I'm 60, tired, world weary, and broken down by failing health. Honestly, what keeps me going is my dream of returning to my home and native land...Nova Scotia. I want to live out my last days in the Annapolis Valley and again visit the pristine Highlands of Cape Breton. I think too of standing on rocky shores breathing in warm summer breezes and frigid winter gales and hearing/watching the sea in all its moods from warm blue to angry grey. I hope to visit the island on which I was born and the several I lived on as a boy (being the son of a lightkeeper). Yeah, it runs deep.
I pray your dream comes true. I am 69yrs.amd have always wanted to travel Canada but work, family and sometimes health challenges got in the way. The winters seem to be getting longer as I age. I have had friends from down east and to the person they have left their hearts there. Good life loving people. Who wouldn't want to visit after your eloquent description! The best to you and good health.
@@annerchisline9641 It is beautiful. From Windsor on there is no place I can think of that I like better. And, it will finally happen this coming spring/summer. Thank you.
Gordy's not gone. He lives in fond memories and every time his songs are played. Long live the friend I had from the first time I heard him, though never met in person. ❤️
I agree that Lightfoot is one of the greatest lyricists we've ever seen. For 40 years his yarns have got me through my toughest moments and soothed me in times of warmth and reflection. There will never be another like Gordon Lightfoot - "the Minstrel of the Dawn". Peace to my Canandian brethren - good tidings from the States.
I am a 76 yo recently widowed guy that is recovering from grief of losing my Anne. I plan on visiting Nova Scotia on the way to and from Newfoundland this Fall. I am thinking a drink of Cabot Trail whiskey, Digby Scallops and the Bluenose schooner.
Gordon Lightfoot is our Canadian pride, iconic & legendary folk singer/song writer. I saw him once on the TTC Spadina subway line while going downtown during my college years as he used to live in the Toronto Rosedale/Summerhill neighborhood back in the early 90s. I respected his privacy. I regret not having talked to him though. Growing up as a son of Italian immigrants in the 60s & 70s Northern Ontario, I used to catch my late father playing and humming this tune on his Paolo Soprani accordian to his heart's content as this song was one of his favorites. On occasional weekends, he used to play at the Caruso Club in Sudbury with two of his buddies as a trio. We returned to Italy back in the mid 70's and on occasion I would catch him on the balcony playing and humming to this song. I returned to Canada and forty years have gone by in a flash but when I hum or whistle to this tune, I get a flood back of cherished memories of my dad playing Farewell Nova Scotia on his accordian along with tears of joy & sadness streaming down my face. Rest in peace Dad and Gord.
And since you like this beautiful song, you'll love, "Henry Martin" by Figgy Duff: fell in love with that one, thanks to the great TV show "Due South"! So Canadian! 3:18 💔🇨🇦💐🍀
Considering our population, Canada has been blessed with an overabundance of musical talent, and this man, Gordon Lightfoot is without question at the apex, what a writer, singer , musician, awesome does not do him justice !
It helps that Canada has a requirement for radio and TV to actually support Canadian artists rather than ignoring them. More countries should have this.
I have seen Gord almost 60 times and will be seeing him again in 3 weeks in Richmond hill. Play almost all his songs and learned same picking for almost any song. Gord and Dylan will never be matched again. Just doesn't happen anymore. What a true Canadian so proud
One of the great things about living in Buffalo and Rochester, NY is how close we are to Canada and the great music and culture we get extended to us. Lightfoot is brilliant artist and has done songs that describe imagery a thousand times better then any book or movie. Much love to the true north strong and free
First of all Craig, Gordon Lightfoot is a national treasure. Secondly the song is perfect. But mostly, I appreciate your your fine comments. I've traveled in the U.S. many times, through the years, and you folks have always been more than nice to me. And I'm proud to live next door to you...............Dave
I'm American, but I love his version of this song. Beautiful, but then all of his are. I remember in the early 70s, out of HS, married, borrowed a friend's double album of his greatest hits to copy on my reel to reel player, so I'd have them to listen to...
In spite of Cullinane's rude comments that I received via e-mail, great video. In my personal American opinion, the greatest singer/songwriter of all time is Gordon Lightfoot. Every song he wrote told a story. In today's music world, story telling is a lost art. Most of today's "modern" music sucks including country which is about as country as New York city or Toronto.
Man if I was a ship captain I would have Gordon playing over the P.A every time we were heading out to sea. I want to live on a boat in a marina and play Gordon lightfoot tunes all day.
I am Korean. Nova scotia is my favorite place in Canada. So beautiful country and nice people. I miss Halifax too. I know this song from Canadian friends. Good to listen again.
Some of the best Gordon Lightfoot tunes are so well augmented by guys like Red Shea and Terry in the background that make them all the more special. Red was an amazing guitar player as can be seen here if you watch closely. When I saw Gordon live it was always with Terry. All I can say is Wow.
Absolutely! Lightfoot's band can only be described as "perfection." I never saw Red, only Terry; however Rick Haynes was there ever since the exodus of John Stockfish.
Every time he played the west coast we went to meet him backstage and he was always happy to see us and also very kind. I was in Nova Scotia mixing sound for the Lundenberg Harbour Festival and several others. After that I was leaving to go back to California and I knew that I was never going to be returning to Nova Scotia again. I ran into Gordon, who was doing the show there, and he and I were talking about me never seeing Nova Scotia because I was getting too old and too disabled to be on the road much longer. He took out his guitar and played me “Farewell Nova Scotia”, which was one of the highlights me knowing him.
Great to hear. Sung to personally is a real gift. What an amazing talent. Frankie Valli did the same for a couple backstage when the guy said his girlfriend's favorite song was one of his.
