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Early Morning Rain

"Early Morning Rain" is a song written, composed, and recorded by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

"Early Morning Rain" is a song written, composed, and recorded by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. It first appeared on his 1966 debut album *Lightfoot!* and was later re-recorded for the 1975 compilation *Gord's Gold*. The song is part of Canadian popular music history.

Background

The song was created by Gordon Lightfoot and recorded in New York City in December 1964 before appearing on his debut album *Lightfoot!* in 1966.

Release history

The song was first issued on *Lightfoot!* and later re-recorded for *Gord's Gold* in 1975, giving listeners two official versions associated with Lightfoot's catalogue.

Song title and style

The title is also seen as "Early Mornin' Rain," reflecting a variant styling used in some references.

Key facts

  • The song was written, composed, and recorded by Gordon Lightfoot.
  • It appeared on Lightfoot's debut album *Lightfoot!* released in 1966.
  • A re-recorded version was included on the 1975 compilation *Gord's Gold*.
  • The title is sometimes styled as "Early Mornin' Rain".
  • It is one of Lightfoot's best-known early songs.
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Canadian context

The song is by Gordon Lightfoot, one of Canada's most influential singer-songwriters, and is part of Canadian popular music history.

Frequently asked questions

Who wrote "Early Morning Rain"?
It was written, composed, and recorded by Gordon Lightfoot.
Which album first featured the song?
It first appeared on Lightfoot's 1966 debut album *Lightfoot!*.
Was there more than one recording by Lightfoot?
Yes. A re-recorded version was included on the 1975 compilation *Gord's Gold*.
When was it recorded?
Sources indicate it was recorded in December 1964 in New York City.
Is the title always written the same way?
No. It is sometimes styled as "Early Mornin' Rain."

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Morning_Rain
    Supports: Song authorship, alternate title styling, debut album appearance, and re-recorded version on Gord's Gold.
  2. YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8_2sxaiGDw
    Supports: States that Gordon Lightfoot sings the song, notes it is from the 1966 debut album Lightfoot!, and says it was recorded in December 1964 and released in 1966.