Favorite Lightfoot Song & Why? II

[simplewood]

East of Midnight. The best. Great instrumental feel with soaring vocals. I have played Gords' music on the streets of S.F. in the 70's. I wish I had used this one.

[Curtis]

How about "Too Late For Praying?" Song seems to say it all. Hard pressed, I'd have to say "If You Could Read My Mind."

"lord abide let us stem the tide, of helplessness, but then I guess, we're living, it's too late for prayin'"

[Curtis]

How about "Too Late For Praying?" Song seems to say it all. Hard pressed, I'd have to say "If You Could Read My Mind."

"lord abide let us stem the tide, of helplessness, but then I guess, we're living, it's too late for prayin'"

[Meere]

This week its "If you need me" from Dream Street Rose. I can play it over and over. It's a wonderful sentiment. I love finding these great melodies from my old albums.

[Meere]

This week its "If you need me" from Dream Street Rose. I can play it over and over. It's a wonderful sentiment. I love finding these great melodies from my old albums.

[MISSMOOHERSELF]

Well, here's my two cents. My favorite song is "Race Among the Ruins". I like it because I first heard it when I was going through a hard time with my friends, and it gave me a different perspective on things.

[Jen]

Well, here's my two cents. My favorite song is "Race Among the Ruins". I like it because I first heard it when I was going through a hard time with my friends, and it gave me a different perspective on things.

[FRROGGLEJOE@AOL.COM]

"SONG FOR A WINTER'S NIGHT" IS MY FAVORITE GORD SONG. THE WORDS ARE SO SIMPLE, YET SO POETIC AND THE MUSIC IS BEAUTIFUL. ITS A WONDERFUL SONG. I WOULD SAY IT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SONG EVER WRITTEN.

[FRROGGLEJOE@AOL.COM]

"SONG FOR A WINTER'S NIGHT" IS MY FAVORITE GORD SONG. THE WORDS ARE SO SIMPLE, YET SO POETIC AND THE MUSIC IS BEAUTIFUL. ITS A WONDERFUL SONG. I WOULD SAY IT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SONG EVER WRITTEN.

[Rob1956]

My favorite song is 7 Island Suite -- the music moves me beyond description. I wish he'd play it in his concerts. It sets a great mood.

------------------
Patrinky
"Just think about the fool who by his virtue can be found in a most unusual situation playing jester to the clown."

[Patrinky]

My favorite song is 7 Island Suite -- the music moves me beyond description. I wish he'd play it in his concerts. It sets a great mood.

------------------
Patrinky
"Just think about the fool who by his virtue can be found in a most unusual situation playing jester to the clown."

[Tom !]

SO many favorites. Best of best is "Something Very Special" because of the words and the incredible music. Also, "Canadian RR Trilogy," "The Last Time I Saw Her" and "Song for a Winter's Night." New stuff isn't quite as good as old stuff but Gord is still GOLD and maybe even GOD!

[MISSMOOHERSELF]

SO many favorites. Best of best is "Something Very Special" because of the words and the incredible music. Also, "Canadian RR Trilogy," "The Last Time I Saw Her" and "Song for a Winter's Night." New stuff isn't quite as good as old stuff but Gord is still GOLD and maybe even GOD!

[Leonardo Rossi]

Gordon Lightfoot's best song? I think it would have to be "The Circle is Small". The contrast between the sadness of its subject matter and the uplifting, carefree, 'liberating' melodic theme is to my mind what makes it a great accomplishment, concept-wise. And if you should separate the lyrics from the melody, you would find that they can pretty well function by themselves. Lightfoot wisely gave it a more complex, refined arrangement in its "Endless Wire" version (the song had appeared previously on his "Back Here On Earth" album), but you could strum it on your guitar and it would come across as equally potent. I think this is the best of Lightfoot's many beautiful songs.

[Leonardo Rossi]

Gordon Lightfoot's best song? I think it would have to be "The Circle is Small". The contrast between the sadness of its subject matter and the uplifting, carefree, 'liberating' melodic theme is to my mind what makes it a great accomplishment, concept-wise. And if you should separate the lyrics from the melody, you would find that they can pretty well function by themselves. Lightfoot wisely gave it a more complex, refined arrangement in its "Endless Wire" version (the song had appeared previously on his "Back Here On Earth" album), but you could strum it on your guitar and it would come across as equally potent. I think this is the best of Lightfoot's many beautiful songs.

[Elisabeth]

For me it's easy!! "Anything For Love" is the most beautiful song ever!!!! The song is one of the very few that makes me feel kind of "funny" inside. It makes me want to cry and smile at the same time. The music is mesmerizing, and the lyrics are incredible. I'm just kind of disappointed that I'm the only one that posted this song.

P.S. Is it just me or does this song remind anyone of Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music?

[George]

For me it's easy!! "Anything For Love" is the most beautiful song ever!!!! The song is one of the very few that makes me feel kind of "funny" inside. It makes me want to cry and smile at the same time. The music is mesmerizing, and the lyrics are incredible. I'm just kind of disappointed that I'm the only one that posted this song.

P.S. Is it just me or does this song remind anyone of Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music?

[WillieMaysFan]

Wow, I just realized how long everyone has kept this topic going. Well, if anyone remembers, my absolute favorite Gord song will always be Carefree Highway. I wrote a rather heartfelt reason for that under another topic. I wanted to say that because I am going to mention another song now. I have quite a few that I absolutely love, as everyone does. These include Song For A Winter's Night, Shadows, and others. But those have been mentioned a lot. One that I haven't seen too many people mention, which surprises me, is Steel Rail Blues. I know it must be on many personal favorites lists, but most have failed to mention it. I love the pace of this song, Gord really got the tempo perfect on this one. I can't really specify too many of the reasons why I like it, mostly because I don't know that much technical info about music. All I know is that this would be one of the songs on my list if I could only have a few with me on a deserted island (uh, oh! sounds like a good subject for a topic). Anyone else feel this way about Steel Rail Blues?

[young stranger]

Wow, I just realized how long everyone has kept this topic going. Well, if anyone remembers, my absolute favorite Gord song will always be Carefree Highway. I wrote a rather heartfelt reason for that under another topic. I wanted to say that because I am going to mention another song now. I have quite a few that I absolutely love, as everyone does. These include Song For A Winter's Night, Shadows, and others. But those have been mentioned a lot. One that I haven't seen too many people mention, which surprises me, is Steel Rail Blues. I know it must be on many personal favorites lists, but most have failed to mention it. I love the pace of this song, Gord really got the tempo perfect on this one. I can't really specify too many of the reasons why I like it, mostly because I don't know that much technical info about music. All I know is that this would be one of the songs on my list if I could only have a few with me on a deserted island (uh, oh! sounds like a good subject for a topic). Anyone else feel this way about Steel Rail Blues?

[D. Gault]

Sundown
I like to sing it and play it on the guitar.

D. Gault

[D. Gault]

Sundown
I like to sing it and play it on the guitar.

D. Gault

[ZoningK@aol.com]

My favorite has to be "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" It's so haunting and brings back memories of me working myself to death in a factory, listening to this on the radio over the intercom. I can't wait for the upcoming movie for the Fitzgerald to begin production in June. Gord sings the song so beautifully--and haunting. I think it's the best.

[ZoningK@aol.com]

My favorite has to be "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" It's so haunting and brings back memories of me working myself to death in a factory, listening to this on the radio over the intercom. I can't wait for the upcoming movie for the Fitzgerald to begin production in June. Gord sings the song so beautifully--and haunting. I think it's the best.

[pablo60]

THE favorite Gord light song of mine? Oh man, that is a hard question; many, sundown,wreck of the ed fitz. I can't remember all the names or albulms, but,you know, be kind to the stranger that stands at your gate, that song I've always lived by. All of 'em!

[pablo60]

THE favorite Gord light song of mine? Oh man, that is a hard question; many, sundown,wreck of the ed fitz. I can't remember all the names or albulms, but,you know, be kind to the stranger that stands at your gate, that song I've always lived by. All of 'em!

[Alyson]

"Poor Little Allison"

[Alyson]

"Poor Little Allison"

[linda.greenberg@pepsi.com]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

[linda.greenberg@pepsi.com]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

[Shannon]

Which favorite? Hmmm. The very first song I can ever remember hearing is "Sundown" when I was just a little kid and whenever I listen to that song it evokes memories of growing up and living in the mountains and my parents and their friends sitting around at night talking and listening to music, so in a way that is my favorite because of all the personal memories attached to it. But then there are several more. I love "Song for a Winter's Night" because of the visuals and the way it makes me feel, and "Canadian Railroad Trilogy" because I had relatives whom I never knew who helped build the Canadian Railroad and it feels like a "connection" to them and their time. Really though it is hard to choose an all-time favorite, now that I have to try to do it.

[Shannon]

Which favorite? Hmmm. The very first song I can ever remember hearing is "Sundown" when I was just a little kid and whenever I listen to that song it evokes memories of growing up and living in the mountains and my parents and their friends sitting around at night talking and listening to music, so in a way that is my favorite because of all the personal memories attached to it. But then there are several more. I love "Song for a Winter's Night" because of the visuals and the way it makes me feel, and "Canadian Railroad Trilogy" because I had relatives whom I never knew who helped build the Canadian Railroad and it feels like a "connection" to them and their time. Really though it is hard to choose an all-time favorite, now that I have to try to do it.

[Chester Morrison]

Brave Mountaineers off Don Q.

"And I need to be there,
when the autumn wind goes singing
through the trestle we would climb..."

And Ordinary Man as a close second, both
great songs to play and sing.

[Chester Morrison]

Brave Mountaineers off Don Q.

"And I need to be there,
when the autumn wind goes singing
through the trestle we would climb..."

And Ordinary Man as a close second, both
great songs to play and sing.

[Robert]

Hey everyone. I just might be the youngest one here (21), but a huge Lightfoot fan already. My favourite song, which I don't believe has been mentioned at all yet, is Magnificent Outpouring! Am I the only one who thinks that song is as catchy as anything he's ever written?

[Robert]

Hey everyone. I just might be the youngest one here (21), but a huge Lightfoot fan already. My favourite song, which I don't believe has been mentioned at all yet, is Magnificent Outpouring! Am I the only one who thinks that song is as catchy as anything he's ever written?

[darryl]

One of my favorite songs is Brave Mountaineers. When I was a child there was a wooden trestle here that my best friend (and later sweetheart) would climb and hold on for dear life when a train would pass. Another of our favorite things to do was climb to the barn loft and jump into a pile of hay. She, and those glorious days, are gone, but that song never fails to evoke a very sweet nostalgia.

[darryl]

One of my favorite songs is Brave Mountaineers. When I was a child there was a wooden trestle here that my best friend (and later sweetheart) would climb and hold on for dear life when a train would pass. Another of our favorite things to do was climb to the barn loft and jump into a pile of hay. She, and those glorious days, are gone, but that song never fails to evoke a very sweet nostalgia.

[Greg S.]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

Canadian Railroad Trilogy is my favorite, because I grew up in the northwest (Washington state) and always heard the freight train's whistle late at night when I went to bed, a magical sound. Also, my grandfather worked for the Great Northern RR in Montana. Gord's tribute to the men who built the Canadian RR lives forever in my heart.
(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

[Greg S.]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

Canadian Railroad Trilogy is my favorite, because I grew up in the northwest (Washington state) and always heard the freight train's whistle late at night when I went to bed, a magical sound. Also, my grandfather worked for the Great Northern RR in Montana. Gord's tribute to the men who built the Canadian RR lives forever in my heart.
(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

[Missa]

My favorite song from GL is, "not supposed to care" from his summertime dream album, why is my favorite, because my dad used to sing it to me when I was just a wee lass. And that is one of my best memories of my father, plus it's a beauitful song

[Missa]

My favorite song from GL is, "not supposed to care" from his summertime dream album, why is my favorite, because my dad used to sing it to me when I was just a wee lass. And that is one of my best memories of my father, plus it's a beauitful song

[leboeuf@csolve.net]

I was listening to "Old Dan's Records" recently and I really like "That Same Old Obsession". Its a great song about lost love and the tormented soul. I like that album because "The Good Brothers" played backup banjo and autoharp for Gord and the Goods are from my home town of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

[leboeuf@csolve.net]

I was listening to "Old Dan's Records" recently and I really like "That Same Old Obsession". Its a great song about lost love and the tormented soul. I like that album because "The Good Brothers" played backup banjo and autoharp for Gord and the Goods are from my home town of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

[leboeuf@csolve.net]

Recently, I have been listening to "Old Dan's Records", and I really like the song "That Same Old Obsession".Its a song about lost love and the torment of separation. I also like the added depth that the "Good Brothers" provided on this album. I'm a bit prejudiced as well since they are Richmond Hill,Ontario boys like me.

[leboeuf@csolve.net]

Recently, I have been listening to "Old Dan's Records", and I really like the song "That Same Old Obsession".Its a song about lost love and the torment of separation. I also like the added depth that the "Good Brothers" provided on this album. I'm a bit prejudiced as well since they are Richmond Hill,Ontario boys like me.

