Complete List Of Gordon Lightfoot Albums And Discography

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This Complete List Of Gordon Lightfoot Albums And Songs presents the full discography of Gordon Lightfoot studio albums. Gordon Lightfoot, a name synonymous with the folk and country music scenes, has left an indelible mark on the history of music. Born on November 17, 1938, in Orillia, Ontario, Canada, Lightfoot began his journey into the world of music at an early age. As a boy, he sang in the choir and later learned to play piano and drums. But it was his proficiency in the guitar that would ultimately become his primary instrument and signature sound.

In the early 1960s, Lightfoot moved to Los Angeles, California, where he studied at Hollywood’s Westlake College of Music. He returned to Canada and got his first big break when he was asked to replace Ian Tyson of the folk duo Ian and Sylvia on a TV show in 1963. This exposure led to opportunities to write songs for other artists, but Lightfoot was determined to be known as a performer as well as a songwriter.

His debut album, “Lightfoot!” was released in 1966. It included some of his most enduring tracks like “Early Morning Rain” and “For Lovin’ Me,” which gained immediate attention. His second album, “The Way I Feel,” was released in 1967 and established him as a potent force in the folk music arena. Lightfoot continued to release albums almost annually, with albums like “Sit Down Young Stranger” and “Don Quixote” further cementing his place in the annals of music history.

The 1970s were a period of immense success for Lightfoot. His 1971 single “If You Could Read My Mind” became a Top 10 hit in both the United States and Canada. But it was “Sundown,” released in 1974, that earned Lightfoot his first number-one hit on the Billboard charts. Then came the iconic “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” a song based on a true story of a freighter that sank in Lake Superior in 1975. The song reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and is considered one of his signature songs.

Through the ’80s and ’90s, Lightfoot continued to tour and release new music, although the frequency of his albums slowed down. In 2002, he faced a serious health scare when he suffered an abdominal aortic aneurysm, but he recovered and returned to touring in 2004. In 2012, he was honored with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, acknowledging his contributions to the Canadian music landscape.

In addition to his commercial success, Gordon Lightfoot has received numerous accolades and honors, including 16 Juno Awards and a Grammy nomination. He was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1986 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2012.

Lightfoot!

Released 1966

Gordon Lightfoot’s debut album, “Lightfoot!” was released in 1966 and marked his first step into the world of recorded music. The album features Lightfoot on vocals and guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and John Stockfish on bass. Produced by John Court, it was released on United Artists Records. The album was primarily recorded at RCA Studios in Toronto.

The album included classic Lightfoot songs like “Early Morning Rain” and “For Lovin’ Me,” both of which would be covered by a wide range of artists in the future. Although the album did not make a significant commercial impact at the time of its release, it gained critical acclaim and established Lightfoot as an emerging talent in the folk music scene.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Rich Man’s Spiritual”
2. “Long River”
3. “The Way I Feel”
4. “For Lovin’ Me”
5. “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”
6. “Changes”
7. “Early Morning Rain”
8. “Steel Rail Blues”
9. “Sixteen Miles”
10. “I’m Not Sayin'”
11. “Pride of Man”
12. “Ribbon of Darkness”

The Way I Feel

Released 1967

“The Way I Feel” was Gordon Lightfoot’s second album, released in 1967. It built upon the foundations of his debut and helped to further solidify his standing in the folk music world. Produced by John Court and featuring the same lineup as his debut album — Lightfoot on vocals and guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and John Stockfish on bass — the album was recorded at RCA Studios in Toronto.

The album contained some of Lightfoot’s most emotionally charged work, including the title track “The Way I Feel.” While it didn’t break any chart records, it was critically well-received and continued to build Lightfoot’s fanbase.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Walls”
2. “If You Got It”
3. “Softly”
4. “Crossroads”
5. “A Minor Ballad”
6. “Go-Go Round”
7. “Rosanna”
8. “Home From The Forest”
9. “I’ll Be Alright”
10. “Song For A Winter’s Night”
11. “Canadian Railroad Trilogy”
12. “The Way I Feel”

Did She Mention My Name?

Released 1968

Gordon Lightfoot’s third studio album, “Did She Mention My Name?” was released in 1968. The album was recorded at Eastern Sound in Toronto and produced by Elliot Mazer. It included Red Shea on guitar and John Stockfish on bass.

