In the vibrant New York City folk scene of the early 1960s, a haunting melody first emerged that would captivate listeners and redefine the folk rock landscape. This track was “For Lovin’ Me,” penned by the remarkable Canadian folk singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. The song carries the hallmarks of Lightfoot’s early songwriting style, filled with themes of fleeting romance and restless hearts — a daring sentiment during an era dominated by sentimental folk tunes.
The legendary trio Peter, Paul and Mary brought the song to life in November 1964 at the A&R Recording Studios, under the watchful eyes of renowned producers Albert Grossman and Milt Okun. Released just a month later, on December 2, 1964, by Warner Bros. Records, the single paired “For Lovin’ Me” with the B-side “Monday Morning,” radiating the trio’s signature harmonies over a tender acoustic arrangement in just 2 minutes and 7 seconds of pure folk magic.
The song quickly made waves, debuting at number 81 on the Billboard Hot 100 by January 30, 1965. It steadily climbed to an impressive peak at number 30 by March 6, 1965, maintaining a strong presence for eight weeks. Notably, it soared to number 5 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, signaling its deep connection with a more mature audience, while internationally, it made significant impressions, charting at number 26 in Canada and number 29 in Australia.
Critical acclaim followed, with Cash Box magazine praising it as a “haunting, easy-going romantic ode” marked by “polished professionalism” and showcasing the trio’s intricate vocal interplay. This success catapulted Lightfoot’s work into the broader music consciousness, laying the foundation for his own recording of the piece on his debut album Lightfoot! in March 1965.
Speaking of the song’s roots, the background reveals that Lightfoot wrote it amidst Toronto’s bustling folk scene. Intriguingly, it was Albert Grossman who introduced the song to Peter, Paul and Mary, recognizing its potential to resonate within their repertoire. The bold lyrics portray a narrator who leaves his lover without regret — a rarity in the folk genre’s typical nostalgic and sentimental storytelling. The trio’s decision to record the song in a single take highlights their tight-knit musical chemistry and raw authenticity.
“When I first heard it, the song caught me off guard with its honesty,” recalled Mary Travers, member of the trio. “It wasn’t the usual sweet farewell song; it was real, raw, and unforgettable.”
The song’s influence echoed far beyond the trio’s version, inspiring covers by notable artists including Chad and Jeremy, Ian & Sylvia, The Fleetwoods, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and even Elvis Presley who retitled it “That’s What You Get for Lovin’ Me” in 1973. It found its place on several Peter, Paul and Mary compilations like Ten Years Together (1969) and Carry It On (2004), securing its position as a staple in folk music history.
Veteran music critic Richie Unterberger of AllMusic observed,
“The song unmistakably showcases Lightfoot’s burgeoning songwriting prowess, made accessible and crisp through the trio’s harmonious delivery.”
Meanwhile, Songfacts recognized the track’s crucial role in establishing Lightfoot’s songwriting legacy, boosted by Peter Yarrow’s clever arrangement that highlighted the song’s clear storytelling.
Not without some controversy, the unsentimental tone of the lyrics sparked minor debates among folk purists who preferred more traditional, heartfelt ballads. The song’s raw candidness, however, only cemented its reputation further, with the trio proudly performing it at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, one of the most prestigious platforms of the time.
The straightforward structure and relatable lyrics of “For Lovin’ Me” continue to resonate deeply, maintaining a lasting presence in the tapestry of folk and folk rock music. It stands as a testament to the power of honesty, restlessness, and the enduring complexity of love.
The song’s lyrics poignantly express this sentiment:
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
Everything you had is gone, as you can see
That’s what you get for lovin’ meI ain’t the kind to hang around
With any new love that I’ve found
Movin’ is my stock in trade
I’m movin’ on
I won’t think of you when I’m goneSo don’t you shed a tear for me
I ain’t the love you thought I’d be
I’ve got a hundred more like you, so don’t be blue
I’ll have a thousand ‘fore I’m throughNow there you go, you’re crying again
Now there you go, you’re crying again
But then someday when your poor heart is on the mend
I just might pass this way againThat’s what you get for lovin’ me
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
Everything you had is gone, as you can see
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
This song, a standout piece of folk history, continues to echo through generations, reminding us that not all love stories end with tenderness, sometimes they just leave memories and lessons behind.