[taylorch]

The best GL song is "CAnadian RAilroad TRILOGY" Chris in Milwaukee

[taylorch]

The best GL song is "CAnadian RAilroad TRILOGY" Chris in Milwaukee

[Brenda]

Purely from a musical standpoint, I think "Now And Then" would be my favorite. Everything in the song works well. Terry's acoustic fills, Pewee's steel with a chiming effect, John's basswork that keeps the song from drying up, and Jim's steady percussion.

Overall: Canadian Railroad Trilogy. I'm a railfan to begin with and in 1973 I rode Amtrak's "San Francisco Zephyr"(name has since been changed) from Reno to Oakland. In January. Over Donner Pass. I sat in the open vesitbule in the rear car on the train on a stepbox. Cold as it was Gord's description of building the Canadian transcontinental railroad rang true with me during that ride. Only instead of "Navvies" or white scandinavians building the RR we had "Coolies" and Chinese and Irish. And many are the dead men.....


------------------

[Westernstar9]

Purely from a musical standpoint, I think "Now And Then" would be my favorite. Everything in the song works well. Terry's acoustic fills, Pewee's steel with a chiming effect, John's basswork that keeps the song from drying up, and Jim's steady percussion.

Overall: Canadian Railroad Trilogy. I'm a railfan to begin with and in 1973 I rode Amtrak's "San Francisco Zephyr"(name has since been changed) from Reno to Oakland. In January. Over Donner Pass. I sat in the open vesitbule in the rear car on the train on a stepbox. Cold as it was Gord's description of building the Canadian transcontinental railroad rang true with me during that ride. Only instead of "Navvies" or white scandinavians building the RR we had "Coolies" and Chinese and Irish. And many are the dead men.....


------------------

[Brenda]

quote:Originally posted by George:
For me it's easy!! "Anything For Love" is the most beautiful song ever!!!! The song is one of the very few that makes me feel kind of "funny" inside. It makes me want to cry and smile at the same time. The music is mesmerizing, and the lyrics are incredible. I'm just kind of disappointed that I'm the only one that posted this song.

P.S. Is it just me or does this song remind anyone of Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music?

George: It's a good song, but for most hardcore Lighfoot fans it's not really a "Lightfoot" song. The song was more of an attempt to crack the top-40, but failed because: a) It is lyrically too sophisticated for the general audience and b)
the record buying audience at that time saw the name "Gordon Lightfoot" and recalled that their parents have his records. That was the kiss of death. Remember that when that record was released in 1986, Gord was 48 years old.

[Westernstar9]

quote:Originally posted by George:
For me it's easy!! "Anything For Love" is the most beautiful song ever!!!! The song is one of the very few that makes me feel kind of "funny" inside. It makes me want to cry and smile at the same time. The music is mesmerizing, and the lyrics are incredible. I'm just kind of disappointed that I'm the only one that posted this song.

P.S. Is it just me or does this song remind anyone of Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music?

George: It's a good song, but for most hardcore Lighfoot fans it's not really a "Lightfoot" song. The song was more of an attempt to crack the top-40, but failed because: a) It is lyrically too sophisticated for the general audience and b)
the record buying audience at that time saw the name "Gordon Lightfoot" and recalled that their parents have his records. That was the kiss of death. Remember that when that record was released in 1986, Gord was 48 years old.

[marvid@sniffout.com]

Favourite Lightfoot song?
"Restless" The lyric "Do ya get that restless yearning when you think about yer Dad and the scrinshaw that he had of an old schooner rovin' 'neath a sky that's ironclad". Puts me in mind of my old Dad. I was born and live in England> My Father was a Canadian (Newfoundlander)came to Britain (WW2)met my Mother and remained. Being a Nwfy, he spent his young life at sea (fishing and rum running)My Mother left us when I was 7 and Dad did all that hard work getting me unscathed to my teen years long before social security eased the burden. Something for which I will be eternally grateful. Thanks Dad, and thanks to GL for some great songs.
My wife and I will be in the US in April and I have booked tickets for both Gordon's concerts in Milwaukee. Loking forward to it.
Dave H England.

[marvid@sniffout.com]

Favourite Lightfoot song?
"Restless" The lyric "Do ya get that restless yearning when you think about yer Dad and the scrinshaw that he had of an old schooner rovin' 'neath a sky that's ironclad". Puts me in mind of my old Dad. I was born and live in England> My Father was a Canadian (Newfoundlander)came to Britain (WW2)met my Mother and remained. Being a Nwfy, he spent his young life at sea (fishing and rum running)My Mother left us when I was 7 and Dad did all that hard work getting me unscathed to my teen years long before social security eased the burden. Something for which I will be eternally grateful. Thanks Dad, and thanks to GL for some great songs.
My wife and I will be in the US in April and I have booked tickets for both Gordon's concerts in Milwaukee. Loking forward to it.
Dave H England.

[marvid@sniffout.com]

I can spell "scrimshaw" and "looking"
Honest.
Dave H.

[marvid@sniffout.com]

I can spell "scrimshaw" and "looking"
Honest.
Dave H.

[Cole Cioran]

Love and Maple Syrup has always gotten to me.

How could poetry like:

"When lonely lovers come to rest
beneath the trees they do their best
but still they can't be free."

not?

Second in line is probably "A Song For a Winter's Night," mostly because it reminds me of cold nights listening to Gordon Lightfoot.

Cole

[Cole Cioran]

Love and Maple Syrup has always gotten to me.

How could poetry like:

"When lonely lovers come to rest
beneath the trees they do their best
but still they can't be free."

not?

Second in line is probably "A Song For a Winter's Night," mostly because it reminds me of cold nights listening to Gordon Lightfoot.

Cole

[sarah bachadonna]

My favourite Gordon Lightfoot tunes are "Edmund Fitzgerald", because of it's haunting lyrics and "Steel Rail Blues" and tons of others, like "Ribbon of Darkness" and I can't remember the name of the one that was used in a National Film Board production about Canada....it was like the birth of a nation...anyone out there have a name for me?

[sarah bachadonna]

My favourite Gordon Lightfoot tunes are "Edmund Fitzgerald", because of it's haunting lyrics and "Steel Rail Blues" and tons of others, like "Ribbon of Darkness" and I can't remember the name of the one that was used in a National Film Board production about Canada....it was like the birth of a nation...anyone out there have a name for me?

[charlene]

Sarah - Canadian Railroad Trilogy is the song you are thinking of.
Char
check out the lyrics in the SONGS section of this site.

[charlene]

Sarah - Canadian Railroad Trilogy is the song you are thinking of.
Char
check out the lyrics in the SONGS section of this site.

[amie]

My favorite Gordon Lightfo0ot song has to be "The Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald". Mainly because of tyhe memories it brings back. For anyone who has never heard this song it is about the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald ( a large reighter) in Lake Superior. The first time I had ever heard this song was crossing th Drake Passage, on New Year's eve. For anyone who doesn't know the Drake Passage is the body of watr between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula and home to some of th roughest seas in the world. Needless to say this was not the best song to be singing during the crossing , but we made it through. This song now serves as a reminder not only of our crossing of the Drake Passage, but of the many sailors who didn't make back from the "Terra Australis" and those who never made it around the Horn.

[amie]

My favorite Gordon Lightfo0ot song has to be "The Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald". Mainly because of tyhe memories it brings back. For anyone who has never heard this song it is about the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald ( a large reighter) in Lake Superior. The first time I had ever heard this song was crossing th Drake Passage, on New Year's eve. For anyone who doesn't know the Drake Passage is the body of watr between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula and home to some of th roughest seas in the world. Needless to say this was not the best song to be singing during the crossing , but we made it through. This song now serves as a reminder not only of our crossing of the Drake Passage, but of the many sailors who didn't make back from the "Terra Australis" and those who never made it around the Horn.

[ACG]

There are so many incredibly great Lightfoot songs.
I was fortunate to be introduced to his music while
at UC Santa Barbara. I used to have headphones on
and study all night with Lightfoot and coffee.
I started loving IFYCRMM, Early Morning Rain, That's
what you get for loving me, I'm not sayin',
My roommates and I would get together and sing
"Did She mention my name?"...I love those songs,
but what cemented my love for his music was
"Song for a Winters Night". I heard it on Gords
Gold album, and I couldn't believe how beautiful
it is. After that, I decided to get all of his
music, and I cannot believe how great his music is.
Anyway, my all time favorite song.....I will
just have to leave a list.....

1) "Wreck"
2) The Watchmans Gone
3) Canadian Railroad Trilogy
4) Heaven Help the Devil
5) Don Quixote
6) Patriots Dream
7) IYCRMM
8) The last time I saw her face
....ah, forget it, there are tooo, tooo many.


"...and many are the dead men, too silent to be real."

"but that was so long ago, that I could scarcely feel,
the way I felt before, and it time could heal the wounds,
I would tear the threads away, that I might bleed some more...

Just incredible.

[ACG]

There are so many incredibly great Lightfoot songs.
I was fortunate to be introduced to his music while
at UC Santa Barbara. I used to have headphones on
and study all night with Lightfoot and coffee.
I started loving IFYCRMM, Early Morning Rain, That's
what you get for loving me, I'm not sayin',
My roommates and I would get together and sing
"Did She mention my name?"...I love those songs,
but what cemented my love for his music was
"Song for a Winters Night". I heard it on Gords
Gold album, and I couldn't believe how beautiful
it is. After that, I decided to get all of his
music, and I cannot believe how great his music is.
Anyway, my all time favorite song.....I will
just have to leave a list.....

1) "Wreck"
2) The Watchmans Gone
3) Canadian Railroad Trilogy
4) Heaven Help the Devil
5) Don Quixote
6) Patriots Dream
7) IYCRMM
8) The last time I saw her face
....ah, forget it, there are tooo, tooo many.


"...and many are the dead men, too silent to be real."

"but that was so long ago, that I could scarcely feel,
the way I felt before, and it time could heal the wounds,
I would tear the threads away, that I might bleed some more...

Just incredible.

[Val-Dreamer]

After 30 years of devotion to the music of GL, and 16 concerts, I have so many favorites...I will come back for more, but for now "The last time I saw her" comes to my consciousness, the lyrics are so poetic, and what imagery. "Her her eyes were bathed in starlight, and her hair hang low..."

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

[DSnodg3491@aol.com]

Favorite Song: Song for a Winter's Night

In February of 1992, I proposed marriage to my wife, Lori (then girlfriend). One of our favorite songs was "Song for a Winter's Night" and we decided we would use it in our wedding the following October. Shortly after accepting my proposal, Lori and I attended one of Gordon's concerts in Huntsville, Alabama. I was able to get a note to security requesting our song. Gord peformed the song for us that night. I could tell he was performing for us because he forgot many of the lyrics (it was not on his list to play). After 8 plus years of marriage, Song for a Winter's Night remains our song.

Thanks Gord for keeping your music meaningful and wholesome.

[DSnodg3491@aol.com]

Favorite Song: Song for a Winter's Night

In February of 1992, I proposed marriage to my wife, Lori (then girlfriend). One of our favorite songs was "Song for a Winter's Night" and we decided we would use it in our wedding the following October. Shortly after accepting my proposal, Lori and I attended one of Gordon's concerts in Huntsville, Alabama. I was able to get a note to security requesting our song. Gord peformed the song for us that night. I could tell he was performing for us because he forgot many of the lyrics (it was not on his list to play). After 8 plus years of marriage, Song for a Winter's Night remains our song.

Thanks Gord for keeping your music meaningful and wholesome.

[McDan]

Egads. I thought I was the world's greatest Lightfoot fan, but I now realize I'm just a rank amateur. Favorite song? Many I love, but I would suppose I'm the only fan to do this. I have 7 hours of my favorites on 1 hour cassettes. At the end of tape 3, side A, "Can't Depend on Love" and "It's Worth Believin'" from "Old Dan's Records". I found that I kept rewinding the tape in order to listen to those two songs over and over. They just go together so well. I finally broke down and made a tape that alternates those two songs for a solid hour. I need help....

[McDan]

Egads. I thought I was the world's greatest Lightfoot fan, but I now realize I'm just a rank amateur. Favorite song? Many I love, but I would suppose I'm the only fan to do this. I have 7 hours of my favorites on 1 hour cassettes. At the end of tape 3, side A, "Can't Depend on Love" and "It's Worth Believin'" from "Old Dan's Records". I found that I kept rewinding the tape in order to listen to those two songs over and over. They just go together so well. I finally broke down and made a tape that alternates those two songs for a solid hour. I need help....

[Val-Dreamer]

I could not agree more regarding steel rail blues. Any young man who had his heart broken by first love would know..."rid my mind of memories, and star my life again.."

quote:Originally posted by young stranger:
Wow, I just realized how long everyone has kept this topic going. Well, if anyone remembers, my absolute favorite Gord song will always be Carefree Highway. I wrote a rather heartfelt reason for that under another topic. I wanted to say that because I am going to mention another song now. I have quite a few that I absolutely love, as everyone does. These include Song For A Winter's Night, Shadows, and others. But those have been mentioned a lot. One that I haven't seen too many people mention, which surprises me, is Steel Rail Blues. I know it must be on many personal favorites lists, but most have failed to mention it. I love the pace of this song, Gord really got the tempo perfect on this one. I can't really specify too many of the reasons why I like it, mostly because I don't know that much technical info about music. All I know is that this would be one of the songs on my list if I could only have a few with me on a deserted island (uh, oh! sounds like a good subject for a topic). Anyone else feel this way about Steel Rail Blues?

