake Erie We saw some storms …… Later in life- married a girl who’s grandfather was on this ship and transferred off right before that fateful voyage This is a great rendition Takes me back God bless them all…..
I just would like to say that this is one of the greatest songs ever written. I am a metal head going on 50, but I can listen to this song over and over all day/night long. I grew up on the shores of Lake Erie and lived in Wisconsin for awhile, so perhaps I relate a little more than most. Such a harrowing tale of a hellacious way to die for 29 men, a few of which were from my hometown of Ashtabula, Ohio. Gordon is a legendary songwriter and this is his grand prize.
I am a metalhead myself and I can remember my elementary school music teacher (3rd grade maybe) playing this song in class on the anniversary of the sinking (I think). I have loved the song since. I got into metal in my teen years, but this song will always be one of my favorites.
This is hands down one of THE most outstanding songs written in the last 50 years. Gordon does not know how to write a mediocre song, all of his compositions are superior, but this is his masterpiece in my opinion, right up there with Canadian Railroad Trilogy. It was profoundly moving and astonishing in 1976, and in 2021 it has lost none of its impact. Sublime.
I grew up in Michigan, and the Edmund Fitzgerald is a story that almost everybody in this state knows about, especially if you live in the Upper Peninsula.
Figured it out I guitar played at a gig one time we did it last song nobody knew we were gonna play it the place was mesmerized by it… when we got done we got a standing ovation.. of course over the microphone we said thank you very much too Gordon Lightfoot!!!
Who in his or her right mind would ever give a "thumb down" vote to Gordon Lightfoot's great song, "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald"? You'd have to hate great music to not like this classic folk song!
His concert was moved one year. Rest and get well my friend. I will see you next year. God bless. Your music helped me through the darkest times of my life. I'm bringing my guitar to your concert in 2022. I would be honored if you would sign it. Get well Sir.
I was blessed to be able to see Gordon perform this in concert in Greensburg, PA at the Palace Theater a couple years ago. Still performing in his 80s. He is amazing, and a real legend in Canada.
This is real history. It tells the absolute facts, of what we know. It hit me. I was in the Atlantic in a winter storm. I remember off Iceland in 65”, first time was ran out of fresh food. The ship rolls , you would feel you could reach out and touch the ocean, then roll back to port side. So cold, the wind felt it could cut you. Every time I hear this song. I wonder , how did we make it back. A chilling song this is. I remember watching the news that night in Twin Lake, Michigan. I remember taking the seaman test for sailing on the Great Lakes shipping. I guess I was fortunate, I didn’t have the money needed for the dues of sailing on these type of ships. It’s my my eyes water every time I hear this song. This to me is more comparable with the Gettysburg Address. 😢
I grew up on the Great Lakes and remember this tragic event. This beautiful song memorializes this ship and it's brave crew forever. Bless you Mr. Lightfoot.
Len Drury I think so. It’s sad he died so young so his catalogue of songs is so much smaller than John Stewart’s. But I think he wrote some great songs
We are very sad tonight after learning Gordon Lightfoot passed away. He wasn’t just a star to us, he was a friend. To him, “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”, was more than just a hit song he wrote. Gordon truly cared about the families of that tragedy. That was proven in 2015 when he came to Whitefish Point for the 40th anniversary of the sinking…but he came a day early, on November 9th, to meet and talk with the family members…he did not want to be the focus of the day on November 10th, he was that classy. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society will always be grateful for his kindness to us and the family members of the Edmund Fitzgerald…everytime the bell tolls from now on, he will be a part of those 29 chimes. Gordon Lightfoot was 84…rest in peace, friend. ❤️😇😞
I was 28, on Active Duty in the Air Force. Having survived the Coup de Tate in Turkey, denied the Rebels all NATO arms, March 13, 1973, plus, all Six Campaigns of the Vietnam war, the loss of the Edmund Fitzgerald was also a very sad moment, for me. I pray daily for all 29 men to RIP, and that all the surviving families have found peace and comfort in the healing.
There is one line in this song that any person who sailed on ships in very bad weather can relate to " Does any one know where the love of God goes when the waves turns the minutes to hours" many is the time I have wondered when my ship was healed over in bad weather and being hit by huge waves would she right her self. Thanks be to God I surived all those scarey moments. but that line of the song is the most humbling words ever written.
Awwwww Adrian there are no atheists in foxholes under fire, nor brave men who sail the seas. God is all powerful and magnificent! Blessings to you and thanks for sharing.
I spent 2 years of my life as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Micronesia. We used to take these little 19ft fiberglass open boats on voyages up to 60 miles out of sight of land. Once we had terrible seas with waves breaking over our loaded boat. That line in the song is exactly what it feels like as you are bailing frantically.
Been there, spent about 20 hours traversing late Erie, Buffalo to Detroit in February 1989 in rough seas on 140 ft Ice breaker. I wanted to kiss the ground when we got ashore.
Rest in peace Mr. Lightfoot. I was hoping you would have been able to make it back to Lake Temagami this summer. But I know the Lake will always keep a part of your spirit.
That is the anniversary date of my Mother's fatal car accident. Alcohol is so wonderful to those who love it. I do not. People are too soon to forget how fragile life is until a sudden reminder occurs. Make each day count.
I worked at USS in Gary, and the Fitz would dock about every two weeks. What a magnificent sight she was. So big, tugs from Chicago had to guide her in to port. When news came in about the sinking, no one could believe it. There was a pall over the entire area. We actually remembered the anniversary of the sinking every year. The song is a haunting, lyrical, tribute to the mariners who went down with a great ship.
I grew up in Detroit and spent my summers in St. Claire , on the St Claire river. Many a day we watched the ships sailing past. We would be out on the dock, waving at the crewmen. The river is less than a mile wide, so the ships and their crew were pretty visible on the south bound ships. The Edmond Fitz Jerrold was one of those ships. We were all quite effected by the loss of the ship and crew. The song still evokes a lot of emotion even after all these years. Thank you Mr. Lightfoot for your wonderful memorial.
RIP Gordon Lightfoot He will be missed by many. Thanks to this song and this man, the 'Edmund Fitzgerald' will not be forgotten to time like so many other shipwrecks of the Great Lakes.
RIP Mr Gordon Lightfoot. I went to school with his son. And had the pleasure of meeting this man multiple times. Such a kind soul. He shall be missed.
He is now in Heaven.
How wonderful, thanks for sharing that memory❤
Lopmlploloooo 1😅
My father loved his songs I hope your telling the truth
Gordon Lightfoot November 17,1938 May 1, 2023 you will be missed.
