A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
Let me be the first to break that there is new stuff coming. For the first time since his life-saving surgery in 2002, Lightfoot has written new material.
“I have,” he said with a coy grin. “I have about 14 new songs written and I think the new album will be out in about a year ... It’s going to be philosophical but kind of funny and positive too,” he said. “It will be my 21st original album and I am very proud of that since I wasn’t sure I still had one in me.” ----- https://torontosun.com/news/local-ne...h-show-of-2018 Living legend Gordon Lightfoot marks 80th birthday playing 80th show of 2018 Joe Warmington So how is Gordon Lightfoot spending his 80th birthday? Up on stage and with his fans of course — 3,000 strong Friday night in Oshawa. “I can’t think of any better way to celebrate,” he said Friday in his dressing room at the Tribute Communities Centre. “It’s perfect.” It will be extra special Saturday night at the Opera House in Orillia where the legendary singer/songwriter will bring in number 80 where it all began. “It sure brings back a lot of memories,” he said. His beloved wife Kim said there is no question “it will be very emotional for him — as was this whole year of shows.” Lightfoot says this whole weekend — Thursday in Hamilton, Friday in Oshawa, Saturday in Orillia and Sunday at the National Art’s Centre in Ottawa — has been as fun a Canadian experience as this Canadian icon could ever ask for. He works hard at it too. He gets to the venue every day at 1 p.m., tunes his guitars for an hour before getting up on stage for sound check with his bandmates. “We want it to sound right and we want to make sure the audience is entertained,” he said. Sunday’s show will also mark the 80th show of 2018 — his own little statement that somebody turning 80 can tour as well as the youngsters. “I started doing this in 1965. I feel very blessed to be still doing it (but) it is true I almost didn’t make to 80 a few times,” he said with a laugh. One time he almost got hit by a truck on a movie set. Other times were close calls on the highway. And there was the 2002 health crisis in which he had an abdominal aortic aneurysm that landed him in emergency with headlines suggesting he was at “death’s door.” They were wrong. The worst example was in 2010 when it was reported he had died. Lightfoot was sitting in the dental chair and heard in the background on AM 640 legendary radio host Charles Adler expressing his sorrow on the news being widely reported. “The first thing I thought of was to call (Charles) and tell him I was still alive,” Lightfoot said with a chuckle. I remember that day all too well — tracking him down for a photo out front of the Toronto Sun. “I remember, I was checking to see if I had a pulse,” he said. “At the time it seemed strange but now it seems funny.” But he doesn’t take any day for granted. “I made it through and I came back,” he said. “I have met many people who have been through health scares and I always tell them to keep fighting.” One thing for sure whether it’s The Wreck of The Edmund Fitzgerald, If You Could Read My Mind, Early Morning Rain, Sundown, Carefree Highway Sundown or any of the other classic hits, Lightfoot’s material will live on forever. And at 80 he is still performing to sold out audiences of people from little kids all the way up to 100. He has no plans to retire either. “We are going out on tour in the spring again,” he said. But that’s not the biggest news of the day for life suffering fans hoping for new material. Let me be the first to break that there is new stuff coming. For the first time since his life-saving surgery in 2002, Lightfoot has written new material. “I have,” he said with a coy grin. “I have about 14 new songs written and I think the new album will be out in about a year.” While fans can’t wait to hear new material, they wonder what is Lightfoot going to write about? “It’s going to be philosophical but kind of funny and positive too,” he said. “It will be my 21st original album and I am very proud of that since I wasn’t sure I still had one in me.” Turns out the present at Gordon Lightfoot’s 80th birthday is for his fans. |
A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
When it's midnight on the east coast ,
on the morning of November seventeen. Our minstrel of the dawn will be sleepin' , but later will be wakin' up, to celebrate the many years he's seen.. ... and as he goes about the day , we wish him sunny skies. A day of fun and to rest , from all of us Corfid gals and guys. As it unfolds , he surely knows , it's a day he wont want to end, with memories to treasure , with all his family and friends He's always shared his many gifts, of his words set to tunes, we've unwrapped them happily, for all these many moons. A gift from us we'll give today . we'll all hail our hero, "Thank you for the prose and all the shows, here on your eight zero." Happy 80th Gordon. :) Enjoy the day and I know it's been said before but let me try a different way ......thanks for sharing with us. : ) |
Re: Huge News -- New Lightfoot Album on Tap!
