I'm a Brit of 58 watching this on holiday in Majorca! I loved him, and particularly this song, from my Mum playing it in the 70s as I grew up. A great man and this a fine tribute.
Canada shines a little less brightly now. Thank you, Gordon, for your masterful storytelling, music and your incredible voice - you stole our hearts so long ago and there you will forever remain.💕 A Canadian Legend
I was privileged to promote Gordon in concert at the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 1973. It's an indelible memory. His talent, vocal, lyrics, and beautiful 12-string guitar mastery, will forever live in the annals of the best we were privileged to know. No better soundtrack was ever laid down.
This by far the best song written by Gordon. The structure of the music and choice of lyrics paints the word picture of the trials of building the Canadian Pacific Railway. You can just picture it...Gordon is a Wordsmith Extraordinaire...and I'm not saying that because I'm a Canadian.....the structure of this song is about as perfect as can be. I consider this to be Canada's second National Anthem....♥♥
He was commissioned by the CBC to write a song about the Canadian frontier and the taming of the wilderness. He gave it his best effort.... and he produced this gem!
Perhaps an edited version should be the National Anthem. There is nothing more emblematic of Canada's formation as a nation than the construction of the transcontinental railway.
@@stephenbray9816 To you, A Crowe and others: Thank you, from an American. Your service and debt owed and to those other Canadians that went to Vietnam can never be repaid. Those that didn't come back deserve an honored spot on the Vietnam Wall in Washington DC, just so Americans know that Canadians, Australians and others served in Vietnam as well. About 40,000 Canadians served and 400 lost their lives, and 60,000 Australians served and 521 lost their lives. This humbles me.
Listened to Gordon Lightfoot a lot since he passed i didn't know he was so talented only listened to his charted songs in Australia I'm sorry I didn't buy more of his music RIP
I'm not Canadian but the very moment I heard this song, a young man in college, it touched my soul. Yes, it's proudly Canadian, but I think it's universal. It touches on the mythic and the yearning of any new country. Certainly, Canada's neighbor to the south had it's own railroad days; ribbons of steel being built on the backs, the dreams, the blood, sweat and tears, and even lives, of a melting pot of workers. The sense of the clashing dance of the wild and the pioneers, both awed and inspired, and the wild and reckless purpose of destiny, is so strong in this song. I think it stirs something very real in anyone who hears it. If it doesn't, well I reckon there's no poetry, romance, or destiny in your soul. Gord's given us a lot of gold, but this might be his motherlode masterpiece. Plus, it's damn fun to play on the guitar...and sing! Thanks, Gordon!
Well said, sir! I was 10 years old during Centennial Year, and I still remember hearing this on the radio, as well as in record shops and public events. It's lost none of its power in the intervening 50 years.
I'm an American, so the imagery Gordon created in my mind reminds me of the achievements of our ancestors and that "iron road running from the sea to the sea" applies equally to the States as well as Canada. Both had their iron roads.
Tis deeper, than you read/hear into it...Gordon, is the last of the singer/songwriters...that still has the eggs, to get on stage.....not looking for glory or money.....Just, to educate folks, is what he does.
While that is a great lyric, I think he topped it with “Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours.” He worked the English language like no other.
One of his many signature works, saw him 6 times in concert, saw him transform himself from a rather edgy alcoholic often bad tempered in concert evolved into a master of his craft. Will miss him forever. RIP sweet Gordon.
I cried at news of his passing. The only other time I did that for any musician was for Leonard Cohen. Canadian Railroad Trilogy is the essence of Canada. Tonight I am crying again listening and watching him. RIP Mr Lightfoot, you did Canada proud..and always will.
This is most likely the way all Americans - Canadians and the real people in this world feel just Sleep in ease Gordon your soul is in the right place I’m sure of this ,,lllll
MY ABSOLUTE FAVOURTE, I CRY EVERYTIME THINKING OF MY AND OTHERS ANCESTRY BUILDING OUR GREAT COUNTRY, THEN FIGHTING, BLEEDING AND DYING FOR IT AND US ALL. MAY GOD BLESS THEM AND WE THANK GORDON LIGHTFOOT FOR BRINGING IT TO LIFE. GOD BLESS GORDON. AMEN.
People who ONLY know him for his (great) big hits don't know what they're missing. He's written SO many songs that are every bit as good as the ones that get all the airplay.
RIP, Gordon Lightfoot! Saddened to hear of your passing this week, but your music is a wonderful legacy that lives on and on. Thank you for sharing your talents and I wish you blue skies and tailwinds on your journey.
