About the song
“Sundown” is a timeless classic that has become synonymous with the iconic Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. Released in 1974 as a single from his album of the same name, “Sundown” reached unprecedented heights of success, topping the charts in both the United States and Canada. This haunting ballad tells the story of a troubled romantic relationship, with the narrator recounting an affair with a “hard-loving woman” who has him feeling restless and uncertain.
The song’s lyrics are a masterclass in storytelling, weaving together themes of love, longing, and uncertainty. Lightfoot’s poetic words paint a vivid picture of a relationship on the brink of collapse, with the narrator struggling to come to terms with his own emotions. The song’s soaring melody and poignant lyrics have made it a beloved classic, with its themes of love and heartache resonating with listeners around the world.
The song’s production is equally impressive, with Lightfoot’s distinctive 12-string guitar work and the backing vocals of Red Shea, Terry Clements, John Stockfish, and Jim Gordon adding depth and texture to the song. Engineered by Lee Herschberg at Eastern Sound Studios in Toronto, “Sundown” is a testament to Lightfoot’s skill as a songwriter and performer.
Over the years, “Sundown” has been covered by a range of artists, including Elwood, Deryl Dodd, Dalton, and Charles Wesley Godwin. Despite its age, the song remains a staple of Lightfoot’s live shows and a beloved classic in his discography. With its timeless themes and unforgettable melody, “Sundown” is a song that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
Video
Lyrics
I can see her lying back in her satin dress
In a room where you do what you don’t confess
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
She’s been looking like a queen in a sailor’s dream
And she don’t always say what she really means
Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better, when I’m feeling no pain
Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better, when I’m feeling no pain
I can picture every move that a man could make
Getting lost in her loving is your first mistake
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sometimes I think it’s a sin
When I feel like I’m winning, when I’m losing again
I can see her looking fast in her faded jeans
She’s a hard-loving woman, got me feeling mean
Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better, when I’m feeling no pain
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sometimes I think it’s a sin
When I feel like I’m winning, when I’m losing again