I grew up on Lake Erie and seen the SS Edmund Fitzgerald several times before it sunk. In 1976 i was 12 and just started playing the guitar. I taught myself most of the songs from Summertime Dream and the first song i played was the Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald He was my favorite singer songwriter Sadly i never got to see him live. But got a nice email from him several years ago in response to an email i sent him in regards to mastering most of his songs.
It left BNSF, Burlington northern. I’m from Superior WI, lost my gramps, never met him. My dad was 10 years old…years later that same Taconite facility of BNSF, my dad worked for for 30 years….many MANY unseen pictures! She’s terrifying, gorgeous, always respect her! The bell rang 30 times last November, it’ll always ring 30 times now🩷 They’re still down there, fully intact. God bless you Gordon, my grandfather and the rest of the crew of 28 (counting my gramps)
I was in the Canadian Navy back in the mid 80's and on a far east cruise we pulled into Hong Kong for four or five days, and as sailors do ended up in a British pub the first night there. The house musician was an Aussie folk singer who was covering a bunch of Roger Whittaker tunes and I asked him if he'd ever heard of Gordon Lightfoot and he said he hadn't so the next night I went back and gave him a cassette of Gords Gold and told him to give it a listen. Two days later I went back again and this guy played about 10 of the songs in his set and told me he was amazed at how good they were, and as we sailed away the next day I left knowing that I'd made a convert of him and he probably has Gord in his repertoire to this day after discovering our Canadian treasure. 😊
I volunteer at the Mariposa Folk Festival in Orillia (Gordon Lightfoot's hometown) and Gordon would show up every year and sing a song or two. He even came last year, in the first festival post-pandemic. It was amazing to see hime up there singing when he was so frail, but it meant so much to him and to everyone at the festival. He will be so missed and the festival won't be the same this July. I remember the storm when the Edmund Fitzgerald went down - it was a wild, windy night. A local radio station did a marathon of playing that song for hours on the day after he died. We've lost someone special.
In the mid '80s, I had the pleasure of residing in the same condo building Gordon Lightfoot called home. From time to time you would see him in the lobby or share an elevator. He always was very down to earth, often funny, and one time quite revealing. On the elevator one day, as we headed for the ground floor, I mentioned that he seemed a bit down to which he revealed he had a limousine waiting to take him up to Orillia to visit family. He then added, chuckling, that he had made sure there was a bottle of booze in the limo so that he would be prepared upon arrival.
Thought you just might like that vignette that gave you a little 'personal' insight into him. Thanks for reading it and responding. Keep up the great work you are doing. You are one of the truly genuine and sincere bloggers on the Internet that features Canada. You 'get us' and therefore are able to distinguish between the serious and emotional, as well as the humourous. Chimo
As a proud Canadian I cannot begin to tell you how much this man's music has meant to me and my family. I saw him several times at Massey Hall in Toronto and he was such a wonderfully creative performer and wordsmith and always left the stage leaving us all more fulfilled. I hadn't seen him perform for many years but for my 65th birthday my two sons and beautiful daughter's-in-law treated me to another Lightfoot performance. He was in his late 70's at that point and he'd definitely lost a step or two and his voice didn't have the full register and rich timbre of his younger days but it was a wonderful moment for me and my family. He was a titan of the music industry, a true troubadour, a master storyteller and I'm so thankful I've been able to enjoy his music for 6 decades. RIP Gordie. Thank you Tash for honouring Canada's native son. Cheers from southern Ontario!
Gordon was a fixture at Massey Hall in Toronto where all artists wanted to perform because, although an old structure (1894), it was matchless for acoustics. It was recently closed and renovated. He was the last to perform before it was closed and the first artist invited to perform there when it reopened.
@@susieq9801 Yes indeed, venerable Massey Hall. My wife and I saw Gordie perform there many times and you're definitely right about the unparalleled acoustics, so rich and warm!
Thank you for making this video! I saw a memorial sign for Gordon Lightfoot yesterday that called him "Canada's troubadour", and I couldn't think of a more apt description. I may have been too young to enjoy the peak of his career in the 1970s and 80s, but I still grew up listening to his music. All of his songs sound like home. The day of his passing-just hours before the news broke-"The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" came on in the clinic waiting room when I was about to get a quick medical procedure done. Hearing it instantly calmed my nerves, and I remember thinking how much I appreciated the timing of that song coming on right when I needed a reminder of my family and my home. He lived a long life, but it's still sad to lose a legend. Rest well, Gordon Lightfoot, you will always be remembered as a Canadian music icon. Also, the video mentioned that he was a fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs. I may be a Canucks fan myself, but I was so happy when the Leafs advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in forever at the end of April. People were celebrating in Toronto's streets! I hope Lightfoot was able to see this amazing moment in Leafs hockey and celebrate their success before his passing, I'm sure it would have brought him happiness in his final days.
I had the privilege of seeing Gordon 8 times, once in Sydney, Australia and 7 times at Massey Hall, Toronto. I also, with my wife, got to meet him at the launch of his "Painter" album in 1998 at Sam`s music store in Yonge Street, Toronto, where he signed several copies of that album for me and our two sons, both musicians. I firmly believe he was the greatest singer/songwriter of our time. A very humble man who wrote so many beautiful songs. I know of no other songwriter who so brilliantly matched the melody with the lyrics and tempos as did Gordon. I also believe that "If You Could Read My Mind" is the best written, recorded and produced song of all time.
Yes we Aussies love Gordon's music..I've been a fan exactly 50 years and the songs are portraits of life's experiences..The song I love is "All the lovely ladies" the song for us underdogs..Only two songwriters have penetrated my heart Gordon and his great friend Phil Ochs..Thanks Tash from Melbourne Australia ❤️
I'm a hard rock guy....Alice Cooper, Kiss, AC/DC, Led Zep , VH....but I saw Gordon about 15 years ago. My parents always listened to him when I was young. Despite my heavier background, I was just mesmerized by his voice and his story telling when I saw him. He was just incredible. I will miss the great poet. Thanks Gordon for your timeless music.