Our elementary school senior choir performed this song. Back then it seemed so long...an epic really. I suppose it is! Thanks for your great contributions to the great Canadian songbook, Sir Lightfoot!
Fifty-eight years I lived on this planet and thought I had heard most of all the great songs out there and came across this and was blown away. What an under-rated song this is, oh my!
In my experience ( 67 yrs old) , there are some songs that don't really hit you, until you are of a certain age. You just can't appreciate them when you're younger.
I'm in the UK and I'd never heard this song until a couple of days ago when a friend brought his guitar round and asked me to add a mandolin part. I'm completely blown away by the beauty of the melodies and the power of the lyrics. It's a joy to play, and I hope when we perform it in public we can do it justice.
Gordon is our Canadian treasure and when you listen to the American Tony Rice, who dedicated an entire album to Lightfoot songs, you can feel creativity and art soar.
As a Canadian I am happy that you have discovered this treasure of a song and proud that you want to play it. It is probably in my opinion, the best song ever written due to it's musical structure, choice of lyrics and instrumental perfection.
@Gordon Lightfoot Thank you for so much great music, Gordon. I'm a grateful, lifelong fan. The first time I heard, and fell in love with, one of your songs I was about 7 years old.
This song ALONE would have made a career for lesser stars in the firmament. Note how the tempo of the verses imitates the steam locomotives firiing up as they pull out...brilliant. Lightfoot is to Canada, what Woody Guthrie is to the States. Long may you run, Gord, long may you run.
I am stunned at the sheer volume and quality of Gordons songs that never get old and tired for me, no matter how often I play them, unlike many other artists whos songs I enjoy but tire of listening to; it's strange that Lightfoots music impacts me emotionally to a level I gladly can't shake. I'm stuck with him.........to my absolute benefit.
Me too. You never can overplay a Gordon Lightfoot song. I consider that a form of measure for music. Just like Beatle music, and Creedence Clearwater, you can never overplay. Other musicians have done this with some of their songs, but very few can measure the same as Gordon.
I am overwhelmed by your love and support to my musical career . message me privately through hangouts. Hangout:therealgordonlightfoot.connects@gmail.com
I would like to state that I am a big fan of Gordon. He is a true genius and the Canadian Railroad Trilogy is a masterpiece. I can't help myself though being the history lover that I am. This Railroad was built through the some of the the most unsuitable territory. Much easier to build railroads north and south as opposed to east and west through the Canadian Shield. The Railroad was built to unite British Colonies to keep them from being absorbed into the USA. The all Canadian route, as tough as it was to build was to maintain independence from the US. A significant number of the men who built it were Chinese immigrants. Racism was certainly evident back then. Chinese people could not get citizenship, and had to pay a head tax to immigrate here. Many of those people were killed building the Railroad as they were given the most dangerous jobs. It wasn't a problem as the casualty was buried right there and was quickly replaced. Just wanted to give the Chinese immigrant labourers the credit they deserve as they did much of the hard and dangerous work during difficult times.
In the U.S., people are not very aware of how much Gordon is a icon in Canada. He is thought of as a inspired singer songwriter in the U.S. but if you delve into his catalogue, including songs like this masterpiece, they will be blessed to hear some of the greatest songs of the last 50 years.
That may be...however there are many...many of us south of the border who treasure him an icon too! I've Been to 4 of his concerts in Green Bay alone! No other like him. Thanks You Canada for Gord!
It depends where in the US you are referencing, along the Canadian border, the north, we are very aware of Gordon Lightfoot and his themes of the north. Being from Northern Michigan, where I could literally look across the St. Mary's river and see Ontario, Gord and his iconic voice not only tells the stories of his homeland but of the northern experience, both in Canada and the US. Canadian Railway Trilogy is such a solitary piece of poetry that speaks of the soul of not only being Canadian but of the northern character.
My great grandfather helped build the Pacific Canadian railroad. Actually he got the contract to build the railroad stations. Then went to the Alaska gold rush
Gordon and Harry Chapin were my favorites for those who could do it all, write like a fiend, play like a Master and sing like their very own. Extremely special! Thanks!
JOHN, I SAW HARRY AND GORDIE AT THE OLD GRANDSTAND IN TARANNA, BACK WHEN I DON'T REMEMBER. I THINK THEY SANG AND PLAYED TOGETHER AT THE END OF CONCERT. HARRY PASSED IN 1981, AFTER THAT DUMB CAR ACCIDENT. JEEZUS, HARRY, WHAT THE F WERE U THINKIN', DRIVIN' YERSELF. U HAD ENUFF TO PAY FOR A TAXI. HEY, HARRY, U WROTE A SONG ABOUT DRIVIN' A TAXI, RIGHT!!!!!!!!!!! I WILL NEVER FORGET DRIVING HOME AND NOT KNOWIN' MY OLD MAN HAD DIED. WHAT A F'N RECEPTION AT THE DOOR WHEN I GOT HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!
