Gordon Lightfoot - Summerside of Life Live 1977 (RARE)

Here's a video for my fellow Lightfoot fans, a rare live audio performance of 1971's "Summerside of Life" taken from a 1977 performance in Boston Massachusetts. I was surprised to hear that this song was still performed as far late as 1977, considering that Lightfoot himself stated that this tune is seldom performed due to its tough translation in live settings. Its great to hear a version different from the 1972 BBC concert that includes drums.

I will have a new Lightfoot cover uploaded next week, so stay tuned for that. Until then, enjoy this great song!

[trudigoodman]

I love this song. I remember seeing this on the BBC Special. About the Vietnam War. On the Special he very quietly flashes the peace sign after the song is over. Thanks Gord!

[bbqdrecords]

This is so great hearing this tune live with drums, Barry Kean rarely got the chance to rock out like this, also the harmonies on the chorus. Rick's great bass line. Gord is right, this was a tricky song to perform, but so well done here, these guys are so pro!

[jjsudlow]

I so wish I had heard this song in 1972. So great.

[gregoryrogalsky]

Gives me a lump in my throat.. RIP Gordon

[jamesrae]

Such a great feel good song. Masterful.

[Sutterjack]

One my 10 Ten favorites of Gord - I know it's poignant because I think its partially about the Vietnam war, but it's just so positive and upbeat overall. Themes of family, faith, joy and love. Typical Lightfoot brilliance.
"There was no illusions
On the summer side of life
Only tenderness"

[robdondorf]

It’s strange hearing this song with drums and pedal steel included. Still, a great tune either way. Love that Gibson B45-12 sunburst he plays. He has a pair of them he uses in concert. I don’t think Gibson makes these particular 12 string guitars anymore. You can find used ones on the internet sometimes. Man, I’d love to have one of my own some day!

[Twisted-Steel-sd-]

Where do you find these gems? It is always so cool to hear Gord live. I think he sounds better live, more energy or something.

[grelley]

Do yourself a big favour and listen to the live BBC recording of this from ‘72. It’s a masterpiece in my opinion. Far superior to this and the studio version.

[jeffseeman]

Here's a setlist from the 4/3/1977 Symphony Hall, Boston, MA show

Summer Side Of Life
The House You Live In
Summertime Dream
I'd Do It Again
Never Too Close
All The Lovely Ladies
Spanish Moss
Race Among The Ruins
Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald
High And Dry
Don Quixote
If You Could Read My Mind
Beautiful
Hangdog Hotel Room
Sundown
The Auctioneer
Old Dan's Records
Early Morning Rain

Is this audio from this show?
Do you have the rest of the show?