Music Monday
HOMES. It’s a mnemonic. Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior. Five lakes along the US-Canadian border, containing 21% of the world’s surface fresh water.
Water flows from Lake Superior through Lake Huron then Lake Erie. Then over Niagara Falls into Lake Ontario, and then to the ocean vis the St. Lawrence River. Michigan and Huron are actually a single body of water, connected by the Straits of Mackinac.
Fifty years ago, on November 10, 1975, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank in Lake Superior, killing the 29 men aboard. It wasn’t the first shipwreck, nor would it be the last. But we remember it today because of Gordon Lightfoot’s song. The song, as written, contained a few inaccuracies. In later years when Lightfoot sang it, he corrected the lyrics to be more factually accurate.
And then there’s information he didn’t correct, 50 years later.
But you have to admit, the melody is haunting …
These all good covers. I like the Punch Brothers and the rock versions the best....I think. Have a boogietastic week, darlin'! xo
ReplyDeleteI didn't listen, I don't like covers! Well, there might be one or two in the past fifty years! I like Gordon Lightfoot, especially Did She Mention My Name?
ReplyDeleteNothing will ever equal Gordon Lightfoot's performances. RIP. But Home Free came close, and I liked the way the video was done on an actual ship as the singers sang. So 80% of the song is inaccurate according to the video you linked to? No matter, the Edmund Fitzgerald will live on as song as anyone remembers this song and that video, with photos of many of the 29 lost, was a must-see for fans of this song.
ReplyDeleteI love this haunting song. I love Gordon Lightfoot, such a terrific artist. I have to say my favourite is the 3rd one with the banjo, cello and that lead singer. They got standing is from the audience I also like the first one with the singers who were great in their own style of this iconic song
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