About the song
**Gordon Lightfoot’s** iconic ballad, *Early Morning Rain*, is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Released in 1965, the song quickly became a folk music staple, captivating audiences with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics.
Lightfoot’s evocative storytelling paints a vivid picture of a man grappling with loneliness, regret, and the passage of time. The opening lines, “Singing, oh, the birds do sing/And the morning light does shine/But I’m feeling so alone/And my heart is heavy and sore,” immediately set the melancholic tone.
The song’s narrative unfolds through the lens of a weary traveler who finds solace in the solitude of a rainy dawn. The imagery of a “lonely town” and “empty streets” resonates deeply, evoking a sense of isolation and alienation. Lightfoot’s voice, filled with both longing and resignation, conveys the character’s emotional turmoil.
*Early Morning Rain* is more than just a poignant love song; it’s a meditation on life’s fleeting moments and the enduring power of human connection. The refrain, “Early morning rain will come/And wash away the world I knew,” suggests a desire for renewal and a fresh start.
Lightfoot’s masterful songwriting and his ability to evoke powerful emotions have made *Early Morning Rain* a timeless classic. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes and its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Whether you’re a seasoned folk music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, *Early Morning Rain* is a song that deserves a place in your musical library.
Video
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