That's great news and a good article.
I knew a songwriter and singer like him couldn't be kept outof the studio. One thing .... in the article, the writer says the new album would be his first since 2002. Did he forget about Harmony in 2004? |
Re: Huge News -- New Lightfoot Album on Tap!
Well, I think the writer WAS referring to the Harmony album. Even though it came out in 2004, the songs were all written before his 2002 illness so, in effect, there has been no new material since 2002.
Of course, we DID get "Plans of My Own" a little while back. Meanwhile, it's great to know there's a new album in the works. Here it is, Gord's birthday, and WE'RE the ones getting a present! And isn't that just like Gord? To have a birthday and give US a present.........thanks, Gord! Melissa |
Re: Huge News -- New Lightfoot Album on Tap!
What wonderful news! Thanks, Gordon!
Gail |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
Lovely! Do we sing it to the tune of "The Pony Man?"
Gail |
Re: Huge News -- New Lightfoot Album on Tap!
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
Happy Birthday Gord. Thanks for all the years of great music!
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
Happy 80th Gordie!!!
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Re: Huge News -- New Lightfoot Album on Tap!
Anyone know if the 80th show on the 80th birthday was filmed? If no, what a loss!
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
https://torontosun.com/opinion/lette...ditor-nov-17-2
Happy 80th birthday today to Canada’s legendary, iconic singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot! Since the early ’70s I have been an avid fan of his songs of love, heartache, the beauty of Canada, and the social issues of the day. His concerts at Massey Hall are pilgrimages for fans from around the world. “The Church of Gord,” as I call it, is his musical home. The seats become pews as we listen to every word, every note he plays, and his bandmates as well. They are the epitome of perfection in their delivery of Lightfoot music. On stage with Lightfoot, they are one cohesive unit that brings the audience to their feet several times per show with not only applause but a palpable love and heartfelt respect. A Lightfoot fan ranges in age from young grandchildren of older fans to every age in between. At 80 years of age, you would think he would stop touring and take it easy after more than 50 years on the road. But he’s out touring for the fans, to satisfy the fans who want to see and hear those songs again, and the crowds show up wherever he goes. We show up to be in the presence of one of the greatest singer-songwriters of the last 50 years. In my mind, he is the greatest and I want to wish him many more years of good health, safe travels and love. Happy 80th, dear Gordon, you know I’ll tag along. Charlene Westbrook |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
Nicely put Charlene, and I think all of his fans on your site, and the others agree 100%. Thanks for having this site and very well done also.
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
Beautifully said, Char!
Gail |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot
I attended the epic 80th birthday concert in Orillia on the 17th..more to come! photos and the WHOLE show on video!
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://torontosun.com/news/local-ne...2TEToEpAHVnFeo
TORONTO SUN - V.Henry photos https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4821/...f36a4b6d_o.jpglightfoot-3 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4889/...e5a076ea_o.jpglightfoot-2 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4908/...8df3065b_o.jpglightfoot-1-e1542418822382 by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
I put together this little birthday tribute in the form of some vintage photographs and my cover version of his 1968 song, Did She Mention My Name:
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
Hey Char,
You stabbed my heart and lumped my throat with that tribute. |
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
Wonderful video and cover T.G. - What an amazing life he's had... thanks!!
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
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I got to wish Gordon a happy 80th the day before in Oshawa with famous Toronto restaurateur and long-time friend of Gordon, George Bigliardi. |
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
Nice photo! I was in Oshawa, had M&G passes but Gordon was pooped out after a large crowd went in first..his son Fred had a bunch of friends and family apparently.
