About the song
“Early Morning Rain,” penned by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot, stands as a testament to his storytelling prowess and musical legacy. Originally composed in 1964 and featured on his debut album “Lightfoot!” in 1966, the song captures the essence of melancholy and introspection, underscored by Lightfoot’s personal experiences and observations.
The genesis of “Early Morning Rain” dates back to Lightfoot’s time in Westlake, Los Angeles, circa 1960. During bouts of homesickness, he found solace in watching planes depart from Los Angeles International Airport on rainy days, an image that would later find its way into the song’s lyrical imagery. The song’s composition itself unfolded in 1964, as Lightfoot cared for his infant son. Reflecting on these moments, he remarked, “I’ll put him over here in his crib, and I’ll write myself a tune,” resulting in the creation of “Early Morning Rain.”
The song’s evocative narrative and emotive melody have resonated across decades and genres, leading to numerous notable interpretations by other artists. Ian & Sylvia’s rendition topped the Canadian AC charts in August 1965, marking its early success. Peter, Paul and Mary recorded their version in August 1965, which gained traction both in Canada and on the Billboard Hot 100. George Hamilton IV’s rendition climbed to No. 9 on the US country chart in 1966, solidifying the song’s cross-genre appeal.
Over the years, “Early Morning Rain” has been covered by a diverse array of musicians, showcasing its enduring popularity and universal themes. Oliver’s interpretation charted on the US adult contemporary chart in 1971, while Paul Weller revived the song’s legacy with a rendition that reached No. 40 in the United Kingdom in 2005. Notably, Elvis Presley included the song in his repertoire, performing it live numerous times and contributing to its continued recognition worldwide.
Additionally, the song found international success through French artist Joe Dassin’s cover titled “Dans la brume du matin,” resonating with audiences in France and beyond.
Musically, “Early Morning Rain” remains a quintessential piece of folk and country music, characterized by its poignant lyrics and gentle acoustic arrangement. Lightfoot’s emotive vocals and heartfelt delivery enhance the song’s nostalgic undertones, inviting listeners to reflect on themes of longing, departure, and the passage of time.
In conclusion, “Early Morning Rain” continues to endure as a timeless classic in Gordon Lightfoot’s repertoire, celebrated for its lyrical depth, melodic beauty, and universal appeal that transcend generations and borders. Its legacy as a beloved folk ballad underscores Lightfoot’s enduring influence on the world of music.
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