One of the best things that ever happened to me in my career as a stage manager and sound engineer was meeting Gordon at the Berkeley Community Theater in California. I was doing sound and lights for a show prior to its I was asked if I could do a lighting design for his show at the theater and help out with the sound mixing. I was very flattered and jumped at the chance. It was a wonderful evening sitting behind soundboard and a free hand in choosing the gels for the lights and using a device called a Sweet 16 (16 lighting presets) I was able to sit soundboard and do the lights at the same time while talking to the spotlight operator with headphones. After the show was over I was asked to three additional shows with him at other venues in California, which I was delighted to do. Gordon was very easy going and as genuine as the music he played. As long as the monitor mix on stage was balanced he was a happy guy is complementary about the lighting design. Several years later I worked with his first lead guitar player, David Rea, recording and producing has two albums. Every time Gordon was coming in California we made a special effort to meet him backstage and he was always happy to see us and also very kind. I love the song because I had been a time in Nova Scotia a few times8 mixing sound for the Lundenberg Harbor Festival and several others. I went with Valerie and Al Rogers (parents of Stan and Garnet Rogers) to enjoy quite a bit of the festivities. After that and leaving the back to California and I knew that I was never going to be returning to Nova Scotia again. I ran into Gordon, who was doing the show there, and he and I were talking about me never seeing Nova Scotia because I was getting too old and too disabled to be on the road much longer. He took out his guitar and played me this song, which was one of the highlights me knowing him.
They're both great and I always thought he was as great as Bob Dylan. Maybe one moreso on a given year than th other, and th other bigger on a different year. I think they were both completely equitable contemporaries.
I noticed Gordon lightfoot back in the 70s I am now 65 and such a follower still ,he was the inspiration for my guitar playing and still is circle of steel touches me greatly as does most of his music
@@ianelsden6709, Circle of Steel is my #1 GL song! I DO wish he had included "Farewell to Nova Scotia" on one of his albums. He has sung it so beautifully in concert!
When my family went back to England in my late teens, I missed Canada desperately. I played Canadian Railroad Trilogy frequently. 50 years later, home in Canada, it still brings a tear to my eyes. Thanks Gordon.
May there be peace to all the families and friends who were affected by this senseless massacre that happened on April 18 & 19 2020 in Nova Scotia. May all those Soul's taken by a mad man Rest in Peace and Eternal Love. Peace, love and prayers to All involved. ✌💞 🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹 🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹 🇨🇦KEH
@@stephenpauls5136 Yeah me too. He had played cop before and the locals didn't like or respect him. I've heard that they slipped something into his drink that night when he showed up this time dressed up and harassing them. Someone at the party that lived, posted that he went on a real power trip and this was the result. I did alert the RCMP, the Saturday memorial on Friday. The did get back to me about this information that "The Unrepentant" UA-cam user who had posted the information several times about the party he showed up at and this was the result. I never heard anything more from the RCMP or anything on the News. "The Unrepentant" wrote several more posts on UA-cam, I ask him if they let them know what he knew, he said it was up to them to do the autopsy to know what he'd taken. The girlfriend supposedly also was given the drug and to test her blood as well. Don't know if the RCMP is letting this information out into the public yet. But it was a believable account by someone who witnessed what really happened and I think The Unrepentant is someone of interest.
I've been in love with this guy since I first heard him sing Sundown in the late 1870s. He's a true treasure. Hope he lives a long time and continues writing these wonderful songs. And, singing them.
I'm in Mesa, Arizona tonight, and I've just attended a Gordon Lightfoot concert at Valle del Oro RV resort. Gordon and his band did two shows, which is amazing given that he is now 75 years old. I'm listening to Farewell to Nova Scotia here on UA-cam, and there is a tear in my eye. Like Gordon I'm feeling my years, but seeing him tonight, and see how much several hundred people enjoyed his performance, I'd say, keep it going. I will never grow tired of his music.
Hey Cam, I don't know if your a God fearing man, but I'll tell you this. When you and I get there, the other side, can you imagine the music, the people, the amassed quantity and different music we'll be able to hear, all the time. The promise is, we get our mortal bodies bad without all the baggage we're carrying today. It's going to be a great time, brother. You look me up, we'll do some traveling in the universe together.
When I saw Gordon in concert for the very first time on September 27, 1980 at Alumni Hall in London, Ontario, 'Farewell to Nova Scotia' was the first song he played. I'd never heard it before and I thought, "what a fantastic song".
Visited Nova Scotia for the first time this summer. It was even more beautiful than I expected. I left on the Cat Ferry out of Yarmouth. There was a duo who entertained us with sea chanties and Celtic folk songs. Farewell Nova Scotia was one of the songs. I will definitely be returning
Stayed in touch with my home Provence,Nova Scotia, and Canadian Homeland during the five years in Southern Africa,(Rhodesia), through working in the field as a small mammal ecologist, to racial conflicts, war, combat medic,love, breakups,kept in company by Radio Canada International, posters sent from the Nova Scotia Tourist Bureau,and songs like this by Gordon Lightfoot. RIP Sir
I was fortunate to see Gord in concert in Seattle once in the '70s. I don't remember the exact date, but I do remember him playing a ton of his hits and without a bunch of verbal fill in dialog to take up his time. Mimi Farina opened the show set for him. It was a great concert, as one can imagine.