[Clay]

It's interesting that most of the favorite songs are not because of the song itself but the memories people have for them. "The Wreck..." reminds me of fall days in my senior year of high school. Going to the park and hanging out with my friends. Later when my girlfriend (now wife) was in Florida and I in Pittsburgh, I'd sit listening to GL's music. "Song for a Winter's Night" took on all new meaning.

[Pgh58]

It's interesting that most of the favorite songs are not because of the song itself but the memories people have for them. "The Wreck..." reminds me of fall days in my senior year of high school. Going to the park and hanging out with my friends. Later when my girlfriend (now wife) was in Florida and I in Pittsburgh, I'd sit listening to GL's music. "Song for a Winter's Night" took on all new meaning.

[ACGTwo]

Regarding the post about Steel Rail Blues being about a young
man who had his heart broken by his first love...I think
the words that are quoted, (i.e. "rid my mind of memories,
and start my life again") is from "Sixteen Miles"...which
of course, is another one of my favorite songs....
Sometimes you just gotta get away from "toxic" relationships as
the song suggests is what is going on, but the line I love
in that song is when he talking about where he is going is
"in some hidden valley where the twirling river twines, where the
fish swim up and down, and sparking waters fall, where the thunder
rolls, and the lonely puma calls"--the contrast between
such a fanciful beautiful place with thunder/big cats, and the
big magnamimous nature versus a bad relationship is
so good...It does help that I love the outdoors, and
wide open spaces and wild animals, etc....

Man, he really just hits you...I find my self
visualizing that place...anyway...enough said.

[ACGTwo]

Regarding the post about Steel Rail Blues being about a young
man who had his heart broken by his first love...I think
the words that are quoted, (i.e. "rid my mind of memories,
and start my life again") is from "Sixteen Miles"...which
of course, is another one of my favorite songs....
Sometimes you just gotta get away from "toxic" relationships as
the song suggests is what is going on, but the line I love
in that song is when he talking about where he is going is
"in some hidden valley where the twirling river twines, where the
fish swim up and down, and sparking waters fall, where the thunder
rolls, and the lonely puma calls"--the contrast between
such a fanciful beautiful place with thunder/big cats, and the
big magnamimous nature versus a bad relationship is
so good...It does help that I love the outdoors, and
wide open spaces and wild animals, etc....

Man, he really just hits you...I find my self
visualizing that place...anyway...enough said.

[Pete W]

One of my very favorites is Old Dan's Records. I have a good friend named Dan and he is a collector of Lp's and Its also very uplifting and joyful. A wonderful way for your friends and family to remember you by.

I really like it.

[Amy]

One of my very favorites is Old Dan's Records. I have a good friend named Dan and he is a collector of Lp's and Its also very uplifting and joyful. A wonderful way for your friends and family to remember you by.

I really like it.

[Danny]

My favourite Gl song is the Circle is Small.May be an odd choice but there's just something about that song. A close second would be Circle of Steel from the Sundown LP.

[Danny]

My favourite Gl song is the Circle is Small.May be an odd choice but there's just something about that song. A close second would be Circle of Steel from the Sundown LP.

[Eddiefitz]

It's a toss up between Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald and Dream Street Rose. My father's favorite song is Wreck of E.F. I have listend to GL since I was born and my fondest memories are fishing with dad and listening to Gord. Dad has most of his albums on vinyl and as a kid I remember listening to Dream Street Rose and it has stuck as one of my alltime favorite songs.

[Clay]

It's a toss up between Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald and Dream Street Rose. My father's favorite song is Wreck of E.F. I have listend to GL since I was born and my fondest memories are fishing with dad and listening to Gord. Dad has most of his albums on vinyl and as a kid I remember listening to Dream Street Rose and it has stuck as one of my alltime favorite songs.

[Maria]

The song "If You Could Read my Mind" stole my heart. I consider Gorden Lightfoot my favorite singer songwriter. I am used to getting every album, sheet music book, picture, literally anything related to him.

I had a songbook he had autographed in Eugene, Oregon which was stolen and that bummed me out. But the important thing I have from GL is the inspiration and heart warmth he give me. I also look forward to anytime he is within a thousand miles and I can get away to see him.

Songs I like? I have trouble narrowing it down. What I don't like is a more managable data base in my brain housing group to narrow down to paper. Some of his stuff from "Endless Wire" and a couple of albums of that era had seemed too lounge oriented and had a too heavy drumbeat. "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," and "The Auctioneer" are not good versions of other people's material and I would have prefered him to publish his songs which we have not heard enough of. I question the premise of the line in "The Canadian Railroad Trilogy" which says "They built the mines, the mills, and the factories for the good of us all." More like they built them to exploit resources and people to make capital and build political punch, so I winch when I hear that.

His stuff he has written in his later years shows he has gotten better at his craft, and I look forward to many more years of him working at it. I salute him for capturing my heart and imagination and holding them so long. I wish I could give him half of what he has given me. "I may not be alone each time I see you, along a street or in a small cafe. But still I won't deny you or mistreat you, baby if you'll let me have my way..."

[FerretMike]

The song "If You Could Read my Mind" stole my heart. I consider Gorden Lightfoot my favorite singer songwriter. I am used to getting every album, sheet music book, picture, literally anything related to him.

I had a songbook he had autographed in Eugene, Oregon which was stolen and that bummed me out. But the important thing I have from GL is the inspiration and heart warmth he give me. I also look forward to anytime he is within a thousand miles and I can get away to see him.

Songs I like? I have trouble narrowing it down. What I don't like is a more managable data base in my brain housing group to narrow down to paper. Some of his stuff from "Endless Wire" and a couple of albums of that era had seemed too lounge oriented and had a too heavy drumbeat. "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," and "The Auctioneer" are not good versions of other people's material and I would have prefered him to publish his songs which we have not heard enough of. I question the premise of the line in "The Canadian Railroad Trilogy" which says "They built the mines, the mills, and the factories for the good of us all." More like they built them to exploit resources and people to make capital and build political punch, so I winch when I hear that.

His stuff he has written in his later years shows he has gotten better at his craft, and I look forward to many more years of him working at it. I salute him for capturing my heart and imagination and holding them so long. I wish I could give him half of what he has given me. "I may not be alone each time I see you, along a street or in a small cafe. But still I won't deny you or mistreat you, baby if you'll let me have my way..."

[Ted]

It's hard to single out an all time favourite but I have a couple. Steel Rail Blues is still one of my favourites. As a finger-style guitar player, I spent years learning by playing along with the records. This tune remains a favourite even though, as GL has "matured" it seems to have been dropped from his live shows. Perhaps his voice doesn't get to where it could reach 30 years ago. Another all time favourite for me is Carefree Highway. A catchy tune and descriptive lyric and I enjoy Terry Clements' licks in the breaks.

[Ted]

It's hard to single out an all time favourite but I have a couple. Steel Rail Blues is still one of my favourites. As a finger-style guitar player, I spent years learning by playing along with the records. This tune remains a favourite even though, as GL has "matured" it seems to have been dropped from his live shows. Perhaps his voice doesn't get to where it could reach 30 years ago. Another all time favourite for me is Carefree Highway. A catchy tune and descriptive lyric and I enjoy Terry Clements' licks in the breaks.

[MSR0205@aol.com]

My favorite Gordon Lightfoot song right now is "Song For A Winter's Night." It reminds me of a perfect Valentine's Day I had, and how I wish every day could be like that!
"If You Could Read My Mind" is another favorite of mine. This song actually led me to have that perfect Valentine's Day in the first place! Both songs will always hold a special place in my heart. I look forward to hearing them sung live in concert at The Keswick on May 13th.

[MSR0205@aol.com]

My favorite Gordon Lightfoot song right now is "Song For A Winter's Night." It reminds me of a perfect Valentine's Day I had, and how I wish every day could be like that!
"If You Could Read My Mind" is another favorite of mine. This song actually led me to have that perfect Valentine's Day in the first place! Both songs will always hold a special place in my heart. I look forward to hearing them sung live in concert at The Keswick on May 13th.

[lynn]

Touch choice but I would have to go with Beautiful. My wife and I had it sung by a friend of ours at our wedding (we each chose a song and I chose Beautiful). Love the lyrics and the melody.

Close second is If You Could Read My Mind. Don't like its lyrics as much as Beautiful though.

[rmrlaw]

Touch choice but I would have to go with Beautiful. My wife and I had it sung by a friend of ours at our wedding (we each chose a song and I chose Beautiful). Love the lyrics and the melody.

Close second is If You Could Read My Mind. Don't like its lyrics as much as Beautiful though.

[Lindsayanne]

my favorite dong would be a song I THINK is called " if i could read your mind love". this song means the world to me because it was my father's favorite song. i'm sixteen years old and my father died when i was a small child. the only memory i have of him is hearing his voice sing this song to me when i was sick...

[Lindsayanne]

my favorite dong would be a song I THINK is called " if i could read your mind love". this song means the world to me because it was my father's favorite song. i'm sixteen years old and my father died when i was a small child. the only memory i have of him is hearing his voice sing this song to me when i was sick...

[J. M. Miller]

My heart does not break easily, but the posting from Lindsayanne has left it shattered. How sweet and sad. Her remarks remind me to be grateful to my Heavenly Father that I still have an earthly one, though he is two thousand miles away. (In reply to this topic, I'll select a more obscure song as my favorite: ALL I'M AFTER, from Shadows. Gorgeous melody.)

[J. M. Miller]

My heart does not break easily, but the posting from Lindsayanne has left it shattered. How sweet and sad. Her remarks remind me to be grateful to my Heavenly Father that I still have an earthly one, though he is two thousand miles away. (In reply to this topic, I'll select a more obscure song as my favorite: ALL I'M AFTER, from Shadows. Gorgeous melody.)

[Daylight Katie]

My favorite Gordon song? How to choose from so many wonderful songs? I'd have to say though the choice is tough the song we are using in our wedding, Beautiful. That kinda says it all. Just plain beautiful!!

[pleyore]

My favorite Gordon song? How to choose from so many wonderful songs? I'd have to say though the choice is tough the song we are using in our wedding, Beautiful. That kinda says it all. Just plain beautiful!!

[ken laurion]

Favorite Lightfoot song? Impossible!
However it would be from 1980 or before.
I noticed no one mentioned, "Circle of Steel", which is an awesome song. "Affair on 8th Avenue" is a great love ballad. I'm trying to pick ones that haven't been mentioned. I've seen Gordon twice, in Minneapolis, and also in San Diego. I'd see him again if I get the chance. I'm 41 now and have been listening to him since I was seventeen. Oh..."The Patriots Dream" is an awesome song as well. "The Pony Man" is so vivid and attracts the child in me. One of the earliest songs that hooked me, was when I was asking about questions concerning life (and still am),is, "Wherefore and Why", which was written for an old movie that "starred" Michael Douglas called, "Hail Hero". The best that I can say, is that if Gordon had never written a note, and had written poetry only; he would be one of the greatest poets ever. What a way with words and images!!!

[DJ]

Favorite Lightfoot song? Impossible!
However it would be from 1980 or before.
I noticed no one mentioned, "Circle of Steel", which is an awesome song. "Affair on 8th Avenue" is a great love ballad. I'm trying to pick ones that haven't been mentioned. I've seen Gordon twice, in Minneapolis, and also in San Diego. I'd see him again if I get the chance. I'm 41 now and have been listening to him since I was seventeen. Oh..."The Patriots Dream" is an awesome song as well. "The Pony Man" is so vivid and attracts the child in me. One of the earliest songs that hooked me, was when I was asking about questions concerning life (and still am),is, "Wherefore and Why", which was written for an old movie that "starred" Michael Douglas called, "Hail Hero". The best that I can say, is that if Gordon had never written a note, and had written poetry only; he would be one of the greatest poets ever. What a way with words and images!!!

[Ron]

Is there such a thing as a favorite GL song? I swear that Gord has a song for our every mood and for different phases of our lives. We all love him so much because he has a song for everybody. It seems like he has always been there. I grew up listening to him and now that I'm older, I love him even more because now I can relate with what he is saying.(lost loves, new loves, the morning after blues, etc.)Currently, I'm in a groove where I can't stop listening to Gord! That's how I discovered this site. Like I said, he's always been there, but at this particular point, he is just triggering a pleasure point in my head and I can't stop listening to him. I'm like a Gordan Lightfoot junkie! I can't get over the size of this site. I now know I am not alone. Thanks.

