Best of Fall 2012: Gordon Lightfoot makes a triumphant return to his favourite concert hall
You’ve played Massey Hall more than 150 times in your career, the most solo appearances of any performer. What is it about playing on that stage that you love?
Massey Hall is a special place for me and my band. We treat gigs there with the attitude of a sports team—we want to come out on top, especially for the hometown crowd.
Can you still hit all the high notes in your tunes?
The only song I really have to worry about with my voice is “Canadian Railroad Trilogy.” I’m not going to let that one slide, you can be sure of that. I have a reputation for delivering the goods.
We’re guessing there won’t be pyrotechnics and giant screens at these shows.
I thought about bringing big screens in, but it causes a lot of unnecessary hassle. I’m going to stick with an intimate coffeehouse atmosphere onstage.
Earlier this year, you were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. When did you first start writing songs?
In high school, actually. I took the first song I ever wrote and borrowed my dad’s car to bring it downtown to BMI Canada. They told me it sounded good and not to stop, and I never did.
Nov. 14 to 17. Massey Hall, ticketmaster.ca
(Illustration: Adam Cruft)
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