Gordon Lightfoot is an amazing poet, songwriter, observer, storyteller and musician. From his earliest efforts in the early 60's to this very day, he is a Canadian treasure. The impact he has had on me personally, both musically, as a musician myself and as a part of my growth as a mature person, cannot be put into words. This clip, from the BBC 1972 concert, though not written by Gord, puts chills into my spine for its beauty, musicality, spirit, meaninful story and powerful melody. The tight trio amazes....That BBC concert is something nobody should miss... The incredible Gordon Lightfoot at his prime captured forever by the BBC as no other media outlet could do.
as kids growing up in nova scotia we did this in music class but it never sounded this good i can tell ya. wouldnt trade being a canadian for anything. (seriously how do 17 people not like this?) this song and this singer/songwriter are pure magic.
Just love the guitar work of Red Shea. Being from Nova Scotia myself, I will tell you this is a traditional song. Some say it was about the hundreds of thousands of Canadian soldiers who sailed out of Halifax harbor for the WW1 battles in Europe, many never to return. Since those soldiers came from right across Canada, it's a song for all Canadians.
i know what you mean i would sooner lay down my life before letting a single hostile solder so much as look at this glorious land just like my grandfathers and their fathers before me fact is every single one of the people who disliked this video is jealous that their not here 33 little lost puppies as of now lol
Thank you for your comment. My father was Canadian and we are a loyalist family who came through Nova Scotia. Just an aside, if you want an interesting view of the so called American Revolution, look up any one of Csnadian historian Wallace Brown's books. Eye opener. Anyway, I always felt I was the luckiest kid....I had two home countries. I remember Nova Scotia Farewell from that long ago childhood. Does anyone remember Ann Murray singing it on the CBN? Maple Leaf forever.
I just don't understand why there isn't a Gordon Lightfoot channel on Sirius. He has sung and/or written SO many incredible songs, and is still alive and able to TALK about these songs and people he has met and played with. They could even play other musicians who have recorded his songs. I can spend hours and hours listening to his songs, and think, 'Ok, THIS is my favorite", only to listen to another song, and say the same thing. He is such a gift to everyone. I know that I would definitely listen to his channel constantly.
I've never heard Gordon do this before. What a classic performance! I LOVE Farewell To Nova Scotia (being a proud Nova Scotian and appreciating beautiful music) and I LOVE Gordon Lightfoot. God I wish I'd been old enough to see him back then. Still, seeing him a couple years ago was amazing!
I love Gordon lightfoots beautiful songs! I only, unfortunately started listening to them after his death! May he Rest In Peace! His songs will live on!
Gordon is one of the best, if not the best songwriter on the planet. Many of his songs have been hits for others, including Elvis. His catalogue of songs is incredible, and his voice is amazing...even at 75 yrs. of age....
As a Nova Scotian, and growing up with all his songs, I've got so much admiration, for this man, and the many hits he had here in Canada, he was a household name. But I believe Thr Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald, gave way to an American audience. I wonder how many Americans know that Don MacLean "American Pie " was also a Nova Scotian, makes me proud!!!!
Chorus: Farewell to Nova Scotia, the sea-bound coast, may your mountains dark and dreary be. For when I am far away on the briny ocean tossed, Will you ever heave a sigh or a wish for me? 1. The sun was setting in the west, The birds were singing on every tree. All nature seemed inclined to rest But still there was no rest for me. Chorus 2. I grieve to leave my native land, I grieve to leave my comrades all, And my aging parents whom I've always loved so dear, And the bonnie, bonnie lass that I do adore. Chorus 3. I have three brothers and they are at rest, Their arms are folded on their chest. But a poor simple sailor just like me, Must be tossed and turned in the deep dark sea. Chorus 4. The drums they do beat and the wars to alarm,[n 5] The captain calls, I must obey. So farewell, farewell to Nova Scotia's charms, For it's early in the morning and I'm far, far away. Chorus
I have seen Mr Lightfoot in Michigan since I arrived in the US... He is a true master of his craft. What a priceless gem does Canada have with Gordon and his true storytelling talent. In concerts he relaxes you...he should be a prescription for high blood pressure...Many more decades to you. From a greatful Chilean.
I agree; I grew up listening to him, and whenever I'm feeling a little low, I put his music on and within a few minutes I'm feeling better. We were Blessed to have his music. May his Soul R.I.P.
Im so lucky to live here in Nova Scotia, one just has to turn on the news and see cities and places like Chicago and Detroit ect..I also have a camp on a lake, only 3 camps on the whole lake, when im fishing out there by myself I often wonder how much those guys in down town New York in the skyscrapers would pay to trade places with me, we are very, very lucky
You certainly are fortunate! Enjoy your dream and location My family has cabins in Northern Minnesota. Greatest days of my life spent up there! I have always lived in NW Indiana, just outside of Chicago. At one time it has everything
@@irazimmer9571 seems each day that goes by, I find myself spending more and more time at the cabin, all the craziness going on, myself and my lab couldn't be happier up there, especially with hunting season approaching, glad to have read your story Ira.
@@irazimmer9571The world sure has got itself crazy the last 6 months, I bet northern Minnesota is lookin better and better Ira, hows your cabin building skills lol?
Everyone is welcome to Cape Breton Nova Scotia where I was born an left later on to see the world an came to find there's nothing like the ppl from here. There's always someone who cares for your wellbeing
This is for every sailor and coastie in the US and Canada keeping our continent free...thank you men and women of the US and Canadian Armed Forces...the tip of the spear, the edge of the saber!!!!
I love this version and of course, I'm a devout Lightfoot fan (40+ years now). I played this for my daughter a while ago. It immediately went to her "play list". She's 28 and knows great music when she hears it. Thanks for all the tunes Gordy - you're a big part of our lives!
A song for a Winter’s Night and this song I found late long after it was released. Both great songs among a plethora of others Thank you Gordon! God take care of him and listen to him- you gained a great musician today!