The album was notable for its inclusion of “Black Day in July,” a song about the 1967 Detroit riot. It made a modest showing on the charts, peaking at number 197 on the Billboard 200. The album’s release helped to consolidate Lightfoot’s reputation as one of Canada’s leading songwriters.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Wherefore and Why”
2. “The Last Time I Saw Her”
3. “Black Day in July”
4. “May I”
5. “Magnificent Outpouring”
6. “Does Your Mother Know”
7. “The Mountain and Maryann”
8. “Pussywillows, Cat-Tails”
9. “I Want to Hear It from You”
10. “Something Very Special”
11. “Boss Man”
12. “Did She Mention My Name”

Back Here on Earth

Released 1968

“Back Here on Earth” is Gordon Lightfoot’s fourth studio album. It stands as a solid testament to Lightfoot’s songwriting prowess and versatility in the folk and folk-rock genres. Not as commercially successful as some of his later works, it still contains compositions that have endured in Lightfoot’s repertoire. It exhibits a balance of poetic storytelling and melodic craftsmanship.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and John Stockfish on bass. The album was produced by Elliot Mazer and was released on United Artists Records. It was recorded at Bradley’s Barn, Mount Juliet, Tennessee, during the summer of 1968.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Long Way Back Home” – 3:04
2. “Unsettled Ways” – 1:52
3. “Long Thin Dawn” – 2:58
4. “Bitter Green” – 2:42
5. “The Circle is Small” – 3:27
6. “Marie Christine” – 2:54
7. “Cold Hands from New York” – 5:18
8. “Affair on 8th Avenue” – 3:27
9. “Don’t Beat Me Down” – 3:16
10. “The Gypsy” – 2:45
11. “If I Could” – 4:02

Sit Down Young Stranger

Released 1970

“Sit Down Young Stranger” is one of Gordon Lightfoot’s most celebrated albums, largely due to the inclusion of the hit single “If You Could Read My Mind,” which reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album features a mix of folk and soft rock, showcasing Lightfoot’s gift for storytelling. It was certified Gold in the United States.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and Joe Wissert and was released on Reprise Records. It was recorded at Amigo Studios in Los Angeles, California, during late 1969 and early 1970.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Minstrel of the Dawn” – 3:26
2. “Me and Bobby McGee” – 3:46
3. “Approaching Lavender” – 2:56
4. “Saturday Clothes” – 3:22
5. “Cobwebs & Dust” – 3:20
6. “Poor Little Allison” – 2:30
7. “Sit Down Young Stranger” – 3:26
8. “If You Could Read My Mind” – 3:48
9. “Baby It’s Alright” – 3:01
10. “Your Love’s Return” – 3:55
11. “The Pony Man” – 3:32

Summer Side of Life

Released 1971

The album “Summer Side of Life” followed closely on the heels of the success of “Sit Down Young Stranger,” featuring more of Lightfoot’s strong lyrical storytelling and melodious hooks. Though it wasn’t as commercially successful as its predecessor, it was well-received critically and added to Lightfoot’s already flourishing career.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. Additional musicians included Ry Cooder on mandolin and Van Dyke Parks on harmonium. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and was released on Reprise Records. It was recorded in early 1971 at Amigo Studios in Los Angeles, California.

CD Track Listings:

1. “10 Degrees & Getting Colder” – 2:42
2. “Miguel” – 4:02
3. “Go My Way” – 2:14
4. “Summer Side of Life” – 4:05
5. “Cotton Jenny” – 3:26
6. “Talking in Your Sleep” – 2:55
7. “Nous Vivons Ensemble” – 3:43
8. “Same Old Loverman” – 3:21
9. “Redwood Hill” – 2:51
10. “Love & Maple Syrup” – 3:14
11. “Cabaret” – 3:53

Don Quixote

Released 1972

“Don Quixote” is another strong entry in Gordon Lightfoot’s discography. It continues in the vein of his earlier works, offering storytelling and melody that showcase his gift for lyricism. The album features one of Lightfoot’s signature songs, “Beautiful.”

