A decade has passed since The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Ontario, yet guitarist Paul Langlois admits he still hasn’t fully grasped the significance of that moment. Reflecting on the milestone during an interview with CBC’s Eli Glasner on ‘The National,’ Langlois expressed his appreciation for the band’s impact on people.
The emotional farewell concert took place in Kingston’s Rogers K-Rock Centre, now known as Slush Puppi Place, where lead singer Gord Downie bid farewell to a packed audience and viewers nationwide. Downie, diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in December 2015, passed away just over a year later at the age of 53.
To mark the 10th anniversary of the band’s final show, CBC is set to rebroadcast “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration” this Saturday. Guitarist Rob Baker acknowledged the enduring significance of the band’s music and the outpouring of support from fans in honoring Downie’s memory.
Langlois admitted feeling uneasy before the final performance, but his mood shifted when Downie arrived at the soundcheck, exuding excitement for the show. Baker emphasized his role in supporting Downie’s wish to connect with every audience member personally during the tour despite the emotional challenges.
Initially concerned about Downie’s health affecting his performance, the band members witnessed a physical improvement in the singer throughout the tour. Langlois and Baker were taken aback by the overwhelming response to the final show, realizing its profound impact in the days that followed.
While confirming that The Tragically Hip will not reunite, the band recently released a new album titled “Live July 22 – August 20, 2016,” featuring recordings from the 2016 tour. Baker highlighted the healing power of music, recounting a personal moment of grief shared with Downie, emphasizing the therapeutic role of music in navigating life’s challenges.