About the song
“Four Strong Winds” stands as one of the most cherished pieces of Canadian folk music. Recorded by the Canadian folk duo Ian and Sylvia in 1963, this song has touched hearts across generations and continues to be celebrated as a quintessential part of the folk revival of the early 1960s.
Written by Ian Tyson, one half of the duo, “Four Strong Winds” emerged from a moment of inspiration that occurred in the vibrant folk scene of Greenwich Village. Tyson, encouraged by a chance encounter with Bob Dylan, penned this song in just about 20 minutes in the modest apartment of his manager, Albert Grossman. The song’s melancholic yet hopeful tone reflects the end of a romantic relationship and the bittersweet longing for a possible reunion in a different place and time.
The lyrics of “Four Strong Winds” are imbued with a deep sense of nostalgia and resignation. Tyson’s evocative words express a yearning for a past love while acknowledging that the time for reconciliation may have passed. This mixture of hope and acceptance resonates deeply with listeners, making the song a poignant reflection on love and separation.
The song’s significance is further highlighted by its strong connection to Canadian culture. It explicitly mentions Alberta and paints a vivid picture of long, harsh winters. In 2005, CBC Radio One honored “Four Strong Winds” as the greatest Canadian song of all time, underscoring its profound impact on the Canadian musical landscape. It is often considered an unofficial anthem of Alberta, symbolizing the province’s spirit and resilience.
“Four Strong Winds” also enjoyed notable success beyond Canada. Its appeal crossed borders, with versions recorded in various languages and adaptations by artists from different genres. While Ian and Sylvia’s original version did not achieve massive chart success in the United States, subsequent renditions, including Bobby Bare’s country arrangement, brought the song widespread recognition.
The enduring legacy of “Four Strong Winds” is evident in its continued presence in cultural and public events. It has been performed at significant occasions such as the opening ceremonies of the 1988 Winter Olympics and was a memorable part of Ralph Klein’s funeral in 2013. The song’s ability to resonate with people from all walks of life, across various settings and eras, speaks to its timeless quality and universal appeal.
Overall, “Four Strong Winds” remains a testament to the power of folk music in capturing the essence of human emotions and experiences. Its rich history and continued relevance affirm its place as a beloved and influential piece of musical heritage.
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Lyrics
Think I’ll go out to Alberta
Weather’s good there in the fall
I got some friends that I could go to working for
Still, I wish you’d change your mind
If I ask you one more time
But we’ve been through this a hundred times or moreFour strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change, come what may
If the good times are all gone
Then I’m bound for moving on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this wayIf I get there before the snow flies
And if things are looking good
You could meet me if I send you down the fare
But by then it would be winter
Not too much for you to do
And those winds sure can blow cold way out thereFour strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change, come what may
The good times are all gone
So I’m bound for moving on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this wayStill, I wish you’d change your mind
If I ask you one more time
But we’ve been through that a hundred times or moreFour strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change, come what may
If the good times are all gone
Then I’m bound for moving on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way