I saw Gordon Lightfoot in concert in 1977. I’ve attended a lot of concerts in my life and have seen many major bands and performers. But that Gordon Lightfoot concert remains to this day as the most memorable of them all. I’ve always loved his music. It was very special to me at a very special time of my life. There will never be another like him. Rest in peace Mr. Lightfoot.
As a Canadian who lives in the same province that Gordon did (and will be buried in), let me say thanks for the tribute. Nicely done. Canada and Australia, together forever.
Tasha also Gordon Light who had his other very famous & very well-known songs of his which are' Carefree Highway (1974), Sundown (1974), If You Could Read My Mind (1970), The Wreck of the Edmond (1976), Canadian Railroad Trilogy (1967), Go-Go Round (1967), Rainy Day People (1975), Early Morning Rain (1967), All the Lovely Ladies (1975), The House You Live In (1976), of course.
I’m 65 and I’ve played guitar for over 50 years - because of Gordon Lightfoot. He was the first person I ever saw play guitar and sing. I was 7. He played at the Muskoka family summer resort “Windermere House” BEFORE he became “Gordon Lightfoot” I spent 40+ years in the Canadian music biz and met Gord many times - including a wonderful afternoon in his sailboat in the Ontario Place Marina in the late 70’s. I’m actually surprised by how deeply I feel his loss! He’s been such a part of my musical fabric, I began to take him for granted. Massey Hall - the house of Gord! He played Massey Hall 170 times!!!!! Like the Beatles, Dylan, Neil Young and Joni Mitchell - Lightfoot’s music will last 100’s of years! God bless you, Gordon
So agree with you on that call, when I first heard Gordon, I thought he was a poet the likes of Bob Dylan. Only to discover that Dylan has a huge respect and friendship with Lightfoot, makes sense
Thanks Sweetheart for this! I have friends here, I grew up stopping in this town on way to cottage and camping trips! He was and always will be a special soul to everyone here in Ontario, Canada, and way beyond! Wish you could see northern Ontario Tash❤️
Thankyou so much for posting this.. Gordon Lightfoot was an absolute icon and legend to us Canadians. My Dad was crushed by his passing.. I am almost 60, and thanks to my Dad.. I was exposed to this amazing and beautiful talent, of Gordon Lightfoot ❤️❤️❤️
I’m from Superior WI, lost my gramps, never met him. My dad was 10 years old…years later that same Taconite facility of BNSF, my dad worked for for 30 years….many MANY unseen pictures! She’s terrifying, gorgeous, always respect her! The bell rang 30 times last November, it’ll always ring 30 times now🩷 They’re still down there, fully intact. God bless you Gordon, my grandfather and the rest of the crew of 28 (counting my gramps)
The Mariner's Church mentioned in his song , "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald", rang the bells 30 times apon hearing of his passing. They plan to make it 30 every year at the memorial.
Lightfoot wrote a song ,” Requiem for Steven Foster “ and a line from the song goes: Bells in the steeple are ringing, singing, listen to them talk about your loves return “. I live near Fosters burial site. The steeple still stands and rings and on misty Sunday mornings, I can still hear Gordon’s voice “ Roses are waiting for dew drops to fall “ A troubadour who will forever be remembered and unmatched
The title of the song is actually, 'Your Love's Return'. It's a love song, although the lyric about the bells in the steeple are indeed a reference to Stephen Foster. Gordon was a huge fan of his music. If you want to hear one of Gordon's songs that was inspired by Foster, listen to 'Biscuit City', from his Salute album. You'll hear hints of 'Oh, Susanna' liberally sprinkled throughout the song.
In 1979, on a dreary grey rainy day in Toronto I was reluctantly dragged to see him at Massey Hall. I wasn't really a fan walking in...I was when I left. It was if I recall correctly just Gordon, his guitar, a stool and a microphone. It was like he was was sitting in your living room playing just for you, even though there were a 1000+ people who probably felt the same way. RIP Gordon you are missed.❤
Hi Tash nice little memorial of Gordon Lightfoot never saw him in concert but once old enough to listen to his music fall in love with it . The wreck of Edmond Fitzgerald was my favorite even though it was a sad story but I grew up in a small fishing village along side of Lake Erie watched ships come in for corn, oaks, and delivered coal back in the day plus potash, the ships don't come in anymore but there is still a big fleet of commercial fishing boats operating out of the Port and many leisure grafts, when the Great Lakes gets rough it gets rough you can hear the waves crashing into shore any where in the village thanks for the tribute.
Lightfoot music will live a lot longer than he did. And I think he knew that. The day after he died(Tuesday) I did a radio show and I stated off with with 4 Gordon lightfoot songs in a row and talked about him a bit. Later on in the show I got a phonecall on the studio phone from a guy who listeners in sometimes and he told me lightfoot had passed away(which I already knew) this guy had missed the beginning of my show. But he thought it was important enough to call the station to let us know Gordon had passed so we could play his songs in tribute. That shows his importance to many ever day Canadians, especially those of a certain age. I had fun dusting off some old Gord records and spinning them on the air!
I live on one of those lakes, Simcoe. Gord left his footprints in a lot of places around Ontario. He lived just outside my town when I was a teenager. I never met him, but my sister babysat for his bass player. I've fished at the boatyard where his boat was built and he named an album, Endless Wire, after it. I'm sure virtually everyone has similar peripheral associations with him. He got around and he was a people person.
The outpouring of collective grief in Canada over Gordon's passing reminds me of the reaction of Australians to Olivia Newton-John's passing a few months earlier. Sometimes, a certain artist just seems to capture the essence of a people/country. Lightfoot and ON-J were such artists.
My sister gave me tickets t see Gord when I turned 40, 20 years ago; unfortunately, his tour was cancelled due to his health scare, and I never got to see him. Check him out ( in the audience ) on "John Prine: House of Strombo," a house concert a few years before Prine's passing. Prine reminisces about playing at the Riverboat in Toronto in the early '70's, when who strolls in but one of his musical heroes, with 3 beautiful women. Lightfoot stood in the middle of Yonge Street later that night, singing the chorus of "Far From Me."