Magical live performance. Not many can sing like Gordon Lightfoot, and it takes a fine voice to do justice to the beauty of this composition and the emotion of the lyrics.
Say what you will about his image, his mannerisms, or even what country he is from, Gordon Lightfoot is a man of great heart, soul and talent :) He might even be a little flustered if I said it to his face, but there are songwriters, and then there are songwriters, and Gordie is a songwriter that set a gold standard for the art form a long time ago that very few could ever touch.
According to my daughter, Gordon like most Canadians loved his beer,God bless him, so many beautiful songs with fantastic lyrics, a true treasure, when he goes I will shed a tear or million.
During these current tumultuous times, going back to listen to and appreciate this incredible troubadour makes me proud to be Canadian. Well done, Mr Lightfoot.
Unfortunately, I will never have the opportunity to see this genius live on stage. Thank you for the great songs over many, many years Mr Lightfoot. A long time fan from Belgium.
I have been to many of his concerts and believe me, you missed out. His stage productions were never glitzy or filled with hype. It was just pure Gordon, plain, simple and first rate.
A Living Legend delivering a legendary story about his "home and native land"...Mr.Lightfoot's Centennial birthday gift for the country he loves so dearly...CANADA.....and the feeling is mutual from millions of his Canuck fans!!!
I used to go see Lightfoot frequently in Detroit, Windsor and Toronto. When I was in college we used to drive up to Toronto a lot. We’d stay at this tacky hotel called the Hotel Detroit. I remember the desk clerk wore a green spangled coat.
I do not think the Americans understand just what Gordon means to us Canadians!!!! I so still see my grandfather, dad, and uncles singing and playing his songs on the guitar, with the family singing singing along!!!! The memories will always be with me!!!!
Well, he has to mean a lot to Canadians because I know what he means to us Americans. Don Quixote was my favorite of all time but I really liked them all. Second Cup Of Coffee is my daughter's favorite. She sings it a lot.
I was blessed him. I am a family member of the crew on the Edmund Fitzgerald. He always gave us free tickets. I heard there were 29 men waiting for him. Awesome thought🤗
On May 1, 2023, heaven gained a legend when Gordon Lightfoot passed away at the age of 84. No doubt the angels are hearing Gordon's great voice (and Terry Clements' great guitar) singing this classic! RIP legend, you will be missed Gord.
His lyrics talk of before time and after the wheel. Time has no place for his music do the fact that time is irrelevant. He is 80 years old and continues too spread his awesome music. His musicians are great that stand by him through it all. Meaning, they know what a awesome man he his in his heart of people......
*"We are the navvies who worked upon the railway, swingin' our hammers in the bright blazin' sun, livin' on stew and drinkin' bad whiskey, bendin' our backs 'til the long days are done. We are the navvies who worked upon the railway, swingin' our hammers in the bright blazin' sun, layin' down track and buildin' the bridges, bendin' our backs 'til the railroad is done."* Every time I listen to this part of the song, I burst into tears. I don't know why. I wasn't around when this song was first released, nor was I around during the building of the Trans-Canada Canadian Pacific Railway.
A brilliant word picture of how both Canada and the United states were built. Our countries were built through grit, and determination. God love those who did such hard work, and thank you Mr. Lightfoot!
@@miltytzz22 I agree. I'm not from Canada, nor have I ever lived in Canada, but I have visited a few times over the years. Thank you, Sir Lightfoot for the great music and great storytelling.
Much more than a 'mere' popular culture icon. Gordon Lightfoot is a great artist and a national treasure--yet, he did it while still staying within the realm of easily-approached popular art. That's one of the reasons he's so great. I've always preferred punk & hard rock bur Gordon is an exceptional artist. Always a soft spot for Gordy. ;)
This song was practiced with Stroke when I first picked up the guitar. In fact, as a Korean, I don't know the details of Canada's history, but I felt the devotion of Canadian workers who had quietly pioneered their way to prosper their country against Canada's vast and grim nature. Thanks to Lightfoot for creating this song. I hope you are healthy. God bless you. 🚦🏞🚂🚃🚃🚃🛤🛤🛤
We actually owe very much to Chinese workers who did a lot to build our railways and produce in our mines... they were treated very poorly but they helped to build our country and should be honored for it.
