About the song
Gordon Lightfoot, a cornerstone of folk and country music, has long been celebrated for his poignant storytelling and evocative melodies. One of his most enduring and cherished songs is “Early Morning Rain,” released in 1966. This track exemplifies Lightfoot’s exceptional talent for capturing the essence of human emotion through his music.
“Early Morning Rain” paints a vivid picture of solitude and longing through its reflective lyrics and soothing melody. The song tells the story of a man who, having just missed his flight, finds himself stranded and contemplative as he watches the early morning rain. Lightfoot’s heartfelt delivery and the gentle strumming of his guitar create an atmosphere of quiet introspection, drawing listeners into the song’s emotional landscape.
Upon its release, “Early Morning Rain” achieved significant acclaim, reaching number 2 on the Canadian charts and gaining substantial popularity in the United States. The song’s success was a testament to Lightfoot’s skill in blending folk traditions with contemporary sounds, solidifying his place in the music industry. The track’s resonance with audiences and its critical acclaim helped establish Lightfoot as a leading figure in folk music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Gordon Lightfoot has received numerous accolades, including several Juno Awards and inductions into prestigious music halls of fame. “Early Morning Rain” remains one of his most celebrated works, admired for its lyrical depth and emotional sincerity. The song’s ability to convey a sense of quiet contemplation and personal reflection has ensured its enduring popularity.
For those who appreciate classic folk music, “Early Morning Rain” offers a timeless glimpse into Gordon Lightfoot’s artistry. The song stands as a beautiful example of how music can capture moments of solitude and longing, reflecting Lightfoot’s remarkable talent for turning personal experiences into universally relatable art. It continues to be a cherished favorite, resonating with listeners who find solace and beauty in its gentle, evocative melody.
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Lyrics
In the early morning rain
With a dollar in my hand
With an achin’ in my heart
And my pockets full of sand
I’m a long way from home
And I miss my loved ones so
In the early morning rain
With no place to go
Out on runway number nine
Big 707 set to go
But I’m stuck here in the grass
Where the cold wind blows
Now, the liquor tasted good
And the women all were fast
Well, there she goes my friend
Well, she’s rollin’ down at last
Hear the mighty engines roar
See the silver bird on high
She’s away and westward bound
Far above the cloud, she’ll fly
Where the mornin’ rain don’t fall
And the sun always shines
She’ll be flyin’ o’er 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
As cold and drunk as I can be
You can’t jump a jet plane
Like you can a freight train
So, I’d best be on the way
In the early morning rain
You can’t jump a jet plane
Like you can a freight train
So, I’d best be on the way
In the early morning rain