I honestly believe that more Canadians know the lyrics to "If I could read your mind" than whatever the latest version of the national anthem is. Gord was everybody's neighbor.
when I was first married in '80 Sunday was Lightfoot day . We would would lay on the couch and just enjoy his voice , words and guitar playing . RIP mr. Lightfoot 🙏
Dear Aussie Tash, I want to thank you for your generous time in offering such a tribute to our "barde," Gordon LIghtfoot. I believe Bob Dylan gave him the best compliment when he stated that "The problem with Gordon Lightfoot's music is that each song has an ending." It does not end, as he knows. He lives. All the best to you.
Was fortunate to see Gord in concert multiple times over the years. The most memorable being having seats in the very center of the front row. Was an amazing experience. Many of his band members were with him for decades.💔
Gordon Lightfoot didn't just write and play songs, he crafted them like art. I've listened to him my whole life, and he is truly one of the best Canada ever produced. Though not a hit, my all time favorite is " The Way I Feel ". His last concert was here in my hometown, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Thank you so much! Unfortunately, I never saw Gordon in concert, but I know people who did...they said you didn't go if you wanted to see a showman. You went to see a master musician and singer just doing what he loved to do. Growing up in Canada, his music was part of my musical background...just always there. We will miss him so much.
Gordon Lightfoot was a national treasure. He will be sorely missed. He was an amazing story teller and always spoke from his heart. He loved Canada and we loved him back. RIP.
Thankyou Tash for this beautiful tribute to Gordon. He was a true Canadian treasure…..he wrote over 500 songs, and the artists who covered his music ranged from Elvis, Barbra Streisand, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash and on and on..Not a bad song in everything he wrote. Two of my favourites are “ Bitter Green “ and “ Race Among the Ruins “
CHERYLA7480..........I love those two songs....hard to find one I DON'T love.....TATTOO......A SONG FOR A WINTERS NIGHT...SEA OF TRANQUILITY TOO MANY TO NAME
I was young when with my meagre money I got best of Lightfoot Vol 1 and Vol 2. From there I pretty much got all of his albums. I would like to mention some songs here that IMO should be better known, thank you: Summer Side of Life, Black Day in July, Affair on Eighth Avenue, Too Late for Prayin', Nous Vivons Ensemble, Don Quixote and Song for a Winter's Night
CBC music has a video - the many covers of If You could Read My Mind. Amazing to see the range of artists who sang his songs. Alberta Bound and Did She Mention My Name are two of my favourite Gordon Lightfoot songs.
I hope he was met at the pearly gates by the crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald. He's not really gone he has a different audience right now. 🙏Sir Gordon.....🇨🇦
@@donnaogorman4935 I hope they do so,and I hope the statue is beautiful. I was born in ‘62, Gordon Lightfoot’s voice was as familiar as my own Dad. We were blessed to have his music. ❤️🇨🇦❤️
@@barbarawhite4257 They will Barbara....they have already made it official that his BD in Nov has been declared Gordon Lightfoot Day. Probably the only catalogue of songs that everyone knows the words to.
I'm 64, and growing up in Canada Lightfoot was always there. He's infused throughout Canadian culture and will be missed. When I first learned guitar I learned finger picking patterns using Lightfoot's songs.
One asset of Canada is gone. He had chances to stay in the USA, but his love and loyalty to Canada is very much stronger in his heart. True North, True Canadian.
Tash, we love you in Canada too! If you're in Northern Canada and it's -30C, get a warm drink sit tight and listen to Lightfoot's Song For A Winter's Night.
Gordon's music has been the soundtrack of my life. I fell in love with his whole catalogue back in the late 60's. I have seen him numerous times and was even fortunate enough to meet him once. But if you really want to discover his genius, I recommend listening to songs that never got airplay on the radio. The next time you are relaxing with a cup of coffee, look up songs like "The Last Time I Saw Her", "Home From The Forest" and "Miguel". You will discover an artist that is unlike anyone else out there and I am convinced you will want to dig deeper and become true fan like millions of others around the planet like me. And I promise you won't be sorry that you did, and will understand what Bob Dylan said when he said that Gordon never wrote a bad song and he wished it could go on forever. Cheers Tash. I love what you do. Good luck and happy listening.
I am not a musician but I am Canadian and getting on in years. Lightfoot dominated the Canadian music consciousness as much as the Beatles did. The difference was Lightfoot lasted longer. Unlike many musicians you could listen to Lightfoot for hours without getting bored. His songs ranged from storytelling (Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald), social consciousness (Circle of Steel, Black Day In July), music of sensations and feelings (Pussywillows, Cattails), pride of heritage (Canadian Railroad Trilogy), autobiographical (If You Could Read My Mind) and so much more. For an in depth look at his music check out Rick Beato and Fil of Wings of Pegasus. I meant to see Gord perform last year but couldn't make it. You are missed.