A true legend lost, for his music will outlive him forever. RIP Mr. Lightfoot
Poi
When did he pass away?
@@marnieloken7814
Passed away May 1st, 2023, aged 84, of natural causes. He was on tour but due failing health had to cancel remainder of tour in mid-April, a couple weeks prior to his passing. Wikipedia has an entry. The public visitation at St. Paul’s United Church a week after his death saw over 2400 people attend.
A great singer that will be missed a lot.
🇺🇸💜🇺🇸💜🇺🇸💜🇺🇸
I was reading an article in a local Toronto paper earlier this week (May 3rd, 2023) where they reported that for the first time since the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy (to commemorate that tragic day), the church bells of the Mariners Church of Detroit rang 30 times. The first 29 of course for the crew, the 30th for Gordon. What a wonderful and classy tribute. Well done. RIP Gordon.
Pure beauty...RIP Gordon and crew fly with angels.....
That is correct! What a tribute to Gord...To be fair he always went and saw the families
Every penny in royalties from the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald was turned over to the family members of the 29 victims.
Gordon Lightfoot ..from Orilla Ontario... Yes a very good singer and songwriter.. We , from across the pond ( l. Ontario ) still love that man's music. From Rochester NY, by the way
Nice tribute to Gordon.❤❤❤😊😊
Over 6 minutes long with 7 verses, somehow Lightfoot magically weaves a true story into a tremendous song. Pure Genius!
I am so proud Mr. Lightfoot wrote this song. I am the very proud daughter of the cook (Robert Rafferty) in which he is mentioned in song. I almost always stand up when he mentions the wives and the sons and the DAUGHTERS when I see him in concert.
+Smosh MakeOver I saw Gordon in concert last night in Ithaca, NY. He spoke about meeting with family members this last Monday. Hearing this song often brings tears to my eyes. My condolences to you and your family. May your father be resting in peace.
+Smosh MakeOver You and your family have my sincere condolences. I'm sure your dad was loved and well respected by all who knew him, ... on board and off. May he rest in peace until you all meet again. Keep his memory alive today, and over this holiday season. The "Wives and he sons and the DAUGHTERS", will always be remembered, as will your dad and the crew. Keep your chin to the wind, and a friend at your back.
+Smosh MakeOver In loving memory of the Edmund Fitzgerald and the 29 crewmen who went down with her.
And well you should be proud.....
+Smosh MakeOver :) see a grown man cry every time I listen to this awesome tribute to you and the families and yes it is for you :)
I'm turned 74 this year. On the strength of this ballad, I rode my Harley from Florida to Whitefish Point, Michigan to pay homage to the souls that were lost on the Edmund Fitzgerald. Then I went to the Mariners Church in Detroit for the same reason. Beyond a brief US Navy enlistment, I have no experience in the Great Lakes Maritime system. For reasons I don't understand, I feel like I have met a goal in coming here. This ballad is very powerful. The ship's bell is on display at the Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point, Michigan. Definitely a great destination.
Wish I had known you were going.....I would have ridden with you. Wishall the best for you
I 'm 68....but not in my head & spirit. Take care.
I sailed in the US Merchant Marine on the lakes for Standard Oil (Amoco) out of Whiting Indiana. The USS Wisconsin, a lake tanker, in 1975 and 1976. Just the SUMMERS!
We went everywhere in the three major lakes....All the way up to Sault St Marie.
👍👍👍👍
Good on you! God bless.
I asked Gordon many years ago how he remembers all the lyrics to this one. He told me it was because it's a chronological story. He added "It's songs like Rainy Day People that sometimes give me trouble, but Wreck is a story, so it's easier." Extremely humble, down to earth man. What an absolutely incredible talent he has.
Nice little snippet about what makes an artist. Thanks.
I'd have been too shy to ask him.
Oral tradition has power!
How could you ever forget. It's one of those songs that I can recite in it's entirety on command. It's the only song from Gordon Lightfoot I've ever liked. And I love this song. It's epic.
@@linkydinkydoodledumplin I have no idea why it repeated, and I have no idea why you would seem like such a mean person and still listen to Gordon ?
@@linkydinkydoodledumplin no response ?
"Does any one know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" That lyric gets me every time......what a treasure Gordon was to humanity. Such a great loss.....
I totally agree. It hits me too. It actually makes you think of the men, and what they were going though knowing they weren't going to make it.
Truly one of the greatest lyrics ever.
That moves me to tears as well. I don’t think we will fully understand, but I believe we have been given a glimpse of truth. The love of God came to this earth in the form of a man, Jesus Christ, to show us the way by his example.
Truly haunting.
A free will earth . .he stays out of the trappings of sailors for the most part
One of the most beautiful and haunting ballads ever written.
And prettying reliable
When art makes you smile, cry, and get introspective, it's beyond amazing.
One of the greatest stories ever sung. Mr. Lightfoot is a truth-teller and a bard. I saw the Fitz transit the Soo Locks in 1974 when I was 5-years-old, and his words bring back the sound of her scraping the sides and the sight of the crew on deck waving at a little girl and her grandfather on a wind-cold rainy day.
Indeed. I may be wrong, but this song seems to be written in blank verse (iambic pentameter), the poetic metre of Shakespeare's plays.
@@rogerbourke5570 It's been a while since I've studied Shakespeare, but you may be right. 🖖
He took a shipping disaster that would be forgotten today if it wasn't for this song. Gordon Lightfoot wrote and performed it in such a way that the crew of the 29 will live in the heart of this nation.
May they live in the hearts of all who should ever hear this song or learn of the fate of the Fitz.
I first heard this song - on an 8 track when I was 10 or so. 48 years later, I still weep. I still feel the hair tingle.
tixximmi1 I get chills every time I hear it, I love it.
❤
Your absolutely correct. I would have been one of those who would not have known about this. I was to busy smoking pot in the '70s
Like a world class artist, he painted a vivid picture of a tragedy like no other! Incredible song, incredible artist!
Song gives me chills! Still! I am 72!
Not "like" a world class artist. He is a world class artist.
Listen to "If you could read my mind."
Try not to weep.
This is a true epic historian!!
The melody of the song captures the living hell and horror of that dark cold night...
he had a gift for imagery, that is beyond doubt
Timeless masterpiece, haunting, evocative lyrics and musical composition. There has never been a more loving and respectful tribute to lives tragically lost. Brings tears to my eyes.