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and was released on Reprise Records. It was recorded in 1971 at Amigo Studios in Los Angeles, California.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Don Quixote” – 3:42
2. “Christian Island (Georgian Bay)” – 3:11
3. “Alberta Bound” – 3:06
4. “Looking at the Rain” – 3:45
5. “Ordinary Man” – 3:27
6. “Brave Mountaineers” – 3:00
7. “Ode to Big Blue” – 4:48
8. “Second Cup of Coffee” – 3:14
9. “Beautiful” – 3:23
10. “On Susan’s Floor” – 4:01
11. “The Patriot’s Dream” – 3:34

Old Dan’s Records

Released 1972

“Old Dan’s Records” shows Lightfoot exploring more upbeat and pop-influenced territories while still maintaining his signature folk style. It’s a warm and laid-back album that includes the memorable title track.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and was released on Reprise Records. It was recorded in 1972 at Eastern Sound in Toronto, Canada.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Farewell to Annabel” – 3:23
2. “That Same Old Obsession” – 3:43
3. “Old Dan’s Records” – 3:01
4. “Lazy Mornin'” – 3:46
5. “You Are What I Am” – 2:40
6. “Can’t Depend on Love” – 3:09
7. “My Pony Won’t Go” – 3:47
8. “It’s Worth Believin'” – 3:22
9. “Mother of a Miner’s Child” – 3:18
10. “Hi’way Songs” – 3:36

Sundown

Released 1974

“Sundown” is among Gordon Lightfoot’s most commercially successful albums, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The title track also topped the Billboard Hot 100. The album is a well-crafted collection of folk and country-influenced tunes, featuring Lightfoot’s mellifluous voice and poetic lyrics.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Terry Clements on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and was released on Reprise Records. It was recorded in late 1973 at Eastern Sound Studios in Toronto, Canada.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Somewhere U.S.A.” – 2:50
2. “High and Dry” – 2:13
3. “Seven Island Suite” – 6:00
4. “Circle of Steel” – 2:45
5. “Is There Anyone Home” – 3:15
6. “The Watchman’s Gone” – 4:19
7. “Sundown” – 3:45
8. “Carefree Highway” – 3:45
9. “The List” – 3:00
10. “Too Late for Prayin'” – 4:15

Cold on the Shoulder

Released 1975

“Cold on the Shoulder” is another fine album in Lightfoot’s discography. Though it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as “Sundown,” it’s still a strong collection of songs that showcase his lyrical and melodic talents.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Terry Clements on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and was released on Reprise Records. It was recorded in late 1974 at Eastern Sound Studios in Toronto, Canada.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Bend in the Water” – 3:29
2. “Rainy Day People” – 2:52
3. “Cold on the Shoulder” – 3:01
4. “The Soul Is the Rock” – 3:41
5. “Bells of the Evening” – 3:56
6. “Rainbow Trout” – 2:49
7. “A Tree Too Weak to Stand” – 2:53
8. “All the Lovely Ladies” – 2:48
9. “Fine as Fine Can Be” – 2:54
10. “Cherokee Bend” – 5:01

Summertime Dream

Released 1976

“Summertime Dream” is notable for including one of Gordon Lightfoot’s most famous songs, “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” which recounts the sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald on Lake Superior. The album achieved commercial and critical success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Terry Clements on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and was released on Reprise Records. It was recorded in early 1976 at Eastern Sound Studios in Toronto, Canada.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Race Among the Ruins” – 3:20
2. “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” – 6:28
3. “I’m Not Supposed to Care” – 3:30
4. “I’d Do It Again” – 3:15
5. “Never Too Close” – 3:01
6. “Protocol” – 4:01
7. “The House You Live In” – 2:58
8. “Summertime Dream” – 2:27
9. “Spanish Moss” – 3:51
10. “Too Many Clues in This Room” – 4:49

Endless Wire

Released 1978

“Endless Wire” stands as one of Gordon Lightfoot’s more ambitious projects. Though it didn’t reach the same commercial peaks as his earlier work, the album offers a rich tapestry of stories and melodies.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Terry Clements on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and Gordon Lightfoot and was released on Warner Bros. Records. It was recorded in late 1977 at Eastern Sound Studios in Toronto, Canada.