Thank you for doing a tribute to Gordon. He has been my favourite since I was fourteen years old and now I am 66. I am very sad but I have all his music to lift me up. My favourite of all is, 'The Last Time I Saw Her'. Here is a short list of some of my favourites of his. A Tribute To Gordon Lightfoot my all time favourite singer/songwriter Died on May 1 2023 You gave me a lifetime of great music. If You Could Read My Mind th-cam.com/video/-DPS9uTKGTY/w-d-xo.html Cotton Jenny th-cam.com/video/X5NSDyYNx_A/w-d-xo.html Beautiful th-cam.com/video/KB03dJePq5o/w-d-xo.html That Same Old Obsession th-cam.com/video/ScnwUViYias/w-d-xo.html Lazy Morning th-cam.com/video/r7eMeyFeXUo/w-d-xo.html Sundown th-cam.com/video/1IBdZ645S-o/w-d-xo.html Morning Glory th-cam.com/video/eAs4PEBN05g/w-d-xo.html A Lesson in Love th-cam.com/video/Ucqb9Vflc1Y/w-d-xo.html If Children Had Wings th-cam.com/video/aPLBgWNC7mk/w-d-xo.html Dreamland th-cam.com/video/hnPRJw_O_JE/w-d-xo.html Hangdog Hotel Room th-cam.com/video/45i_9BD2A5I/w-d-xo.html Daylight Katy th-cam.com/video/wwiosZSJ_pY/w-d-xo.html Affair On 8th Avenue th-cam.com/video/_5-HFZhpYEI/w-d-xo.html Bitter Green th-cam.com/video/1bcGpNUQUXU/w-d-xo.html Did She Mention My Name th-cam.com/video/r2ni9hRaU5A/w-d-xo.html Something Very Special th-cam.com/video/tno9aYLswDU/w-d-xo.html Pussywillows, Cat-Tails th-cam.com/video/5rVJjKQxkZg/w-d-xo.html Does Your Mother Know th-cam.com/video/zcNO6hhuG2k/w-d-xo.html Black Day In July th-cam.com/video/vCQmx_wJH6o/w-d-xo.html Wherefore & Why th-cam.com/video/RckpSVKgFmQ/w-d-xo.html The Last Time I Saw Her th-cam.com/video/i7wpPS_xwiM/w-d-xo.html The Way I Feel th-cam.com/video/QoejmsEuBws/w-d-xo.html Canadian Railroad Trilogy th-cam.com/video/YoaEbp3o6LU/w-d-xo.html Song For A Winter's Night th-cam.com/video/7F9R94DLniE/w-d-xo.html Home From The Forest th-cam.com/video/XwWa46tSego/w-d-xo.html Go-Go Round th-cam.com/video/_6ewc6bdMdo/w-d-xo.html A Minor Ballad th-cam.com/video/UHTKhetxF28/w-d-xo.html Softly th-cam.com/video/w99BHBLLzqw/w-d-xo.html Steel Rail Blues th-cam.com/video/vBshV6z2gTk/w-d-xo.html Early Mornin' Rain th-cam.com/video/M2FzeMrXSoA/w-d-xo.html Rainy Day People th-cam.com/video/MdhRhGX3AG4/w-d-xo.html Carefree Highway th-cam.com/video/iYuF99VTEdg/w-d-xo.html High and Dry th-cam.com/video/xJ7S6QLDREw/w-d-xo.html Somewhere U.S.A. th-cam.com/video/2LzftE-WeWY/w-d-xo.html Mother of a Miner's Child th-cam.com/video/aX5Euq6LvMY/w-d-xo.html It's Worth Believin' th-cam.com/video/Q5CIBuh8qPI/w-d-xo.html Summer Side of Life th-cam.com/video/fiMJk7trF00/w-d-xo.html Miguel th-cam.com/video/FBypfO9nKjo/w-d-xo.html 10 Degrees & Getting Colder th-cam.com/video/j9EuEr0N5Os/w-d-xo.html Your Love's Return th-cam.com/video/D0qj4oPL8Ck/w-d-xo.html Saturday Clothes th-cam.com/video/nqjkNP_Muc4/w-d-xo.html Approaching Lavender th-cam.com/video/0Tnvd6nT7fQ/w-d-xo.html Minstrel of the Dawn th-cam.com/video/NSvx223pNtU/w-d-xo.html
Hi Tash, His songs were part of the sound track ot Canadian baby boomers. Can you blieve he had a tour on the books for this summer + autumn. I would have loved to see him one last time. I’d suggest lisitening to a couple of Gord’s songs about Canada close your eyes and let the song take you an a journy through Canada’s history, with the 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy’ A song for spring 'Pussy Willows, Cattails’ A song for winter 'Song For A Winter's Night’ Gord’s song 'Black Day in July’ was banned on many US radio stations back in 1967 it was about the riots in Detroit.
Here's a few to get you started: Early morning rain Beautiful Race among the ruins The circle is small Sundown Canadian Railroad Trilogy Daylight Katy The last time i saw her face Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald If you could read my mind Rainy day people For loving me Bitter green Mr. Lightfoot wrote more than 400 songs. Canada's troubador.
I'm not specifically a fan of Gordon Lightfoot, but I've heard many of his songs many times over many years. He had talent and style that made him a common source for music for radio, events, etc. his music will live on.
th-cam.com/video/1IBdZ645S-o/w-d-xo.html Tasha here is another Gordon Lightfoot's songs called Sundown which was from the year of (1974) & at that time I was either still (9 Nine) years old &/or I would've just turned (10 Ten) years old in May of (1974) of course.
On Tuesday, the Mariners Church in Detroit rang its bell 30 times. 29 times for the crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald, and one extra for Gordon lightfoot.
That is super cool, respect :)
Damn
Yes, that is real respect!
I heard the bell across the river in Windsor, it was beautiful
Oh my, that is so special & deserving❤
I grew up on Lake Erie and seen the SS Edmund Fitzgerald several times before it sunk.
In 1976 i was 12 and just started playing the guitar. I taught myself most of the songs from Summertime Dream and the first song i played was the Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald
He was my favorite singer songwriter
Sadly i never got to see him live. But got a nice email from him several years ago in response to an email i sent him in regards to mastering most of his songs.
"Great Canadian Railroad Trilogy" gives me goosebumps, and tears, every time I hear it. A stunning tour-de-force of a song.
It left BNSF, Burlington northern. I’m from Superior WI, lost my gramps, never met him. My dad was 10 years old…years later that same Taconite facility of BNSF, my dad worked for for 30 years….many MANY unseen pictures! She’s terrifying, gorgeous, always respect her! The bell rang 30 times last November, it’ll always ring 30 times now🩷 They’re still down there, fully intact. God bless you Gordon, my grandfather and the rest of the crew of 28 (counting my gramps)
One of my all time favorite songs, of all time.