I'm 68 and listen to this masterpiece several times a week. Stilly eyes tear up. Very deep, emotional story exquisitely written and performed.
I agree. The lyrics are haunting kind of like “Ode to Billy Jo” is.
GRABS MY HEART LIKE NO OTHER SONG.
Wow! Extremely well spoken!
Fell in love with this tune the first time it aired in the 60's. The Anthem!
"Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours...". The greatest lyric ever. After all of these years, this is as glorious as ever. Today. I Remember.
I agree.
Yes indeed! Absolutely!
mate, im a truckie. and that line rings in my head everyday. its a reminder of how good we have it
Agreed also.
For some reason this lyric and the opening lines from "Time off for bad behavior" always get stuck in my head. Weird considering the songs are nothing alike.
"Well, I'm up and gone at the break dawn
I've been workin' like a regular dog
To keep my woman and the lights and the water
And the phone turned on"
I love how he describes each of the lakes “Lake Huron rolls, Superior sings, in the rooms of her ice water mansion, old Michigan steams like a young mans dreams, the islands and bays are for sportsmen, and farther below Lake Ontario, takes in what Lake Erie can send her, and the iron boats go as the Mariners all know, with the gales of November remembered.” Personification at its finest.
And I think he also lists them in geographical order.
Absolutely fantastic song! Love Gordon Lightfoot!! 👏🏼😎
I though it said the GIRLS of November remembered
It is an exceptional song where you get a geographical lesson meshed with a tragedy that draws in people from all over.
too true. I saw him perform in Sydney (Aust) back in the early 1970's - a great night
Being a meteorologist...every time I hear this song and/or watch a video....I tear up. Duluth and the shores are just overwhelming. May all lost soles rest in peace.
This year on November 10, 2023 will mark 48 years. I was only 13 when this tragedy happened on the Great Lakes I had grown up enjoying all my life. I penciled the date on my bedroom wall with tears in my eyes, and it stayed there till my parents painted my room years later. I will always remember the Edmund Fitzgerald and it's crew. God rest their souls, and now the soul of Gordon Lightfoot also 🙏🙏
I agree will never forget that my grandmother was the head chef on the Anderson right behind the Fitz she told me she was never been so frightened in her life she felt the ship go strait up and down she said she just went to her cabin and laid in bed and prayed, especially when she found out about the Fitz
I still believe that's what happened to the Fitz--straight up and straight down. There were reports of a kind of wave that was so large it could stand a ship on its tail or its nose effectively putting either end on the bottom of the lake causing it to break in half. That ship was approximately 730 ft long. They were found in 560 feet of water. If that wave stood them on their end, it was tall enough to smash into the bottom of the lake and break her apart.......... This doesn't negate hitting a shoal and causing her to take on water before the wave.
I sincerely pray your Grandmother didn't have to go back out when the Anderson went back out to search for any survivors. I'm so thankful she made it safe--that the whole crew made it back safe. Twice.
I still believe that this is a tragedy that should have never been.
@@MsBeachLizard The phenomena is called the three sisters, something that happens in less than sea sized waters, three rogue waves one after another. The power drops quickly so even a few thousand feet farther away they become merely an annoyance.
It was very brave that the Anderson crew and Captain were willing to search for Fitzgerald survivors in spite of the storm.
Really sad for people to give this song a thumbs down. One of the best songs ever written. Great job Gordon L.
they heard 'wish i was back home in derry'
so agree, why would you even click on this song if you had an issue with it?. . This is true as to when the song was originally recorded. Would love to know the reasons for thumbs down....anyone?
Legend
Those aren't dislikes. They're likes from Australia.
I can only conclude it's Titanic fetishists, upset at the notion that any other maritime tragedy get airtime.
I was born in '68. Thank you, Mr. Lightfoot, for a lifetime of being the BEST of Canada. In whatever afterlife there is, I'm sure that the crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald will be there to shake your hand and invite you to sit at their table for a well deserved $1 beer. R.I.P. You will be sorely missed. 😢
Well said. 😞
Being that young did you also think the wreck happened decades earlier than 1975?
@@allencollins6031 Growing up in Hamilton (still here), to parents who had CBC radio on all day. I do remember. Not the significance, but the ship's name. But you make a good point. Mr. Lightfoot gave the tragedy a timeless quality. Which was a great skill. One many that he had. Thanks for the question!
R.I.P. Gordon Lightfoot and the Edmond Fitzgerald Crew.
This song is going to be one of the reasons why this man is going to go to heaven because I do believe there's going to be 29 Souls waiting there to say thank you and welcome aboard
Very nice thought there!
Oh yes Norma, what a beautiful comment stay safe girl
The honorary 30th crew member.
Very, very kind words.
He will receive a very warm welcome I'm sure.
"Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" A line written by a man that truly knows the feeling of desperation.
Just reading this sent chills though my body . But it does Everytime I hear this song .
Indeed!!!!
such a haunting, brilliant line...apparently, controversial to some.
Chills
i remember singing that line at work 40 years ago and one of the workers saying hey i like that
How could anyone give the thumbs down to this guy. Truly an amazing masterpiece.
Some people have no respect for others. Sad.
They don't understand true songwriting and storytelling through song. Mr. Lightfoot is a true bard in the same vein as Shakespeare and Longfellow. There is a reason why he is one of Bob Dylan's favorites.
100 VIOLINS Orchestra acompanying him would ad a beautifully Sounding extension With His Great Song. if he did where could find it ? Please
Love this song ❤️! Remember hearing on radio back in the mid seventies. Such a great story teller as well as singer. Have his album Summertime Deam including the 7 inch recording.
I didn't see any thumbs down. But if they did, they are very obviously saying they dislike that these people died, they are disliking the deaths of these people. But there is nothing to dislike about this. Gordon Lightfoot is amazing musician.
R.I.P. Gordon.. You'll be missed but not forgotten.. Even here your voice still has it..
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😮😮😅😅😊😅😅😮😮😢😢🎉🎉😂❤❤😂😂🎉🎉😢😮😅😅😊😊😊😊😊😅😮😢😢🎉🎉😂❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😂😂❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😂🎉🎉😮😅😅😅😊😊😊😅😮😢😢🎉😂❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😂🎉 3:51 🎉🎉😂😂🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😂🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😂😂😂❤❤
4:24 4:27 4:29 4:30 4:30
Having served in the US Navy, I can say that the rhythm of this song is just like the rolling of a ship in heavy seas.
As a sailor also (in the USN) I noticed that too.
