Brita Ingegerd Olaisson: The Untold Story of Gordon Lightfoot’s First Love

Have you ever wondered about the real-life stories behind some of the most beautiful songs in music history? One of these stories belongs to Brita Ingegerd Olaisson, the first wife of legendary Canadian singer and songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. While Lightfoot became famous for his timeless hits like If You Could Read My Mind, Brita quietly played a huge role in his early life and success.

In this article, we will dive into the life of Brita Ingegerd Olaisson. We’ll look at her early life, her love story with Gordon, the challenges they faced, and how she inspired some of his most heartfelt songs. Let’s begin this journey back in time to learn about the woman behind the music.

Who Was Brita Ingegerd Olaisson?

Brita Ingegerd Olaisson is best known as Gordon Lightfoot’s first wife and the mother of his two children, Fred and Ingrid. She was born and raised in Sweden, far from the spotlight, and lived a quiet life before meeting Lightfoot.

Even though she preferred privacy, Brita became a name many people know because of her connection to Lightfoot’s music. Their love story, marriage, and eventual separation deeply influenced many of his songs, making her an important part of his legacy.

Brita’s Early Life in Sweden

Brita was born in Sweden around 1935. While details about her early childhood and family are private, we know that she grew up with strong values and a simple, peaceful life.

As a young woman, Brita was smart, beautiful, and independent. Her decision to move to Canada was a bold step. She wanted to learn English and explore more opportunities, which eventually changed her life in ways she could never have imagined.

How Brita Met Gordon Lightfoot

The story of how Brita met Gordon Lightfoot feels like something out of a movie. It was 1962 when Brita, freshly arrived from Sweden, met Lightfoot in Toronto. They were living in the same rooming house in the city’s Annex neighborhood.

Gordon, who was just starting his music career, was drawn to Brita’s beauty and charm. They quickly got to know each other, and their friendship soon turned into a romantic connection that neither of them could ignore.

A Beautiful Love Story Begins

Brita and Gordon’s love story was filled with passion and dreams. After dating for a while, they decided to take the next big step. In April 1963, they got married in Brita’s hometown of Stockholm, Sweden.

Their first months as a married couple were exciting and adventurous. They spent the summer in London, where Lightfoot was working on a BBC TV show, and later enjoyed a holiday in Ireland. By the time they returned to Toronto, Brita was already pregnant with their first child, marking the start of their family life.

Brita and Gordon’s Children

Brita and Gordon welcomed two children during their marriage. Their son, Fred, was born in 1964, followed by their daughter, Ingrid, who was born on New Year’s Eve in 1965.

Brita dedicated herself to raising the children, especially when Gordon was away on tours. Even though Gordon’s career kept him on the road most of the time, Brita made sure their home was full of love and stability. Ingrid, years later, shared how some of her father’s songs reminded her of her mother and the struggles their family went through.

Life as the Wife of a Rising Star

Being married to a talented musician like Gordon Lightfoot was exciting but also very challenging. During the 1960s, Lightfoot’s career was on the rise, and his schedule was packed with shows, recordings, and tours.

Brita was known to be smart and practical. She supported her husband in every way she could, even acting as a financial advisor and sounding board for his early career decisions. However, while Gordon was busy chasing his dreams, Brita often found herself alone, caring for their young children and managing the household.

The Struggles and Fights

Over time, the distance between Brita and Gordon grew. His constant touring, late nights, and the temptations that came with fame started to affect their relationship. Gordon himself admitted that he developed a drinking habit and had several affairs during this period.

Arguments became common at home. One well-known incident happened during a heated fight when Gordon punched a door in anger, breaking his hand. It was a clear sign that their marriage was falling apart.

Divorce After Ten Years of Marriage

By the early 1970s, it was clear that Brita and Gordon’s marriage could not survive the pressures of fame, distance, and personal struggles. After ten years together, they made the difficult decision to end their marriage in 1973.

The divorce was a big story in Canada at the time because Lightfoot was already a well-known artist. Brita got custody of their two children, Fred and Ingrid. She also received monthly support of $4,500 and $150,000 for a house, which was a lot of money in those days. Even though the marriage ended, Lightfoot admitted that Brita had been a good wife and mother.

The Songs Brita Inspired

Many of Gordon Lightfoot’s songs were written during or after his time with Brita. His most famous song, If You Could Read My Mind, was born out of the pain of their failing marriage. The lyrics speak about love fading and the struggles of understanding one another.

Other songs, like Can’t Depend on Love, You Are What I Am, and For Lovin’ Me, also reflect his emotions during that period. His daughter Ingrid once told him to stop singing For Lovin’ Me because it reminded her too much of her mother’s pain. Out of respect for Brita, Gordon stopped performing that song.

Life After the Divorce

After the split, Brita chose a quiet and private life. She spent her time between her homes at Lake Simcoe and Montego Bay. She focused on raising her children and later enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

Brita did not remarry. Instead, she filled her life with simple joys like gardening, cooking, and collecting antiques. Those close to her said she was a happy and fun person who loved her family deeply.

Brita’s Death and Legacy

Brita Ingegerd Olaisson passed away peacefully on June 8, 2005, at Scarborough General Hospital in Toronto. She was 69 years old. Her children, Fred and Ingrid, along with her grandchildren Amber, Johnny, and Ben, continue to remember her as a loving and caring person.

Even Gordon Lightfoot, despite their past differences, always spoke kindly of Brita. She was not just the mother of his children but also the inspiration behind some of his greatest work.

Remembering Brita and Gordon’s Love Story

The story of Brita Ingegerd Olaisson is closely tied to Gordon Lightfoot’s early career. Their love, struggles, and heartbreak shaped songs that are still loved by millions around the world.

Even though Gordon married again, Brita’s memory remains special because she was his first love and the woman who believed in him during his rise to fame. Gordon Lightfoot himself passed away on May 1, 2023, but the songs inspired by Brita keep their story alive.

Final Thoughts

Brita Ingegerd Olaisson lived a private life, but her role in Gordon Lightfoot’s journey is unforgettable. She was strong, kind, and supportive, even when life with a rising star was not easy.

Today, when we listen to songs like If You Could Read My Mind, we can feel the emotions and stories that Brita helped inspire. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and the timeless music that will never fade.

• Kelsy Ully
• Melanie Lynn Clapp
• Amy Sherrill