WOW!!! I absolutely LOVE this song but Mr Lightfoots version is by far the best!!! The heart and emotion is overwhelming!!!! Listening to it over and over!!!!!
The first time I ever saw Gordon in concert was at the University of Western Ontario's Alumni Hall in September 1980. The first song he played that night was 'Farewell to Nova Scotia'. This song has always had great personal meaning for me because my mother and grandmother were born in Nova Scotia,
I was introduced to this song in the 1970s while visiting the Royal Military College in Windsor. I've been singing it (badly and with some wrong words), mostly in the shower, for almost 40 years. It has a great tune and a lonely sullen but not empty quality. A sailor's (in my case, a soldier's) lament.
Ive been working as a bouncer in various Halifax nightclubs for the past 16 years. I must have heard this song played live a thousand times by local artists & each time - I still get goosebumps. It’s our official-unofficial provincial song. Tonight is New Year’s Eve - heading into 2025. I can almost guarantee I’ll hear this song again tonight-& I’m looking forward to it! Happy New Year everyone!
Utterly amazing to be able to view this clip in 2012, so many years after we listened to, but rarely saw, the great Gordon Lightfoot in action in the 70s and 80s.
His music and lyrics speak eloquently about my life as a young Canadian from the broad Prairies, living in many places in our great land. There is no other troubadour who can trigger the memories stored in this old mind.
My favorite artist since I was attending his concerts. I am 66 now and started when I was 14 at Massey Hall in Toronto every year. He is the very best ever and the greatest Canadian artist we could have every dreamed of.having.
I'm 60, tired, world weary, and broken down by failing health. Honestly, what keeps me going is my dream of returning to my home and native land...Nova Scotia. I want to live out my last days in the Annapolis Valley and again visit the pristine Highlands of Cape Breton. I think too of standing on rocky shores breathing in warm summer breezes and frigid winter gales and hearing/watching the sea in all its moods from warm blue to angry grey. I hope to visit the island on which I was born and the several I lived on as a boy (being the son of a lightkeeper). Yeah, it runs deep.
I pray your dream comes true. I am 69yrs.amd have always wanted to travel Canada but work, family and sometimes health challenges got in the way. The winters seem to be getting longer as I age. I have had friends from down east and to the person they have left their hearts there. Good life loving people. Who wouldn't want to visit after your eloquent description! The best to you and good health.
I'm in the Annapolis Valley. Hope your dream comes true . . . it's beautiful here.
@@annerchisline9641 It is beautiful. From Windsor on there is no place I can think of that I like better. And, it will finally happen this coming spring/summer. Thank you.
i can relate . i am exhausted and NS will always be in my blood even tho I've been gone over half my life ..
@@SteffanoDucati It never leaves you no matter how long you are away or how far.
Rest in peace, Gordon. Your songs will be with us forever.
We’ve lost him. Farewell good sir. Thank you for your music.
Gordy's not gone. He lives in fond memories and every time his songs are played. Long live the friend I had from the first time I heard him, though never met in person. ❤️
By far the cleanest guitar strummer of all time. Gord's guitar playing was vastly underrated. Greatest songwriter/poet of all time. Miss him a ton.
I agree that Lightfoot is one of the greatest lyricists we've ever seen. For 40 years his yarns have got me through my toughest moments and soothed me in times of warmth and reflection. There will never be another like Gordon Lightfoot - "the Minstrel of the Dawn". Peace to my Canandian brethren - good tidings from the States.
Bob Dylan was once asked, what he thought of Lightfoots music. He said,
" The problem with Gordon Lightfoots music, is when it ends ".
yeah.
Quite the tribute, Jimmy Buffett is also a huge Gordon fan, it says much when your peers think highly of you!
That's not what' not what he said. "I wish his songs would never end".
@@ericrosenfeld4691 time for your meds
@@shawncavanagh401 I
I am a 76 yo recently widowed guy that is recovering from grief of losing my Anne. I plan on visiting Nova Scotia on the way to and from Newfoundland this Fall. I am thinking a drink of Cabot Trail whiskey, Digby Scallops and the Bluenose schooner.
I’m so sorry for your loss, I hope your trip was the best it could be.
You will be together again with your Beloved Anne one day in Heaven 🌹 & she watches over you every day, have no doubt! ❤️🩹💐🍀🙏
Gordon Lightfoot is our Canadian pride, iconic & legendary folk singer/song writer. I saw him once on the TTC Spadina subway line while going downtown during my college years as he used to live in the Toronto Rosedale/Summerhill neighborhood back in the early 90s. I respected his privacy. I regret not having talked to him though. Growing up as a son of Italian immigrants in the 60s & 70s Northern Ontario, I used to catch my late father playing and humming this tune on his Paolo Soprani accordian to his heart's content as this song was one of his favorites. On occasional weekends, he used to play at the Caruso Club in Sudbury with two of his buddies as a trio. We returned to Italy back in the mid 70's and on occasion I would catch him on the balcony playing and humming to this song. I returned to Canada and forty years have gone by in a flash but when I hum or whistle to this tune, I get a flood back of cherished memories of my dad playing Farewell Nova Scotia on his accordian along with tears of joy & sadness streaming down my face. Rest in peace Dad and Gord.
There isn't a modern performer that can hold a candle to this man.
I took my basic training in Nova Scotia
Not at all.
And even now, well into his 80's, still sounds fantastic.
Yo you should listen to post Malone he’s pretty good
@@jameshamilton2283 is post Malone singing farewell to Nova Scotia
Thanks to you tube,I just discovered this great song....I've even been a huge fan of GL since 1969.
