INDIO, CA – APRIL 29: (EDITORS NOTE: Image was converted to black and white.) Gordon Lightfoot … [+]
Gordon Lightfoot passed away on May 1 at the age of 84, leaving behind a remarkable body of work that continues to captivate fans. Since his untimely death, there has been a surge in the popularity of his music, a common occurrence when beloved artists depart. However, Lightfoot has accomplished a feat on the Billboard charts this week that is uncommon for any musical act, especially for artists who have left us.
In a remarkable achievement, the Canadian musician currently holds the top spot on Billboard’s Rock Digital Song Sales chart this week. What makes this even more noteworthy is that Lightfoot has replaced his own hit with another. His single “Sundown” climbs to the coveted No. 1 position, while his former chart-topper, “If You Could Read My Mind,” now settles for second place. The two titles trade places, with each taking a turn in the spotlight.
“Sundown” and “If You Could Read My Mind” are the only two songs by Lightfoot that have reached No. 1 on the Rock Digital Song Sales chart. This is not entirely surprising, considering the ranking was introduced long after his heyday.
Out of the five tracks that Lightfoot placed on the Rock Digital Song Sales chart, three only debuted after his death. This week, Lightfoot controls the top three positions on the purchase-only list. In addition to “Sundown” and “If You Could Read My Mind,” his track “The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald” remains firm at No. 3.
While his three highest-ranking songs dominate the upper echelons of the Rock Digital Song Sales chart, another fan favorite, “Carefree Highway,” has slipped from No. 5 to No. 11.
Lightfoot still has one more album coming, and since it’s set to drop shortly after his passing, it might produce more charting wins. Billboard reports that his live recording At Royal Albert Hall is due July 14.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2023/05/16/gordon-lightfoot-charts-back-to-back-posthumous-no-1-hits/