I was in the Canadian Navy back in the mid 80's and on a far east cruise we pulled into Hong Kong for four or five days, and as sailors do ended up in a British pub the first night there. The house musician was an Aussie folk singer who was covering a bunch of Roger Whittaker tunes and I asked him if he'd ever heard of Gordon Lightfoot and he said he hadn't so the next night I went back and gave him a cassette of Gords Gold and told him to give it a listen. Two days later I went back again and this guy played about 10 of the songs in his set and told me he was amazed at how good they were, and as we sailed away the next day I left knowing that I'd made a convert of him and he probably has Gord in his repertoire to this day after discovering our Canadian treasure. 😊
What a lovely gift you gave to that musician, and to his listeners! ❤
@@carolmurphy7572 what a lovely gift Gordon gave to the world. ❤
I volunteer at the Mariposa Folk Festival in Orillia (Gordon Lightfoot's hometown) and Gordon would show up every year and sing a song or two. He even came last year, in the first festival post-pandemic. It was amazing to see hime up there singing when he was so frail, but it meant so much to him and to everyone at the festival. He will be so missed and the festival won't be the same this July.
I remember the storm when the Edmund Fitzgerald went down - it was a wild, windy night. A local radio station did a marathon of playing that song for hours on the day after he died. We've lost someone special.
Very cool :)
In the mid '80s, I had the pleasure of residing in the same condo building Gordon Lightfoot called home. From time to time you would see him in the lobby or share an elevator. He always was very down to earth, often funny, and one time quite revealing. On the elevator one day, as we headed for the ground floor, I mentioned that he seemed a bit down to which he revealed he had a limousine waiting to take him up to Orillia to visit family. He then added, chuckling, that he had made sure there was a bottle of booze in the limo so that he would be prepared upon arrival.
Thought you just might like that vignette that gave you a little 'personal' insight into him. Thanks for reading it and responding. Keep up the great work you are doing. You are one of the truly genuine and sincere bloggers on the Internet that features Canada. You 'get us' and therefore are able to distinguish between the serious and emotional, as well as the humourous. Chimo
As a proud Canadian I cannot begin to tell you how much this man's music has meant to me and my family. I saw him several times at Massey Hall in Toronto and he was such a wonderfully creative performer and wordsmith and always left the stage leaving us all more fulfilled.
I hadn't seen him perform for many years but for my 65th birthday my two sons and beautiful daughter's-in-law treated me to another Lightfoot performance. He was in his late 70's at that point and he'd definitely lost a step or two and his voice didn't have the full register and rich timbre of his younger days but it was a wonderful moment for me and my family. He was a titan of the music industry, a true troubadour, a master storyteller and I'm so thankful I've been able to enjoy his music for 6 decades. RIP Gordie. Thank you Tash for honouring Canada's native son. Cheers from southern Ontario!
Gordon was a fixture at Massey Hall in Toronto where all artists wanted to perform because, although an old structure (1894), it was matchless for acoustics. It was recently closed and renovated. He was the last to perform before it was closed and the first artist invited to perform there when it reopened.
@@susieq9801 Yes indeed, venerable Massey Hall. My wife and I saw Gordie perform there many times and you're definitely right about the unparalleled acoustics, so rich and warm!
Cheers :)
Thank you for making this video! I saw a memorial sign for Gordon Lightfoot yesterday that called him "Canada's troubadour", and I couldn't think of a more apt description. I may have been too young to enjoy the peak of his career in the 1970s and 80s, but I still grew up listening to his music. All of his songs sound like home. The day of his passing-just hours before the news broke-"The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" came on in the clinic waiting room when I was about to get a quick medical procedure done. Hearing it instantly calmed my nerves, and I remember thinking how much I appreciated the timing of that song coming on right when I needed a reminder of my family and my home. He lived a long life, but it's still sad to lose a legend. Rest well, Gordon Lightfoot, you will always be remembered as a Canadian music icon.
Also, the video mentioned that he was a fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs. I may be a Canucks fan myself, but I was so happy when the Leafs advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in forever at the end of April. People were celebrating in Toronto's streets! I hope Lightfoot was able to see this amazing moment in Leafs hockey and celebrate their success before his passing, I'm sure it would have brought him happiness in his final days.
he was a poet, I understand why him and Bob Dylan had a special friendship
I had the privilege of seeing Gordon 8 times, once in Sydney, Australia and 7 times at Massey Hall, Toronto. I also, with my wife, got to meet him at the launch of his "Painter" album in 1998 at Sam`s music store in Yonge Street, Toronto, where he signed several copies of that album for me and our two sons, both musicians.
I firmly believe he was the greatest singer/songwriter of our time. A very humble man who wrote so many beautiful songs. I know of no other songwriter who so brilliantly matched the melody with the lyrics and tempos as did Gordon. I also believe that "If You Could Read My Mind" is the best written, recorded and produced song of all time.
Yes we Aussies love Gordon's music..I've been a fan exactly 50 years and the songs are portraits of life's experiences..The song I love is "All the lovely ladies" the song for us underdogs..Only two songwriters have penetrated my heart Gordon and his great friend Phil Ochs..Thanks Tash from Melbourne Australia ❤️
I'm a hard rock guy....Alice Cooper, Kiss, AC/DC, Led Zep , VH....but I saw Gordon about 15 years ago. My parents always listened to him when I was young. Despite my heavier background, I was just mesmerized by his voice and his story telling when I saw him. He was just incredible. I will miss the great poet. Thanks Gordon for your timeless music.
I saw Gordon Lightfoot in concert in 1977. I’ve attended a lot of concerts in my life and have seen many major bands and performers. But that Gordon Lightfoot concert remains to this day as the most memorable of them all. I’ve always loved his music. It was very special to me at a very special time of my life. There will never be another like him. Rest in peace Mr. Lightfoot.
As a Canadian who lives in the same province that Gordon did (and will be buried in), let me say thanks for the tribute. Nicely done. Canada and Australia, together forever.