Yeah, now that you mention it, same here...Wonder if that cadence was intentional by Gordon...
@@michaellovetere8033 And the hits on the drum are like the deep booming coming from below...
Amen, Brothers, amen!!!
YOU'RE RIGHT, holy crow lol
As a Fitzgerald crew member during the entire 1964 season I was praying for an early lay up, but it didn't happen. Originally we were scheduled for a Toledo lay up but in late November, much to my dismay, we headed back up to Duluth in terrible weather. I sailed on many Great Lakes ore boats but none as scary as the Fitz which was taken out into stormy seas when all others lay at anchor. We broke the million ton mark that year through the Soo but at great peril. The Fitz twisted and bounced to a much greater degree than any other ship I ever sailed and I think she just in the end got tired of of her bad treatment and said "the heck with this; I need a rest," and gave up. She was my last ship and I was ever so glad to be done with that part of my life.
In 1928 a category 4 hurricane with 150 m.p.h. winds created a 14-15 wind-driven storm surge & 25 foot waves on Lake Okeechobee & this drowned over 3000 folk on the south side of the lake. Hurricanes can even create 8-10 foot waves on small man-made lakes here in Florida & this is not talked about.
My Uncle Tom was on the SS Irvin S OLDS. He had a friend on the EF. He retired in late 70s. His orr boat was 3 football fields long. My other uncle his older bro. was also in the Great Lakes Fleet. They were great guys. Tough guys. Sailors with hearts of gold.
Yikes...!
I salute you Sir! May God continue to bless the 29 crewmen and their families!
I heard a few accounts say that the ship did "move bend and twist" a lot in big seas , and as you said , it took it's toll , and she said "I've had enough" and cracked open ..... Sometimes I just don't think humans respect the power of a planet enough .... we are PUNY ANTS compared to a planet's fury ..... I personally admire and respect your bravery , I would crap my pants in high seas of 20' waves and 70mph winds
As a former crewman on one of FITZ's fleetmates, we saw her many times in Detroit unloading at National steel. She was a beauty, a job each of us wanted, to sail on her. I couldn't believe on November 10, 1975, she was gone. On the last day, the sea shall give up her dead. R.I.P., sailors!
Yeah, Gordon did get that part wrong. The Edmund Fitzgerald was headed to Great Lakes Steel (National) on Zug Island, just outside of Detroit. Not Cleveland, but I’m sure it flowed better that way.
I'm in sorry u member done mclauin my I'm spelling
@@medvolts wasn’t she supposed to go to Cleveland after she arrived in Detroit? I’m pretty sure it’s not *entirely* wrong, but it does definitely flow better
@@medvolts poetic licence
I weep when he sings about the old cook saying “fellas, it’s been good to know you.” A truly haunting line from a doomed soul that knows and embraces his fate. Real poetry. Gordon Lightfoot was a brilliant songwriter.
Reminds me of the scene from Titanic when one of the performers says "Gentlemen, it's been an honor playing with you tonight." They knew they weren't gonna make it, but they were content.
This song has no equal. And while Lightfoot didn't win a Nobel Prize in literature for songwriting, Bob Dylan did. Gordon Lightfoot is Bob Dylan's favorite songwriter. So there is that. Bob Dylan once said that there's only one thing wrong with a Gordon LIghtfoot song: it has to end.
This song takes me with the crew on the night of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
@@danielcole5905 fantastic
Telling a sad true story to music. Nothing tops that. The first time I heard it I became a big fan. Glad Bob tipped his cap to this man.
Phillip Landmeier, you are spot on, Bob Dylan said those words 👍👍
It’s like an Irish Sea shanty
Spellbinding, haunting, beautiful. Storytelling as good as his voice and vision. I saw Gordon in 1979 Cohasset MA. The following morning I was fishing for flounder on a pier next to the local seaside hotel. A gentleman strolled over smoking a cigarette leaning on the dock railing. He asked me if I'd caught anything. I said "no Mr. Lightfoot . But I have a couple of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to share. Would you like one"? He sat down and to this day never have I had a better pb+j. An artist sublime, honest, timeless. He offered me a smoke and I said no thanks I play football tomorrow. He laughed and said good. 45 years and I'll never forget.
Lucky you...a good day to have in memory when you are old. 👍
Ok
That is an awesome experience Richard, to have met and shared a pb&j sandwich with him.
It's great to read a heartfelt story that isn't long-winded and give the impression the teller is a braggart. You, my friend, have my admiration and envy.
Wow!!! What a day to be alive! Bob Dillion said when Gordon lightfoot starts singing you never want him to stop.
As a young man from NJ, I had never heard of Gordon Lightfoot until I attended a university in Texas in 1968 where one of my roommates was a guy from Canada who, when talking about our favorite music said, "You have to listen to this album by Gordie Lightfoot". Being a little more of a rock and roll fan at the time I didn't find the music very appealing at first, but every time my roommate played Gordie's music I became more of a fan, and by the time I graduated and moved back to NJ I was hooked. Most of my friends seemed unimpressed when I played his music until it started being played more frequently on our local radio stations in the early 70's. I will never forget the first time I heard "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" at my favorite record store in, I believe, 1975. That song made cold chills run up my spine, especially the line "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?". For someone who has been in a small boat in very large seas (as I have been), those words are extremely meaningful and thought provoking. This song, and those words especially, will remain with me for my entire life. That is what I call greatness, from a true storyteller and singer. R.I.P. Gordie Lightfoot.
Very well said my friend. Was in Austin back in 78-82 and found this music in that very city myself ✌️
He has so many great songs, but this one will always pull at the heart strings. RIP Gordon
Like Bob Dylan says, "Gordon sings & writes songs you never want to end".
I never heard that before. It's true.
I didn't think this song had an ending.
@TheDodicat I found this online: "Every time I hear a song of his,” Bob Dylan once famously said about Gordon Lightfoot, “it’s like I wish it would last forever.” www.vanityfair.com/culture/2016/09/gordon-lightfoot-talks-sadness-regret-and-maritime-disasters
Bob dylan who?
@@JeffSunnyside you're joking right? Please say yes.
This song memorializes the sailors that lost their lives on that ship. Incredibly written and true to the facts as they are known. Anyone that thumbs downs this is a POS.
RIP to crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald and forever condolences to their families.
@Gordon Lightfoot we all LOVE you!!! As a Michigander this song has meant a lot to us since the late ‘70’s. It’s always so sorrowful, beautiful and appreciated ❤
The part that always tears me up, having lost friends in the service is,
"The Church Bell chimed , till it rang 29 times for each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald ". I'll listen to this song till the day I die.
