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Ian and Sylvia – Four Strong Winds (CBC TV 1986)

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Ian & Sylvia, a renowned Canadian folk and country music duo, are celebrated for their influential contributions to the genre during the 1960s and beyond. Among their notable works is the televised performance “Four Strong Winds” on CBC TV in 1986. This particular rendition highlights the duo’s enduring appeal and musical prowess, capturing the essence of a song that has become synonymous with Canadian folk music. The performance not only showcases their harmonious vocals and instrumental talents but also serves as a testament to their lasting impact on the music scene.

“Four Strong Winds,” written by Ian Tyson, remains a quintessential folk song, often covered by various artists and cherished by audiences worldwide. The 1986 CBC TV performance is a significant moment, bringing the song to a new audience and reaffirming its place in the canon of classic folk music.

About The Composition

  • Title: Four Strong Winds (CBC TV 1986)
  • Composer: Ian Tyson
  • Premiere Date: Unknown
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Ian & Sylvia (1963 album)
  • Genre: Folk/Country

Background

Ian & Sylvia comprised Ian Tyson and Sylvia Fricker, who were both prominent figures in the 1960s folk revival. They met in 1959 and began performing together, quickly gaining recognition for their harmonies and songwriting abilities. The duo was instrumental in shaping the folk music landscape in Canada and internationally. Their song “Four Strong Winds” became an anthem of the genre and is often cited as one of the greatest Canadian songs of all time. Throughout their career, Ian & Sylvia released several albums, each contributing to their legacy as pioneers of folk music.

Musical Style

Ian & Sylvia are known for their rich vocal harmonies and acoustic instrumentation, which are hallmarks of their musical style. “Four Strong Winds” exemplifies this with its simple yet evocative melody and poignant lyrics. The song features a gentle guitar accompaniment, allowing their voices to shine and convey the emotional depth of the narrative.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “Four Strong Winds” reflect themes of longing and separation, capturing the bittersweet emotions of love and distance. The song’s narrative speaks to the transient nature of relationships, resonating with listeners through its relatable and heartfelt storytelling.

Performance History

“Four Strong Winds” has been performed by numerous artists over the years, including Neil Young and Johnny Cash, each bringing their unique interpretation to the song. The 1986 CBC TV performance by Ian & Sylvia is particularly notable, as it marked a reunion of the duo, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience their chemistry and musical synergy once again.

Cultural Impact

The song “Four Strong Winds” has left an indelible mark on popular culture, often appearing in films and television programs that explore themes of nostalgia and wanderlust. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the emotional resonance it holds for listeners across generations.

Legacy

Today, “Four Strong Winds” is considered a classic in the folk music canon, honored for its lyrical beauty and timeless quality. Ian & Sylvia’s contribution to music continues to inspire artists and audiences alike, solidifying their place in the history of Canadian music.

Conclusion

The 1986 CBC TV performance of “Four Strong Winds” by Ian & Sylvia remains a poignant reminder of the duo’s significant role in folk music history. Their harmonious blend of voices and heartfelt songwriting continue to captivate audiences, inviting listeners to explore and appreciate the depth of their musical legacy.

Video

Lyrics

[Chorus]
Four strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change come what may
But our good times are all gone
And I’m bound for movin’ on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way

[Verse 1]
Think I’ll go out to Alberta
Weather’s good there in the fall
I got some friends that I can go to workin’ for
Still I wish you’d change your mind
If I asked you one more time
But we’ve been through that a hundred times or more

[Chorus]
Four strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change come what may
But our good times are all gone
And I’m bound for movin’ on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way

[Verse 2]
If I get there before the snow flies
And if things are goin’ good
You could meet me if I sent you down the fare
But by then it would be winter
There ain’t too much for you to do
And those winds sure can blow cold way out there

[Chorus]
Four strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change come what may
But our good times are all gone
And I’m bound for movin’ on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way

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