[Daylight Katie]

Is there such a thing as a favorite GL song? I swear that Gord has a song for our every mood and for different phases of our lives. We all love him so much because he has a song for everybody. It seems like he has always been there. I grew up listening to him and now that I'm older, I love him even more because now I can relate with what he is saying.(lost loves, new loves, the morning after blues, etc.)Currently, I'm in a groove where I can't stop listening to Gord! That's how I discovered this site. Like I said, he's always been there, but at this particular point, he is just triggering a pleasure point in my head and I can't stop listening to him. I'm like a Gordan Lightfoot junkie! I can't get over the size of this site. I now know I am not alone. Thanks.

[Liam Horan]

I love IF YOU NEED ME from Dream Street Rose.
That album ranks right up there with Sundown.
Seven Island Suite, The Watchman's Gone, and Is There Anyone Home
are an amazing trio of tracks to be laid down on one album.
Nothing has compared.

[ken laurion]

I love IF YOU NEED ME from Dream Street Rose.
That album ranks right up there with Sundown.
Seven Island Suite, The Watchman's Gone, and Is There Anyone Home
are an amazing trio of tracks to be laid down on one album.
Nothing has compared.

[miran]

There are so many of his songs ingrained in my psyche, that are part of me... but the one that I floats to the top, every time I try to find a favorite, is Don Quixote. Having been a lit major, I read both Don Quixote and the bio of Miguel de Cervantes, but this song goes beyond that story. One of my best friends is a struggling musician, a man who writes and sings the most beautiful stories of his life... much like the man this site is dedicated to, I suppose. For me, this song has become the story of the performer himself, a man with something to say, a passion for shining light into the darkness.

Perhaps there's a bit of the old knight in all of us...

[miran]

There are so many of his songs ingrained in my psyche, that are part of me... but the one that I floats to the top, every time I try to find a favorite, is Don Quixote. Having been a lit major, I read both Don Quixote and the bio of Miguel de Cervantes, but this song goes beyond that story. One of my best friends is a struggling musician, a man who writes and sings the most beautiful stories of his life... much like the man this site is dedicated to, I suppose. For me, this song has become the story of the performer himself, a man with something to say, a passion for shining light into the darkness.

Perhaps there's a bit of the old knight in all of us...

[simplewood]

Somewhere USA off of Sundown. "Out on the road like a low down joe and the bar where we are is so cool I'd like to stay." My friend and I must have listened to this 1,000 times traveling cross country in 1975.

[Guido]

Somewhere USA off of Sundown. "Out on the road like a low down joe and the bar where we are is so cool I'd like to stay." My friend and I must have listened to this 1,000 times traveling cross country in 1975.

[GARYB]

Circle of Steel is my favorite. Every time
I listen it reminds me how lucky I truly am.
As he puts it so well "you place your bets on
a great big wheel". This song just hits a nerve with how fragile life is. To me the
Sundown album was his best followed by
Cold On The Shoulder. I've been a fan for
27 years ever since hearing If You Could Read
My Mind as a 7 year old.

[GARYB]

Circle of Steel is my favorite. Every time
I listen it reminds me how lucky I truly am.
As he puts it so well "you place your bets on
a great big wheel". This song just hits a nerve with how fragile life is. To me the
Sundown album was his best followed by
Cold On The Shoulder. I've been a fan for
27 years ever since hearing If You Could Read
My Mind as a 7 year old.

[Bob from Mich]

shadows

[Russ Houser]

shadows

[Janine]

It's been a long time since I visited this site until today and I had posted on this original topic before it was lost. Of course my favorite song has changed since then! "I heard you talking in your sleep" is my new favorite. The song deals with infidelity and I wonder if this is from Gordon's life or if it is just something he thought on. I do know that no matter what he is singing about, when you are sad it makes you feel like he is just as hurt as you are and you are not alone. It is the magic of Gordon Lightfoot.

[Janine]

It's been a long time since I visited this site until today and I had posted on this original topic before it was lost. Of course my favorite song has changed since then! "I heard you talking in your sleep" is my new favorite. The song deals with infidelity and I wonder if this is from Gordon's life or if it is just something he thought on. I do know that no matter what he is singing about, when you are sad it makes you feel like he is just as hurt as you are and you are not alone. It is the magic of Gordon Lightfoot.

[Azala]

Favorite Lightfoot song(s)?
It would have to be Seven Island Suite from Sundown -- I grew up on Puget Sound and I like to imagine that he is singing about the San Juan Islands.....
more in the water vein: Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, so eerie. There is a segment on a show on Discovery Channel about Shipwrecks about the Edmund Fitzgerald and they play the song as a backdrop for the bell ringing 29 times.....

[Azala]

Favorite Lightfoot song(s)?
It would have to be Seven Island Suite from Sundown -- I grew up on Puget Sound and I like to imagine that he is singing about the San Juan Islands.....
more in the water vein: Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, so eerie. There is a segment on a show on Discovery Channel about Shipwrecks about the Edmund Fitzgerald and they play the song as a backdrop for the bell ringing 29 times.....

[Azala]

Favorite Lightfoot song(s)?
It would have to be Seven Island Suite from Sundown -- I grew up on Puget Sound and I like to imagine that he is singing about the San Juan Islands.....
more in the water vein: Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, so eerie. There is a segment on a show on Discovery Channel about Shipwrecks about the Edmund Fitzgerald and they play the song as a backdrop for the bell ringing 29 times.....

[Azala]

Favorite Lightfoot song(s)?
It would have to be Seven Island Suite from Sundown -- I grew up on Puget Sound and I like to imagine that he is singing about the San Juan Islands.....
more in the water vein: Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, so eerie. There is a segment on a show on Discovery Channel about Shipwrecks about the Edmund Fitzgerald and they play the song as a backdrop for the bell ringing 29 times.....

[Nodrog Toofthgil]

Wow; there's an impossible one to answer. I'm torn between Protocol, Race amoung the Ruins, 14 Carat Gold, Shadows, and EVERY other song Gord's ever done! I'm serious, I'd have to pick 100 or so songs to be fair.

[hemlock]

Wow; there's an impossible one to answer. I'm torn between Protocol, Race amoung the Ruins, 14 Carat Gold, Shadows, and EVERY other song Gord's ever done! I'm serious, I'd have to pick 100 or so songs to be fair.

[Cathy]

"Black Day in July", has to rank right up there. The words, the music, the percussion. A song for all ages and all times. Hopefully something like that will never again happen here, in that magnitude. Sadly, we are not a peaceful world. BDIJ is a gut shot to all of us who have ever thought ill of one another. Like Smokey the Bear always said, "Only you can prevent forest fires". If only folks would listen. "The streets of Motor City are now quiet and serene. But the shapes of gutted buildings, strike terror to the heart, and you say how did it happen,and you say how did it start. Why can't we all be brothers, why can't we live in peace. But the hands of the havenots, keep falling out of reach. Black day in July."

------------------
joe beckey

[joebeckey]

"Black Day in July", has to rank right up there. The words, the music, the percussion. A song for all ages and all times. Hopefully something like that will never again happen here, in that magnitude. Sadly, we are not a peaceful world. BDIJ is a gut shot to all of us who have ever thought ill of one another. Like Smokey the Bear always said, "Only you can prevent forest fires". If only folks would listen. "The streets of Motor City are now quiet and serene. But the shapes of gutted buildings, strike terror to the heart, and you say how did it happen,and you say how did it start. Why can't we all be brothers, why can't we live in peace. But the hands of the havenots, keep falling out of reach. Black day in July."

------------------
joe beckey

[bluerose]

This is a fantastic website. It has been a long time since I've been here. My favorite Gordon Lightfoot song would be a toss-up between, "Sixteen Miles", and "Carefree Highway".
"Sixteen Miles" reminds me of the breakup of my first marriage and the emotions of that situation.
""Carefree Highway" is the song that mad me a Gordon Lightfoot fan and is a song I used to sing with an old flame who I worked with long ago.

------------------
John

[c0untryboy]

This is a fantastic website. It has been a long time since I've been here. My favorite Gordon Lightfoot song would be a toss-up between, "Sixteen Miles", and "Carefree Highway".
"Sixteen Miles" reminds me of the breakup of my first marriage and the emotions of that situation.
""Carefree Highway" is the song that mad me a Gordon Lightfoot fan and is a song I used to sing with an old flame who I worked with long ago.

------------------
John

[mhanse1]

without a doubt my favorite gordon lightfoot song, and the best one too, is The Wreck Of theEdmund Fitzgerald.

Historically accurate, it captures the mood without pandering or preying on the deceased.

[Nodrog Toofthgil]

without a doubt my favorite gordon lightfoot song, and the best one too, is The Wreck Of theEdmund Fitzgerald.

Historically accurate, it captures the mood without pandering or preying on the deceased.

[gsmdmom]

My favourite song is probably Yarmouth Castle. I recall my father having the 'Sunday Concert' album, which was one of the few records we had around the house up in McKenzie in the early 70s. When I was young, I remember laying by the record player listening to this record. My father still has it, it is such a thick piece of plastic, much more so that LPs that came out later in the decade. I still remember all the words to the song, my favourites being 'Oh Lord she groans I'm burning, let someone understand, but her silent plea is wasted in the playing of the band'. As I have aged, I have other special songs, but this initial exposure remains my favourite.

[mhanse1]

My favourite song is probably Yarmouth Castle. I recall my father having the 'Sunday Concert' album, which was one of the few records we had around the house up in McKenzie in the early 70s. When I was young, I remember laying by the record player listening to this record. My father still has it, it is such a thick piece of plastic, much more so that LPs that came out later in the decade. I still remember all the words to the song, my favourites being 'Oh Lord she groans I'm burning, let someone understand, but her silent plea is wasted in the playing of the band'. As I have aged, I have other special songs, but this initial exposure remains my favourite.

[poverly]

So hard to name one favorite GL song. Many have spoken to me over the past 35 years that I have listened to GL. While I think he is a legendary lyricist, my first exposure was of an Ewan McColl song "Changes". I fell in love with his voice and the imagery, thinking he had written the song. I began buying his albums and learned he truly was a gifted songwriter. I have enjoyed performing his songs more than any other artist I cover. Early Mornin' Rain, On Susan's Floor, Second Cup of Coffee, Walls, I'll be alright.....many obscure, but Gordon you have scripted or reflected a great deal of what I have experienced in life and relationships... I'll just keep listening and sharing Lightfoot's music.....

[gibmartin]

So hard to name one favorite GL song. Many have spoken to me over the past 35 years that I have listened to GL. While I think he is a legendary lyricist, my first exposure was of an Ewan McColl song "Changes". I fell in love with his voice and the imagery, thinking he had written the song. I began buying his albums and learned he truly was a gifted songwriter. I have enjoyed performing his songs more than any other artist I cover. Early Mornin' Rain, On Susan's Floor, Second Cup of Coffee, Walls, I'll be alright.....many obscure, but Gordon you have scripted or reflected a great deal of what I have experienced in life and relationships... I'll just keep listening and sharing Lightfoot's music.....

[Dave Horwell]

Sorry guys, us brits don't get to hear much of GL. The only song for me is "Sundown". I heard it only once and have never forgotten it. Hard to believe once only, but true.

[Dave Horwell]

Sorry guys, us brits don't get to hear much of GL. The only song for me is "Sundown". I heard it only once and have never forgotten it. Hard to believe once only, but true.

[JayK]

quote:Originally posted by gibmartin:
So hard to name one favorite GL song. Many have spoken to me over the past 35 years that I have listened to GL. While I think he is a legendary lyricist, my first exposure was of an Ewan McColl song "Changes". I fell in love with his voice and the imagery, thinking he had written the song. I began buying his albums and learned he truly was a gifted songwriter. I have enjoyed performing his songs more than any other artist I cover. Early Mornin' Rain, On Susan's Floor, Second Cup of Coffee, Walls, I'll be alright.....many obscure, but Gordon you have scripted or reflected a great deal of what I have experienced in life and relationships... I'll just keep listening and sharing Lightfoot's music.....

Hi GIBMARTIN,I like the song "Changes" also;I know other artists have recorded it,but I thought it was written by Phil Ochs.

[JayK]

quote:Originally posted by gibmartin:
So hard to name one favorite GL song. Many have spoken to me over the past 35 years that I have listened to GL. While I think he is a legendary lyricist, my first exposure was of an Ewan McColl song "Changes". I fell in love with his voice and the imagery, thinking he had written the song. I began buying his albums and learned he truly was a gifted songwriter. I have enjoyed performing his songs more than any other artist I cover. Early Mornin' Rain, On Susan's Floor, Second Cup of Coffee, Walls, I'll be alright.....many obscure, but Gordon you have scripted or reflected a great deal of what I have experienced in life and relationships... I'll just keep listening and sharing Lightfoot's music.....

Hi GIBMARTIN,I like the song "Changes" also;I know other artists have recorded it,but I thought it was written by Phil Ochs.

[Bobkatfore]

The first time I heard Lightfoot was "Sundown". I grew to hate that song because my brother bought the album and played the hell out of it; not to mention the radio. Then I sat down alone and listened to the album. I loved it. As hard as it is to pick a favorite, and it is hard. I would have to say that "The Watchman" is it; I guess because it was where I was at at the time. Restless, wanting to run. The Edmund Fitzgerald is probably the best he has written. The lyrics and the production, along with that voice, put you there. It was also the first song I learned on the guitar. Also the mosty requested.