This song haunted me as a child, as much as it does now. RIP Gordon.
One of Canada’s national treasures. He writes some of the best music I have ever heard.
amen
Lightning in a bottle. You can practically hear the Old Cook's Yooper accent when he says "Fella's, it's too rough ta feed ya'."
I remember, sitting up in Flint, Michigan, and praying for the crew, and this song still makes me cry. But I love it because he puts words to the pain. To this day, I fear the Big Gitigumi
They would have made White Fish Bay if they put 15 miles behind her. The Captain was partially culpable in this disaster. He should have increased speed. IMHO
@@MichaelGiordano777 When your vessel is in waves taller than your boat, you don't increase speed, you try to old your own and ride it out as best you can.
@@riverraisin1 Maybe. Maybe not. They should've never been out there. McSorely never made it to his sick and dying wife's bedside because they were trying to squeeze one more trip in. They knew what it was like out there that time of year. And then having ppl like Cooper--who made it safely--risk his life and the lives of his crew to turn around and go back out to search was irresponsible. It was all about the money.
Don’t fear… respect…. fear give to much power to the other!
Being a 21 year Navy Vet this song has a lot of meaning to me personally and I never get tired of listening to it
Probably the feeling of not knowing if the next wave would be your last?
RIP, kind sir. No other musician has impacted me the way that you have. You were, are, and will continue to be the most important artist in my life. Such a massive loss to Canada and the world. This song immediately came to mind when I heard of your passing. I am crushed and truly heartbroken. Rest easy, friend
This is one of the few songs that has ever made the hairs on my neck stand up. You can feel exactly what those 29 men went through that one fatal night in November.
I am a United States Sailor who recently retired and did 5 deployments on Aircraft Carriers and experienced very rough seas over those times. Thankfully we all made it back safely. I feel every lyric in this song and pray for the fellow brothers that never made it back home. rest in peace.
11/10/75 7:00 Never forget
Had the privilege to be in attendance at the November 10. 1976 concert at the Univ of MN Northrop Auditorium where he publicly played this song for the first time.
It was incredibly haunting and no recording of the song comes close to the sound in that auditorium that night. Received a several minute standing ovation.
This man is an epic storyteller via his music. And this is definitely one of the very best.
Also amazing that he wrote it in December of 1975 -- the month after the Fitz went down, and less than that after the Newsweek article (Nov 24, 1975) that struck Gordon with the need to write. Sometimes a story just has to come out, and the artist is the conduit. Gordon Lightfoot has had a lot more of those inspirations than the average singer/songwriter, and because he's sailed those waters (recreationally), he knew exactly what had happened with the weather. Stan Rogers had a similar feel for the water, and Great Lakes sailing ("White Squall").
Saw Gordon in about 2015.
He's still singing well.
One of the best lyrics ever- “does anyone know where the love of god goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours” perfect
Prolly rings bells more than any other for me. I know exactly what he means.
Darn right great song will never arase my mind because it was real .great old memories. Thanks also gorden lightfoot. Im a singer but remembering all those words years later god bless
I was a young married wife and mother when this song came out. Having no experience or experience to the Midwest, the Great Lakes and the Edmund Fitzgerald yet I was so touched and saddened by this song. 40 years later in 2014 I finally traveled to the Great Lakes and Michigan and Wisconsin and much of the country in an Rv. Since visiting the UP and a part of the country I had no experience with I suddenly understood what had happened and the horrible tragedy of the Edmund Fitzgerald. This song brought to the fore that tragedy and the men lost and the families who lost love ones.
I sense an impressive "young" lady here. Thank you.
Marianne, in 1928 a catagory 4 hurricane caused a 14-15 foot wind driven freshwater storm surge & 25 foot waves on the south shore of Lake Okeechobee in FL.It happened at night & drowned over 3000 people & the second biggest drowning incident in American history. Lake Okeechobee is 40 miles across & 730 sq. miles & averages 6-9 feet deep & 20-30 feet deep at its deepest.
Another tearful loss from the soundtrack of my youth. Peace be with you, Mr. Lightfoot.
I saw Gordon Lightfoot in concert about ten years ago. His voice was almost spent and his body was frail, yet he sang every song with a love and commitment that was unshakeable. Even though his voice wasnt the same as in his youth, you could tell he still had the passion of a young man in his performance. It was so gratifying seeing someone i have appreciated since i was a toddler still doing something he loves. Thanks for the songs, Mr Lightfoot, may your light shine through the ages
Gordon came out to the front of his house on July 1 Canada Day and sang two songs. He's frail but has that fire in him to perform still.
I saw him about the same time and his voice was weaker but still one of the best shows ever seen.
When I saw him the first time, he was like that. He'd just recovered from a long illness that he apparently almost died frpm. When i heard him a few years later, he'd recovered pretty well.
I saw him in an old Warner Theater in Erie PA a little while back. Yes he was frail, but he put on a Hell of a great show. He is a treasure.
I saw him in 1990 in Spokane, WA. Great show. I am sure as he gets older, his Bells Palsy gets worse.
Without doubt one of the greatest Americana songs ever written Thank you Gordon Lightfoot
He's Canadian.
@@RoadRunnerOz As another Canadian, I think Americana is fitting given that the ship, travelling between American ports, was American as was, I believe, the crew. Sure, it was a Canadian who memorialized the tragedy so eloquently but the life on the Great Lakes is shared by all the peoples living on their shores.
@@GlennC789
The worst Canadians apparently are Cuban. I understand that Paul Simon wrote this song. I believe he is unfortunately from New York.
@@THEHERMANATORANDSPURGLE2833 Paul Simon most definitely did not write this song
@@Blogzer North Americana
R.I.P. Gordon Lightfoot 11.17.1938 - 5.1.2023. Thank you for all of your great music, the memories, and this beautiful memorial to 29 great men.
There are a few songs, books, films, poems, song in our lives that truly touch us. Gordon Lightfoot was one of those haunting souls who gave us joy, love, pain and reverence with his words and voice. As a MI boy, this song means so much to me that its nearly impossible to explain. When I read of Mr. Lightfoot's passing (1 May 2023), I cried like a child because one more messenger from my youth has left us. Rest in peace, Sir, you gave us all so very much.
Well said. 😞
What a haunting beautiful song. You can almost feel like you were on that ship
Thank you Gordon!!
