'If You Could Read My Mind' singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot dies, aged 84

2 May 2023, 10:24

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is among those paying tribute to the singer-songwriter.

Singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot has died at the age of 84.

The Canadian folk star's passing was confirmed by his official Facebook page in the early hours of today (May 2).

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"It is with profound sadness that we confirm that Gordon Meredith Lightfoot has passed away," the statement read.

"Gordon died peacefully on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 730 p.m. at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto. He died of natural causes. He was 84 years old.

"He is survived by his wife Kim Hasse, six children– Fred, Ingrid, Eric, Galen, Miles and Meredith, as well as several grandchildren."

Famous fans have been paying tribute to Lightfoot on social media since the news broke, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and author Stephen King,

"Gordon Lightfoot captured our country’s spirit in his music – and in doing so, he helped shape Canada’s soundscape," said PM Trudeau.

"May his music continue to inspire future generations, and may his legacy live on forever."

He added: "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."

Across his six-decade career, Lightfoot scored a number of country and crossover hits.

They included the 1960s hits 'For Lovin' Me', 'Early Morning Rain', 'Steel Rain Blues' and 'Ribbon of Darkness' and 1970s singles 'If You Could Read My Mind', 'Sundown', 'Carefree Highway', 'Rainy Day People' and 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald'.

In 2019, Belinda Carlisle covered 'If You Could Read My Mind' and in her tribute to Lightfoot called it "one of my favourite songs".

Last month, Lightfoot cancelled his planned tour of the US and Canada as a result of "health issues".

His final studio album – his 21st – was 2020's Solo.