Sundown by Gordon Lightfoot: A Timeless Folk-Rock Classic (1974)
About the Song
“Sundown,” released as a single on March 25, 1974, became one of Canadian folk-rock artist Gordon Lightfoot’s biggest hits. The song, which is also the title track from his ninth studio album, showcases Lightfoot’s unique blend of folk and country, seasoned with subtle electric guitar—a hallmark of his evolving style.
About Gordon Lightfoot
Born in 1938 in Orillia, Ontario, Lightfoot started his musical journey as a teenager, quickly gaining recognition as a skilled guitarist and songwriter. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, he achieved widespread success with hits like “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” and “If You Could Read My Mind.” He became a prominent figure in Canadian music, recognized for his introspective lyrics and folk-rock sound.
The Story Behind “Sundown”
Written during a turbulent period in his life, “Sundown” draws inspiration from Lightfoot’s relationship with Cathy Smith, a well-known figure in the music scene. Their relationship was tumultuous and marked by jealousy and frequent disputes. Though he didn’t name her at the time, Lightfoot later confirmed that “Sundown” reflected the tension and anxiety he felt about their relationship. He described moments of jealousy when Smith would be out drinking while he worked on his music. Lightfoot recalled, “I had this girlfriend one time, and I was at home working, and she was out somewhere drinking. I was hoping no one else would get their hands on her because she was pretty good lookin’!”
Legacy of “Sundown”
“Sundown” resonated with audiences, topping the Billboard charts and becoming one of Lightfoot’s signature songs. The song’s calm, folk-rock style contrasts with its lyrics, filled with apprehension and jealousy, giving it an intense, almost haunting quality. Even years after its release, “Sundown” stands as a classic from the era, capturing the complexities of love and jealousy through Lightfoot’s heartfelt storytelling.
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 againAdvertisement