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Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://www.simcoe.com/community-sto...songs-stories/
Expect to encounter gaggles of Gord-loving listeners during the Nov. 16-18 Orillia Lightfoot Days event, a musical celebration of a hometown troubadour. “His fans just love him,” said organizer Maggie Best. The weekend launches on the Friday with an open mic night at the Orillia campus of Georgian College, in The Den, from 5 until 8 p.m. “Hopefully there are going to be some special guests coming and talking about Gord, telling stories and (singing) songs,” Best said. Alleycats Music welcomes fans of the singular singer/songwriter the following morning (Nov. 17) for a daylong marathon of Lightfoot-focused music, reminiscences and anecdotes. Visitors to the store between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. are invited to contribute during an event dubbed "Eighty Stories and Songs About Gordon Lightfoot." “Anybody can come on stage and talk about what Gordon means to them, and wish him happy birthday,” said owner Mike Rothwell, adding the event will be live-streamed on the record shop’s Facebook page. Those who are musically inclined can perform a tune, while others may pursue less orthodox avenues to demonstrate appreciation for the legendary octogenarian. “I don’t think there will be too much Gordon Lightfoot interpretive dance, but you never know,” joked Rothwell, who as a youth growing up in Kitchener learned of Lightfoot’s connection to Orillia while listening to his music on the radio during family trips. “Orillia, for me, was this place a long way away,” he recalled. “People will have all their different takes on it.” On Sunday, Steve Eyers, John Stinson and Eric Kidd perform tunes from the Lightfoot catalogue during an appearance at Lake Country Grill from 2 to 5 p.m. The weekend celebration coincides with a Nov. 17 performance by Lightfoot himself at the Orillia Opera House, on his 80th birthday. Proceeds from the sold-out show will go to support the downtown theatre and the hospital. Frank Matys by Frank Matys Frank Matys is a reporter for Orillia Today. You can reach him at fmatys@simcoe.com . Follow Orillia Today on Twitter and Simcoe.com on Facebook Email: fmatys@simcoe.com Facebook Twitter |
Orillia 80th Birthday Concert Nov 17th, 2018
Dear friends,
Words are most difficult to be found in order to effectively describe the journey that this monumental event entailed. One very dedicated and jet lagged Gordon Lightfoot fan, Peter, accepted our offer and arrived from Germany at approximately 11PM on the Friday night (the night before the the Orillia concert). He was greeted by "Marian form the Mountains," our little dog, "Pussywillow" (aka LaRue) and yours truly. The dog just loved him and the love was reciprocated. Although we'd never met before, connecting with folks such as Peter, a huge fan who's into the Lightfoot music creates such a powerful means of communication, the bond just seems to form automatically. I've seen this happen many times before over the years and it never ceases to amaze me the powerful medium this music really does possess. It's a wonderful experience and having the opportunity to share it with others who appreciate it to this degree is a joy all on it's own. Peter managed to secure a ticket for the concert and from there things just fell into place. So following a good night's sleep and a little "pick me up" breakfast we're off to the quaint little Ontario town of Whitby to pick up Charlene and daughter, Lisa and, as carefree as we can be, we're on the highway to Orillia, Ontario, the place where it alll began 80 years ago. We are here to celebrate a most memorable occasion. It's Gordon Lightfoot's 80 birthday which also coincides with the number of concerts he's performed this year. Now, thats a strategy that would involve some very creative planning. The Lightfoot way you might say. Coming along the highway as we approach Orillia we pull over for a stop off at Tudhope Park for a few pics of the statues created by sculptor, Timothy Schmalz to commemorate the works of Gordon Lightfoot. It's a bright sunny day and they stand proud there in the frozen Orillia ground. Peter was so thrilled with this the cold didn't seem to bother him. But it's only the beginning. He's learning all things Canadian quickly, like our traffic lights are called "set of lights" and what a "double double" means when it comes to ordering coffee at Tim Horton's. He's also developed a fondness for the blueberry muffins they sell there. Following our check in at the old reliable "Maples Motel" we head up Mississaga Street and stop in at the "Hog and Penny" for a bevy and a bite to eat. The Hog and Penny is one of several establishments that hosts Lightfoot Tribute entertainers who perform during the festivities celebrating "all things Gord" so the vibe is hot and the spirits are riding high. From there we head to the Opera House as Peter is quite excited about taking photos while there is still some daylight time available. We arrive at the same time Gord's keyboard player, Mike Heffernan was opening the hatch