[Bobkatfore]

The first time I heard Lightfoot was "Sundown". I grew to hate that song because my brother bought the album and played the hell out of it; not to mention the radio. Then I sat down alone and listened to the album. I loved it. As hard as it is to pick a favorite, and it is hard. I would have to say that "The Watchman" is it; I guess because it was where I was at at the time. Restless, wanting to run. The Edmund Fitzgerald is probably the best he has written. The lyrics and the production, along with that voice, put you there. It was also the first song I learned on the guitar. Also the mosty requested.

[ordinaryman]

"On Susan's Floor." I used to work in Nashville where Sue Brewer worked (Music City News), and I actually lived in the same apt. building. By then (1977) Sue had inoperable breast cancer and died in '78. but she had stories to tell!!!!!! And a sense of humor to the end! Of course, Krostofferson wrote the song, and I don't think she actually ever put GL up for the night. But I can see Sue's eyes sparkle every time I hear GL sing the song (and he does it much better than Kris!) I am proud to say I spent quite a few hours on Susan's floor myself, listening to her reminiscences of the "good old days" in Nashville!

[gsmdmom]

"On Susan's Floor." I used to work in Nashville where Sue Brewer worked (Music City News), and I actually lived in the same apt. building. By then (1977) Sue had inoperable breast cancer and died in '78. but she had stories to tell!!!!!! And a sense of humor to the end! Of course, Krostofferson wrote the song, and I don't think she actually ever put GL up for the night. But I can see Sue's eyes sparkle every time I hear GL sing the song (and he does it much better than Kris!) I am proud to say I spent quite a few hours on Susan's floor myself, listening to her reminiscences of the "good old days" in Nashville!

[BILLW]

gsmdmom,

Enjoyed your story and I also love Gord's version of "On Susan's Floor". But fyi the song was written by Shel Silverstein and Vince Matthews. Shel was also known for his children's books, among many talents.

Bill

[Glyn Luke]

Someone up above mentioned "The Ballad of the Yarmouth Castle". That's our favorite, too. What a piece of work. Sorry to confess that we're unable to pinpoint just what it is that we find so mesmerizing about that song. It just leaves you in awe, even after 25 years and thousands of listens.

------------------
Sammy and Rebecky

[featherov]

Someone up above mentioned "The Ballad of the Yarmouth Castle". That's our favorite, too. What a piece of work. Sorry to confess that we're unable to pinpoint just what it is that we find so mesmerizing about that song. It just leaves you in awe, even after 25 years and thousands of listens.

------------------
Sammy and Rebecky

[RichinVan]

Just found this website and as a longtime Lightfoot fan don't know why I didn't look for it before! Anyway been reading through a lot of replies. All very interesting. My favorite Gord song would have to be 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy'. The vivid imagery he creates gives me chills every time I hear it. This song defines Canada!

Alot of runners up: Sit Down Young Stranger,Bitter Green,Don Quixote,Song For A Winter's Night,Ode To Big Blue and my vote for his most underrated song Approaching Lavender. And that only scratches the surface. Lightfoot is truly a great and original talent.

[RichinVan]

Just found this website and as a longtime Lightfoot fan don't know why I didn't look for it before! Anyway been reading through a lot of replies. All very interesting. My favorite Gord song would have to be 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy'. The vivid imagery he creates gives me chills every time I hear it. This song defines Canada!

Alot of runners up: Sit Down Young Stranger,Bitter Green,Don Quixote,Song For A Winter's Night,Ode To Big Blue and my vote for his most underrated song Approaching Lavender. And that only scratches the surface. Lightfoot is truly a great and original talent.

[leslie Richards]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

i have so many favourite gl songs. right now, i'd have to say 'looking at the rain'. evocative, and i love the string section!

[ordinaryman]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

i have so many favourite gl songs. right now, i'd have to say 'looking at the rain'. evocative, and i love the string section!

[leslie Richards]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

i have so many favourite gl songs. right now, i'd have to say 'looking at the rain'. evocative, and i love the string section!

[ordinaryman]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

i have so many favourite gl songs. right now, i'd have to say 'looking at the rain'. evocative, and i love the string section!

[ken laurion]

favorite song? again impossible
My children love "Canary Yellow Canoe", I guess cause it is something they can identify with and it's energetic.
"Minstrel of the Dawn", is profoundly simple and melodic, and of course poetic. "Summer Side of Life", is very powerful. In any case I like Gordon's pre 1976 music better because it seems more emotionally powerful...It seems to me that there's more of an honesty and edge to it; which is to say that he's probably mellowed some through the years. In any case...when one chooses...one never loses...all is Gord's good.

[DJ]

favorite song? again impossible
My children love "Canary Yellow Canoe", I guess cause it is something they can identify with and it's energetic.
"Minstrel of the Dawn", is profoundly simple and melodic, and of course poetic. "Summer Side of Life", is very powerful. In any case I like Gordon's pre 1976 music better because it seems more emotionally powerful...It seems to me that there's more of an honesty and edge to it; which is to say that he's probably mellowed some through the years. In any case...when one chooses...one never loses...all is Gord's good.

[ken laurion]

The posting by Lindsayanne is a tough one to read. I would only suggest that you not listen to, "If You Could Read My Mind" so that you could preserve the memory of your father singing to you...then again maybe you should listen to it. I started listening to Gordon at age 17, and he helped me through many depressing years. I hope you'll find what you're looking for, or are able to express what you feel.

[DJ]

The posting by Lindsayanne is a tough one to read. I would only suggest that you not listen to, "If You Could Read My Mind" so that you could preserve the memory of your father singing to you...then again maybe you should listen to it. I started listening to Gordon at age 17, and he helped me through many depressing years. I hope you'll find what you're looking for, or are able to express what you feel.

[Peter Bellairs]

As everyone else seems to suggest - picking the best is a nightmare. Tattoo is wonderful as is The Last Time I Saw Her and You're Not Supposed To Care. For me though, It's Worth Believin' has been my favourite since it first came out (in '75?) and despite the appearance of a swag of great songs since, nothing has managed to surpass it. From APPT, Much To My Surprise is my favourite.

[Peter Bellairs]

As everyone else seems to suggest - picking the best is a nightmare. Tattoo is wonderful as is The Last Time I Saw Her and You're Not Supposed To Care. For me though, It's Worth Believin' has been my favourite since it first came out (in '75?) and despite the appearance of a swag of great songs since, nothing has managed to surpass it. From APPT, Much To My Surprise is my favourite.

[angela]

My favorite song is "If you could read my mind". I guess the reason is because I can relate to his point of view in this song. Such poingnant beauty seems to be meant for the lovers, the dreamers, and the songwriters...

[angela]

My favorite song is "If you could read my mind". I guess the reason is because I can relate to his point of view in this song. Such poingnant beauty seems to be meant for the lovers, the dreamers, and the songwriters...

[David Hays]

Once, I asked one of my older students where she had grown up. She laughed and replied, “I grew up in California in the late 60’s and thought I was Joni Mitchell.” “ I know what you mean,” I smiled as I retorted, “I went to college in the Northwest and believed I was Gordon Lightfoot.”

In the early 70s, I used to thumb the highways of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and points everywhere from there. I would wait on the on-ramps and sing any of 40 of his tunes I had memorized. One of my favorites was off Old Dan's Records, "Highway Songs", - 'Bottles, beads & cigarettes, lovers that I ain't had yet, pickin' with a friend till dawn, singing all those highway songs.' and 'I would travel all my life, if lonliness were not the price...' One of many great tunes.
David Hays
Boulder, CO

[David Hays]

Once, I asked one of my older students where she had grown up. She laughed and replied, “I grew up in California in the late 60’s and thought I was Joni Mitchell.” “ I know what you mean,” I smiled as I retorted, “I went to college in the Northwest and believed I was Gordon Lightfoot.”

In the early 70s, I used to thumb the highways of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and points everywhere from there. I would wait on the on-ramps and sing any of 40 of his tunes I had memorized. One of my favorites was off Old Dan's Records, "Highway Songs", - 'Bottles, beads & cigarettes, lovers that I ain't had yet, pickin' with a friend till dawn, singing all those highway songs.' and 'I would travel all my life, if lonliness were not the price...' One of many great tunes.
David Hays
Boulder, CO

[MEO]

"The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald," no question. I can't begin to describe how the haunting tune moves me. I had only turned 14 and wasn't even aware that this happened. When the song came out it meant a lot to me as a musical piece, but when I found out it was true and the Fitzgerald sank on my birthday, it really embedded itself in my spirit. So this song is very much in my heart. Thank you, Gordon Lightfoot, for this beautiful tribute. The death the men on the Fitzgerald faced was every bit as real to them as those on the Titanic, yet they may not have been remembered so exquisitely without your song. To this day I listen to it as passionately as when it first came out, and even more so because of personal memories it brings back. I wish James Cameron or Steven Speilberg would make a movie about the Edmund Fitzgerald and let this song grace the soundtrack.

[enright455]

"The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald," no question. I can't begin to describe how the haunting tune moves me. I had only turned 14 and wasn't even aware that this happened. When the song came out it meant a lot to me as a musical piece, but when I found out it was true and the Fitzgerald sank on my birthday, it really embedded itself in my spirit. So this song is very much in my heart. Thank you, Gordon Lightfoot, for this beautiful tribute. The death the men on the Fitzgerald faced was every bit as real to them as those on the Titanic, yet they may not have been remembered so exquisitely without your song. To this day I listen to it as passionately as when it first came out, and even more so because of personal memories it brings back. I wish James Cameron or Steven Speilberg would make a movie about the Edmund Fitzgerald and let this song grace the soundtrack.

[ada]

Favorite G.L. song? That would have to be "Now and Then". I'm not sure what it is about that song that makes me stop everything I'm doing when ever it is playing. Lyrically it is a very strong song and musically, when you hear the bass being played with a "heartbeat" like beat is very effective when GL sings the line "and still the pounding of my heart hasn't changed, leavins so strange". This is a very under rated song of his and was very glad to see it added to the boxset.

[Payallin]

Favorite G.L. song? That would have to be "Now and Then". I'm not sure what it is about that song that makes me stop everything I'm doing when ever it is playing. Lyrically it is a very strong song and musically, when you hear the bass being played with a "heartbeat" like beat is very effective when GL sings the line "and still the pounding of my heart hasn't changed, leavins so strange". This is a very under rated song of his and was very glad to see it added to the boxset.

[Selene]

How does one choose a favorite Lightfoot song? Recently my favorite has been 'Minstrel of the Dawn', for reasons best known to myself. My favorite line is 'Look into his shining eyes, and if you see a ghost, don't be surprised'. In a way this is true of Lightfoot himself, and true of all of us. We are the sum of our experiences, we all carry ghosts within us. But some of us keep them well hidden, and others allow those ghosts to be seen. When I hear this song, and I have heard it done not only by Lightfoot, I can almost see The Minstrel arriving, being welcomed. He warms himself at the fireside, tunes his guitar and asks for a glass of wine in payment for the stories he is about to tell, stories set to music, stories about his life and the life of the people listening...

[Tregerwolf]

I'm new to the list, but after having read everyone's list of favorite songs, I have to admit they're all good and yes, it's difficult to choose just one of GL's songs and say, "this is my favorite GL song". However I'd like to mention one that I've not seen mentioned by anybody else yet...a song that has certainly stuck with me every since I first heard it. It's "Daylight Katy" from the Endless Wire album. Much has been said over the years about GL's artistry in writing great songs --- georgeous melodies and lyrics that literally define our lives. Truly, it's all well deserved.
Go Gord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Darrell]

I'm new to the list, but after having read everyone's list of favorite songs, I have to admit they're all good and yes, it's difficult to choose just one of GL's songs and say, "this is my favorite GL song". However I'd like to mention one that I've not seen mentioned by anybody else yet...a song that has certainly stuck with me every since I first heard it. It's "Daylight Katy" from the Endless Wire album. Much has been said over the years about GL's artistry in writing great songs --- georgeous melodies and lyrics that literally define our lives. Truly, it's all well deserved.
Go Gord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[wild rose]

I would have to say it would be "Canadian Railroad Trilogy." My ancestors traveled to the Western US on the railroad, so that song reminds me of those times.

[mrpoetryman]

I would have to say it would be "Canadian Railroad Trilogy." My ancestors traveled to the Western US on the railroad, so that song reminds me of those times.

[Suzi]

The Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald is my favorite. This song is so moving; every time I hear it, I get goosebumps, and have a difficult time keeping my composure; anyone else get like that? Like earlybird, I grew up w/the song always playing, but not until that PBS special did I realize the actual events...I was 8 when the Fitzgerald went down.

[Wendy]

The Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald is my favorite. This song is so moving; every time I hear it, I get goosebumps, and have a difficult time keeping my composure; anyone else get like that? Like earlybird, I grew up w/the song always playing, but not until that PBS special did I realize the actual events...I was 8 when the Fitzgerald went down.