Gordon songs always had a meaning
Every November 10th play this amazing song on my radio show in Buffalo, on Lake Erie. This is one of the greatest songs ever written, and as a boy remember the storm in Buffalo and the news reports of the missing Fitz. Gordon, do hope you have been invited on a freighter for a run. It is indescribable.
Don't wanna be on the ship...they drowned
I had a friend, he’s since passed away, that did a lot of backpacking during the summertime. He told a story of backpacking across lower Canada one summer. During his travels he came across a man ,camping, sitting by a fire. The man invited him to sit and play with him. He noticed my friend had a guitar across his gear. The two took turns playing songs for awhile. The man asked my friend if he would like to hear a song that he had just wrote. His name was Gordon Lightfoot and the song was “The sinking of the Egmund Fitzgerald!
It was many years ago when he told me this. I knew that he was a backpacker and found this story truly amazing.
that is so awesome.
Your friend had memories that we all dream about having with someone as phenomenal as Gordon Lightfoot. Thank you for sharing.
I love hearing encounters like that!
In
BS
I grew up in the 60’s with the best music ever! Gordon Lightfoot was always a favorite so when this song came out it was at top of my favorites. Such a sad story told through perfect lyrics and melody that is amazing. Such a talented man. RIP Gordy!♥️♥️
I've driven up to the shipwreck museum in Michigan @ Whitefish Point twice. Seeing Lake Superior and the actual bell from the Edmund Fitzgerald was both amazing and very sad. Songs are written every day, but this song is a story, a story about 29 lost lives along with a Great Lakes legend of a ship nicknamed "The Fitz." I was a just sophomore in high school when this tragedy occurred, and the song moved me even then. I cannot thank Gordon Lightfoot enough for writing this song that serves to keep the memories of those lost men and the Edmund Fitzgerald alive. God bless those men, their friends and families, Gordon Lightfoot, and a legend that lives on.
The genius of this song (among other things) is that it ends exactly where it starts. It's a eulogy, but it's also a cautionary tale.
Gordan Lightfoot is a part of my life. A friend, a father, a grandfather,
I just bawled for five minutes straight when I looked up and found out he's still alive. So many great people gone and he's still kicking on. Best news ever.
His songs have made many shed a tear.
Even his old age can even make some of us cry.
Hey got that right
He just cancelled/delayed all his shows in light of health issues. So maybe not around for much longer.
I saw him live a couple years back, he had the whole band (he often used to play solo) it was a great experience.
I saw him in about 1968 or 1969 in Washington, D.C., in Rock Creek Park, opening for Peter, Paul and Mary. I knew then that he would be a keeper. Much of his music will live for many years to come.
The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down
Of the big lake they called Gitche Gumee
The lake, it is said, never gives up her dead
When the skies of November turn gloomy
With a load of iron ore twenty-six thousand tons more
Than the Edmund Fitzgerald weighed empty
That good ship and true was a bone to be chewed
When the gales of November came early
The ship was the pride of the American side
Coming back from some mill in Wisconsin
As the big freighters go, it was bigger than most
With a crew and good captain well seasoned
Concluding some terms with a couple of steel firms
When they left fully loaded for Cleveland
And later that night when the ship's bell rang
Could it be the north wind they'd been feelin'?
The wind in the wires made a tattle-tale sound
And a wave broke over the railing
And every man knew, as the captain did too
T'was the witch of November come stealin'
The dawn came late and the breakfast had to wait
When the gales of November came slashin'
When afternoon came it was freezin' rain
In the face of a hurricane west wind
When suppertime came, the old cook came on deck sayin'
"Fellas, it's too rough to feed ya"
At seven PM, a main hatchway caved in, he said
"Fellas, it's been good to know ya"
The captain wired in he had water comin' in
And the good ship and crew was in peril
And later that night when his lights went outta sight
Came the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald
Does any one know where the love of God goes
When the waves turn the minutes to hours?
The searchers all say they'd have made Whitefish Bay
If they'd put fifteen more miles behind her
They might have split up or they might have capsized
They may have broke deep and took water
And all that remains is the faces and the names
Of the wives and the sons and the daughters
Lake Huron rolls, Superior sings
In the rooms of her ice-water mansion
Old Michigan steams like a young man's dreams
The islands and bays are for sportsmen
And farther below Lake Ontario
Takes in what Lake Erie can send her
And the iron boats go as the mariners all know
With the gales of November remembered
In a musty old hall in Detroit they prayed
In the maritime sailors' cathedral
The church bell chimed 'til it rang twenty-nine times
For each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald
The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down
Of the big lake they called Gitche Gumee
Superior, they said, never gives up her dead
When the gales of November come early
AMEN!
I was on lake superior the night that this ship went down, we had our deer hunting cabin in Reservations River Lodge north of Grand Marias in northern Minnesota, I loved this area just for the history of the tribes and the relaxing lone feeling you got hearing the wind, the feel of the wind and the thrill of limited deer but large ones when you found them. I returned to the cabin that evening after being out in cold weather and thought to myself as I saw on of the ore ships in the far distance heading toward Thunder Bay that it was a horrible night to be on the lake and dangerous, the waves were hitting the front of our cabin and it was fun to hear the waves and be warm. I will never forget that night, in the morning we heard on the local radio station that the ship had gone down during the night, I was a surreal feeling. today the friends that I hunted with for so many years have all passed away but the memories are in place
Krista Ann in 1928 a category 4 hurricane with 150 m.p.h. winds went across Lake Okeechobee FL & a 14-15 foot wind-driven storm surge & 25 foot waves drown over 3000 on the south side of the lake. Even small man-made lakes can have 8-10 foot waves in hurricanes & this is never talked about.
@@RonSafreed You mean 3000 died in one day? My God.
@@JohnSmith-wd9rc, this was the second biggest drowning incident in American history. The biggest was the 1900 Galveston Texas category 4 150 mph hurricane(same intensity like the 1928 hurricane) !!!!! This one drowned 8000 with the huge storm surge & tornado-waterspouts coming ashore especially on Galveston Island. An orphanage with many kids was a very sad story !!!!!
@@RonSafreed So write a song about it as great as this one about the EDMUND FITZGERALD and people will talk about those unfortunate times. But this is about the EDMUND FITZGERALD (get the hint? You're disrespecting the EDMUND FITZGERALD by trying to get others to focus on points you think are important - more important to YOU than the EDMUND FITZGERALD).
thanks 4 sharing
"Does anyone know where the love of God goes, when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" That one line always sends a shiver up my back.