I've played this great song many times since discovery it here,and it just gets better. Nobody can put you right there in Nova Scotia!
And since you like this beautiful song, you'll love, "Henry Martin" by Figgy Duff: fell in love with that one, thanks to the great TV show "Due South"! So Canadian! 3:18 💔🇨🇦💐🍀
Considering our population, Canada has been blessed with an overabundance of musical talent, and this man, Gordon Lightfoot is without question at the apex, what a writer, singer , musician, awesome does not do him justice !
It helps that Canada has a requirement for radio and TV to actually support Canadian artists rather than ignoring them. More countries should have this.
Yeah, but NICKELBACK! 😉
I have seen Gord almost 60 times and will be seeing him again in 3 weeks in Richmond hill. Play almost all his songs and learned same picking for almost any song. Gord and Dylan will never be matched again. Just doesn't happen anymore. What a true Canadian so proud
The best version of Farewell to Nova Scotia ever 🌻
Good, but I like the High Kings version better.
@@howie9751 I like the Irish Rovers version as well ⛵
@@ordyhorizonrivieredunord712 An underappreciated group.
@@howie9751 🍀
Absolutely beautiful. Mr. Lightfoot blew this out of the park! C'mon modern performers... Make more music like this!
One of the great things about living in Buffalo and Rochester, NY is how close we are to Canada and the great music and culture we get extended to us. Lightfoot is brilliant artist and has done songs that describe imagery a thousand times better then any book or movie.
Much love to the true north strong and free
Craig Maz we have a lot more in common than we don't, especially the east coast.
First of all Craig, Gordon Lightfoot is a national treasure. Secondly the song is perfect. But mostly, I appreciate your your fine comments. I've traveled in the U.S. many times, through the years, and you folks have always been more than nice to me. And I'm proud to live next door to you...............Dave
@@solinadave5769 Hear hear!
I am a Canadian veteran, took my basic training at Nova Scotia
I took my basic training at Nova Scotia 35 years ago
This song makes me feel lucky to have grown up in Canada. There's so much beauty in this country.
I'm American, but I love his version of this song. Beautiful, but then all of his are. I remember in the early 70s, out of HS, married, borrowed a friend's double album of his greatest hits to copy on my reel to reel player, so I'd have them to listen to...
Wie könnte man diesen Mann nicht lieben?
In spite of Cullinane's rude comments that I received via e-mail, great video. In my personal American opinion, the greatest singer/songwriter of all time is Gordon Lightfoot. Every song he wrote told a story. In today's music world, story telling is a lost art. Most of today's "modern" music sucks including country which is about as country as New York city or Toronto.
Even after your passing Gord you still represent Canada 🇨🇦 in the best light I'm fortunate to have been at one of your last performances
Man if I was a ship captain I would have Gordon playing over the P.A every time we were heading out to sea. I want to live on a boat in a marina and play Gordon lightfoot tunes all day.
Would love it on cruises
I am Korean. Nova scotia is my favorite place in Canada. So beautiful country and nice people. I miss Halifax too. I know this song from Canadian friends. Good to listen again.
I'm from Germany and Gordon somehow manages to make us feel homesick for Nova Scotia...just proves how good a performer he was.
Lightfoot's voice is so soothing! I sometimes listen to him when I'm having trouble falling asleep.
Great tunes Gordon. Thanks for the memories. RIP.
Godspeed to a true Canadian Icon 🎶🇨🇦👑
Some of the best Gordon Lightfoot tunes are so well augmented by guys like Red Shea and Terry in the background that make them all the more special. Red was an amazing guitar player as can be seen here if you watch closely. When I saw Gordon live it was always with Terry. All I can say is Wow.
Absolutely! Lightfoot's band can only be described as "perfection." I never saw Red, only Terry; however Rick Haynes was there ever since the exodus of John Stockfish.
Red Shea… what a player! Amazing talent!!! 🎸🎸🎸
Every time he played the west coast we went to meet him backstage and he was always happy to see us and also very kind. I was in Nova Scotia mixing sound for the Lundenberg Harbour Festival and several others. After that I was leaving to go back to California and I knew
that I was never going to be returning to Nova Scotia again. I ran into Gordon,
who was doing the show there, and he and I were talking about me never seeing
Nova Scotia because I was getting too old and too disabled to be on the road
much longer. He took out his guitar and played me “Farewell Nova Scotia”, which
was one of the highlights me knowing him.
That's incredible.
Gord was always the best!
Great to hear. Sung to personally is a real gift. What an amazing talent. Frankie Valli did the same for a couple backstage when the guy said his girlfriend's favorite song was one of his.
I hear you A Ships.
What a marvellous story, perhaps somewhat bittersweet.
He sings with such a tone in his voice that you can feel the sadness....the best rendition I think.
It is a sad story about a young sailor going off to join the fight in WW1. Gordon nails it.
Love his voice, it is soothing to hear it.
One of the best things that ever happened to me in my career as a stage manager and sound engineer was meeting Gordon at the Berkeley Community Theater in California. I was doing sound and lights for a show prior to its I was asked if I could do a lighting design for his show at the theater and help out with the sound mixing. I was very flattered and jumped at the chance. It was a wonderful evening sitting behind soundboard and a free hand in choosing the gels for the lights and using a device called a Sweet 16 (16 lighting presets) I was able to sit soundboard and do the lights at the same time while talking to the spotlight operator with headphones. After the show was over I was asked to three additional shows with him at other venues in California, which I was delighted to do. Gordon was very easy going and as genuine as the music he played. As long as the monitor mix on stage was balanced he was a happy guy is complementary about the lighting design.