As Mustang Terry says, much of the Canadian railway was constructed by Chinese labourers. They were worked literally to death sometimes (historians believe about 600 of the workers died), and not treated well at all. It's easy to say "that was a different time," and it certainly was, but it is still a sad part of our history. These interlinked songs are a testament to those workers and all the others who played a part in linking our massive, beautiful country from coast-to-coast.
He has a heart of pureness of people and life itself. His words are much deeper than his upbringings in Canada. He speaks of time and space itself through his heart of reality. Meaning, Gordon is a living Angel that perseveres his entire life to give joy to people that can truly understand his feelings and care for people and life itself. Angel he is.
i vote GORDON LIGHTFOOT for the rock and roll hall of fame
I'm a Brit of 58 watching this on holiday in Majorca! I loved him, and particularly this song, from my Mum playing it in the 70s as I grew up. A great man and this a fine tribute.
Our british radio stations dont play enough gordon lightfoot, such a shame he is as good has john denver imo. Probably not as popular.
There will never be music like this ever again. Beautiful and poignant, as well as timeless. Different world back then, and I miss it terribly.
Indeed I do
Indeed I do
Like Bob Dylan said while introducing Gordon into the hall of fame, "when I hear a Gordon Lightfoot song I just hope it never ends."
A legend was lost on May 1st, 2023. Thank you for all your great and inspiring music, Gord.
Canada shines a little less brightly now. Thank you, Gordon, for your masterful storytelling, music and your incredible voice - you stole our hearts so long ago and there you will forever remain.💕 A Canadian Legend
Two Folk - Legends = Gordon Lightfoot and his Gibson B45 ❤❤
I was privileged to promote Gordon in concert at the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 1973. It's an indelible memory. His talent, vocal, lyrics, and beautiful 12-string guitar mastery, will forever live in the annals of the best we were privileged to know. No better soundtrack was ever laid down.
Thank you Gordon Lightfoot for the beautiful music you gave this world.
You are truly loved and will be missed. Sleep peacefully.🙏
Gordon was one of Canada's greatest poets.Proof in his songs if you have a problem with that statement.
The world has become less in your passing Gordon Lightfoot.
Rest in peace ~
That seamless tempo change at 2:18, fantastic. You don't hear songs like this any more. Perfection.
This by far the best song written by Gordon. The structure of the music and choice of lyrics paints the word picture of the trials of building the Canadian Pacific Railway. You can just picture it...Gordon is a Wordsmith Extraordinaire...and I'm not saying that because I'm a Canadian.....the structure of this song is about as perfect as can be. I consider this to be Canada's second National Anthem....♥♥
He was commissioned by the CBC to write a song about the Canadian frontier and the taming of the wilderness. He gave it his best effort.... and he produced this gem!
@@dhutch71 I agree and I saw him in an interview saying it only took him 3 days to write it...
I'm American and I get goosebumps when I hear it. Tears 😢 so beautiful...
Perhaps an edited version should be the National Anthem. There is nothing more emblematic of Canada's formation as a nation than the construction of the transcontinental railway.
Agreed
Beautiful harmonies winding round beautiful story of Canadas History
Simply the quintesential song about Canada.
I should add that Gordon and his music saw me through Vietnam combat.
A Crowe I was on a train from northern Manitoba to Toronto, in 1967. The train was full of native Canadians going down to volunteer in Vietnam.
@@stephenbray9816 VILLA LA ANGOSTURA LOS 7 LAGOS CERRO CATEDRAL EL BOLSON BARILOCHE USHUAIA ARGENTINA
Thank you for your service
@@stephenbray9816 To you, A Crowe and others: Thank you, from an American. Your service and debt owed and to those other Canadians that went to Vietnam can never be repaid. Those that didn't come back deserve an honored spot on the Vietnam Wall in Washington DC, just so Americans know that Canadians, Australians and others served in Vietnam as well. About 40,000 Canadians served and 400 lost their lives, and 60,000 Australians served and 521 lost their lives. This humbles me.
What did you think of The Patriot's Dream?
Listened to Gordon Lightfoot a lot since he passed i didn't know he was so talented only listened to his charted songs in Australia I'm sorry I didn't buy more of his music RIP
Gordon is so good he makes me want to be Canadian. Can't really say that about anyone else.And the word is, shall remain Is.
I saw him last night in Chattanooga. 81 years old. He has slowed down and his voice is faint but he is still a legend!
