A decade has passed since The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Ontario, but guitarist Paul Langlois still finds it hard to fully come to terms with the experience. In an interview with CBC’s Eli Glasner on ‘The National,’ Langlois expressed his disbelief that ten years have elapsed since their farewell show and emphasized the importance of appreciating the band’s impact on fans.
The emotional evening saw lead singer Gord Downie bid farewell to a packed Rogers K-Rock Centre in Kingston, now known as Slush Puppi Place, as well as millions of viewers nationwide. Tears were shed as Downie performed iconic songs like “Ahead by a Century” and “Bobcaygeon” for the last time, marking the end of The Tragically Hip’s touring career that began in 1984 with 13 studio albums. Downie, who had been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in December 2015, passed away just over a year later at the age of 53.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the band’s final concert, CBC will rebroadcast ‘The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration’ this Saturday. Guitarist Rob Baker expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from fans and highlighted that the event serves as a remembrance rather than a celebration of their past achievements.
Langlois recalled feeling uneasy and anxious before the last performance, but his mood shifted when Downie arrived at the soundcheck, exuding positivity and excitement for the show. Despite initial concerns about Downie’s health affecting his performance, the band members witnessed his physical improvement throughout the farewell tour.
Reflecting on the unexpected magnitude of their farewell show, Langlois and Baker acknowledged that they had underestimated the impact it would have on Canadians. They emphasized that The Tragically Hip will not reunite, although they recently released a new album titled ‘Live July 22 – August 20, 2016,’ featuring recordings from their final tour.
Baker shared a poignant moment where music helped him navigate his emotions, underscoring its healing power. He recounted a conversation with Downie about grief and the transformative nature of music in processing emotions, highlighting its ability to guide individuals through challenging times without them even realizing it.