[mike h]

"The house you live in". Should be required listening for anyone contemplating adulthood!

[mike h]

"The house you live in". Should be required listening for anyone contemplating adulthood!

[dave1701]

I would have to say my all-time favorite Gordon song is "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". This song is truly one of the most stirring songs of his career. Everytime I hear the song, I get shivers imagining the events the crew went through. I have been a fan since the early 70's and continue to be. The Wreck was the first song I was introduced to and it continues to be my favorite.

[dave1701]

I would have to say my all-time favorite Gordon song is "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". This song is truly one of the most stirring songs of his career. Everytime I hear the song, I get shivers imagining the events the crew went through. I have been a fan since the early 70's and continue to be. The Wreck was the first song I was introduced to and it continues to be my favorite.

[SilverHeels]

It is impossible for me to choose just one
song - well, aside from CHRISTIAN ISLAND
which manages to fill me with a warm glow
as I 'drift' along with the lyrics. But
I also have a favourite song of the day ...
Lately I've o-ded on Too Much to Lose and
Heaven Dont Deserve me. Both stunning
examples of Lightfoot at his best.
Today its been 'I'll Tag Along' - and I
visualise Gord singing it at the Massey
while sitting on a stool, just him, no
backup. One day I hope he will sing it for
us just that way. Maybe next year.
Yesterday it was 'I'm Not Supposed to Care',
which always brings on the tears. I find it
particularly emotionally charged.

Does anyone else play 'song of the day' game?

[jct]

My all time favorite has always been If You Could Read My Mind -- it just gets me every time I hear it. I don't exactly have a different favorite every DAY, but I do tend to get stuck on a different one every few weeks. Seven Island Suite and Watchman are two big ones with me. And I'm Not Supposed To Care, All I'm After, Same Old Obsession...this is impossible!

[Brenda]

My all time favorite has always been If You Could Read My Mind -- it just gets me every time I hear it. I don't exactly have a different favorite every DAY, but I do tend to get stuck on a different one every few weeks. Seven Island Suite and Watchman are two big ones with me. And I'm Not Supposed To Care, All I'm After, Same Old Obsession...this is impossible!

[joveski]

at the moment, the favourites are If I could, Poor little allison, borderstone, much to my surprise and red velvet, but they'll change next week :)

[CRTRAIN]

My fave GL song? Well, like most fans, I have a favorite for just about every day of the week, but my all-time favorite will always be "Early Morning Rain". It will always remind me of my Army days when one didn't stay in one place for very long, and a good portion of my time was spent in airports to and from duty stations and on leave. "Early Morning Rain" is my ultimate "So long" song, and whenever I am leaving somewhere for a long time or making a major life change, EMR is my major theme. I remember seeing a movie from Hong Kong about a love triangle called "Dream of Desire", and at the end of the movie, as we see the main character's 747 take off to take him to a new life, a pop song with acoustic guitars plays, and it sounds like something GL would play. I always fantasized about being the producer of that movie, and when they would give me a choice of songs to use for the closing scenes, I would, without hesitation, insist on EMR. My wife is from Korea, and whenever we fly there, I always have EMR playing in my walkman during takeoff. The sound of it, particularly the steel guitars and bass during the musical breaks(I'm a bass-player myself!)always evoke images of saying farewell to those that you leave behind, and how that feeling of promise and a whole new world opening up for you are feelings that just can't be beat! Whenever I travel, be it by car or plane, Gord's Gold goes with me (even on my honeymoon!), and EMR will always play.

[CRTRAIN]

My fave GL song? Well, like most fans, I have a favorite for just about every day of the week, but my all-time favorite will always be "Early Morning Rain". It will always remind me of my Army days when one didn't stay in one place for very long, and a good portion of my time was spent in airports to and from duty stations and on leave. "Early Morning Rain" is my ultimate "So long" song, and whenever I am leaving somewhere for a long time or making a major life change, EMR is my major theme. I remember seeing a movie from Hong Kong about a love triangle called "Dream of Desire", and at the end of the movie, as we see the main character's 747 take off to take him to a new life, a pop song with acoustic guitars plays, and it sounds like something GL would play. I always fantasized about being the producer of that movie, and when they would give me a choice of songs to use for the closing scenes, I would, without hesitation, insist on EMR. My wife is from Korea, and whenever we fly there, I always have EMR playing in my walkman during takeoff. The sound of it, particularly the steel guitars and bass during the musical breaks(I'm a bass-player myself!)always evoke images of saying farewell to those that you leave behind, and how that feeling of promise and a whole new world opening up for you are feelings that just can't be beat! Whenever I travel, be it by car or plane, Gord's Gold goes with me (even on my honeymoon!), and EMR will always play.

[victor]

like mr. lightfoot i am someone acquainted with the drinking of alcohol and with it's effects.

therefore, "BLACKBERRY WINE" is what i offer as my fave song.

[victor]

like mr. lightfoot i am someone acquainted with the drinking of alcohol and with it's effects.

therefore, "BLACKBERRY WINE" is what i offer as my fave song.

[Susan]

I'm not sure if this is my favorite song, but it is the one that has haunted me all my life. After a long relationship that I ended hastily, I received a card with the lyrics to Beautiful in it from the one I loved. I couldn't breathe as I read those beautiful words but I allowed myself to be convinced that they were insincere and did nothing by way of response. It's been twenty five years since I first read those lyrics and I have a wonderful life, but I still wonder, sometimes, how my life would have been different had I responded to that card.

[Susan]

I'm not sure if this is my favorite song, but it is the one that has haunted me all my life. After a long relationship that I ended hastily, I received a card with the lyrics to Beautiful in it from the one I loved. I couldn't breathe as I read those beautiful words but I allowed myself to be convinced that they were insincere and did nothing by way of response. It's been twenty five years since I first read those lyrics and I have a wonderful life, but I still wonder, sometimes, how my life would have been different had I responded to that card.

[LSG]

Salute is one of my favorites. There was much discussion over which definition was meant by the word. (As a matter of fact, Gord, his sister Bev and I had a long "discussion" over the many different connotations of the word, "Salute".) Anyway, I must have listened to it all night on his boom box (prior to the release of the album). Too bad this album is no longer in print. It's a really good one.

Gord is very good with the topical songs, such as Don Quixote, Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, etc. Those are among his favorites. Did you know that "Heaven Help the Devil" was written about the Ayatollah and the American hostages that were taken in Iran in 1979? It could also be applied to the situation today with Bin Laden.

Don't, however, make the mistake that GL is as blatantly romantic as the songs he writes. He can actually be quite practical and business-like about his music. After all, remember, music is a business and those who are successful are also good businessmen. If they weren't, you would never get to hear the fruits of their labor. Also, don't ask him about the true meaning behind the song, "Sundown". He won't tell you (and neither will I).

[LSG]

Salute is one of my favorites. There was much discussion over which definition was meant by the word. (As a matter of fact, Gord, his sister Bev and I had a long "discussion" over the many different connotations of the word, "Salute".) Anyway, I must have listened to it all night on his boom box (prior to the release of the album). Too bad this album is no longer in print. It's a really good one.

Gord is very good with the topical songs, such as Don Quixote, Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, etc. Those are among his favorites. Did you know that "Heaven Help the Devil" was written about the Ayatollah and the American hostages that were taken in Iran in 1979? It could also be applied to the situation today with Bin Laden.

Don't, however, make the mistake that GL is as blatantly romantic as the songs he writes. He can actually be quite practical and business-like about his music. After all, remember, music is a business and those who are successful are also good businessmen. If they weren't, you would never get to hear the fruits of their labor. Also, don't ask him about the true meaning behind the song, "Sundown". He won't tell you (and neither will I).

[MrBret]

My favorite song would have to be 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy'.

I had heard of Gordon Lightfoot in the 1960s as a singer from Canada but had never heard any of his music until I watched the Johnny Cash TV show in 1969. Cash had a weekly segment called 'Ride This Train' where he sang songs about trains and sometimes introduced guests who sang the same types of songs. He introduced Gordon Lightfoot as a singer from Canada that would sing his song 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy'.

Lighfoot performed the song sitting in front of a large 3D type of movie screen that wrapped around the stage behind him. The movie screen displayed a film of workers building a railroad thru a wilderness. It was stunning. You could actually see the workers 'swinging their hammers' just like in the song.

I will always remember being mesmerized by this great song and the film shown in the background. If anyone can get a copy of the tape of this show, it would be priceless to any Lightfoot fan.

The song itself is a lyrical, melodic, and harmonic masterpiece that provokes much visualization.

Incidentally, the song was written for Canada's 1967 Centennial as a nation.

[MrBret]

My favorite song would have to be 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy'.

I had heard of Gordon Lightfoot in the 1960s as a singer from Canada but had never heard any of his music until I watched the Johnny Cash TV show in 1969. Cash had a weekly segment called 'Ride This Train' where he sang songs about trains and sometimes introduced guests who sang the same types of songs. He introduced Gordon Lightfoot as a singer from Canada that would sing his song 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy'.

Lighfoot performed the song sitting in front of a large 3D type of movie screen that wrapped around the stage behind him. The movie screen displayed a film of workers building a railroad thru a wilderness. It was stunning. You could actually see the workers 'swinging their hammers' just like in the song.

I will always remember being mesmerized by this great song and the film shown in the background. If anyone can get a copy of the tape of this show, it would be priceless to any Lightfoot fan.

The song itself is a lyrical, melodic, and harmonic masterpiece that provokes much visualization.

Incidentally, the song was written for Canada's 1967 Centennial as a nation.

[Devlin]

Just wanted to know if you'd like to jam on some Gordon Lightfoot music, you sound like a fine musician, and I'm looking for someone to collaborate with,-Vincent quote:Originally posted by Kenton:
Gordon Lightfoot has so many good tunes that I could never pick one but among my guitar playing friends Steel Rail Blues is pretty much on everybodys list. I mean the original version not the one on Gord's Gold. A lot of players like Alberta Bound also.I've always enjoyed Redwood Hill, Brave Mountaineers and 10 Degrees and Gettin Colder to play on guitar. I was very ill one winter and confined to bed for 10 days the only thing I could do was listen to a radio. I was 14 years old at the time . A local station played If You Could Read My Mind a couple of times a day and that was a time I looked forward to and I forgot about my pain for those few minutes when that song played. That was my inroduction to Gordon Lightfoot.Christian Island is another one of those songs that takes me away to another place and paints pictures in my mind so srongly that I feel transported to the place Gord is singing about and I'm onboard ship with him sailing down the western wind and liking the mood I'm in. Brave Mountaineers makes me feel like a young boy again and the scenes Gordon describes are very much like my own childhood. The run of great albulms from Summer Side Of Life,Don Q.,Old Dan's,and Sundown is so strong that few other singer-songwriters come close except fellow Canadiens Neil Young and Joni Mitchell and the great body of work Elton John put together in the 70's and Bob Dylans run in the 60's. Gordon Lightfoot is truly one of the greatest as singer,songwriter,performer and what a natural God given voice! I saw many concerts in the 70's at the Syria Mosque in Pittsburgh, Pa. but my favorite was 75 or 76 I can't remember for sure. I think it was the tour to promote Cold On The Shoulder and I witnessed something at Gord's show that I had never seen before. During any show the police or security guards would look bored out of their minds or dead serious about being the authority figures in charge. At that show I actually saw them listen and respond to Gordon Lightfoot like he was their grandson stopping by to sing a few tunes. They were just mesmerized by his performance as we all were. I remember telling my friends that it felt like we were all in this big living room and Gordon was giving a private concert to some old friends. I guess that's what it was. I remember a fan had done an oil painting on a huge canvass and presented to Gordon during the show. Also,Gordon brought his daughter out to sit on the piano bench with him while he sang Fine As Fine Can Be to her. It seemed like she was about 10 years old at the time but my memory might be off there. What I do remember is it was my favorite Syria Mosque show. They tore down the Mosque some years ago but they're not getting that show from me, I'm gonna carry that one with me till I'm tore down. It's the Same Old Loverman signing off for now. I could go on and on about the man and his music but so could you so I'll Go My Way.

