Gordon Lightfoot, the iconic Canadian folk musician, has died at 84. Lightfoot was known for his songs that touched on Canadian history and identity, including “Carefree Highway,” “Early Morning Rain,” “If You Could Read My Mind,” “Sundown,” and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.”
The singer-songwriter died of natural causes at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto on Monday evening, Lightfoot’s publicist Victoria Lord confirmed on Monday. The musician recently cancelled touring plans due to ongoing health issues.
Tributes have been pouring in for the legendary musician.
On a day when my waves resemble the gales of November, I ask…
Does any one know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?
Rest in peace, Gordon Lightfoot, you will always have a place here. It's been good to know ya. 🙏🌊 pic.twitter.com/fIRwAePhjz
— Lake Superior (@LakeSuperior) May 2, 2023
We have lost one of our greatest singer-songwriters. Gordon Lightfoot captured our country’s spirit in his music – and in doing so, he helped shape Canada’s soundscape. May his music continue to inspire future generations, and may his legacy live on forever. To his family,…
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) May 2, 2023
He sat on top of the mountain.
He shared what he saw.For so many around the world, they knew our stories because of him.
Rest in peace Gord.
Golden forever.Gordon Lightfoot 1938-2023
pic.twitter.com/kEytbPIAK2 pic.twitter.com/dQNomQOHOp— George Stroumboulopoulos 🐺 (@strombo) May 2, 2023
Gordon Lightfoot = Canada.
Rest easy, Gord. It was the greatest of honours to meet you. pic.twitter.com/2x2VJj6Z1r
— Tara Slone (@TaraSlone) May 2, 2023
Gordon Lightfoot has died. He was a great songwriter and a wonderful performer. Sundown, you better take care/If I catch you creepin' 'round my back stairs."
— Stephen King (@StephenKing) May 2, 2023
The world lost one of its great storytellers yesterday. Canada lost part of itself. And I lost a hero. Gordon Lightfoot, may you rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/RgafvNdBrd
— Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) May 2, 2023
Lightfoot was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1986, and received the Governor General’s Award in 1997.