of his vehicle to get his gear out for the soundcheck and Mike was kind enough to greet us and give time for a few pics. Then it's off to "Alleycats," a well known musical establishment on Mississaga Street. Alleycats has a giant birthday card with many birthday greetings and we give ours as well. The Alleycat folks know Char so we end up taking the card with us back to the Opera House where we're greeted by the always very elegant "Kim Lightfoot" who ensures us that the card will get to Gord. During the concert Gord talked about the giant card and gave thanks to everyone. It was a straight ninety minute performance with no intermission and together with his well seasoned band they breezed their way through to the full enjoyment of a sold out crowd of dedicated fans, many of whom were Gord's immediate family. Char and Lisa are in the process of putting together photos, videos, etc. for the enjoyment of all. Following the concert there was a meet and greet which gave Peter the opportunity to have a photo taken with Gord and the band members as well. He was quite overwhelmed with the whole event. Following our return to Toronto we make a visit to the Rosedale area as Peter is anxious to see Gord's old Victorian mansion and take a few pics. The home has been completely renovated and together with several adjacent homes it's now owned by a lady who lives in Los Angeles. We spoke with a gentleman working there who was a cousin of the owner lady. Unfortunately we had to cut the discussion short as a construction crew needed access to the area and we had to give up our parking spot. The house is beautiful though and and still has it's "Lightfoot" character. I always said Gord belongs in that house. It's "The House you Live In." It enters my thoughts at times while listening to those beautiful ballads we were introduced to during that magical era. All in all it was an extended weekend event that went by so quickly as they all seem to do but we sure made the best of it. I had never seen Gord perform in the Orillia Opera House before and it was the one thing I had always longed for so to have been able to attend this once in lifetime event for me was an experience like non other. The emotional mileage is measured in moments of ongoing joy. To Gord: "Thanks for helping make the lives of so many so much better." |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
VIDEO PLAYLIST: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...dNW66r2YuzJlyR
GORDON LIGHTFOOT @ ORILLIA OPERA HOUSE/GORDON LIGHTFOOT AUDITORIUM – Saturday November 17, 2018 – 80th Birthday concert! SETLIST – all songs have video 1. EMCEE introduction 2. Sweet Guinevere 3. Cotton Jenny 4. Too Many Clues In This Room 5. Never Too Close 6. Couchiching 7. Let It Ride 8. Fine As Fine Can Be 9. Shadows 10. Beautiful 11. Carefree Highway 12. Did She Mention My Name 13. Ribbon Of Darkness 14. Sundown 15. I Used To Be A Country Singer 16. BAND INTRO 17. The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald 18. Christian Island 19. I’d Rather Press On 20. Rainy Day People 21. A Painter Passing Through 22. If You Could Read My Mind 23. Restless 24. Baby Step Back 25. ELVIS story 26. Early Morning Rain – ENCORE – 27.Waiting For You EMCEE - INTRO - HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET GUINEVERE COTTON JENNY TOO MANY CLUES IN THIS ROOM NEVER TOO CLOSE COUCHICHING LET IT RIDE FINE AS FINE CAN BE SHADOWS BEAUTIFUL CAREFREE HIGHWAY DID SHE MENTION MY NAME RIBBON OF DARKNESS / SUNDOWN I USED TO BE A COUNTRY SINGER |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
BAND INTRO
THE WRECK OF THE EDMUND FITZGERALD CHRISTIAN ISLAND I'D RATHER PRESS ON RAINY DAY PEOPLE A PAINTER PASSING THROUGH IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND RESTLESS BABY STEP BACK ELVIS STORY EARLY MORNING RAIN and WAITING FOR YOU (encore) |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4884/...952a4cba_o.jpgscale-2000-1100-pnneeOu38zDBnSpb6A-2 by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4886/...7c33db29_o.jpgscale-2000-1100--ZeZyjmZpEVYjn284_k3 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4901/...bcd9619d_o.jpgscale-1600-1000-xR-j4YXG_BQaZhjwFxjh by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4910/...31d8b99b_o.jpgscale-1600-1000-x8vKUyaHgoSZEgdFgnEi by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4812/...263564d7_o.jpgscale-1600-1000-v76aYjwECMR7byaR4u1u by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4911/...def6b988_o.jpgscale-1600-1000-v4J1qX6S9hLz1-IQhLdk by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4857/...37ed1068_o.jpgscale-1600-1000-TOYV2KHCp_zVQtYS5u8e by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4864/...e0b20553_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4899/...d7f676c6_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4866/...601beedb_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4881/...96e26549_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4821/...dfdf3f8d_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4901/...fdee1159_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4855/...d260dd9f_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4853/...6fe50e99_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4870/...30f36bb5_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4890/...9e9ab2c9_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4873/...df5b91e5_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4859/...6f388477_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4837/...0ae7c863_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4910/...0791827d_o.jpgIMG_3224 