Several years later I worked with his first lead guitar player, David Rea, recording and producing has two albums. Every time Gordon was coming in California we made a special effort to meet him backstage and he was always happy to see us and also very kind.
I love the song because I had been a time in Nova Scotia a few times8 mixing sound for the Lundenberg Harbor Festival and several others. I went with Valerie and Al Rogers (parents of Stan and Garnet Rogers) to enjoy quite a bit of the festivities. After that and leaving the back to California and I knew that I was never going to be returning to Nova Scotia again. I ran into Gordon, who was doing the show there, and he and I were talking about me never seeing Nova Scotia because I was getting too old and too disabled to be on the road much longer. He took out his guitar and played me this song, which was one of the highlights me knowing him.
A Ships Tale N. Jay Young wow!!! ❣️❣️🥰❣️
What a great honour and great story...thanks for sharing!
No one delivers that song like Gordon, just fantastic
RIP Gordon Lightfoot and thank you for your great meaningful songs!
I was in Australia in 1972 the radio broadcaster there said if Gordon Lightfoot had become an American that he would be as big has Bob Dylan.
Very true but he would have lost his soul, so glad he stayed true to his roots....🍁
They're both great and I always thought he was as great as Bob Dylan. Maybe one moreso on a given year than th other, and th other bigger on a different year. I think they were both completely equitable contemporaries.
Rest in Pease, Gordon. Thank you for your wonderful music and the stories you told. Heaven just called another great musician Home.
When music was music. Certainly leagues beyond what people call music today!
You can also easily understand why he was such a huge hit in Britain in the early '70's. What an unparalleled talent.
I noticed Gordon lightfoot back in the 70s I am now 65 and such a follower still ,he was the inspiration for my guitar playing and still is circle of steel touches me greatly as does most of his music
I took my basic training at Nova Scotia
@@ianelsden6709, Circle of Steel is my #1 GL song! I DO wish he had included "Farewell to Nova Scotia" on one of his albums. He has sung it so beautifully in concert!
When my family went back to England in my late teens, I missed Canada desperately. I played Canadian Railroad Trilogy frequently. 50 years later, home in Canada, it still brings a tear to my eyes. Thanks Gordon.
Rest in Peace you Lyrical Genius.
26 and this is what i listen to in 2021.
Yall have a good ear bud.
Thank You Gordon Lightfoot.
Thank You Canada.
Wow, I had no idea Gord had sung this song,
AND it was recorded by the BBC.
THANK YOU for posting this.
It is astounding and sooooo appropriate.
May there be peace to all the families and friends who were affected by this senseless massacre that happened on April 18 & 19 2020 in Nova Scotia.
May all those Soul's taken by a mad man Rest in Peace and Eternal Love.
Peace, love and prayers to All involved.
✌💞
🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹
🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹
🇨🇦KEH
Thank you🙏💕
@@2yllusthe1st
My heart goes out to you All!
✌💞🙏🇨🇦
KEH
Seems he was too organized to be "crazy" I'd like to interview him, though.
@@stephenpauls5136
Yeah me too. He had played cop before and the locals didn't like or respect him. I've heard that they slipped something into his drink that night when he showed up this time dressed up and harassing them. Someone at the party that lived, posted that he went on a real power trip and this was the result. I did alert the RCMP, the Saturday memorial on Friday. The did get back to me about this information that "The Unrepentant" UA-cam user who had posted the information several times about the party he showed up at and this was the result.
I never heard anything more from the RCMP or anything on the News. "The Unrepentant" wrote several more posts on UA-cam, I ask him if they let them know what he knew, he said it was up to them to do the autopsy to know what he'd taken. The girlfriend supposedly also was given the drug and to test her blood as well.
Don't know if the RCMP is letting this information out into the public yet. But it was a believable account by someone who witnessed what really happened and I think The Unrepentant is someone of interest.
If the man was mad, he was not responsible for his deeds. I think he was a very evil man.
Exquisite performance this was by Gordon of such a beautiful song, so long ago. Farewell Nova Scotia, and now so sad to say Farewell Gordon.😢
I've been in love with this guy since I first heard him sing Sundown in the late 1870s. He's a true treasure. Hope he lives a long time and continues writing these wonderful songs. And, singing them.
1870's - I think you meant to say "1970's!)
I'm in Mesa, Arizona tonight, and I've just attended a Gordon Lightfoot concert at Valle del Oro RV resort. Gordon and his band did two shows, which is amazing given that he is now 75 years old. I'm listening to Farewell to Nova Scotia here on UA-cam, and there is a tear in my eye. Like Gordon I'm feeling my years, but seeing him tonight, and see how much several hundred people enjoyed his performance, I'd say, keep it going. I will never grow tired of his music.
come to my country visit nova scotia
Hey Cam, I don't know if your a God fearing man, but I'll tell you this. When you and I get there, the other side, can you imagine the music, the people, the amassed quantity and different music we'll be able to hear, all the time. The promise is, we get our mortal bodies bad without all the baggage we're carrying today. It's going to be a great time, brother. You look me up, we'll do some traveling in the universe together.
Amen to that.
I wish I am there , I took my basic training at back at nove Scotia to joint the cansd armed forces 30 some years ago some years ago.
Fantastic performance!
When I saw Gordon in concert for the very first time on September 27, 1980 at Alumni Hall in London, Ontario, 'Farewell to Nova Scotia' was the first song he played. I'd never heard it before and I thought, "what a fantastic song".
This man is the BEST songwriter CANADA has ever known.
A musician and song writer of exceptional talent!
Coming to this song, so beautifully rendered by Gord Lightfoot, in the grip of the terrible tragedy in Nova Scotia ... our hearts are broken.
