A decade has passed since The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Ontario, yet Paul Langlois admits he is still coming to terms with it. The guitarist reflected on the milestone in an interview with CBC’s Eli Glasner, airing on The National. Langlois expressed disbelief that ten years have gone by since their farewell show, emphasizing his gratitude for the band’s impact on people.
The emotional night in Kingston saw lead singer Gord Downie bid farewell to a packed Rogers K-Rock Centre, now known as Slush Puppi Place, and to countless viewers nationwide. Tears flowed as Downie sang iconic hits like “Ahead by a Century” and “Bobcaygeon” for the last time. The band, formed in 1984 and renowned for 13 studio albums, concluded their touring journey in 2016 with the hometown spectacle on August 20. Downie’s battle with terminal brain cancer, diagnosed in December 2015, sadly led to his passing at 53 in the following year.
In commemoration of the 10th anniversary, CBC will rebroadcast The Tragically Hip’s final concert this Saturday. Guitarist Rob Baker expressed appreciation for the enduring significance of the band and their music, noting that the event serves as a remembrance rather than a celebration. Langlois recalled his initial uneasiness before the show, only to be uplifted when Downie reassured him, setting a positive tone for the memorable performance.
Baker revealed his primary focus during the tour was supporting Downie and fulfilling his final wish. Despite the emotional strain, he maintained composure on stage, emphasizing the importance of being present for Downie and the audience. The band members initially underestimated the impact of their farewell show, as Langlois admitted they were surprised by the widespread reach and emotional resonance it held for fans across the country.
While Baker and Langlois ruled out any future reunions, they did release a new album titled “Live July 22 – August 20, 2016” featuring recordings from the 2016 tour. Baker acknowledged the band’s forward-looking nature, making the compilation a challenging yet healing process. Reflecting on music’s therapeutic power, Baker shared a personal anecdote highlighting how music can help navigate through grief and emotions unnoticed.
As the band marks this significant milestone, their legacy continues to resonate with fans, offering both solace and celebration of The Tragically Hip’s enduring impact on Canadian music history.