Lightfoot was 84 when he passed, and was touring up until about a month before he passed. He was a legend!
Tasha also Gordon Light who had his other very famous & very well-known songs of his which are'
Carefree Highway (1974), Sundown (1974), If You Could Read My Mind (1970), The Wreck of the Edmond (1976), Canadian Railroad Trilogy (1967), Go-Go Round (1967), Rainy Day People (1975), Early Morning Rain (1967), All the Lovely Ladies (1975), The House You Live In (1976), of course.
Loved his voice always since 12 yrs old now 76 ❤️
I’m 65 and I’ve played guitar for over 50 years - because of Gordon Lightfoot. He was the first person I ever saw play guitar and sing. I was 7. He played at the Muskoka family summer resort “Windermere House” BEFORE he became “Gordon Lightfoot” I spent 40+ years in the Canadian music biz and met Gord many times - including a wonderful afternoon in his sailboat in the Ontario Place Marina in the late 70’s.
I’m actually surprised by how deeply I feel his loss! He’s been such a part of my musical fabric, I began to take him for granted.
Massey Hall - the house of Gord! He played Massey Hall 170 times!!!!!
Like the Beatles, Dylan, Neil Young and Joni Mitchell - Lightfoot’s music will last 100’s of years!
God bless you, Gordon
So agree with you on that call, when I first heard Gordon, I thought he was a poet the likes of Bob Dylan. Only to discover that Dylan has a huge respect and friendship with Lightfoot, makes sense
Thanks Sweetheart for this! I have friends here, I grew up stopping in this town on way to cottage and camping trips! He was and always will be a special soul to everyone here in Ontario, Canada, and way beyond! Wish you could see northern Ontario Tash❤️
Thank you for the reaction. Gordon Lightfoot's music got me through the challenges of basic training when I enlisted into the Canadian military!
Thankyou so much for posting this.. Gordon Lightfoot was an absolute icon and legend to us Canadians. My Dad was crushed by his passing.. I am almost 60, and thanks to my Dad.. I was exposed to this amazing and beautiful talent, of Gordon Lightfoot ❤️❤️❤️
Thanks from Canada.
I’m from Superior WI, lost my gramps, never met him. My dad was 10 years old…years later that same Taconite facility of BNSF, my dad worked for for 30 years….many MANY unseen pictures! She’s terrifying, gorgeous, always respect her! The bell rang 30 times last November, it’ll always ring 30 times now🩷 They’re still down there, fully intact. God bless you Gordon, my grandfather and the rest of the crew of 28 (counting my gramps)
The Mariner's Church mentioned in his song , "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald", rang the bells 30 times apon hearing of his passing. They plan to make it 30 every year at the memorial.
He really was the fuckin best l saw him when l was 17 n my life changed ❤
Lightfoot wrote a song ,” Requiem for Steven Foster “ and a line from the song goes: Bells in the steeple are ringing, singing, listen to them talk about your loves return “. I live near Fosters burial site. The steeple still stands and rings and on misty Sunday mornings, I can still hear Gordon’s voice “ Roses are waiting for dew drops to fall “ A troubadour who will forever be remembered and unmatched
The title of the song is actually, 'Your Love's Return'. It's a love song, although the lyric about the bells in the steeple are indeed a reference to Stephen Foster. Gordon was a huge fan of his music. If you want to hear one of Gordon's songs that was inspired by Foster, listen to 'Biscuit City', from his Salute album. You'll hear hints of 'Oh, Susanna' liberally sprinkled throughout the song.
In 1979, on a dreary grey rainy day in Toronto I was reluctantly dragged to see him at Massey Hall. I wasn't really a fan walking in...I was when I left. It was if I recall correctly just Gordon, his guitar, a stool and a microphone. It was like he was was sitting in your living room playing just for you, even though there were a 1000+ people who probably felt the same way.
RIP Gordon you are missed.❤
Hi Tash nice little memorial of Gordon Lightfoot never saw him in concert but once old enough to listen to his music fall in love with it .
The wreck of Edmond Fitzgerald was my favorite even though it was a sad story but I grew up in a small fishing village along side of Lake Erie watched ships come in for corn, oaks, and delivered coal back in the day plus potash, the ships don't come in anymore but there is still a big fleet of commercial fishing boats operating out of the Port and many leisure grafts, when the Great Lakes gets rough it gets rough you can hear the waves crashing into shore any where in the village thanks for the tribute.
I was lucky enough to see him in concert. We took our teenagers as we wanted them to see a true Canadian music icon. His fabulous music will live on!
Lightfoot music will live a lot longer than he did. And I think he knew that. The day after he died(Tuesday) I did a radio show and I stated off with with 4 Gordon lightfoot songs in a row and talked about him a bit. Later on in the show I got a phonecall on the studio phone from a guy who listeners in sometimes and he told me lightfoot had passed away(which I already knew) this guy had missed the beginning of my show. But he thought it was important enough to call the station to let us know Gordon had passed so we could play his songs in tribute. That shows his importance to many ever day Canadians, especially those of a certain age. I had fun dusting off some old Gord records and spinning them on the air!
I was thinking of you as soon as I heard mate, I just knew that you would pay a great tribute to him and you did xxoo
I been to 'Orillia Ontario' ,Canada see his house he grew up and lived when he was young. Orillia, is a beautiful lil town.on two diffrents lakes.
I live on one of those lakes, Simcoe. Gord left his footprints in a lot of places around Ontario. He lived just outside my town when I was a teenager. I never met him, but my sister babysat for his bass player. I've fished at the boatyard where his boat was built and he named an album, Endless Wire, after it. I'm sure virtually everyone has similar peripheral associations with him. He got around and he was a people person.
We're listening to his whole discography now....might take weeks....
The outpouring of collective grief in Canada over Gordon's passing reminds me of the reaction of Australians to Olivia Newton-John's passing a few months earlier. Sometimes, a certain artist just seems to capture the essence of a people/country. Lightfoot and ON-J were such artists.