Visited Nova Scotia for the first time this summer. It was even more beautiful than I expected. I left on the Cat Ferry out of Yarmouth. There was a duo who entertained us with sea chanties and Celtic folk songs. Farewell Nova Scotia was one of the songs. I will definitely be returning
Stayed in touch with my home Provence,Nova Scotia, and Canadian Homeland during the five years in Southern Africa,(Rhodesia), through working in the field as a small mammal ecologist, to racial conflicts, war, combat medic,love, breakups,kept in company by Radio Canada International, posters sent from the Nova Scotia Tourist Bureau,and songs like this by Gordon Lightfoot. RIP Sir
I was fortunate to see Gord in concert in Seattle once in the '70s. I don't remember the exact date, but I do remember him playing a ton of his hits and without a bunch of verbal fill in dialog to take up his time. Mimi Farina opened the show set for him. It was a great concert, as one can imagine.
The man is a genius!
And cheap back then as well!
this has been one of my favorite songs since i was in grade 4.
Gordon Lightfoot is an amazing poet, songwriter, observer, storyteller and musician. From his earliest efforts in the early 60's to this very day, he is a Canadian treasure. The impact he has had on me personally, both musically, as a musician myself and as a part of my growth as a mature person, cannot be put into words. This clip, from the BBC 1972 concert, though not written by Gord, puts chills into my spine for its beauty, musicality, spirit, meaninful story and powerful melody. The tight trio amazes....That BBC concert is something nobody should miss... The incredible Gordon Lightfoot at his prime captured forever by the BBC as no other media outlet could do.
can't agree more !
Rob. This particular song is traditional and goes back to the 1800's.
100% Rob
All indications point this to World War I. No records exist of it before World War I and the context makes sense that it comes from this period.
I am a Canadian veteran took my basic training at Nova Scotia
My Favorite version ❤
I can never get enough of the Gord!
as kids growing up in nova scotia we did this in music class but it never sounded this good i can tell ya. wouldnt trade being a canadian for anything. (seriously how do 17 people not like this?) this song and this singer/songwriter are pure magic.
+Gerard Pastorius Obviously there not from Nova Scotia!
Don't have to be, it's a brilliant song.
Just love the guitar work of Red Shea. Being from Nova Scotia myself, I will tell you this is a traditional song. Some say it was about the hundreds of thousands of Canadian soldiers who sailed out of Halifax harbor for the WW1 battles in Europe, many never to return. Since those soldiers came from right across Canada, it's a song for all Canadians.
i know what you mean i would sooner lay down my life before letting a single hostile solder so much as look at this glorious land just like my grandfathers and their fathers before me fact is every single one of the people who disliked this video is jealous that their not here 33 little lost puppies as of now lol
Thank you for your comment. My father was Canadian and we are a loyalist family who came through Nova Scotia. Just an aside, if you want an interesting view of the so called American Revolution, look up any one of Csnadian historian Wallace Brown's books. Eye opener.
Anyway, I always felt I was the luckiest kid....I had two home countries. I remember Nova Scotia Farewell from that long ago childhood. Does anyone remember Ann Murray singing it on the CBN? Maple Leaf forever.
A Canadian Treasure whom I've seen in concert more times than I can remember, each one perfect! ♥
Thanks for the music, maestro. We will meet on the other coast.
The best and sincere Canadian singer ever
I just don't understand why there isn't a Gordon Lightfoot channel on Sirius. He has sung and/or written SO many incredible songs, and is still alive and able to TALK about these songs and people he has met and played with. They could even play other musicians who have recorded his songs. I can spend hours and hours listening to his songs, and think, 'Ok, THIS is my favorite", only to listen to another song, and say the same thing. He is such a gift to everyone. I know that I would definitely listen to his channel constantly.
Great idea!
I've never heard Gordon do this before. What a classic performance! I LOVE Farewell To Nova Scotia (being a proud Nova Scotian and appreciating beautiful music) and I LOVE Gordon Lightfoot. God I wish I'd been old enough to see him back then. Still, seeing him a couple years ago was amazing!
We drove 7 days from Calgary to sea kayak Nova Scotia, worth it.
Gordon Lightfoot 🙏 Rest in Peace 😢
A guy in ireland sang this song 20 yrs ago really well..he died young..this is a beautiful version..
He sounds great after 50yrs here too a true canadian right from his heart and soul too
I love Gordon lightfoots beautiful songs! I only, unfortunately started listening to them after his death! May he Rest In Peace! His songs will live on!
Thank you so much for everything you have given us Sir Gordon ....... RIP our wonderful friend Gordon
Gordon is one of the best, if not the best songwriter on the planet. Many of his songs have been hits for others, including Elvis. His catalogue of songs is incredible, and his voice is amazing...even at 75 yrs. of age....
As a Nova Scotian, and growing up with all his songs, I've got so much admiration, for this man, and the many hits he had here in Canada, he was a household name. But I believe Thr Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald, gave way to an American audience. I wonder how many Americans know that Don MacLean "American Pie " was also a Nova Scotian, makes me proud!!!!
Chorus:
Farewell to Nova Scotia, the sea-bound coast,
may your mountains dark and dreary be.
For when I am far away on the briny ocean tossed,
Will you ever heave a sigh or a wish for me?
1.
The sun was setting in the west,
The birds were singing on every tree.
All nature seemed inclined to rest
But still there was no rest for me.
Chorus
2.
I grieve to leave my native land,
I grieve to leave my comrades all,
And my aging parents whom I've always loved so dear,
And the bonnie, bonnie lass that I do adore.