by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4825/...36a68fcc_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4843/...d432b602_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4859/...d7359074_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4883/...53560a24_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4855/...430a1acc_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4911/...8e306fd1_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4888/...3a19da47_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4860/...01a745f9_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4917/...796df845_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4819/...c635e519_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4819/...a9ae9012_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4838/...e39bb04b_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4817/...a3cc0a7b_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4829/...cf9c0da1_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4809/...812fefcb_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4912/...56933450_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4904/...2cc1cf24_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4839/...a7229d0b_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4887/...6f37f0da_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4827/...2d5114e6_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4907/...870508fe_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4824/...f3710a44_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4887/...f1f23d16_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4817/...2ccbd424_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4866/...6893e850_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4913/...85f0cf1c_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4882/...e39f3a96_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4894/...4f8e6c42_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4819/...2787331c_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4809/...ba5bd5aa_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4807/...1286738c_o.jpgGORDON LIGHTFOOT @ 80-Orillia-Nov.17,2018 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4810/...8f6248bd_o.jpgIMG_3171 by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4815/...de77efce_o.jpggl-cw-cropped by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
Going back through this thread completely and taking the time to absorb each and every encounter of a once in a lifetime experience that gave me an opportunity to be part of has clearly alerted other joyful senses from within that seem to filter their way through and simply open up.
Even the walk up through town toward the Opera House at dusk, looking in the store windows with the early signs of Christmas on the horizon sparks feelings of added elation. Thoughts of the fun and laughter we enjoyed so much during this event suddenly get sidelined by "did this really happen or am I dreaming it all?" A most unusual sensation. Sort of like an emotional roller coaster ride that becomes reality. It's serious news when a living legend like Gordon Lightfoot, a great composer who is still composing turns 80 years old and delivers a concert to celebrate that historic event in a classic theatre right here in his own home town. A truly amazing accomplishment it really is. He makes it look so easy and always plays it well. It's the Lightfoot way around and there are no stop signs in sight. Brings to mind the opening line in "The mountains and Marian:" "I've made my peace where highways never end." |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4891/...e49dc158_o.jpgooh3-nov.17,2018-Christina Marie Petsinis photo by char Westbrook, on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4884/...7e2bb01d_o.jpgooh4,nov.17,2018-Christina Marie Petsinis photo by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4843/...12aa8190_o.jpgooh photo1-nov.17,2018-Christina Marie Petsinis photo by char Westbrook, on Flickr https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4881/...e5177446_o.jpgooh pic 2-nov.17,2018-Christina Marie Petsinis photo by char Westbrook, on Flickr |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