That’s a very good comparison. Both so beloved, talented and had such longevity. ❤️ from Australia.
My sister gave me tickets t see Gord when I turned 40, 20 years ago; unfortunately, his tour was cancelled due to his health scare, and I never got to see him. Check him out ( in the audience ) on "John Prine: House of Strombo," a house concert a few years before Prine's passing. Prine reminisces about playing at the Riverboat in Toronto in the early '70's, when who strolls in but one of his musical heroes, with 3 beautiful women. Lightfoot stood in the middle of Yonge Street later that night, singing the chorus of "Far From Me."
I saw Gord in concert 9 times over the last 45 years. He as always spot on.
I honestly believe that more Canadians know the lyrics to "If I could read your mind" than whatever the latest version of the national anthem is. Gord was everybody's neighbor.
we know that song here off by heart :)
when I was first married in '80 Sunday was Lightfoot day . We would would lay on the couch and just enjoy his voice , words and guitar playing . RIP mr. Lightfoot 🙏
I saw Lightfoot as part of a triple bill in late 1993, sandwiched between Blue Rodeo and Simon and Garfunkel.
Thank you this was lovely. Shalom from Boston, MA
Dear Aussie Tash,
I want to thank you for your generous time in offering such a tribute to our "barde," Gordon LIghtfoot. I believe Bob Dylan gave him the best compliment when he stated that "The problem with Gordon Lightfoot's music is that each song has an ending." It does not end, as he knows. He lives. All the best to you.
Was a great video tribute, cheers for Gordon Lightfoot Canada
Was fortunate to see Gord in concert multiple times over the years. The most memorable being having seats in the very center of the front row. Was an amazing experience. Many of his band members were with him for decades.💔
Thanks for paying respect to 1 of the greatest Canadians of all time.
Gordon Lightfoot didn't just write and play songs, he crafted them like art. I've listened to him my whole life, and he is truly one of the best Canada ever produced. Though not a hit, my all time favorite is " The Way I Feel ". His last concert was here in my hometown, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
He is a legend in Canada, I grew up listening to his songs, luv them all.
Thank you so much! Unfortunately, I never saw Gordon in concert, but I know people who did...they said you didn't go if you wanted to see a showman. You went to see a master musician and singer just doing what he loved to do. Growing up in Canada, his music was part of my musical background...just always there. We will miss him so much.
LOVE YOUR SHIRT!
Gordon knew the Canadian soul and psyche like no other artist. We are proud that people associate him with Canada. He was one of us. A POET!
As a fellow Canadian we have lost a national treasure,rest in peace Mr lightfoot.
Gordon Lightfoot was a national treasure. He will be sorely missed. He was an amazing story teller and always spoke from his heart. He loved Canada and we loved him back. RIP.
Thankyou Tash for this beautiful tribute to Gordon. He was a true Canadian treasure…..he wrote over 500 songs, and the artists who covered his music ranged from Elvis, Barbra Streisand, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash and on and on..Not a bad song in everything he wrote. Two of my favourites are “ Bitter Green “ and “ Race Among the Ruins “
CHERYLA7480..........I love those two songs....hard to find one I DON'T love.....TATTOO......A SONG FOR A WINTERS NIGHT...SEA OF TRANQUILITY TOO MANY TO NAME
Honestly, my stomach dropped when I heard, I’ve always been a lover of his music & the man was a great Canadian😢🇨🇦❤️
thank you
The list of talented people from Canada is long. Gordon is part o my childhood. Rest in peace.❤
You should check out "Canadian Railwood Trilogy', the song he always called his favourite any time he was asked.
Just watched a biography of Gordon last night 2 hrs. With him !! He talks about his life.
On CBC Gem?
I have a picture of Gordon and my oldest son after a concert in Peterborough
I lived in his hometown for 30 years.
Please react to the bells ringing in Gordon’s honour.
Will do a short mate :)
Thank You Dear Tash for your respect on Gordon Lightfoot's passing.
You are one of us and always will be.
😘😘🇨🇦
I was young when with my meagre money I got best of Lightfoot Vol 1 and Vol 2. From there I pretty much got all of his albums. I would like to mention some songs here that IMO should be better known, thank you: Summer Side of Life, Black Day in July, Affair on Eighth Avenue, Too Late for Prayin', Nous Vivons Ensemble, Don Quixote and Song for a Winter's Night
He was a great artist and a great Canadian!!! He will be sorely missed!!!!!
CBC music has a video - the many covers of If You could Read My Mind. Amazing to see the range of artists who sang his songs.
Alberta Bound and Did She Mention My Name are two of my favourite Gordon Lightfoot songs.
I hope he was met at the pearly gates by the crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald. He's not really gone he has a different audience right now.
🙏Sir Gordon.....🇨🇦
Oh,ouch! 😭😭😭💔🇨🇦💔
@@barbarawhite4257 Did you know Toronto City Council is planning a Statue...looking for the perfect space at Massey Hall.
@@donnaogorman4935 I hope they do so,and I hope the statue is beautiful. I was born in ‘62, Gordon Lightfoot’s voice was as familiar as my own Dad. We were blessed to have his music. ❤️🇨🇦❤️
@@barbarawhite4257 They will Barbara....they have already made it official that his BD in Nov has been declared Gordon Lightfoot Day.
Probably the only catalogue of songs that everyone knows the words to.
I'm 64, and growing up in Canada Lightfoot was always there. He's infused throughout Canadian culture and will be missed. When I first learned guitar I learned finger picking patterns using Lightfoot's songs.
One asset of Canada is gone. He had chances to stay in the USA, but his love and loyalty to Canada is very much stronger in his heart. True North, True Canadian.
Tash, we love you in Canada too! If you're in Northern Canada and it's -30C, get a warm drink sit tight and listen to Lightfoot's Song For A Winter's Night.
I love you aussie tash keep doing what you do
Cheers 😀😃
I’m live in Halifax N S I like your moose head jersey.