I'm not Canadian but the very moment I heard this song, a young man in college, it touched my soul. Yes, it's proudly Canadian, but I think it's universal. It touches on the mythic and the yearning of any new country. Certainly, Canada's neighbor to the south had it's own railroad days; ribbons of steel being built on the backs, the dreams, the blood, sweat and tears, and even lives, of a melting pot of workers. The sense of the clashing dance of the wild and the pioneers, both awed and inspired, and the wild and reckless purpose of destiny, is so strong in this song. I think it stirs something very real in anyone who hears it.
If it doesn't, well I reckon there's no poetry, romance, or destiny in your soul.
Gord's given us a lot of gold, but this might be his motherlode masterpiece.
Plus, it's damn fun to play on the guitar...and sing!
Thanks, Gordon!
Well said, sir! I was 10 years old during Centennial Year, and I still remember hearing this on the radio, as well as in record shops and public events. It's lost none of its power in the intervening 50 years.
I'm an American, so the imagery Gordon created in my mind reminds me of the achievements of our ancestors and that "iron road running from the sea to the sea" applies equally to the States as well as Canada. Both had their iron roads.
Write a book
Tis deeper, than you read/hear into it...Gordon, is the last of the singer/songwriters...that still has the eggs, to get on stage.....not looking for glory or money.....Just, to educate folks, is what he does.
Cheers mate.
"When the green dark forest was too silent to be real"... Greatest song lyric I've ever heard...
Except for, possibly: "Does anyone know where the love of God goes, when the waves turn the minutes to hours?"
While that is a great lyric, I think he topped it with “Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours.”
He worked the English language like no other.
It is a great line, but that just adds to the emotional punch when he changes the lyrics for the final line of the song.
One of his many signature works, saw him 6 times in concert, saw him transform himself from a rather edgy alcoholic often bad tempered in concert evolved into a master of his craft. Will miss him forever. RIP sweet Gordon.
I cried at news of his passing. The only other time I did that for any musician was for Leonard Cohen. Canadian Railroad Trilogy is the essence of Canada. Tonight I am crying again listening and watching him. RIP Mr Lightfoot, you did Canada proud..and always will.
Me too. For both. I am from England and loved both from the late 60s till now and forever. 💕🇨🇦🇬🇧
This is most likely the way all Americans - Canadians and the real people in this world feel just Sleep in ease Gordon your soul is in the right place I’m sure of this ,,lllll
Loved his music and still do. There was no balladeer that could compare with him. Thank you sir for your wonderful music.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Canada is lesser for his passing. This one really hurt. RIP. Sleep well. 🇨🇦
R.I.P. to the great Gordon Lightfoot
I played in bars and small lounges for 17 years. I played Gordon Lightfoot songs every single night during that time. Thank you, sir.
MY ABSOLUTE FAVOURTE, I CRY EVERYTIME THINKING OF MY AND OTHERS ANCESTRY BUILDING OUR GREAT COUNTRY, THEN FIGHTING, BLEEDING AND DYING FOR IT AND US ALL. MAY GOD BLESS THEM AND WE THANK GORDON LIGHTFOOT FOR BRINGING IT TO LIFE. GOD BLESS GORDON. AMEN.
Genius. We are lucky to have lived in his time.
‘When the green dark forest was too silent to be real’…
Proud Canadian from Orilla. Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town. 😊
People who ONLY know him for his (great) big hits don't know what they're missing. He's written SO many songs that are every bit as good as the ones that get all the airplay.
Yep
Lightfoot is a master of beautiful and meaningful lyrics
RIP, Gordon Lightfoot! Saddened to hear of your passing this week, but your music is a wonderful legacy that lives on and on. Thank you for sharing your talents and I wish you blue skies and tailwinds on your journey.
Our elementary school senior choir performed this song. Back then it seemed so long...an epic really. I suppose it is! Thanks for your great contributions to the great Canadian songbook, Sir Lightfoot!
The two greatest Canadian writers. Gord and Pierre Burton. I have the age to make this opinion.
Fifty-eight years I lived on this planet and thought I had heard most of all the great songs out there and came across this and was blown away. What an under-rated song this is, oh my!
In my experience ( 67 yrs old) , there are some songs that don't really hit you, until you are of a certain age. You just can't appreciate them when you're younger.
MAY 1, 2023 ❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻🇨🇦. A SAD DAY
This song is the reason I bought my first 12-string guitar and why I still play primarily 12-strings.
RIP to a great songwriter
I'm in the UK and I'd never heard this song until a couple of days ago when a friend brought his guitar round and asked me to add a mandolin part. I'm completely blown away by the beauty of the melodies and the power of the lyrics. It's a joy to play, and I hope when we perform it in public we can do it justice.
