Gordon Lightfoot – “Sundown” (1974)

About the song

“Sundown” by Gordon Lightfoot is a captivating song that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of folk-rock music. Released in 1974, it is the title track of Lightfoot’s album “Sundown,” which showcases his exceptional talent as a songwriter and musician. Lightfoot, a revered Canadian artist, wrote this song during a turbulent time in his personal life, adding a layer of raw, authentic emotion to the piece.

“Sundown” captures the essence of suspicion and jealousy in a romantic relationship, themes that resonate with many listeners. The lyrics, “Sundown, you better take care / If I find you’ve been creepin’ ’round my back stairs,” reflect a narrative of mistrust and longing. Lightfoot’s deep, resonant voice and the song’s compelling melody create an atmosphere that draws the listener into the story.

The song achieved significant commercial success, becoming one of Lightfoot’s most well-known hits. It reached the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, securing the number one spot in June 1974. This accomplishment marked Lightfoot’s first and only single to achieve this status, highlighting the song’s widespread appeal. In Canada, “Sundown” also performed remarkably well, reaching number one on the RPM national singles chart, further cementing Lightfoot’s status as a leading figure in the music industry.

The album “Sundown” itself was a major success, showcasing Lightfoot’s versatility and depth as an artist. The blend of folk, rock, and country elements in the album reflects his ability to cross musical boundaries while maintaining a distinct, personal touch.

“Sundown” remains a beloved classic, not only for its musical brilliance but also for its heartfelt expression of complex human emotions. Lightfoot’s ability to convey such a relatable and poignant story through his music is a testament to his enduring legacy. Even today, “Sundown” continues to captivate audiences, standing as a timeless piece in Gordon Lightfoot’s impressive body of work.

Video

Lyrics

I can see her lying back in her satin dress
In a room where you do what you don’t confess

Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs

She’s been looking like a queen in a sailor’s dream
And she don’t always say what she really means

Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better when I’m feeling no pain
Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better when I’m feeling no pain

I can picture every move that a man could make
Getting lost in her loving is your first mistake

Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sometimes I think it’s a sin
When I feel like I’m winning when I’m losing again

I can see her looking fast in her faded jeans
She’s a hard loving woman, got me feeling mean

Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better when I’m feeling no pain
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sometimes I think it’s a sin
When I feel like I’m winning when I’m losing again