podunklander

Sometimes it may be "influence", probably moreso it's "inspiration". And yet other times there may be actual borrowing and sharing. I hear very little of "others" in Gord's own music/lyrics. Having given this thought at some point in the past...I believe I picked out some "Masonry" and "CSNashness" (pardon me, I like to make up words for stuff like this). But if I recall correctly, this was something I noted in a few guitar riffs only.

Seahawk, I would think that some of what Gord did back then would have to have been influenced by the music of the times, and what would be needed for a song to be a commerical success. Whether it be he as the singer or not. And there's some songs that need to have "danceability", etc., too in order be considered commerical.

Gordon's formula for deep, sad lyrics along with an upbeat tempo is phenomenal. And we see this in songs like Ribbon of Darkness. That's what all the smiles and clapping going on are about. And of course, a well-executed performance of the song.

Sad lyrics and an upbeat tempo...the lyrics giving way to even a margin of hope. Even without the upbeat tempo in the music, a wonderful, powerful voice can carry this. Something more along the lines of Roy Orbison, who could make the saddest song leave one feeling upbeat and with a ray of hope. Gordon I believe is able to do all of this - the tempo, lyrics, voice, etc.

Because of Gordon's unique talent, genius etc., there's bound to be more "Gordage" (there I go again) in the work of others. Many great storyteller/songwriters also credit Woody Guthrie for showing them the way. Bob Dylan for sure! He researched/studied, imitated and emulated Guthrie. The work of Dylan, Lightfoot et. al., can be considered a "tradition".

Ok just some rambling thoughts to add to an interesting topic!