Chorus
3.
I have three brothers and they are at rest,
Their arms are folded on their chest.
But a poor simple sailor just like me,
Must be tossed and turned in the deep dark sea.
Chorus
4.
The drums they do beat and the wars to alarm,[n 5]
The captain calls, I must obey.
So farewell, farewell to Nova Scotia's charms,
For it's early in the morning and I'm far, far away.
Chorus
one of the best artist and songs
I have seen Mr Lightfoot in Michigan since I arrived in the US... He is a true master of his craft. What a priceless gem does Canada have with Gordon and his true storytelling talent. In concerts he relaxes you...he should be a prescription for high blood pressure...Many more decades to you. From a greatful Chilean.
I agree; I grew up listening to him, and whenever I'm feeling a little low, I put his music on and within a few minutes I'm feeling better. We were Blessed to have his music. May his Soul R.I.P.
Civ VI brought me here. This is gorgeous
He used to come to Detroit quite a lot. We also used to see him in Windsor, Ontario.
Im so lucky to live here in Nova Scotia, one just has to turn on the news and see cities and places like Chicago and Detroit ect..I also have a camp on a lake, only 3 camps on the whole lake, when im fishing out there by myself I often wonder how much those guys in down town New York in the skyscrapers would pay to trade places with me, we are very, very lucky
...
You certainly are fortunate!
Enjoy your dream and location
My family has cabins in Northern Minnesota. Greatest days of my life spent up there!
I have always lived in NW Indiana, just outside of Chicago. At one time it has everything
Not anymore would rather be in the Northwoods away from so called civilization!
@@irazimmer9571 seems each day that goes by, I find myself spending more and more time at the cabin, all the craziness going on, myself and my lab couldn't be happier up there, especially with hunting season approaching, glad to have read your story Ira.
@@irazimmer9571The world sure has got itself crazy the last 6 months, I bet northern Minnesota is lookin better and better Ira, hows your cabin building skills lol?
THis song is worth listening to on a loop for Red Shea's guitar track alone. So very good.
Everyone is welcome to Cape Breton Nova Scotia where I was born an left later on to see the world an came to find there's nothing like the ppl from here. There's always someone who cares for your wellbeing
There is no one to come close to Gordon......a true Canadian Treasure!!
This is for every sailor and coastie in the US and Canada keeping our continent free...thank you men and women of the US and Canadian Armed Forces...the tip of the spear, the edge of the saber!!!!
Thanks Ukraine!
@@vcislander2509 Thank you and although I use the symbol of the ancestral homeland I am American by birth and Ukrainian by God's providence!
I love this version and of course, I'm a devout Lightfoot fan (40+ years now). I played this for my daughter a while ago. It immediately went to her "play list". She's 28 and knows great music when she hears it. Thanks for all the tunes Gordy - you're a big part of our lives!
+jim karls My dad used to sing this to me when I was a toddler. I'm 31 now :)
+delilaha Thank you for sharing such a warm memory. All the best my friend.
I've been a fan Gordon for the last 40 years its nice to see him on You Tube
Rest in Peace Gordon Lightfoot ( a fan in Nova Scotia!)
I am from Ontario and I fell in love with this song years ago beautiful and haunting and Gordon Lightfoot with his voice and tone 😢😢
A song for a Winter’s Night and this song I found late long after it was released. Both great songs among a plethora of others
Thank you Gordon! God take care of him and listen to him- you gained a great musician today!
WOW!!! I absolutely LOVE this song but Mr Lightfoots version is by far the best!!! The heart and emotion is overwhelming!!!! Listening to it over and over!!!!!
Absolutely beautiful,
The first time I ever saw Gordon in concert was at the University of Western Ontario's Alumni Hall in September 1980. The first song he played that night was 'Farewell to Nova Scotia'. This song has always had great personal meaning for me because my mother and grandmother were born in Nova Scotia,
I was introduced to this song in the 1970s while visiting the Royal Military College in Windsor. I've been singing it (badly and with some wrong words), mostly in the shower, for almost 40 years. It has a great tune and a lonely sullen but not empty quality. A sailor's (in my case, a soldier's) lament.
Ive been working as a bouncer in various Halifax nightclubs for the past 16 years. I must have heard this song played live a thousand times by local artists & each time - I still get goosebumps. It’s our official-unofficial provincial song. Tonight is New Year’s Eve - heading into 2025. I can almost guarantee I’ll hear this song again tonight-& I’m looking forward to it! Happy New Year everyone!
Gord has made it your provincial Amthem,
Utterly amazing to be able to view this clip in 2012, so many years after we listened to, but rarely saw, the great Gordon Lightfoot in action in the 70s and 80s.
Beautiful in every way 💙💙
I have loved that song ever since I first heard it years ago and still do.
His music and lyrics speak eloquently about my life as a young Canadian from the broad Prairies, living in many places in our great land. There is no other troubadour who can trigger the memories stored in this old mind.
RIP Sir your music is ageless. My 1st visit there was with my Ontario family back in 1961.
RIP Gordon Lightfoot ❤
My favorite artist since I was attending his concerts. I am 66 now and started when I was 14 at Massey Hall in Toronto every year. He is the very best ever and the greatest Canadian artist we could have every dreamed of.having.
I Have always found Gordon comforting Somehow ! Great Writer and Performer !!All Best Gord JL :-)
I have been in the Uk for almost ten years and this is still a 'siren's' song to me....time to go home...sign
nice backing with the guitar and bass too ... well done Gordon.
Another great song from Mr. lightfoot
Love to hear Gordon along with Red Shea. Red is one of my favorite guitar players. Thanks for posting this.
Trail boss