Went to Whitefish point after Gordon passed, sat on the beach with a Michigan brew and played this song on Spotify. A special moment for sure. Peace to All
I think that most, if not all, of the families appreciate what Lightfoot's song has done to honor both the men who lost their lives and the ship itself. There have been many other shipwrecks on the Great Lakes; some with more lives lost than on the Edmund Fitzgerald. Yet that tragedy is the one that everyone knows about, and that is because of Lightfoot.
Many years ago, Lightfoot turned down a request to participate in a movie about the EF, because the families didn't want a move made at that time. He has contributed personally to commemorate the ship, and I believe has made contributions to the families as well (I think he sponsored a scholarship for children of the men lost). When the ceremony was held to dedicate the ship's bell, which had been recovered from the wreck, a member of each crewman's family rang the bell once, and Lightfoot was asked to ring it a 30th time in memory of the ship and all who had lost their lives. One of the children of a crew member (Mary Wilhelm) created a web site in memory of her father, and she too spoke highly of Lightfoot.
Lightfoot performs regularly in the Great Lakes area and he is always very warmly received.
May 1st, 2023
Rest in Peace my friend from Orillia, Ontario. I'm your biggest fan, I own all your music Libraries. You certainly earned your wings.
My heartfelt condolences to Gordon's family, friends and fans. ❤️✝️🕊🕯
Most poetically beautiful lyric in any song I have ever heard. God bless him.
Tells a story............
I am a retired Navy Sailor and almost 999.99% of old salts aka old U.S. Sailors love this song. Much respect!
@Kathy Wurster2t 6t65 Thank you.
Wisconsin, Canada, and Michigan all know what about the "Great Edmund Fitzgearld" and the "Poem and Song" by Gordon Lightfoot. Today I 'am 73 years old and I was just 26-year-old in November of 1975. God Bless the Crew!
T J (Tom) Vanderloop, Author, Technology Instructor & Consultant
Little known fact that all the money from this song, went to the families of the Edmund Fitzgerald! Thank you Gordon Lightfoot for this song and all your good deeds. RIP
Amazing song. When music used to tell a story. How could anyone give it a thumbs down? They are not listening. Morons!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turns the minutes to hours" a stunning phrase
Prolly rings bells more than any other for me. I know exactly what he means.
Omg
@@MichaelGiordano777 sorry i didnt realise i was programmed ,its hard when you are like me ........stupid .I will now repent and agree with whatever you say .i will pray that i can obtain your holy arrogance
@@tonycarton8054 whoops!
Best lyric ever.
Rest in peace, Gordon! Your legend will live on in Minnesota!
I remember the night the Fitz went down because all of the local newscasts were covering it. It wouldn't make the national news until the next day. I also remember the first time I heard this song thinking that there may never be a more emotional tribute to a group of men who lost their lives put to music than this song. 50 years later and I was right about that.
I'm a self proclaimed headbanger, yet this song is easily in my top ten favorite songs. Such a great tune from such a great Canadian. RIP to those that lost their lives.
The soundtrack of my youth.
The man and his music are treasures.
"If You Could Read My Mind" is one of the greatest songs ever written.
I spent 33 years on ships on the waters of New England. Whenever I hear this song I stop and remember these men as well as the men, women, and children I searched for here. This is a great song!
I was born and raised on Cape Cod. My father gave me a book about all the shipwrecks on and off the shores of the Cape. Very sobering and haunting.
Love reading all the amazing comments on this clip praising Gordon Lightfoot’s exceptional songwriting skills - all is certainly well deserved.
I'm a Michigander, born/raised just outside of Detroit. When this song came out in my late teenage years, it instantly became one of my favorites that I never heard enough of. To me, the instrumental intro lets you know it's not going to be a happy song and the lyrics certainly confirm that. All these years later, this song still gives me goosebumps as I listen to every lyric. Even though I know how the tale will end, the story telling ability of this great song coupled with the music still brings a tear. Thanks, Mr. Lightfoot. There is no one else who should even try to sing this song.
God bless you and the rest of “ the wives and the sons and the daughters “.
A great song and a fitting tribute to the men of the Edmond Fitzgerald.
Thanks James Frangos... Whoever you is, you heard you. THANK YOU!
This has to be one of the most heart wrenching songs I have ever heard. Still listen to it at least once a month. Would love to see him live a dream of mine . Gorden lightfoot . Absolutely .wonderful.😻😺
I saw him in 74? at Red Rocks in Colorado. Many drunks in the crown were not respectful. But he was great. At one point he kind of walked off the stage.
And the tune, thoughtful, evocative and fitting, it just makes sense!
Saw him in Glasgow a few years ago.Amazing
Best song of my youth
Growing up
On Lake Erie
We saw some storms ……
Later in life- married a girl who’s grandfather was on this ship and transferred off right before that fateful voyage
This is a great rendition
Takes me back
God bless them all…..
One of the greatest songs ever wrote. I SALUTE you. Runs cold chills across me.
You mean wroten.
@@Swizzenator I know what he meant. And he is write.
@@earthedice Eyes was just jokin Russ.
@@Swizzenator I succeed. U win
I just would like to say that this is one of the greatest songs ever written. I am a metal head going on 50, but I can listen to this song over and over all day/night long. I grew up on the shores of Lake Erie and lived in Wisconsin for awhile, so perhaps I relate a little more than most. Such a harrowing tale of a hellacious way to die for 29 men, a few of which were from my hometown of Ashtabula, Ohio. Gordon is a legendary songwriter and this is his grand prize.
I am a metalhead myself and I can remember my elementary school music teacher (3rd grade maybe) playing this song in class on the anniversary of the sinking (I think). I have loved the song since. I got into metal in my teen years, but this song will always be one of my favorites.
Us folks here in NE ohio lost alot of brothers on that ship. Still gives me goosebumps 40 yrs later
Yea it is a good song and me and my dad listen to it all the time
We love this here in California too. Don't let the trolls deceive you. This is a beautiful song.
Do you think a metal version of this song could be done?
"Early morning rain" is another song of his. Best of the bests. He writes, composes, and he sings. One of the greatest musicians
History captured in a timeless piece of musical poetry. No one could have done it better than Gordon Lightfoot.
RIP.
The story tellers of the 70s were the backbone of folk-rock. Long live these legends !!!
