Gordon Lightfoot (1938–2023) was a Canadian singer-songwriter and folk-pop icon.

Born in Orillia, Ontario, he rose to fame in the 1960s Toronto folk scene. His songs were recorded by Elvis, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and many others before he became a star himself. Major hits include “If You Could Read My Mind” (1970), “Sundown” (#1 U.S., 1974), and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” (1976).

He released 20 studio albums, sold over 10 million records, and toured relentlessly for six decades. Known for his warm baritone and storytelling, he’s widely regarded as Canada’s greatest songwriter.

In 2002 he survived a near-fatal abdominal aneurysm and coma. He continued performing until age 83.

Lightfoot died of natural causes on May 1, 2023, at age 84 in Toronto. He was a Companion of the Order of Canada and is celebrated as a national treasure.