Gordon is our Canadian treasure and when you listen to the American Tony Rice, who dedicated an entire album to Lightfoot songs, you can feel creativity and art soar.
@@peterritchie2990 what can I say
You will.
As a Canadian I am happy that you have discovered this treasure of a song and proud that you want to play it. It is probably in my opinion, the best song ever written due to it's musical structure, choice of lyrics and instrumental perfection.
One of many great songs from Gordon
I love the fact that he never deviated. That is exactly how it was recorded.
The transitions in this song are what makes this piece so great.
It's like listening to three songs in one.
A Lightfoot masterpiece.
I read somewhere that he patterned this song after Bob Gibson's 'Civil War Trilogy'.
@Gordon Lightfoot Thank you for so much great music, Gordon. I'm a grateful, lifelong fan. The first time I heard, and fell in love with, one of your songs I was about 7 years old.
As planned. They are called "movements "
right... that is why it's a trilogy... usually that means 3😂
Well, a "trilogy" literally means a suite that is three songs mashed into one..
RIP Sir, you and your music will endure for so many more generations to come. G-d Bless.
This song ALONE would have made a career for lesser stars in the firmament.
Note how the tempo of the verses imitates the steam locomotives firiing up as they pull out...brilliant. Lightfoot is to Canada, what Woody Guthrie is to the States.
Long may you run, Gord, long may you run.
I'm from the states. Guthrie couldn't carry Lightfoot's capo. Bob Dylan might be a more accurate comparison, only Gord could sing.
Yeah I really do not see Gordon Lightfoot as a staunch Communist icon
@@HighlyInsulatedDummy but certainly progressive.
@@HighlyInsulatedDummy SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES CASCADA DE LOS CANTAROS BARILOCHE EL BOLSON USHUAIA ARGENTINA
@@donhuber9131 VILLA LA ANGOSTURA CERRO CATEDRAL BARILOCHE MAMUSCHKA EL BOLSON USHUAIA ARGENTINA
Gordon was a legend.
I really wish I would have seen Gord live...and it looks like the year 2000 was an EXCELLENT time to do so.
I am stunned at the sheer volume and quality of Gordons songs that never get old and tired for me, no matter how often I play them, unlike many other artists whos songs I enjoy but tire of listening to; it's strange that Lightfoots music impacts me emotionally to a level I gladly can't shake. I'm stuck with him.........to my absolute benefit.
Me too. You never can overplay a Gordon Lightfoot song. I consider that a form of measure for music. Just like Beatle music, and Creedence Clearwater, you can never overplay. Other musicians have done this with some of their songs, but very few can measure the same as Gordon.
Absolutely LOVE this man & his music. True Canadiana.
Awesome
Agreed from Walnut Grove, MO
I am overwhelmed by your love and support to my musical career . message me privately through hangouts.
Hangout:therealgordonlightfoot.connects@gmail.com
I would like to state that I am a big fan of Gordon. He is a true genius and the Canadian Railroad Trilogy is a masterpiece. I can't help myself though being the history lover that I am. This Railroad was built through the some of the the most unsuitable territory. Much easier to build railroads north and south as opposed to east and west through the Canadian Shield. The Railroad was built to unite British Colonies to keep them from being absorbed into the USA. The all Canadian route, as tough as it was to build was to maintain independence from the US.
A significant number of the men who built it were Chinese immigrants. Racism was certainly evident back then. Chinese people could not get citizenship, and had to pay a head tax to immigrate here. Many of those people were killed building the Railroad as they were given the most dangerous jobs. It wasn't a problem as the casualty was buried right there and was quickly replaced. Just wanted to give the Chinese immigrant labourers the credit they deserve as they did much of the hard and dangerous work during difficult times.
Thank you, Scallywag 67. That was interesting.
How virtuous-🤮
In the U.S., people are not very aware of how much Gordon is a icon in Canada. He is thought of as a inspired singer songwriter in the U.S. but if you delve into his catalogue, including songs like this masterpiece, they will be blessed to hear some of the greatest songs of the last 50 years.
He was a huge influence on my guitar playing when I first started. Love him
Crossbow0106 Their loss and our gain.
That may be...however there are many...many of us south of the border who treasure him an icon too! I've Been to 4 of his concerts in Green Bay alone! No other like him. Thanks You Canada for Gord!
It depends where in the US you are referencing, along the Canadian border, the north, we are very aware of Gordon Lightfoot and his themes of the north.
