Gordon Lightfoot

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
In the early morning rain
With a dollar in my hand
With an aching in my heart
And my pockets full of sand
I'm a long way from home
Lord, I miss my loved ones so
In the early morning rain
With no place to go

[Verse 2]
Out on runway number nine
Big 707's set to go
And I'm stuck here in the grass
With a pain that ever grows
Now the liquor tasted good
And the women all were fast
Well, there she goes, my friend
She'll be rolling down at last

[Verse 3]
Hear the mighty engines roar
See the silver wing on high
She's away and westward bound
Far above the clouds she'll fly
Where the morning rain don't fall
And the sun always shines
She'll be flying o'er my home
In about three hours time
[Verse 4]
This old airport's got me down
It's no earthly good to me
And 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 my 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 my way
In the early morning rainEmbed

In the vast ocean of folk music, there are certain songs that stand out and leave an unforgettable mark on the listeners' hearts. "Early Morning Rain" by Gordon Lightfoot is one such song that has captivated audiences with its poignant storytelling and soul-stirring melody. Released in 1966, it quickly became Lightfoot's first real hit song, solidifying his place among the folk music greats. This heartfelt ballad takes the listener on a journey of longing and loneliness, painting a vivid picture of being far from home and desperate for a change.

The essence of "Early Morning Rain" lies in its evocative first-person narrative, which resonates on a deeply personal level. It tells the story of someone who finds themselves in the depths of despair, far away from home and burdened by circumstances beyond their control. It's a universal theme, one that has been explored throughout the annals of music history, capturing the hearts of listeners across generations.

What sets "Early Morning Rain" apart is its modern-day allegory to the hobo songs of the past. While in the past, these wanderers embraced railroad yards, seeking an opportunity to hop a freight train to escape their troubles, the protagonist in Lightfoot's song finds solace in an airport. Though the settings may differ, the underlying emotions remain the same – the yearning for freedom, the longing for a new beginning.

Gordon Lightfoot's rendition of "Early Morning Rain" was not the first, as Judy Collins had previously popularized the song. Nevertheless, it was Lightfoot's version that truly captured the hearts of listeners, catapulting him into the realm of stardom. His soulful vocals and heartfelt delivery bring a depth of emotion to the song, amplifying its impact and ensuring its place in the hearts of folk music enthusiasts.

The Legacy of Hobo Songs

The symbolism of "Early Morning Rain" as a modern-day allegory of hobo songs is an intriguing aspect of the song's narrative. Hobo songs, often originating in the early 20th century, depict the struggles and aspirations of itinerant workers and wanderers. One such example is the 1928 song "Railroad Blues" by Sam McGee, which echoes the longing for escape and the desire to leave behind their troubles for a better life.

In more recent times, the talented Keb Mo crafted a song called "Standin' at the Station," which also explores the emotions of longing and yearning for a new beginning. This continuation of the tradition of hobo songs showcases their timeless appeal, as artists across different eras continue to find inspiration in the motif of wanderlust and the thirst for freedom.

Through "Early Morning Rain," Gordon Lightfoot skillfully taps into this rich folk tradition while infusing it with his unique musical style. The song transcends the boundaries of time and genre, providing a timeless experience that resonates with listeners across the ages.

The mellifluous melody weaves itself around Lightfoot's introspective lyrics, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of emotions. As the acoustic guitar gently strums in the background, one can almost feel the weight of the protagonist's desperate circumstances. The melancholic beauty of the song evokes a sense of empathy and introspection - a bittersweet reminder of our shared human experiences.

In Closing

"Early Morning Rain" by Gordon Lightfoot is an exquisite piece of folk music that stands as a testament to the power of storytelling through song. With his soul-stirring vocals, Lightfoot takes us on a poignant journey of longing and loneliness, capturing the essence of the human spirit yearning for a change. The echoes of hobo songs of the past reverberate through the narrative, connecting us to a rich history of wanderlust and the quest for freedom.

As the melody resonates in our hearts and the lyrics weave their way into our souls, "Early Morning Rain" serves as a timeless reminder of our shared experiences and the enduring power of music to heal and bring solace. So, take a moment, close your eyes, and let Gordon Lightfoot's haunting ballad carry you away on the gentle wings of melody, as you embark on your own journey through the early morning rain.

• Release Date: 1975
• Artist: Gordon Lightfoot