Gordon Lightfoot: Tributes paid to the Canadian singer-songwriter, who has died aged 84

Fans, friends and fellow musicians have been paying tribute to Gordon Lightfoot, following news that the renowned Canadian singer-songwriter has died, aged 84.

A statement posted to his official Facebook page confirmed that Lightfoot died at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto at 7.30pm on Monday, May 1. He is survived by his wife Kim Hasse, six children, as well as several grandchildren.

Born in Orillia, Ontario, he will be remembered for classic songs like 'If You Could Read My Mind', 'Sundown', 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald', 'Carefree Highway' and 'Early Morning Rain'. Over the course of his career, he won 16 Juno Awards –  Canada's awards for outstanding achievements in music – in categories including top male vocalist, top folk singer, and composer of the year.

In 2020, he released the acclaimed Solo, his 21st studio album.

The Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, is among those who have paid tribute to Lightfoot, describing him as one of "our greatest singer-songwriters."

"Gordon Lightfoot captured our country’s spirit in his music – and in doing so, he helped shape Canada’s soundscape," Trudeau continued. "May his music continue to inspire future generations, and may his legacy live on forever. To his family, friends, and many fans across the country and around the world: I’m keeping you in my thoughts at this difficult time."

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, meanwhile, stated that Lightfoot's "poetry and melodies are an eternal inspiration."

Your poetry and melodies are an eternal inspiration. Rest in peace now, Gordon Lightfoot. pic.twitter.com/cF2g0emYey

— Chris Hadfield (@Cmdr_Hadfield) May 2, 2023

See more tributes to Gordon Lightfoot below:

Gordon Lightfoot has died. He was a great songwriter and a wonderful performer. Sundown, you better take care/If I catch you creepin' 'round my back stairs."

— Stephen King (@StephenKing) May 2, 2023

Rest in peace, Gordon Lightfoot. pic.twitter.com/DY6ZpuXWi7

— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) May 2, 2023

Thank you for honoring *all* the crews who have gone too soon.

Superior sings and *your* legend lives on, good Captain. T'was the witch of May come stealin'.

Today the church bells chimes for you.

The gales of May 1, 2023. pic.twitter.com/jPJ4zGhLTp

— Lake Superior (@LakeSuperior) May 2, 2023

If there was ever a case for the afterlife it’s so these two can meet up tonight. Smoke cigarettes, have a drink, spin yarns & make everyone up there feel whole again.

Lightfoot and Prine. Conjurers of light and dark.Two of the most brilliant of storytellers.#GordonLightfoot pic.twitter.com/ZhnMe971io

— George Stroumboulopoulos 🐺 (@strombo) May 2, 2023

Gordon Lightfoot has died at the age of 84.
Calling him a Canadian icon or legend is an understatement.
He was one of our greatest singer-songwriters.
Born in Orillia, Ontario on Nov. 17, 1938, he had several #1 albums & songs.
He won 16 Junos.
RIP to a legend. pic.twitter.com/2VBKMZvo0o

— Craig Baird - Canadian History Ehx (@CraigBaird) May 2, 2023

RIP, Gordon Lightfoot.

“I can’t think of any Gordon Lightfoot song I don’t like. Every time I hear a song of his, it’s like I wish it would last forever… Lightfoot became a mentor for a long time. I think he probably still is to this day.”—Bob Dylan pic.twitter.com/ZLXjKxRFC0

— Melanie Young (@FreewheelinMY) May 2, 2023