Being from Northern Michigan, where I could literally look across the St. Mary's river and see Ontario, Gord and his iconic voice not only tells the stories of his homeland but of the northern experience, both in Canada and the US.
Canadian Railway Trilogy is such a solitary piece of poetry that speaks of the soul of not only being Canadian but of the northern character.
I'm from the US and I love Gordon Lightfoot. I was so happy that I got to see him in Nashville last summer. I wish he had a bigger presence here.
I have loved his music since I first heard it 53 years ago. And it still hits me like a train still....RIP
Most of Gordon's songs are at least 5 minutes or longer of music and excellent lyrics
This song still brings me to tears .... "and many are the dead men .... too silent to be real"
My great grandfather helped build the Pacific Canadian railroad. Actually he got the contract to build the railroad stations. Then went to the Alaska gold rush
Gordon and Harry Chapin were my favorites for those who could do it all, write like a fiend, play like a Master and sing like their very own. Extremely special! Thanks!
JOHN, I SAW HARRY AND GORDIE AT THE OLD GRANDSTAND IN TARANNA, BACK WHEN I DON'T REMEMBER. I THINK THEY SANG AND PLAYED TOGETHER AT THE END OF CONCERT. HARRY PASSED IN 1981, AFTER THAT DUMB CAR ACCIDENT. JEEZUS, HARRY, WHAT THE F WERE U THINKIN', DRIVIN' YERSELF. U HAD ENUFF TO PAY FOR A TAXI. HEY, HARRY, U WROTE A SONG ABOUT DRIVIN' A TAXI, RIGHT!!!!!!!!!!! I WILL NEVER FORGET DRIVING HOME AND NOT KNOWIN' MY OLD MAN HAD DIED. WHAT A F'N RECEPTION AT THE DOOR WHEN I GOT HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Excellent songwriter and singer! Rest in peace, Gordon Lightfoot; ya done real good and many, many thanks.
✨👍🥴✨
R.I.P Gordon Lightfoot. You made history in the world music.
Magical live performance. Not many can sing like Gordon Lightfoot, and it takes a fine voice to do justice to the beauty of this composition and the emotion of the lyrics.
Gordon had a unique voice, I've never heard anyone ever come close to sounding like him...
Say what you will about his image, his mannerisms, or even what country he is from, Gordon Lightfoot is a man of great heart, soul and talent :)
He might even be a little flustered if I said it to his face, but there are songwriters, and then there are songwriters, and Gordie is a songwriter that set a gold standard for the art form a long time ago that very few could ever touch.
According to my daughter, Gordon like most Canadians loved his beer,God bless him, so many beautiful songs with fantastic lyrics, a true treasure, when he goes I will shed a tear or million.
You were one of the best... Rest in peace, Gordon.
One of my favorite songs to play and sing. R.I.P. great man.
One of the greatest northern lights of all time.
"Time has no beginnings, and history has no bounds ..... "
Boy do I love this Gordon Lightfoot and his band. Such gifted talent and they make it look easy, as the BEST always do.
During these current tumultuous times, going back to listen to and appreciate this incredible troubadour makes me proud to be Canadian. Well done, Mr Lightfoot.
Unfortunately, I will never have the opportunity to see this genius live on stage. Thank you for the great songs over many, many years Mr Lightfoot. A long time fan from Belgium.
I have been to many of his concerts and believe me, you missed out. His stage productions were never glitzy or filled with hype. It was just pure Gordon, plain, simple and first rate.
A Living Legend delivering a legendary story about his "home and native land"...Mr.Lightfoot's Centennial birthday gift for the country he loves so dearly...CANADA.....and the feeling is mutual from millions of his Canuck fans!!!
a legend.
My absolute favourite Lightfoot tune.
Was a privilege to finally listen to to Mr. Lightfoot at Mariposa in 2019.
Proud Orillian ❤️
Like his strumming pattern on his Gibson B45-12 ❤
I used to go see Lightfoot frequently in Detroit, Windsor and Toronto. When I was in college we used to drive up to Toronto a lot. We’d stay at this tacky hotel called the Hotel Detroit. I remember the desk clerk wore a green spangled coat.
RIP - one of his best songs
One of many things I admire about Gordon is he was proud of where he came from with a song like this. I hope he is in peace with God!
I do not think the Americans understand just what Gordon means to us Canadians!!!! I so still see my grandfather, dad, and uncles singing and playing his songs on the guitar, with the family singing singing along!!!! The memories will always be with me!!!!
Well, he has to mean a lot to Canadians because I know what he means to us Americans. Don Quixote was my favorite of all time but I really liked them all. Second Cup Of Coffee is my daughter's favorite. She sings it a lot.
