About The Song
“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” is a 1976 hit song by Gordon Lightfoot, commemorating the 1975 sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald in Lake Superior. Gordon Lightfoot wrote, composed, and performed the song. The song serves as a tribute to the crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald, as it retells the tragic event of the ship’s sinking.
Lightfoot added and altered some details to craft his song. The lyrics depict interactions among crew members during the bad weather, although their factual accuracy is uncertain. Lightfoot considers “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” to be one of his finest works. The song stands as a haunting reminder of the tragic maritime disaster and has become an anthem in remembrance of the event.