The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 27, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Entertainment›Music›Sundown (song)
Entertainment • Music

Sundown (song)

"Sundown" is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot, released as a single in 1974 from his album of the same name.

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

"Sundown" is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot, released as a single in 1974 from his album of the same name. It became Lightfoot's only single to reach number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and also topped the Canadian singles chart.

Background

"Sundown" was written and recorded by Gordon Lightfoot and issued as the title track of his 1974 album. It was released as a single on March 25, 1974.

Commercial performance

The song became a major crossover hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and on Canada's national singles chart. It also performed strongly on adult contemporary and country charts.

Lyrics and interpretation

The lyrics describe jealousy and relationship conflict. Sources commonly interpret the song as being about infidelity, with Lightfoot later linking it to a troubled personal relationship.

Legacy

"Sundown" is widely regarded as one of Lightfoot's signature songs and his biggest US hit. It has remained a familiar classic in his catalogue and has appeared in later film and media contexts.

Key facts

  • "Sundown" was released as a single in March 1974 from Lightfoot's album Sundown.
  • It reached No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, Lightfoot's only chart-topping single there.
  • It also reached No. 1 on Canada's RPM singles chart.
  • The lyrics are commonly described as depicting a troubled romantic relationship and infidelity.
  • The song remains one of Lightfoot's best-known recordings.
🍁
Canadian context

Gordon Lightfoot was a Canadian artist, and "Sundown" was a major Canadian hit, reaching No. 1 on Canada's national singles chart.

Frequently asked questions

Who wrote "Sundown"?
Gordon Lightfoot wrote "Sundown".
When was "Sundown" released?
It was released as a single on March 25, 1974.
Did "Sundown" reach No. 1?
Yes. It reached No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and on Canada's RPM singles chart.
Was "Sundown" Gordon Lightfoot's biggest hit?
In the United States, yes. It was his only single to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
What is "Sundown" about?
The song is commonly interpreted as about jealousy and infidelity in a romantic relationship.
What album is "Sundown" on?
It is the title track from Lightfoot's 1974 album Sundown.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundown_(Gordon_Lightfoot_song)
    Supports: Release date, chart positions, length, genre, and general song overview.
  2. Gordon Lightfoot Official Website — https://gordonlightfoot.com/sundown.shtml
    Supports: Song context, thematic interpretation, and notes on chart success.
  3. YouTube / Gordon Lightfoot official audio — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IBdZ645S-o
    Supports: Official audio identifying the song and noting it as Lightfoot's only No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 single.
  4. Apple Music — https://music.apple.com/gb/song/sundown/1781681493
    Supports: Artist, songwriter credit, and release date metadata.