I remember going to a Gordon Lightfoot concert in the mid 70s. There had been a wind storm and the marquee read: WELCOME GORDO LI FOO. Not quite sure why I remember that, if I didn't know better I would have expected an oriental singer!
Many of his songs made an impact on my life. Black Day in July, describing the '67 race riots in Detroit, Circle of Steel, and Don Quixote are a few that come to mind. I saw him in concert many times over the years. There was one show where he had to stop and start over three times while singing the Edmund Fitzgerald. I can see how you could let your mind wander a bit as you sing that song for the umpteenth time in a row for who knows how many days.
The last time I saw him in concert was just about a year ago. The voice was a little thinner, but still had passion. After the show I happened to be in the parking lot when he came out. There were only a couple other people there. I made eye contact with him and just said, thank you. He nodded and got into a sports car, and headed out with another member of the band. He had an amazing life and touched a lot of people. He will be missed!
Black Day in July:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCQmx_wJH6oCircle of Steel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--QaFL_eXeMDon Quixote:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJB0nCv0qxk
