A decade has passed since The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Ontario, but Paul Langlois admits he is still coming to terms with it. The guitarist reflected on the last show in an interview with CBC’s Eli Glasner on “The National” Thursday evening, expressing disbelief that ten years have gone by since that significant event.
The emotional night saw Hip frontman Gord Downie bidding farewell to a packed crowd at Kingston’s Rogers K-Rock Centre (now Slush Puppi Place) in 2016. Fans joined in tears as Downie performed iconic songs like “Ahead by a Century” and “Bobcaygeon” for the final time.
Formed in 1984, the Canadian band, which released 13 studio albums, concluded their touring journey with the 2016 farewell tour finale in their hometown on August 20. Downie, who had been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in December 2015, sadly passed away just over a year later at the age of 53.
To mark the 10th anniversary, CBC will rebroadcast the band’s final concert on Saturday. The event, titled “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration,” will be screened at various locations.
Reflecting on the significance of the final show, guitarist Rob Baker shared his appreciation for the enduring impact the band has had on fans. He emphasized that it is more of a remembrance for him rather than a celebration, acknowledging the sentimental value of that last performance that marked the end of a beloved career.
Langlois reminisced about his initial uneasiness before the show, noting a shift in mood when Downie’s positivity and excitement during soundcheck lifted his spirits. Baker, focused on supporting Downie, highlighted the emotional challenges of suppressing his feelings during the tour to fulfill his role effectively.
Despite initial concerns about Downie’s health affecting his stage presence, the band members witnessed his physical improvement throughout the tour. Langlois and Baker admitted they were unaware of the immense impact the final show would have, only realizing its magnitude in the following days as they witnessed the widespread emotional response from fans.
While confirming that The Tragically Hip will not reunite, the band recently released a new album, “Live July 22 – August 20, 2016,” featuring recordings from the 2016 tour. Baker acknowledged the healing power of music, recounting a personal experience where music helped him navigate through his emotions and grief.
In conclusion, the band members expressed gratitude for the enduring support from fans and emphasized the profound influence music, particularly their own, can have on individuals during challenging times.