Ten years have passed since The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Ontario, but guitarist Paul Langlois admits he is still coming to terms with it. Reflecting on the last show, Langlois expressed disbelief over the decade that has gone by and emphasized the impact their music has had on people.
The band’s farewell concert in Kingston was an emotional evening as lead singer Gord Downie bid farewell to a packed crowd at Rogers K-Rock Centre, now known as Slush Puppi Place. Fans and Downie shared tears as he delivered iconic songs like “Ahead by a Century” and “Bobcaygeon” for the last time.
Having released 13 studio albums since their inception in 1984, The Tragically Hip concluded their touring days in 2016 with a hometown show on August 20. Downie’s battle with terminal brain cancer, diagnosed in December 2015, culminated in his passing at the age of 53 a year later.
To mark the 10th anniversary, CBC will air a rebroadcast of the band’s final concert on Saturday. Guitarist Rob Baker expressed gratitude for the continued support and recognition from fans, highlighting the significance of remembering the band’s legacy rather than celebrating it.
Langlois recalled feeling uneasy before the farewell performance, but a conversation with Downie during soundcheck lifted his spirits. Baker, focused on supporting Downie throughout the tour, acknowledged the emotional challenges of the experience but underscored the importance of carrying out their musical duties.
Despite initial concerns about Downie’s health impacting the performances, the band noted his physical improvement during the farewell tour. Reflecting on the unexpected magnitude of their last show, Langlois mentioned the widespread impact that only became apparent in the aftermath.
While ruling out a reunion, Baker and Langlois emphasized the band’s forward-looking approach. They recently released a new album, “Live July 22 – August 20, 2016,” featuring recordings from the 2016 tour. Baker highlighted the healing power of music, recounting a poignant moment with Downie that underscored the therapeutic nature of music in navigating life’s challenges.