This is hands down one of THE most outstanding songs written in the last 50 years. Gordon does not know how to write a mediocre song, all of his compositions are superior, but this is his masterpiece in my opinion, right up there with Canadian Railroad Trilogy. It was profoundly moving and astonishing in 1976, and in 2021 it has lost none of its impact. Sublime.
I grew up in Michigan, and the Edmund Fitzgerald is a story that almost everybody in this state knows about, especially if you live in the Upper Peninsula.
Figured it out I guitar played at a gig one time we did it last song nobody knew we were gonna play it the place was mesmerized by it… when we got done we got a standing ovation.. of course over the microphone we said thank you very much too Gordon Lightfoot!!!
Who in his or her right mind would ever give a "thumb down" vote to Gordon Lightfoot's great song, "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald"? You'd have to hate great music to not like this classic folk song!
His concert was moved one year. Rest and get well my friend. I will see you next year. God bless. Your music helped me through the darkest times of my life. I'm bringing my guitar to your concert in 2022. I would be honored if you would sign it. Get well Sir.
I was blessed to be able to see Gordon perform this in concert in Greensburg, PA at the Palace Theater a couple years ago. Still performing in his 80s. He is amazing, and a real legend in Canada.
@Gordon Lightfoot 💖
@Gordon Lightfoot you are not Gordon! You are a scammer! I will be reporting you!
This is real history. It tells the absolute facts, of what we know. It hit me. I was in the Atlantic in a winter storm. I remember off Iceland in 65”, first time was ran out of fresh food. The ship rolls , you would feel you could reach out and touch the ocean, then roll back to port side. So cold, the wind felt it could cut you. Every time I hear this song. I wonder , how did we make it back. A chilling song this is. I remember watching the news that night in Twin Lake, Michigan. I remember taking the seaman test for sailing on the Great Lakes shipping. I guess I was fortunate, I didn’t have the money needed for the dues of sailing on these type of ships. It’s my my eyes water every time I hear this song. This to me is more comparable with the Gettysburg Address. 😢
I grew up on the Great Lakes and remember this tragic event. This beautiful song memorializes this ship and it's brave crew forever. Bless you Mr. Lightfoot.
I also grew up on lake superior. From Duluth to Silver Bay. I'm still very touched n emotionally filled by this song.
Gordon and Harry Chapin were the greatest song story tellers in my life.
Ronbo710 you’d better add John Stewart to that. I’d take him over Harry
@@markstanley6876 may I add jim Croce to the list
Len Drury I think so. It’s sad he died so young so his catalogue of songs is so much smaller than John Stewart’s. But I think he wrote some great songs
Agreed!
Lightfoot, Chapin, Croce.
We are very sad tonight after learning Gordon Lightfoot passed away. He wasn’t just a star to us, he was a friend. To him, “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”, was more than just a hit song he wrote. Gordon truly cared about the families of that tragedy. That was proven in 2015 when he came to Whitefish Point for the 40th anniversary of the sinking…but he came a day early, on November 9th, to meet and talk with the family members…he did not want to be the focus of the day on November 10th, he was that classy. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society will always be grateful for his kindness to us and the family members of the Edmund Fitzgerald…everytime the bell tolls from now on, he will be a part of those 29 chimes. Gordon Lightfoot was 84…rest in peace, friend. ❤️😇😞
Beautiful sentiment. It says a lot about him. Thanks so much for sharing.
I’m 24, my dad showed me this song when I was 17 and I still get chills listening to it today.
I was 28, on Active Duty in the Air Force. Having survived the Coup de Tate in Turkey, denied the Rebels all NATO arms, March 13, 1973, plus, all Six Campaigns of the Vietnam war, the loss of the Edmund Fitzgerald was also a very sad moment, for me. I pray daily for all 29 men to RIP, and that all the surviving families have found peace and comfort in the healing.
There is one line in this song that any person who sailed on ships in very bad weather can relate to " Does any one know where the love of God goes when the waves turns the minutes to hours" many is the time I have wondered when my ship was healed over in bad weather and being hit by huge waves would she right her self. Thanks be to God I surived all those scarey moments. but that line of the song is the most humbling words ever written.
She was listing which means she was taking on water in an uneven manner.
Awwwww Adrian there are no atheists in foxholes under fire, nor brave men who sail the seas. God is all powerful and magnificent! Blessings to you and thanks for sharing.
I spent 2 years of my life as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Micronesia. We used to take these little 19ft fiberglass open boats on voyages up to 60 miles out of sight of land. Once we had terrible seas with waves breaking over our loaded boat. That line in the song is exactly what it feels like as you are bailing frantically.
Adrian, there is irony in that verse. When the waves turn the minutes to hours may be the time God gives us to find His love when most needed.
Been there, spent about 20 hours traversing late Erie, Buffalo to Detroit in February 1989 in rough seas on 140 ft Ice breaker. I wanted to kiss the ground when we got ashore.
Rest in peace Mr. Lightfoot.
I was hoping you would have been able to make it back to Lake Temagami this summer. But I know the Lake will always keep a part of your spirit.
RIP to the king, so happy i saw him live a couple years back. May the legend live on…
Awesome song great man, my friend Doug Dittus sang this song a lot
I came here on 11/10/16, the 41st anniversery of the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. This song is one of the greatest ballads ever
That is the anniversary date of my Mother's fatal car accident. Alcohol is so wonderful to those who love it. I do not. People are too soon to forget how fragile life is until a sudden reminder occurs. Make each day count.
This song IS one of the greats. Your comment was absolutely correct.
I worked at USS in Gary, and the Fitz would dock about every two weeks. What a magnificent sight she was. So big, tugs from Chicago had to guide her in to port. When news came in about the sinking, no one could believe it. There was a pall over the entire area. We actually remembered the anniversary of the sinking every year. The song is a haunting, lyrical, tribute to the mariners who went down with a great ship.
Ever hear about the 1928 hurricane going over Lake Okeechobee FL & drowning over 3000 folk on the southern shore of that lake?
I grew up in Detroit and spent my summers in St. Claire , on the St Claire river. Many a day we watched the ships sailing past. We would be out on the dock, waving at the crewmen. The river is less than a mile wide, so the ships and their crew were pretty visible on the south bound ships. The Edmond Fitz Jerrold was one of those ships. We were all quite effected by the loss of the ship and crew. The song still evokes a lot of emotion even after all these years. Thank you Mr. Lightfoot for your wonderful memorial.
RIP Gordon Lightfoot
He will be missed by many. Thanks to this song and this man, the 'Edmund Fitzgerald' will not be forgotten to time like so many other shipwrecks of the Great Lakes.