About the gson
“Early Morning Rain,” penned and performed by Canadian singer-ng captures Lightfoot’s reminiscence of his time living in Westlake, Los Angeles, where he often sought solace at the Los Angeles International Airport during rainy days, watching planes ascend into the overcast sky—an image that deeply resonated with him.
The genesis of “Early Morning Rain” occurred while Lightfoot was caring for his infant son, finding inspiration amidst the responsibilities of fatherhood. As he set his son down to sleep, he crafted the song as a testament to yearning and nostalgia, weaving together themes of departure and separation with a heartfelt melody.songwriter Gordon Lightfoot, stands as a poignant reflection of homesickness and longing, rooted in personal experiences and evocative imagery. Composed in 1964, the so
Upon its release on Lightfoot’s 1966 debut album “Lightfoot!” and later as a re-recorded version on the 1975 compilation “Gord’s Gold,” the song garnered widespread acclaim and became a cornerstone of his repertoire. Its influence extended beyond Lightfoot’s rendition, as other artists embraced the song, each bringing their unique interpretations to its timeless lyrics and melody.
Notable covers include Ian & Sylvia’s rendition, which topped the Canadian Adult Contemporary charts in 1965, and Peter, Paul and Mary’s recording that reached audiences on both sides of the border, charting in Canada and the United States. George Hamilton IV’s country interpretation also achieved significant success, highlighting the song’s universal appeal across different genres and audiences.
In subsequent years, “Early Morning Rain” continued to resonate, with covers by Oliver reaching the adult contemporary charts in the early 1970s and Paul Weller’s version making waves in the UK charts in 2005. Even Elvis Presley and French artist Joe Dassin found inspiration in the song, further solidifying its international acclaim and enduring popularity.
Beyond its chart achievements, “Early Morning Rain” remains a testament to Gordon Lightfoot’s songwriting prowess, blending introspective lyrics with a melodic simplicity that transcends decades. Its ability to evoke a sense of longing and reflection ensures its place as a beloved classic in the folk and popular music canon, cherished by listeners who connect with its universal themes of nostalgia and the passage of time.
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Lyrics
In the early mornin’ rain with a dollar in my hand
And an aching in my heart, and my pockets full of sand
I’m a long way from home, and I miss my loved one so
In the early mornin’ rain with no place to go.Out on runway number nine, big seven-o-seven set to go
But I’m out here on the grass where the pavement never grows
Well the liquor tasted good and the women all were fast
There she goes my friend, she’s rollin’ down at last.Hear the mighty engine roar, see the silver wing on high
She’s away and westward bound far above the clouds she’ll fly
Where the mornin’ rain don’t fall and the sun always shines
She’ll be flyin’ o’re my home in about three hours time.This old airport’s got me down, it’s no earthly good to me
Cause I’m stuck here on the ground,
Cold and drunk, as I might be.
Can’t jump a jet plane like you can a freight train
So I’d best be on my way in the early mornin’ rain.So I’d best be on my way in the early mornin’ rain.