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PHOTOS at link... November 18 · 2018 Gord All Day By John Swartz Before Gordon Lightfoot could even say hello Saturday evening, The Orillia Opera House full-house audience broke into Happy Birthday. It started on the left side of the house and quickly spread like a wave to include the almost 700 on hand. After a pause, he began the concert with Sweet Guinevere, followed quickly by Cotton Jenny before he spoke. “Welcome to my birthday party,” Lightfoot said. The occasion marked his 80th birthday in his home town, in a theater named for him. He mentioned receiving a giant birthday card signed by dozens of people, referring to one Mike Rothwell and Robert Gonfors had been encouraging people to sign at Alleycats Music & Art during the day Saturday and they got it to Gord's official Facebook page administrator, Char Westbrook, who delivered it to the Opera House before the show. He expressed his thanks and surprise so many would take the time to sign the card. “We played here before,” he said to laughter. During the day, Alleycats held the 80 Songs and Stories About Gordon Lightfoot event, a video project which Greg Thomson assisted in live streaming (watch at https://www.facebook.com/pg/Alleycat...=page_internal). One of the people who dropped into the store was Rick Most. He just happened to be in town, visiting from Dallas, Texas, to see a concert. Of course that would be Gord’s concert, and he’s been to enough he was invited backstage afterward. “I’m just a big fan and I follow Gord where I can and when I can,” Most said. “This is number 6 show this year. It’s about 45 or 46 for my life. I became a fan when I was a college student and have followed him ever since.” He tracks where Gord is playing on the lightfoot.ca website, which has the most comprehensive information about Gord, and saw the announcement for the show in Orillia. “I waited too long and got some seats upstairs,” he said, mentioning his knees. “I was waiting for a standing ovation so I could stand up, I never sat that high. Maybe I should (choose the balcony) because the sound was perfect, his voice was excellent even though he says he has laryngitis he sounded great.” Coming to Orillia was worth it in his opinion. “I enjoyed it immensely,” he said. “Hearing I Used To Be A Country Singer, you never hear that anywhere, but because it was a hometown guy it was great to hear that.” Backstage, Steve Eyers also had something to say about the concert and that song. “The crowd loved him. We honoured the legend, and he played the song by Even Steven,” Eyers said of I Used To Be A Country Singer. It was written by Eyers’s Even Steven partner, Steve McEown. After singing Beautiful, Gord unhooked his guitar and wandered off stage. There were signs he was getting a sniffle. He came back, wiping his face with a white towel. “I feel like Luciano up here,” he said, getting a laugh. “You’re cooler Mr. Lightfoot,” shouted someone sitting near this writer. “I can get through it, “ Gord responded. Gord’s granddaughter, Kristina Lightfoot, had some thoughts on Beautiful. She was happy to hear it two nights in a row, being at the concert in Oshawa Friday night. It’s her second most favourite song of his. “He never does this song, my favourite by him is Miguel,” she said at the backstage party. A 90 minute performance was planned, and with the air being somewhat dry in the Opera House, Gord’s voice was starting to get raspy after an hour, but not enough to detract from the performance. Like he said, he’d get through it. Much credit has to be heaped on Leslie Charbon who was running the sound mixing board. Of all the concerts Gord has done in the Opera House, the band and Gord never sounded better. His voice was very present in the mix and crystal clear. Even more credit goes to the lighting designer and operator, James Spilsbury. The set consisted of overlapped drapes forming triangular palettes on which Spilsbury played different coloured lights on each panel, creating some stunning effects. During the song A Painter Passing Through one effect was breathtaking. As Gord sang the line, “for I am just a painter passing through in history,” it looked like a giant invisible paint brush was dragged diagonally across the backdrop from one top corner to the opposite bottom corner and the several colours already in view changed to new colours with the brush stroke. Time flew by, Gord spoke of when he went to see Elvis perform at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium. Elvis had just recorded Early Morning Rain (and of course, you knew that was the next song Gord would sing). Gord told a funny story about trying to go against the exiting crowd to get backstage in time to meet Elvis, who had expressed the desire to meet Gord, but Elvis was notorious for leaving venues like he had an appointment he was late for. It turned out Gord missed the meeting. “Sorry Mr. Lightfoot,” Gord said Col. Tom Parker told to him, “Elvis has left the building.” And with that, Gord and the band played a very different arrangement of Early Morning Rain. The words and the significant chord changes were the same, but not anything else. It was a refreshing take. And then it was over. He came back for the encore, Waiting for You, and everyone left feeling excited to have been a part of this historic concert. |
Re: A Happy 80th to Gordon Lightfoot-CD news and Birthday Concert in Orillia
Short video compilation: https://www.facebook.com/portagecrea...16615086293096
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