🎶 Canada has lost such a great Canadian legend. RIP Gordon Lightfoot. May your memory and music live on forever. 🎶
I was blessed him. I am a family member of the crew on the Edmund Fitzgerald. He always gave us free tickets.
I heard there were 29 men waiting for him.
Awesome thought🤗
Sure going to miss you Gordon!
This is truly a Canadian living treasure.
Livin' on stew, and drinkin' bad whiskey. Can never listen to this without tearing up a little. Godspeed, Gord. Vaya con Dios.
Dylan said lightfoot was the best poet ,singer,songwriter … Ever
On May 1, 2023, heaven gained a legend when Gordon Lightfoot passed away at the age of 84. No doubt the angels are hearing Gordon's great voice (and Terry Clements' great guitar) singing this classic! RIP legend, you will be missed Gord.
Rest in peace Sir ❤️
Goodbye to the beautiful melodic folk rock virtuoso........ Thank you so much my friend 😊
What a treasure he is.
I love this version by Gordon. It's so great. He's so great.
story teller with a great voice !
His lyrics talk of before time and after the wheel. Time has no place for his music do the fact that time is irrelevant. He is 80 years old and continues too spread his awesome music. His musicians are great that stand by him through it all. Meaning, they know what a awesome man he his in his heart of people......
He's 80, I'm 63 and I still love him!!!
The greatest song in Canadian music history.
*"We are the navvies who worked upon the railway, swingin' our hammers in the bright blazin' sun, livin' on stew and drinkin' bad whiskey, bendin' our backs 'til the long days are done. We are the navvies who worked upon the railway, swingin' our hammers in the bright blazin' sun, layin' down track and buildin' the bridges, bendin' our backs 'til the railroad is done."* Every time I listen to this part of the song, I burst into tears. I don't know why. I wasn't around when this song was first released, nor was I around during the building of the Trans-Canada Canadian Pacific Railway.
A brilliant word picture of how both Canada and the United states were built. Our countries were built through grit, and determination. God love those who did such hard work, and thank you Mr. Lightfoot!
@@miltytzz22 I agree. I'm not from Canada, nor have I ever lived in Canada, but I have visited a few times over the years. Thank you, Sir Lightfoot for the great music and great storytelling.
He is an Icon in Canada, and in my heart!!!
Much more than a 'mere' popular culture icon. Gordon Lightfoot is a great artist and a national treasure--yet, he did it while still staying within the realm of easily-approached popular art.
That's one of the reasons he's so great.
I've always preferred punk & hard rock bur Gordon is an exceptional artist. Always a soft spot for Gordy. ;)
Rest in Peace to a musical legend . Luckily his legend will live on in his music
Have been entranced with Gordon Lightfoot since I first heard his music in the early 1970’s. He is still part of each of my days. Thankyou Gordon.9
This song was practiced with Stroke when I first picked up the guitar. In fact, as a Korean, I don't know the details of Canada's history, but I felt the devotion of Canadian workers who had quietly pioneered their way to prosper their country against Canada's vast and grim nature.
Thanks to Lightfoot for creating this song. I hope you are healthy.
God bless you.
🚦🏞🚂🚃🚃🚃🛤🛤🛤
God bless you my friend.
We actually owe very much to Chinese workers who did a lot to build our railways and produce in our mines... they were treated very poorly but they helped to build our country and should be honored for it.
As Mustang Terry says, much of the Canadian railway was constructed by Chinese labourers. They were worked literally to death sometimes (historians believe about 600 of the workers died), and not treated well at all. It's easy to say "that was a different time," and it certainly was, but it is still a sad part of our history. These interlinked songs are a testament to those workers and all the others who played a part in linking our massive, beautiful country from coast-to-coast.
God bless!
Gordon Lightfoot, Legend 🙏👍🙏👍
Such a beautiful song from many a collection from a man who is a gift from God.
RIP Gord!🇨🇦
gordon lightfoot has been so important to music since The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgeralrd
He was my favorite singer when I was a teenager , loved his music.
Wow, still sounds the same, never changes. Great song..
He has a heart of pureness of people and life itself. His words are much deeper than his upbringings in Canada. He speaks of time and space itself through his heart of reality. Meaning, Gordon is a living Angel that perseveres his entire life to give joy to people that can truly understand his feelings and care for people and life itself. Angel he is.
Greg Yowler He blows my mind.
Fan of this genius for the last 40 odd years. Only downside is that I never had the chance to see him here in Belgium.