It has been 10 years since The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Ontario, but Paul Langlois admits he is still coming to terms with the experience. The guitarist expressed his disbelief at the passing of a decade since their last show during an interview with CBC’s Eli Glasner on “The National.”
The emotional night marked the farewell of Hip’s lead vocalist and lyricist, Gord Downie, who bid adieu to a packed audience at Kingston’s Rogers K-Rock Centre (now known as Slush Puppi Place) and millions of viewers nationwide. Tears flowed as Downie delivered iconic hits like “Ahead by a Century” and “Bobcaygeon” for the last time.
The iconic Canadian band, which formed in 1984 and released 13 studio albums, embarked on their final tour in 2016, culminating in a hometown spectacle on August 20, 2016. Downie had been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in December 2015 and tragically passed away just over a year later at the age of 53.
To honor the 10th anniversary of the event, CBC will rebroadcast the band’s final concert on Saturday as a tribute to their legacy. The broadcast details for “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration” can be found on CBC’s official website.
Band member Rob Baker expressed gratitude for the enduring support and respect shown by fans towards the band and Gord Downie. For him, the final show was not a celebration but a poignant remembrance of a cherished career.
Langlois recounted his initial unease and nervousness before the last performance, only for his mood to shift when Downie’s optimism shone through during the soundcheck. Baker highlighted his role in supporting Downie’s final wish to connect with every audience member and express gratitude.
Despite concerns about Downie’s health, the band witnessed his physical improvement throughout the farewell tour. Reflecting on the unexpected magnitude of the final show’s impact, Langlois acknowledged the widespread reach and emotional resonance it held for Canadians.
While Baker and Langlois confirmed that The Tragically Hip will not reunite, they recently released a new album titled “Live July 22 – August 20, 2016,” featuring recordings from the 2016 tour. Baker emphasized the healing power of music, citing personal experiences of emotional release and healing through musical expression.