About the song
“Song for a Winter’s Night” is a timeless and evocative ballad penned by the legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. First recorded in 1967 for his album The Way I Feel, the song has since become a beloved holiday classic, with numerous covers and re-recordings by various artists. The song’s origins are rooted in a hot summer night in Cleveland, where Lightfoot was performing and missing his wife, Brita Ingegerd Olaisson. As he gazed out at the crowd, his thoughts turned to the winter season, and the song began to take shape.
The song’s lyrics are a poignant and introspective reflection on the passing of time, love, and the cyclical nature of life. Lightfoot’s soaring vocals and masterful guitar work bring the song to life, creating a sense of intimacy and warmth that is perfect for the holiday season. Over the years, “Song for a Winter’s Night” has been covered by a diverse range of artists, including Sarah McLachlan, Harry Belafonte, Kenny Rankin, and Sanna Nielsen, among many others.
Despite its many interpretations, the song remains a testament to Lightfoot’s skill as a songwriter and his ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners across generations. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless themes and the power of music to evoke emotions and create connections between people. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Gordon Lightfoot or simply looking for a new holiday classic to add to your playlist, “Song for a Winter’s Night” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
The lamp is burnin’ low upon my table top
The snow is softly falling
The air is still in the silence of my room
I hear your voice softly calling
If I could only have you near
To breathe a sigh or two
I would be happy just to hold the hands I love
On this winter night with you
The smoke is rising in the shadows overhead
My glass is almost empty
I read again between the lines upon each page
The words of love you sent me
If I could know within my heart
That you were lonely too
I would be happy just to hold the hands I love
On this winter night with you
The fire is dying
Now my lamp is growing dim
The shades of night are lifting
The morning light steals across my window pane
Where webs of snow are drifting
If I could only have you near
To breathe a sigh or two
I would be happy just to hold the hands I love
On this winter night with you
And to be once again with you