Voters 1
Navajo Rug by Ian Tyson
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Greg Ray |
youtu.be/NGixjq3Ph1w?si=GEpPOymYed2na5lt
Ian was one of the most celebrated and influential singer/songwriters in Canada. Member of the Canadian Country music hall of fame, member of the Order of Canada, Alberta country hall of fame, and so many more that I couldn't list them without several pages. His song Four Strong Winds is arguably his most well known, having been recorded by himself and then wife Sylvia Tyson, Bob Dylan, and many others. It is still considered by many as the unofficial anthem of Alberta. But Navajo Rug, well, that one is special. Known in Canada, the US, and around the world, it a sort of sappy, sort of sad, but so happy. A sentimental favorite. Just one of a long list of incredible country stories put to song that Ian was such a master of. His mellow style, rich vocals, true love and understanding of traditional cowboy life shone through so clearly in so many of his songs, as did his sad realization that the lifestyle is dying out (see songs such as M.C. Horses, springtime in Alberta, etc). He was a huge inspiration for a wide array of artist, both Canadian and American, as well as a beloved friend and mentor of those of us who had the honor and privilege of knowing such an cantankerous, stubborn, lovable old cuss offstage on his ranch. He passed last year at the age of 89 but leaves a legacy deep in the hearts of fans, friends, family, and an indelible mark on music and Canadian culture. Hopefully you will get a chance to at least hear a few of Ian's songs. Cowboys don't cry is a personal favorite of mine as well as four strong winds(of course), but his entire catalog gets played often in my home, and shop. Maybe I am biased, a bit, but a beautiful human, with a soothing and rich voice, and a genius way with words.