Maybe it’s because they share a name and a profession, but when iconic Canadian Songwriter Gordon Lightfoot passed away on May 1st of this year, James Gordon’s phone started to ring with fans asking if there would be a Guelph tribute and would he be organizing it.

To James, the number of inquiries and the outpouring of affection and grief over Lightfoot helped him understand what a major impact that great Canadian had on so many.

At the same time, James has been working hard on a major advocacy project that he is co-ordinating: The Tumaini Letu DRC Project, so he has initiated the tribute as a fundraiser for this important cause.

The Project came about after James visited Africa earlier this year and heard of the plight of a village in the Congo that has no water, limited food, no health care or education, and a dangerous political environment. From his experience as an activist and a former Guelph City Councillor, he’s been able to create partnerships and plans that, with adequate funding, will bring much needed relief to this village in crisis. More info about this project at https://jamesgordon.ca/the-tumaini-letu-drc-project

Gordon, (the James one)- was thrilled with the number of talented local musicians and volunteers who have come together to make ‘Minstrel Of The Dawn’ a wonderful concert experience, a good way to support a cause, and a fitting celebration of a songwriter who was a big influence on James’ career and the career of two generations of Canadian writers and performers.

The performers include James himself along with Guelph-based artists Gayle Ackroyd, Grant Campbell, Greg Denton, John Farley, Brenda Lewis, Harri Palm, Preetam Sengupta and Hellion Ton. James promises surprise guests as well a a top-notch backing ensemble.

The concert is presented on Thursday June 22nd, 7:30 pm at Harcourt Memorial Church, 87 Dean Avenue in Guelph, and attendees of the concert will be pleased to see the efforts the church has made to make their sanctuary a welcoming performance venue.

Tickets are available in advance at:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/…/minstrel-of-the-dawn-a…
or at the door.