Great Britain

[james]

Does anyone know if Gordon is likely to tour GB at all?

[johnfowles]

Originally posted by james:
Does anyone know if Gordon is likely to tour GB at all?

Most unlikely James sorry
Many of us have spoken to him on this matter but the final word last November seemed to be that he is still leary of returning to the UK as he believes he has never been forgiven for the problems that arose during his last visit (in his drinking days) back in 1981.I am afraid you will have to acquire a large piggy bank and start saving for the next anticipated Massey Hall season possibly in May next year

[Borderstone]

What could Gordon have possibly done so bad,that over 25 years later they'd not allow him to return?

Granted,a drinking problem is a bad thing but to not forgive something that happened a quarter century ago? Sheesh! [img]tongue.gif[/img]

[SilverHeels]

He lost his temper and stormed off the stage mid-song. Die-hard Lightheads excused his behaviour and forgave him - the press did not. But that was all a long time ago. These days when one of his songs is played over the radio, he is only spoken of with reverence and there are many who still wait for his return to the UK.

[james]

Well , sad to hear that it is down to an icident so old. Has he ever commented on it? What about organising a petition on this site then?

[Gitchigumee]

Originally posted by SilverHeels:
He lost his temper and stormed off the stage mid-song. Die-hard Lightheads excused his behaviour and forgave him - the press did not. But that was all a long time ago. These days when one of his songs is played over the radio, he is only spoken of with reverence and there are many who still wait for his return to the UK.

Coming from someone who did a lot of really stupid and hurtful things while drinking in my younger days, I know how Gord feels. Even after 25 years, the feelings of shame can be debilitating and prevent us from facing certain situations again. It would be incredibly healing for Gord if he could somehow muster enough courage to do a concert in Great Britain, if that truly is what's stopping him. And if he never goes back there, that's a real tragedy because I believe that he would be welcomed with open arms and open hearts, and it could possibly be so empowering that it might inspire him to write some new songs about it!!

[charlene]

I think a major factor is the cost to take the band overseas these days..It's just not that profitable for all that preparation and travel..and they are all a tad older and they like the short hauls they do. When needed a private jet gets them where they need to be in short order..
A lucrative gig like 3 nites in Niagara Falls, which is a 60-90 minute drive for them is a lot less stressful too.

[Sundown17]

That's what I've heard too Char. Gord doesn't fly commercial and the cost and lack of comfort of that little private jet they use would be too much for an overseas trip. And that's without the consideration of getting the equipment and crew over there too!

It's too bad cause we know he's got tons of fans there.

[ March 13, 2007, 16:49: Message edited by: Sundown17 ]

[Paul (PJB)]

I'm Paul from Norwich and this post is primarily addressed to other UK fans.

For the reasons put forward by Bru, John and Char, Gord is unlikely to tour here. But don't let that be the end to it. Why not fly over to see him?

OK, it's not cheap. I went to Toronto in 2001, 2005 and 2006. The concerts at Massey were unbelievable and meeting my absolute hero was a dream come true. The band and Mr Fiedler have been really friendly. Last time, I even got to meet Red Shea. Toronto has become my favourite city to visit and Canadians are so hospitable.

But that is only part of it. I can't put into words how much I value the friendships I have made. Many post here or on the newsgroup, or both. It is a shame that Gord is unlikely to come to the UK, but in a way, that has been to my advantage. Before 2001, I wouldn't have imagined that I would have friends on this global scale.

I hope this encourages others to make the trip.

Paul

[james]

Well that has been a really enlighteneing discussion for me. I didn't know a lot about gordon Lightfoot, my first LP of his was a hand down from an older brother. Always liked the songs, never delved deeper. Maybe Canada is an option in the next few years then..............still feel a bit sad that there are no plans for him to come over from the colonies though. And if Its good enough for me to fly' commercial ' it's good enough for him!
Take care
James