About The Song
“Sundown” is a song by Canadian folk artist Gordon Lightfoot. Released as a single in March 1974, it reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and easy listening charts, as well as No. 13 on the Hot Country singles chart. The song is featured on Lightfoot’s ninth studio album, also titled “Sundown,” released in 1974. This album was his only one to reach No. 1 on the pop chart in the US.
The lyrics depict a troubled romantic relationship, often associated with Cathy Smith. In the early ’70s, Lightfoot’s marriage was crumbling, and he moved in with Smith for about three years. The enduring appeal of “Sundown” lies in its mysterious allure, uncertainty of love, and the siren song of betrayal.
Video
Lyrics
I can see her lying back in her satin dress
In a room where you do what you don’t confess
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
She’s been looking like a queen in a sailor’s dream
And she don’t always say what she really means
Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better when I’m feeling no pain
Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better when I’m feeling no pain
I can picture every move that a man could make
Getting lost in her loving is your first mistake
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sometimes I think it’s a sin
When I feel like I’m winning when I’m losing again
I can see her looking fast in her faded jeans
She’s a hard loving woman, got me feeling mean
Sometimes I think it’s a shame
When I get feeling better when I’m feeling no pain
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sundown, you better take care
If I find you been creeping ’round my back stairs
Sometimes I think it’s a sin
When I feel like I’m winning when I’m losing again