CD Track Listings:

1. “Daylight Katy” – 4:18
2. “Sweet Guinevere” – 2:58
3. “Hangdog Hotel Room” – 2:53
4. “If There’s a Reason” – 4:48
5. “Endless Wire” – 4:15
6. “Dreamland” – 3:11
7. “Songs the Minstrel Sang” – 3:12
8. “Sometimes I Don’t Mind” – 3:04
9. “If Children Had Wings” – 3:24
10. “The Circle Is Small” – 3:33

GORDON LIGHTFOOT LIVE ALBUMS

Two Tones at the Village Corner

Released 1962

“Two Tones at the Village Corner” is an early album by Gordon Lightfoot, recorded in collaboration with Terry Whelan as part of the folk duo The Two Tones. This album predates his solo career and offers a glimpse into his early influences, primarily focused on traditional folk and acoustic tunes.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, and Terry Whelan also on vocals and guitar. The album was not produced by a well-known producer as it was an early independent effort. It was released on Chateau Records. The album was recorded live at the Village Corner, a popular folk club in Toronto, Canada, during the early 1960s.

CD Track Listings:

1. “The Auctioneer” – 3:10
2. “Take This Hammer” – 2:20
3. “Midnight Special” – 2:42
4. “It Takes a Worried Man” – 2:55
5. “They Call the Wind Maria” – 3:29
6. “This Little Light” – 2:15
7. “Scarlet Ribbons” – 2:49
8. “Dark as a Dungeon” – 3:35
9. “The Way I Feel” – 2:46
10. “Greenback Dollar” – 2:25

Sunday Concert

Released 1969

“Sunday Concert” is a live album that captures Gordon Lightfoot’s strong stage presence and storytelling abilities. The album was recorded live at Massey Hall in Toronto and features a mix of original compositions along with covers, displaying the wide range of Lightfoot’s musical abilities and influences.

The album featured Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Red Shea on lead guitar, and Rick Haynes on bass. The album was produced by Lenny Waronker and released on United Artists Records. It was recorded at Massey Hall in Toronto, Canada, on March 15–16, 1969.

CD Track Listings:

1. “In a Windowpane” – 3:53
2. “The Lost Children” – 4:18
3. “Leaves of Grass” – 3:28
4. “Medley: I’m Not Sayin’ / Ribbon of Darkness” – 4:00
5. “Apology” – 2:23
6. “Bitter Green” – 2:47
7. “Ballad of Yarmouth Castle” – 4:17
8. “Softly” – 4:23
9. “Boss Man” – 2:17
10. “Pussywillows, Cat-Tails” – 2:57
11. “Canadian Railroad Trilogy” – 6:31

All Live

Released 2012

“All Live” is a live album by Gordon Lightfoot, compiled from performances at Massey Hall in Toronto between 1998 and 2001. It’s a retrospective set that captures Lightfoot at a later stage in his career, delivering mature, reflective renditions of his most popular songs.

The album features Gordon Lightfoot on vocals and acoustic guitar, Terry Clements on lead guitar, Rick Haynes on bass, Barry Keane on drums and percussion, and Mike Heffernan on keyboards. It was produced by Bob Doidge and Gordon Lightfoot, and released on Linus Entertainment/Warner Music Canada. The album was recorded at Massey Hall in Toronto, Canada, between 1998 and 2001.

CD Track Listings:

1. “14 Karat Gold” – 3:02
2. “If You Could Read My Mind” – 4:09
3. “Fine as Fine Can Be” – 2:49
4. “Baby Step Back” – 3:32
5. “Early Morning Rain” – 4:02
6. “Restless” – 3:54
7. “A Painter Passing Through” – 4:12
8. “Rainy Day People” – 2:49
9. “Ringneck Loon” – 3:32
10. “Shadows” – 3:28
11. “Sundown” – 3:35
12. “Carefree Highway” – 3:52
13. “Christian Island” – 3:13
14. “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” – 6:19
15. “Canadian Railroad Trilogy” – 6:23
16. “Let It Ride” – 2:49
17. “Blackberry Wine” – 3:18
18. “Song for a Winter’s Night” – 3:20
19. “Old Dan’s Records” – 3:02

Complete List Of Gordon Lightfoot Albums And Discography article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023

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