[Vincent57]

Just wanted to know if you'd like to jam on some Gordon Lightfoot music, you sound like a fine musician, and I'm looking for someone to collaborate with,-Vincent quote:Originally posted by Kenton:
Gordon Lightfoot has so many good tunes that I could never pick one but among my guitar playing friends Steel Rail Blues is pretty much on everybodys list. I mean the original version not the one on Gord's Gold. A lot of players like Alberta Bound also.I've always enjoyed Redwood Hill, Brave Mountaineers and 10 Degrees and Gettin Colder to play on guitar. I was very ill one winter and confined to bed for 10 days the only thing I could do was listen to a radio. I was 14 years old at the time . A local station played If You Could Read My Mind a couple of times a day and that was a time I looked forward to and I forgot about my pain for those few minutes when that song played. That was my inroduction to Gordon Lightfoot.Christian Island is another one of those songs that takes me away to another place and paints pictures in my mind so srongly that I feel transported to the place Gord is singing about and I'm onboard ship with him sailing down the western wind and liking the mood I'm in. Brave Mountaineers makes me feel like a young boy again and the scenes Gordon describes are very much like my own childhood. The run of great albulms from Summer Side Of Life,Don Q.,Old Dan's,and Sundown is so strong that few other singer-songwriters come close except fellow Canadiens Neil Young and Joni Mitchell and the great body of work Elton John put together in the 70's and Bob Dylans run in the 60's. Gordon Lightfoot is truly one of the greatest as singer,songwriter,performer and what a natural God given voice! I saw many concerts in the 70's at the Syria Mosque in Pittsburgh, Pa. but my favorite was 75 or 76 I can't remember for sure. I think it was the tour to promote Cold On The Shoulder and I witnessed something at Gord's show that I had never seen before. During any show the police or security guards would look bored out of their minds or dead serious about being the authority figures in charge. At that show I actually saw them listen and respond to Gordon Lightfoot like he was their grandson stopping by to sing a few tunes. They were just mesmerized by his performance as we all were. I remember telling my friends that it felt like we were all in this big living room and Gordon was giving a private concert to some old friends. I guess that's what it was. I remember a fan had done an oil painting on a huge canvass and presented to Gordon during the show. Also,Gordon brought his daughter out to sit on the piano bench with him while he sang Fine As Fine Can Be to her. It seemed like she was about 10 years old at the time but my memory might be off there. What I do remember is it was my favorite Syria Mosque show. They tore down the Mosque some years ago but they're not getting that show from me, I'm gonna carry that one with me till I'm tore down. It's the Same Old Loverman signing off for now. I could go on and on about the man and his music but so could you so I'll Go My Way.

[Jilly]

My favorite song is "If you could read my mind..." It was playing thru my life all the while I fell out of love with my first husband....in 1974 and got divorced.
I still love the song
Jillyx

[Jilly]

My favorite song is "If you could read my mind..." It was playing thru my life all the while I fell out of love with my first husband....in 1974 and got divorced.
I still love the song
Jillyx

[michela]

I like this site. I just moved from Florida to Minnesota and one of my inspirations to move here was "Song for a Winter"s Night". My wife and I are building a cabin, on the shores of Gitche Gumme, and the first song played will be just that. I know anyone on this website are big fans of Mr. Lightfoot, but I'm not sure how much some of you realize how huge this songwriter is. As humble as our hero is, there are many of his contemporaries who consider him the best songwriter of all time. How many songs were written by Misters Lennon and McCartney, in fact, how many by Mister Bob Zimmerman? OBviously a bunch but, I believe Gord has written at least as many and as us true believers KNOW.Who has done this with the heart, the passion,the honest courage, and truly the voice that came from you and me. I hope you all understand how lucky we are and I would hope you will frequent his tour dates. I hope to see Mr. Lightfoot up here in the frozen North soon. from a hero who often fails... Capt. Bob

[mellow d]

my fav.lightfoot songs are sit down young stranger and endless wire.the first one because it reminds me of when i met a girlfriends father for the first timeand endless wire because it is the title track from the best album ever,pride of my collection.greetings from ireland.

[mellow d]

my fav.lightfoot songs are sit down young stranger and endless wire.the first one because it reminds me of when i met a girlfriends father for the first timeand endless wire because it is the title track from the best album ever,pride of my collection.greetings from ireland.

[mellow d]

my fav.lightfoot songs are sit down young stranger and endless wire.the first one because it reminds me of when i met a girlfriends father for the first timeand endless wire because it is the title track from the best album ever,pride of my collection.greetings from ireland.

[mellow d]

my fav.lightfoot songs are sit down young stranger and endless wire.the first one because it reminds me of when i met a girlfriends father for the first timeand endless wire because it is the title track from the best album ever,pride of my collection.greetings from ireland.

[mellow d]

i have come across a review?? of above album by james chrispell on this site.i have the album 23 years,in a collection which includes dylan,zevon,van morrison,ry cooder,tom waits,john prine and hundreds ofothers before and after.i feel sorry that mr. chrispell should consider a slight change in direction to be a large change in quality.

[mellow d]

i have come across a review?? of above album by james chrispell on this site.i have the album 23 years,in a collection which includes dylan,zevon,van morrison,ry cooder,tom waits,john prine and hundreds ofothers before and after.i feel sorry that mr. chrispell should consider a slight change in direction to be a large change in quality.

[Brian Witt]

"If You Could Read My Mind" and "Carefree Highway". I really enjoy hearing both and think the lyrics are perfect.

These are also on the top of my list when I get the opportunity to do a little karaoke. The women love "Read My Mind" and the men seem to relate to "Carefree".

[Brian Witt]

"If You Could Read My Mind" and "Carefree Highway". I really enjoy hearing both and think the lyrics are perfect.

These are also on the top of my list when I get the opportunity to do a little karaoke. The women love "Read My Mind" and the men seem to relate to "Carefree".

[Vincent57]

Capt Bob, I envy your move to Lake Superior. In Sept, my husband and I were to celebrate our wedding anniversary in Florida. Given all the uncertainty at that time we opted to drive, instead, to the north shore where we had spent our honeymoon 25 years before. We stayed in a place tucked right into the rocky shore and listened to the waves crash & Gordon sing. (I travel nowhere without my Gordon cds!) When we left for home there was a billboard along the highway that said something about heading back to the rat race. Gordon was singing Seven Island Suite, a song that suddenly hit home. Sure felt like staying! quote:Originally posted by Capt Bob:
I like this site. I just moved from Florida to Minnesota and one of my inspirations to move here was "Song for a Winter"s Night". My wife and I are building a cabin, on the shores of Gitche Gumme, and the first song played will be just that. I know anyone on this website are big fans of Mr. Lightfoot, but I'm not sure how much some of you realize how huge this songwriter is. As humble as our hero is, there are many of his contemporaries who consider him the best songwriter of all time. How many songs were written by Misters Lennon and McCartney, in fact, how many by Mister Bob Zimmerman? OBviously a bunch but, I believe Gord has written at least as many and as us true believers KNOW.Who has done this with the heart, the passion,the honest courage, and truly the voice that came from you and me. I hope you all understand how lucky we are and I would hope you will frequent his tour dates. I hope to see Mr. Lightfoot up here in the frozen North soon. from a hero who often fails... Capt. Bob

[wild rose]

Capt Bob, I envy your move to Lake Superior. In Sept, my husband and I were to celebrate our wedding anniversary in Florida. Given all the uncertainty at that time we opted to drive, instead, to the north shore where we had spent our honeymoon 25 years before. We stayed in a place tucked right into the rocky shore and listened to the waves crash & Gordon sing. (I travel nowhere without my Gordon cds!) When we left for home there was a billboard along the highway that said something about heading back to the rat race. Gordon was singing Seven Island Suite, a song that suddenly hit home. Sure felt like staying! quote:Originally posted by Capt Bob:
I like this site. I just moved from Florida to Minnesota and one of my inspirations to move here was "Song for a Winter"s Night". My wife and I are building a cabin, on the shores of Gitche Gumme, and the first song played will be just that. I know anyone on this website are big fans of Mr. Lightfoot, but I'm not sure how much some of you realize how huge this songwriter is. As humble as our hero is, there are many of his contemporaries who consider him the best songwriter of all time. How many songs were written by Misters Lennon and McCartney, in fact, how many by Mister Bob Zimmerman? OBviously a bunch but, I believe Gord has written at least as many and as us true believers KNOW.Who has done this with the heart, the passion,the honest courage, and truly the voice that came from you and me. I hope you all understand how lucky we are and I would hope you will frequent his tour dates. I hope to see Mr. Lightfoot up here in the frozen North soon. from a hero who often fails... Capt. Bob

[Butchp51]

My favorite is The Canadian Railroad Trilogy. It is an awesome/powerfuly historical song, that I can one can listen to over and over...

[Butchp51]

My favorite is The Canadian Railroad Trilogy. It is an awesome/powerfuly historical song, that I can one can listen to over and over...

[Mist O' The Morn']

Favorite song? That is really tuff. There are so many, over so many years, over so many stages of life. There are too many that transcend life’s stages and endure forever, and too many that can be looked at from so many vantage points. This is really tuff. As someone who has performed most of his catalog since 1969, going back to material that dates to “64, I can think of many songs that have personally evolved as they were learned, that emotionally resonate within, that strike a chord or two in the heart, which somehow emerge from the voice and guitar with the utmost feeling.
Conversely, as a listener, I can think of songs that cause any number of reactions and stir so many feelings. This is really tuff. I started listing songs as both a listener and a performer, and I had to stop at Cold On My Shoulder because I had already identified 36 favorite songs.

In retrospect, what is interesting is that most albums carry a heavy weight of classic, or memorable, material: Lightfoot, The Way I Feel, Back Home On Earth, Sit Down Young Stranger, Summer Side of Life, Don Quixote, Sundown, Cold On My Shoulder, Don Quixote, Old Dan’s Records (particularly), Summertime Dream, even Endless Wire and Dream Street Rose contained some great material. Now, to continue, there was Shadows, an underrated yet real classic, East of Midnight, Waiting for You, and Salute (very much welcomed). I stop here, for no other reason than I am not quite certain of the personal impact of A Painter Passes Through.

[walls]

Favorite song? That is really tuff. There are so many, over so many years, over so many stages of life. There are too many that transcend life’s stages and endure forever, and too many that can be looked at from so many vantage points. This is really tuff. As someone who has performed most of his catalog since 1969, going back to material that dates to “64, I can think of many songs that have personally evolved as they were learned, that emotionally resonate within, that strike a chord or two in the heart, which somehow emerge from the voice and guitar with the utmost feeling.
Conversely, as a listener, I can think of songs that cause any number of reactions and stir so many feelings. This is really tuff. I started listing songs as both a listener and a performer, and I had to stop at Cold On My Shoulder because I had already identified 36 favorite songs.

In retrospect, what is interesting is that most albums carry a heavy weight of classic, or memorable, material: Lightfoot, The Way I Feel, Back Home On Earth, Sit Down Young Stranger, Summer Side of Life, Don Quixote, Sundown, Cold On My Shoulder, Don Quixote, Old Dan’s Records (particularly), Summertime Dream, even Endless Wire and Dream Street Rose contained some great material. Now, to continue, there was Shadows, an underrated yet real classic, East of Midnight, Waiting for You, and Salute (very much welcomed). I stop here, for no other reason than I am not quite certain of the personal impact of A Painter Passes Through.

[kjones96]

Don Quixote is my favorite so far. It's themes are timeless and poignant and many are so easily reflected in our society. the battle goes on...KJ

[kjones96]

Don Quixote is my favorite so far. It's themes are timeless and poignant and many are so easily reflected in our society. the battle goes on...KJ

[armymanjim]

quote:Originally posted by Steve R:
My favorite Gordon Lightfoot song was one that wasn't written by him. But no one has covered "Me & Bobby McGee" better than Gordon Lightfoot did. Not even Janis Joplin's cover surpasses Lightfoot's rendition of Kris Kristoffserson's country classic. Check it out on the "Sit Down Young Stranger" album. I also Don Quixote--one of the first songs I learned to play on the guitar. Great song!

That is truly a great song. It also has Ry Cooder on slide. Lightfoot and Cooder; wow. They teamed up on "Alberta Bound" too, with Cooder on mandolin.
Perhaps this is a new topic, but my favourite cover is "Changes," by Phil Ochs I think.

[armymanjim]

quote:Originally posted by Steve R:
My favorite Gordon Lightfoot song was one that wasn't written by him. But no one has covered "Me & Bobby McGee" better than Gordon Lightfoot did. Not even Janis Joplin's cover surpasses Lightfoot's rendition of Kris Kristoffserson's country classic. Check it out on the "Sit Down Young Stranger" album. I also Don Quixote--one of the first songs I learned to play on the guitar. Great song!

That is truly a great song. It also has Ry Cooder on slide. Lightfoot and Cooder; wow. They teamed up on "Alberta Bound" too, with Cooder on mandolin.
Perhaps this is a new topic, but my favourite cover is "Changes," by Phil Ochs I think.

[eddieedwards]

My favourite Lightfoot song has always been The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald but after my divorce it went missing. If anyone knows where I can get a copy , I would die a happy man.

Whatever happened to him?

[eddieedwards]

My favourite Lightfoot song has always been The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald but after my divorce it went missing. If anyone knows where I can get a copy , I would die a happy man.

Whatever happened to him?

[char]

If you clcik on HOME at the top of the page and check out the different sections of this website you will see what Lightfoot has been up to. www.gordonlightfoot.com (http://www.gordonlightfoot.com) has tons of info as well as his 2002 tour schedule.