I love it to :)
The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, and, Black Day in July would be probably the 2 that stuck with me the most... and, first heard them on 8-track.
Nice coverage of Lightfoot's career.
Gordon's music has been the soundtrack of my life. I fell in love with his whole catalogue back in the late 60's. I have seen him numerous times and was even fortunate enough to meet him once. But if you really want to discover his genius, I recommend listening to songs that never got airplay on the radio. The next time you are relaxing with a cup of coffee, look up songs like "The Last Time I Saw Her", "Home From The Forest" and "Miguel". You will discover an artist that is unlike anyone else out there and I am convinced you will want to dig deeper and become true fan like millions of others around the planet like me. And I promise you won't be sorry that you did, and will understand what Bob Dylan said when he said that Gordon never wrote a bad song and he wished it could go on forever. Cheers Tash. I love what you do. Good luck and happy listening.
I am not a musician but I am Canadian and getting on in years. Lightfoot dominated the Canadian music consciousness as much as the Beatles did. The difference was Lightfoot lasted longer. Unlike many musicians you could listen to Lightfoot for hours without getting bored. His songs ranged from storytelling (Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald), social consciousness (Circle of Steel, Black Day In July), music of sensations and feelings (Pussywillows, Cattails), pride of heritage (Canadian Railroad Trilogy), autobiographical (If You Could Read My Mind) and so much more. For an in depth look at his music check out Rick Beato and Fil of Wings of Pegasus. I meant to see Gord perform last year but couldn't make it. You are missed.
Thank you for sharing this. You must listen to his Epic song on the creation of the Canadian Railroad.
❤
Love your Halifax Mooseheads t shirt!
Thanks Tash for sharing this🤘
Lost a Canadian treasure. RIP
You could help to keep his memory alive by sharing his music with the people you know there 🙂
Thank you for doing a tribute to Gordon. He has been my favourite since I was fourteen years old and now I am 66. I am very sad but I have all his music to lift me up. My favourite of all is, 'The Last Time I Saw Her'. Here is a short list of some of my favourites of his.
A Tribute To Gordon Lightfoot my all time favourite singer/songwriter
Died on May 1 2023 You gave me a lifetime of great music.
If You Could Read My Mind
th-cam.com/video/-DPS9uTKGTY/w-d-xo.html
Cotton Jenny
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Beautiful
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That Same Old Obsession
th-cam.com/video/ScnwUViYias/w-d-xo.html
Lazy Morning
th-cam.com/video/r7eMeyFeXUo/w-d-xo.html
Sundown
th-cam.com/video/1IBdZ645S-o/w-d-xo.html
Morning Glory
th-cam.com/video/eAs4PEBN05g/w-d-xo.html
A Lesson in Love
th-cam.com/video/Ucqb9Vflc1Y/w-d-xo.html
If Children Had Wings
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Dreamland
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Hangdog Hotel Room
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Daylight Katy
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Affair On 8th Avenue
th-cam.com/video/_5-HFZhpYEI/w-d-xo.html
Bitter Green
th-cam.com/video/1bcGpNUQUXU/w-d-xo.html
Did She Mention My Name
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Something Very Special
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Pussywillows, Cat-Tails
th-cam.com/video/5rVJjKQxkZg/w-d-xo.html
Does Your Mother Know
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Black Day In July
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Wherefore & Why
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The Last Time I Saw Her
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The Way I Feel
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Canadian Railroad Trilogy
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Song For A Winter's Night
th-cam.com/video/7F9R94DLniE/w-d-xo.html
Home From The Forest
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Go-Go Round
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A Minor Ballad
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Softly
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Steel Rail Blues
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Early Mornin' Rain
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Rainy Day People
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Carefree Highway
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High and Dry
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Somewhere U.S.A.
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Mother of a Miner's Child
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It's Worth Believin'
th-cam.com/video/Q5CIBuh8qPI/w-d-xo.html
Summer Side of Life
th-cam.com/video/fiMJk7trF00/w-d-xo.html
Miguel
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10 Degrees & Getting Colder
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Your Love's Return
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Saturday Clothes
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Approaching Lavender
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Minstrel of the Dawn
th-cam.com/video/NSvx223pNtU/w-d-xo.html
Listen to "the prettyest years in her life" a song he wrote for Mrs Kennedy after the assasination
Hi Tash, His songs were part of the sound track ot Canadian baby boomers. Can you blieve he had a tour on the books for this summer + autumn. I would have loved to see him one last time. I’d suggest lisitening to a couple of Gord’s songs about Canada close your eyes and let the song take you an a journy through Canada’s history, with the 'Canadian Railroad Trilogy’ A song for spring 'Pussy Willows, Cattails’ A song for winter 'Song For A Winter's Night’ Gord’s song 'Black Day in July’ was banned on many US radio stations back in 1967 it was about the riots in Detroit.
when ever i am in a sad state i listen to the wreck of the edmund fiizgerald and feel better knowing it's not that bad!
Legend.
Such a nice tribute 🙏
Here's a few to get you started:
Early morning rain
Beautiful
Race among the ruins
The circle is small
Sundown
Canadian Railroad Trilogy
Daylight Katy
The last time i saw her face
Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald
If you could read my mind
Rainy day people
For loving me
Bitter green
Mr. Lightfoot wrote more than 400 songs. Canada's troubador.
Sick mooseheads shirt!!
I'm not specifically a fan of Gordon Lightfoot, but I've heard many of his songs many times over many years.
He had talent and style that made him a common source for music for radio, events, etc. his music will live on.
th-cam.com/video/1IBdZ645S-o/w-d-xo.html Tasha here is another Gordon Lightfoot's songs called Sundown which was from the year of (1974) & at that time I was either still (9 Nine) years old &/or I would've just turned (10 Ten) years old in May of (1974) of course.
Sundown
Get out old Gordon's records
What’s your music reaction channel? It won’t pop up for me, you should list all your reaction channels in the page description 😊
aussietashent
my hubby used to date a girl that babysat for gordon lighfoot.
💖✌🙏