Char

[Mist O' The Morn']

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

I've been avoiding this one, however, since it's the New Year, here are a few (rather few) of what can be considered favorites:
A Lesson In Love Affair on 8th Avenue
Can't Depend on Love Christian Island
Dreamland Home From the Forest
If Children Had Wings I'm Not Suppose to Care
It's Worth Believin' Lazy Morning
Mother of A Miner's Child Never Too Close
Ode to Big Blue Ordinary Man
Patriot's Dream Saturday Clothes
Sit Down Young Stranger Softly
Tattoo That Same Old Obsession
Too Late for Prayin' You Are What I Am
Your Love's Return Watchman's Gone

Just a Few, but there are more.

[walls]

quote:Originally posted by Florian:
What is your favorite Lightfoot Song & Why?

(topic originated by Wes Steele)


[This message has been edited by Florian (edited February 26, 2000).]

I've been avoiding this one, however, since it's the New Year, here are a few (rather few) of what can be considered favorites:
A Lesson In Love Affair on 8th Avenue
Can't Depend on Love Christian Island
Dreamland Home From the Forest
If Children Had Wings I'm Not Suppose to Care
It's Worth Believin' Lazy Morning
Mother of A Miner's Child Never Too Close
Ode to Big Blue Ordinary Man
Patriot's Dream Saturday Clothes
Sit Down Young Stranger Softly
Tattoo That Same Old Obsession
Too Late for Prayin' You Are What I Am
Your Love's Return Watchman's Gone

Just a Few, but there are more.

[Carolyn]

I enjoyed reading at least 2 pages of this topic. Just bought the 4-disc set from Amazon and it did bring back a lot of memories from the '70s and also of seeing him live at the SF Opera House (I think it was). Favorite song is Seven Island Suite because it is complex and long, and also mysterious as far as the lyrics in parts. Also feel strongly about Carefree Highway because it captured so well the feeling of running away, and the music fit the words so well. The first one I ever heard was If You Could Read My Mind and I was blown away by the story it told - the vulnerability from a man. I would like to see him in Houston if he's still touring...

[Carolyn]

I enjoyed reading at least 2 pages of this topic. Just bought the 4-disc set from Amazon and it did bring back a lot of memories from the '70s and also of seeing him live at the SF Opera House (I think it was). Favorite song is Seven Island Suite because it is complex and long, and also mysterious as far as the lyrics in parts. Also feel strongly about Carefree Highway because it captured so well the feeling of running away, and the music fit the words so well. The first one I ever heard was If You Could Read My Mind and I was blown away by the story it told - the vulnerability from a man. I would like to see him in Houston if he's still touring...

[char]

www.gordonlightfoot.com (http://www.gordonlightfoot.com) has 2002 tour schedules and lots of info.

[BRY]

I also like "Seven Island Suite". The time signature and chord structure combined with the keyboard background create a surreal effect. The lyrics and music paint an incredible picture in my mind. Are there any discussions about this lyric and it's meaning online? I have my own opinion about what this song is about, but would like to hear other opinions.

Walter Farmer

[waltsongs]

I also like "Seven Island Suite". The time signature and chord structure combined with the keyboard background create a surreal effect. The lyrics and music paint an incredible picture in my mind. Are there any discussions about this lyric and it's meaning online? I have my own opinion about what this song is about, but would like to hear other opinions.

Walter Farmer

[Bill]

On Susan's Floor was written by Shel Silverstein..."Susan" helped out struggling musicians in Nashville in the 60s as I understand...back in the days when Roger Miller and Willie Nelson haunted lower Broadway around Tootsie's Orchid Lounge before the tourists took over.

[The Gentle Giant]

I like to request all melodies that fans send,be played with a guitar!!!NOT ON KEYBOARD!!! PS.-- G.L. love your work!!

[The Gentle Giant]

I like to request all melodies that fans send,be played with a guitar!!!NOT ON KEYBOARD!!! PS.-- G.L. love your work!!

[treehugger]

My favorite Lightfoot song would have to be The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. I live in Michigan, always loved the lakes and freighters as a child, and this song means so much to me that everytime I hear it I get chills. This is also my husband's favorite. Everytime we cross the Mackinaw Bridge, we sing a few bars, or play it.

[treehugger]

My favorite Lightfoot song would have to be The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. I live in Michigan, always loved the lakes and freighters as a child, and this song means so much to me that everytime I hear it I get chills. This is also my husband's favorite. Everytime we cross the Mackinaw Bridge, we sing a few bars, or play it.

[seahawk11]

So many good ones.
I first heard Never Too Close in 1995. My aunt had just died and I went back to NY for the funeral, then spent a week alone at her home, where I found her tape. I played it on a long (fruitless) drive to Boston to visit a long lost lover, and it seemed to reflect a sad, time slipping away feeling.
All the Lovely Ladies is pretty good too, and the Canadian Railroad, and, and...

------------------
Jennyh

[JenniferJames]

So many good ones.
I first heard Never Too Close in 1995. My aunt had just died and I went back to NY for the funeral, then spent a week alone at her home, where I found her tape. I played it on a long (fruitless) drive to Boston to visit a long lost lover, and it seemed to reflect a sad, time slipping away feeling.
All the Lovely Ladies is pretty good too, and the Canadian Railroad, and, and...

------------------
Jennyh

[hujev]

Right now, 'triangle'; i have the version on 'gord's gold 2'. beautiful and melodic; i just gor 'songbook' so i'm pleased as can be, but for some reason had to listen to triangle again even before hearing my new gl box! surprised that only one other person mentioned this song - of course there are so many good ones! maybe later i'll write in and say 'summer side of life'...

------------------
Robert Liebermann
Department of Geography
University of Georgia
Athens, Georgia
30602 3105 USA
http://rjl.info

[hujev]

Right now, 'triangle'; i have the version on 'gord's gold 2'. beautiful and melodic; i just gor 'songbook' so i'm pleased as can be, but for some reason had to listen to triangle again even before hearing my new gl box! surprised that only one other person mentioned this song - of course there are so many good ones! maybe later i'll write in and say 'summer side of life'...

------------------
Robert Liebermann
Department of Geography
University of Georgia
Athens, Georgia
30602 3105 USA
http://rjl.info

[joveski]

time to chip in to this thread again!. here's a weird one that no one has mentioned - Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues. Been listening to it a lot lately (i heard dylan's version a long time before gord's). Just the feel that it has and how it sounds different to the albums he was releasing at the time.

In a windowpane is also getting a lot of "airplay" at this time at my house!

[calleydog]

http://www.corfid.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

I had a passing infatuation with "Ring-Necked Loon" but have always loved the mid-to-late seventies stuff the best. It's hard to say that Sundown is not my favorite since I fell in love with that song harder than for any girl up to that point in my young life.

Right now I'd have to say that it's a toss-up among Sixteen Miles, Farewell to Annabel, She's Not the Same, Hiway Songs. Choose one?

OK,OK! Sixteen Miles!

"Somewhere in the wilderness I'll build a cabin small, then forget so I won't remember you at all"

Takes you away, doesn't it? I gotta get back north of the border!

[calleydog]

http://www.corfid.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

I had a passing infatuation with "Ring-Necked Loon" but have always loved the mid-to-late seventies stuff the best. It's hard to say that Sundown is not my favorite since I fell in love with that song harder than for any girl up to that point in my young life.

Right now I'd have to say that it's a toss-up among Sixteen Miles, Farewell to Annabel, She's Not the Same, Hiway Songs. Choose one?

OK,OK! Sixteen Miles!

"Somewhere in the wilderness I'll build a cabin small, then forget so I won't remember you at all"

Takes you away, doesn't it? I gotta get back north of the border!

[rick.p]

I would have to say ," If you could read my mind". I first heard it when I was three. I have never forgotten the feeling it gave me, it remains the same today.
And "It's worth believin'" because my life was going in that direction and it was comforting to listen to it, even curled up on the floor next to the fireplace, crying my eyes out but after the song and the tears ended, the feeling of relief was immediate and long lasting.

[Julie,sd]

One of my earliest memories is of a trip we took to the great lakes, and I was made aware of the Edmund Fitzgerld - since that time, your song has given me goose bumps everytime i hear it. One of the best songs ever. Thanks for capturing the story so well.

[Julie,sd]

One of my earliest memories is of a trip we took to the great lakes, and I was made aware of the Edmund Fitzgerld - since that time, your song has given me goose bumps everytime i hear it. One of the best songs ever. Thanks for capturing the story so well.

[HotFoot!]

My favorite is "Can't Depend On Love" from ODR. I can't say why. It just seems to strike a chord deep in my emotions.

I hate to have to name a favorite. There are just too many perfect songs.

------------------
Bill

[scmuse]

My favorite is "Can't Depend On Love" from ODR. I can't say why. It just seems to strike a chord deep in my emotions.

I hate to have to name a favorite. There are just too many perfect songs.

------------------
Bill

[Double A]

I've loved "The Circle is Small" since the first time I've heard it. I think it was probably because I was living the situation at the time. Beautiful Melody, great lyrics
"It's alright to live, but not alright to lie"

[Double A]

I've loved "The Circle is Small" since the first time I've heard it. I think it was probably because I was living the situation at the time. Beautiful Melody, great lyrics
"It's alright to live, but not alright to lie"

[Brian 57]

"On Susan's Floor" is about a lady named Susan Brewer who indeed took in struggling young artists in Nashville. There was a documentary on tv about her several years ago. I remember Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson (who wrote "Hello Walls" while staying there and got a lot of ribbing from the other writers because they never thought it would be a hit) contributed their memories of sleeping on Susan's floor. If I remember correctly, Kris Kristofferson was there at one time, too. They had the same sentiment: If it hadn't been for Susan Brewer opening her home to starving unknowns till they got their big break, the face of American music would be extremely different.

[djgettys]

Is there a better driving song that Alberta Bound?

[djgettys]

Is there a better driving song that Alberta Bound?

[char]

Farewell To Nova Scotia and Carefree Highway are pretty good travelling songs too!
Char

[TheWatchman]

"Summer Side of Life" ranks up there as one of the greats for me. The lyrics set to the music is phenominal.

Hi-Way song is a great travelling song. East of Midnight is another good one as well. I'll make good note of these suggestions as I drive about 3500 miles per month for work. All up and down the New England states and coast, so without Lightfoot, the travel would be booorrrring! http://www.corfid.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[This message has been edited by TheWatchman (edited April 25, 2002).]

[Brian 57]

quote:Originally posted by djgettys:
Is there a better driving song that Alberta Bound?

Try listening to "long thin dawn" at daybreak over some flat terrain. You'll get it.

[The Juice]

I'm 45 years old and I've lived through some hard/sad times as well all have. Whenever I have those days where I'm just sitting around thinking about the past and things I've seen and done, I really get sentimental and emotional about many areas of my life and no song has ever put me in the mood to reminisce like "Restless." I've heard every Lightfoot song over and over hundreds of times, and that song, to me, is the ultimate.

[The Juice]

I'm 45 years old and I've lived through some hard/sad times as well all have. Whenever I have those days where I'm just sitting around thinking about the past and things I've seen and done, I really get sentimental and emotional about many areas of my life and no song has ever put me in the mood to reminisce like "Restless." I've heard every Lightfoot song over and over hundreds of times, and that song, to me, is the ultimate.

[The Juice]

Oh, I gotta add "Rainy Day People" to my last post. Everytime I hear it, I think back to the Mississippi River Festival in 1975 when he performed there. After a brief intermission, he and the band came out and went into "Rainy Day People." About half way through the song - right after the short instrumental part, he went to continue singing and just froze on stage. He was stoned! He just smiled at everyone and turned and looked at the band. Then he turned to the audience again and said, "Man, how can I forget the words to THAT song?" It was great and the crowd went crazy! Just wanted to share that.

[The Juice]

Oh, I gotta add "Rainy Day People" to my last post. Everytime I hear it, I think back to the Mississippi River Festival in 1975 when he performed there. After a brief intermission, he and the band came out and went into "Rainy Day People." About half way through the song - right after the short instrumental part, he went to continue singing and just froze on stage. He was stoned! He just smiled at everyone and turned and looked at the band. Then he turned to the audience again and said, "Man, how can I forget the words to THAT song?" It was great and the crowd went crazy! Just wanted to share that.

[james hill]

first of all, i'm very happy to be a part of this site. i love all types of music, & i'm a fan of hundreds of artists, but it always comes back to Gord as my favourite & most influential & inspirational writer/singer.
as far as fave songs go, there's too many so i can't just whittle it down to one. however i do agree with chris who chose "only love would know" as their fave. it's easily his best ballad in years, sadly overlooked by radio programmers all over the dial. it's a beautiful love song & again i agree with chris, a fantastic vocal from Gord. the re-recorded version of "circle is small" from endless wire is another one of my favourites. i like the way he supports himself on the backing vocals, much the same as he did on "sundown".
anyway, i could talk all day about all things Gord, & i will in small doses. looking forward to hearing from anyone else who admires this wonderfully talented man.

all the best
james hill

[john w]

1)carefree highway
2)i'd do it again
3)sundown

[john w]

1)carefree highway
2)i'd do it again
3)sundown

[Neal]

"Talking In Your Sleep", what a touching song. Gords voice and guitar were perfect.

[Neal]

"Talking In Your Sleep", what a touching song. Gords voice and guitar were perfect.